Olympic torch flames out

Lynn?s Eric Reddy chose to look at Monday?s decision to pull the plug on the idea of holding the 2024 Summer Olympics in Boston optimistically.?(I?m) disappointed, but happy to be a part of this exercise,” Reddy said via email Monday evening. “I believe even this unsuccessful effort can lead (to) long-term changes for the city and region.”It was made official on Monday that the Olympics will not be held in Boston nine years from now. Reddy was one of those behind the move to bring the games to Boston.The bid?s future became unclear over the past week, as Gov. Charlie Baker was unwilling to throw his support behind the bid. Early Monday, Boston Mayor Marty Walsh announced that he refused to sign a cost overrun agreement that would leave taxpayers footing the bill if the cost of the games went over budget.The United States Olympic Committee was unwilling to move forward with the bid if no agreement had been reached.?(The) biggest obstacle was the guarantee,” Reddy said. “We knew it was there and the team worked hard to create a new model. While unsuccessful, I do think ideas were brought forward that will evolve this process for other cities in the future.”With seven weeks remaining before official nominations are submitted, the United States Olympic Committee felt that the deadline did not leave enough time to answer some of the questions surrounding Boston 2024.It?s not clear what?s next for Reddy and his group as they move on from Boston 2024. Reddy works full-time at BiddingForGood.com, a charitable e-commerce company that orchestrates online auctions and fundraisers. He?s unsure what lies ahead for the many members of the Boston 2024 team, but said that he?s “sure the staff will end up doing amazing things as they are supremely talented and more than capable individuals.” Reddy also said he is sorry his colleagues cannot use their skills more for Boston 2024.After working on Boston 2024 for the past three years, Reddy has one message for those who contributed to the cause throughout the life of the bid.?To all those (who) volunteered, took to social media, came to our events and lent their support, I say thank you from the bottom of my heart,” Reddy said. “Your support and enthusiasm for this effort humbled me daily.”