While downtown Vancouver was busy today, it was nothing compared to the hundreds of thousands of people who crowded athletic competitions, pavilions, cultural events and streets from Friday to Sunday. There are well over a hundred immense screens that cover the full sides of buildings so that those who are unable to secure tickets can still be part of ever live competitions. The closed streets of Vancouver have become the living rooms of several hundred thousand people. Every restaurant, bar, hotel lobby and many offices provide live coverage of that moment's events. Cheers echo throughout the streets when Canada scores or wins an event and a roar is heard with each medal. Russian, Cech, Danish, and yes American fans are all here cheering on their athletes.
We are on the homestretch with six days of competition featuring the best of the best in the world. Faster, higher, stronger is what the Olympics are all about.
Today was the ninth straight day of clear blue skies with frosty mornings and warm sunny afternoons. Light rain during the next few days will not dampen the spirits of athletes, delegations, fans nor the volunteers who are having an incredible time.
The pictures tonight highlight the Olympic rings in smurf blue; two formally dressed mounties with one heck of a handsome dude; and yours truly with John Furlong, the CEO of the Vancouver Olympic Committee who spear headed Vancouver's Olympic Journey.
Congratulations to figure skating dance competitors Moir and Virtue who won another gold medal for Canada!!!!!!! MORE TO COME
And how did you manage to snag a photo op with John Furlong? Sounds like you are having the time of your life!
ReplyDeleteSusan from EL
Pat,
ReplyDeleteSt. Jacobs has Olympic Fever! I am sharing your blog with all the patrons. Many are following it at home. Pictures are great. Looking forward to seeing more when you return.
Marilyn