IT is one of the most enduring Olympic images: Sebastian Coe stretching every sinew in his lung-bursting surge for the finishing line in the 1980 1,500 metres final, then collapsing, head in hands, at the joyous realisation that he had won gold.

Days earlier, Coe had been expected to win the 800 metres but lost to his great rival Steve Ovett. With Ovett favourite to claim the 1,500 metres gold, Coe was in danger of leaving Moscow as a loser.

But he refused to be beaten a second time - silver was turned into gold - and it is that ability to transform defeat into victory that has enabled Coe to turn London from an also-ran to a real contender in the race to stage the 2012 Olympics.

A year ago, London was lagging well behind Paris. Coe was called to the rescue and, thanks to his hugely effective blend of Olympic credibility, political acumen and skilled diplomacy, London has a chance - a real chance - of winning today's vote.

Paris remains at the top of the bookies' list but it is worth remembering that out of Beijing (2008), Athens (2004), Sydney (2000), and Atlanta (1996), only Athens was favourite to win the Olympic crown.

Our fingers are firmly crossed that London triumphs. Whatever the arguments about whether it is money well spent, how can we not want our country to stage the world's greatest sporting event?

A price cannot be placed on inspiration and a successful London Olympics will inspire countless young people across the whole country to turn to sport.

Win or lose, Seb Coe has done a first-class job. And he has a habit of coming from behind.