Golf has filed a fresh application to join the Summer Olympics in 2008, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) said on Wednesday.

Golf chiefs withdrew their candidature for inclusion in the 2004 Games, after the IOC decided against adding any new sports in Athens.

But IOC sports director Gilbert Felli revealed that golf had made its latest application through the World Amateur Golf Council.

"They have made an application for 2008," Felli said.

The venue for the 2008 Games will be decided in July and, while Beijing are the favourites to win, Toronto and Paris also have strong bids.

All three cities are said to have suitable golf courses.

The IOC has said that it may have to take sports out of the Olympics in the future before adding new disciplines.