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Today we celebrate two milestones on our journey to the London 2012 Games. First, it’s now just 500 days to go to the Olympic Games Opening Ceremony. Second, applications are open for Olympic Games tickets.This is a momentous occasion for everyone involved in London 2012 – one I've looked forward to since July 2005, when International Olympic Committee president Jacques Rogge announced that ‘the Games of the 30th Olympiad in 2012 are awarded to the city of... London’.I've been to the Games as an athlete, broadcaster and spectator, as vice-president of the largest Olympic sport, athletics, and now as chairman of the organising committee. I've felt the drama and sheer emotion of the greatest show on earth as a competitor and from the stands.Now is your chance to share in that excitement – to be able to say ‘I was there’ when the superstars of world sport came to our capital city. With sports taking place at venues around the UK and special prices for young people and seniors at more than 220 sessions, there’s something for everyone.The best advice I can give is that you talk to family and friends about the sports and sessions you want to apply for. You can apply for up to 20 sessions, so take your time – there’s absolutely no need to rush. You can submit your application at any point over the next 42 days – until one minute to midnight on 26 April 2011.There are around 650 sport sessions during the Olympic Games, and tickets are available in different price categories for most of them. It’s important to remember that it’s the price category you’re applying for, rather than specific seats. Many of our venues are still being built, while the existing venues that we will use need to be prepared for the Games – which explains why seating plans are not available.However, we are absolutely confident that tickets in every price category will provide an unforgettable experience.Excitement may be building, but don't be fooled by bogus websites and organisations claiming to sell tickets to the Games. Tickets are only available from www.tickets.london2012.com for residents of the UK and designated European countries, while residents outside the UK and the designated European countries should apply through their local National Olympic Committee or Authorised Ticket Reseller. You’ll find all the information you need on the ticketing website. If you are concerned about bogus websites, visit the ticketing website checker for more details.So, just be careful about where you are buying tickets from. We want this to be the greatest show on earth, not the greatest scam on earth.Whatever you do, don't miss out on the chance to see the world's greatest athletes compete for the biggest prize in sport. Best of luck with your application!