Oz Catholics disappointed as popemobile goes by 'too fast'
18 Jul 2008, 1648 Hrs

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Melbourne, July 18 (ANI): Many Catholics were left disappointed when the Pope travelled too fast through Sydney in his popemobile on Thursday, as they failed to see him properly.

His custom-made vehicle was part of a 20-vehicle motorcade from Barangaroo to St Mary's Cathedral.

The Pope was seen smiling and waving as he passed adoring crowds, held back by metal barricades.

Kristina Keneally, government spokeswoman for World Youth Day (WYD), said that she was aware that some people were disappointed by the speed at which the popemobile moved throught the centre of Sydney.

"I understand that some people were disappointed," news.com.au quoted her as saying.

"(But) I understand he was seatbelted in and wasn't breaking any road rules," she added.

She said that the popemobile might be travelling at a more leisurely speed while travelling through Centennial Park on Sunday morning.

"We've raised that matter with the church and ... understand that he will be taking a slower pace en route on Sunday," she said. (ANI)