But ultimately the games' success won't be measured in these terms. London was said to have been successful in its bid for the 2012 Olympics because it stressed the importance of raising children's aspirations through sport.
The lasting impact of the 2012 Games will be the inspiration they provide for a generation of young people.
British politicians figured that such a pitch would be welcomed by the International Olympic Committee but perhaps didn't reflect on whether there were wider public policy applications. The importance of aspirations in children's lives is rarely considered in policy-making. Yet there is already plenty of research that demonstrates that aspirations have a profound influence on future life chances. A recent report from the National Family and Parenting Institute summarises the evidence. It shows that children's personal goals influence their educational attainment and career choices, and consequently their later success in life.
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