Indeed, at the new Nikaia Olympic weightlifting hall there were more volunteers and officials than paying spectators for the early sessions.

CNN: Athens struggles to fill stadiums

If you want to focus on a single Olympic hopeful, Barnett can't help much, since USA Weightlifting's charter precludes his showing favoritism.

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Mr Owen said it was especially important the torch visited Anglesey because a weightlifting centre on the island had been selected as an official Olympic training site.

BBC: Olympic torch to Anglesey appeal by Albert Owen MP