BALLARAT has been labelled a “first class bid” in its efforts to secure the 2014 World Rowing Masters Regatta on Lake Wendouree.FISA representative Ronald Chen visited Ballarat yesterday to tour the city and assess its ability to host the 2014 games, claiming the city’s bid would be highly considered.However he said he was keeping an eye on the ongoing dredging and weed issues that have plagued the lake since it became filled with water again.“This bid is going to be very, very highly considered,” he said.Mr Chen, an American committee member on the International Rowing Federation, yesterday said Ballarat presented itself very well upon inspection.He said the fact the lake was located in the heart of the city was a key advantage to the city, as competitors often preferred to stay in the town they competed in.The dredging interests were an issue that Mr Chen said were being closely monitored, although he said he was confident the City of Ballarat would resolve them in time.“(We have been) giving the dredging an intense study”, he said. “I would not call it a matter of concern, just a matter we will keep an eye on.”Mr Chen said FISA preferred to hold the event away from Europe every fourth year, which would occur in 2014, strengthening Ballarat’s chances.Ballarat was named as the Australian nomination to hold the event in August last year and is competing against Trakai in Lithuania.Ballarat mayor Craig Fletcher said the case that was presented to Mr Chen showed Ballarat in the best possible light.He “absolutely guaranteed” the dredging and weed issues would be resolved in time for the event.If Ballarat wins the rights to host the event, it will be the first time it has been held in Victoria, after Adelaide played host in 1997.The final decision will be made in September in Bled, Slovenia.