I read last night that nearly 1.2 billion people worldwide tuned into the opening ceremony in Stratford – and what an event it was. To say Danny Boyle captured the imagination of the public is an understatement. Everyone who witnessed the spectacle had hairs standing on the back of their necks. And any early scepticism of what the Olympics may bring to annoy the British public (to which admittedly I’m guilty of) has surely been put to rest. I can safely say that I have caught Olympic fever.
Team GB
For the first time since 1960, Great Britain has a football representative in both the men’s and women’s games. This is an ideal time for the world’s footballing nations to showcase their finest young talents at a competitive stage. For those who aren’t aware, all squads must comprise no more than 3 players aged over 23 and as mentioned in a previous post, those players are Micah Richards, Craig Bellamy and Ryan Giggs for Team GB.
Despite a warm-up loss to Brazil last week and a somewhat subdued draw to Senegal, there is a mild optimism in the Team GB ranks that they could still do well in this competition. I don’t think many football fans see this as a major opportunity to win a medal, more so the chance to see their best young guns in action and what may be heralded for the future. It is unlikely that Team GB would surpass the Spaniards and Brazilians this time round, but nevertheless it would be a great experience.
It is also nice to see Great Britain unified (mostly) in achieving a single goal. Whatever the sport, Britons everywhere are urging their colours on in search of medals. Added to this, is the new-found family atmosphere at the games – particularly in the football. Just watching the Team GB and Senegal game on Thursday exemplified an atmosphere I’ve never witnessed before, neither live at a game or on the TV. A intriguingly relaxed atmosphere, but everyone enjoying themselves no less.
So all in all, here’s to an extremely successful competition for Team GB both in football as well as other sports. Do our countries proud.
One final note – a round of applause for Danny Boyle. Not only did the opening ceremony celebrate all things the Tories want out – Boyle did it with their money. Well done lad.
Comments very much welcome.
Related articles
- Great Britain 1-1 Senegal (guardian.co.uk)
- London 2012: Ryan Giggs critical of Senegal tackling – BBC Sport (bbc.co.uk)
- Great Britain captain Giggs calls for protection after draw (guardian.co.uk)
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