The intense media spotlight on London 2012 has left next month's Beijing Games in its shadow. When the Chinese event begins on 8 August, the reverse may be true for our nation's sportspeople, left in the dark as rival contenders notch up far superior medal counts. The four years to London 2012 could reveal some Redgraves-in-waiting to help line the nation's trophy cabinet, but the biggest financial windfall will no doubt be the chance for UK businesses to line their pockets with offerings from the public purse. The last thing the organising committee wants is a similar performance to the Wembley construction debacle or Heathrow Terminal 5's staggered start, especially considering the estimated budget, which in April had trebled from £2.7bn to a hefty £9.35bn, according to culture secretary Tessa Jowell. The increase has been a red rag to taxpayers and the media, but the extra sterling could be a goldmine for suppliers to the Games.