Rio 2016 are not expecting to need to postpone the golf test event scheduled for the Olympic course in November despite the grass having only recently been laid, officials have insisted here today, although they are still working to accommodate the concerns of environmentalists.

The course at Reserva de Marapendi in the main Olympic Cluster of Barra de Tijuca has been a source of major concern over slow progress, with several major delays primarily due to environmental concerns and a subsequent legal challenge.

However, organisers have insisted that the course is near completion and will be ready for the test event, stating that the grass planting process has concluded and all that remains is for it to fully grow.

Speaking here today, Rio 2016 Director of Communications Mario Andrada insisted that the construction phase of the course is now finalised, and barring some very unseasonal weather, preparations will be completed well in time.

“Now the grass needs to grow,” he added.

“But it’s easy in Brazil because there’s plenty of sunlight.”