August 6, 2008 US Olympians arrive in Beijing wearing anti-smog masks Play video

(NECN/ABC) - The chief medical officer for the International Olympic Committee said the air in Beijing will be safe for Olympic athletes -- but a group of U.S. Olympians disagree.

Four members of the track cycling team arrived in China' capital on Tuesday wearing masks designed to block the effects of pollution.

A doctor for the U.S.O.C apparently advised the athletes to wear the masks on the plane and in the airport.

The New York Times reports that one U.S.O.C. Official scolded the athletes, saying the masks could embarrass the host country.