SYDNEY Sales of packages guaranteeing a seat for top events at the Sydney 2000 Olympics have flopped, with half unsold just three days before the offer ends, officials said Wednesday. organizers put an optimistic spin on the disappointing response to the six-week promotion, saying they expected a late rush. We won't know the final outcome until next Monday or Tuesday but at this stage we are happy with the outcome, said a spokeswoman for Stadium Australia, which is promoting the tickets.

She denied it reflected a lack of interest in the games. The packages, which cost 3,486 dollars (U.S.$2,231) and are available to Australian and oversees buyers, are the only way of securing seats for the opening and closing ceremonies. (AFP)