The Fireworks Without
I shook my head constantly throughout the three-hour broadcast... as in, I cannot believe that I just saw that... no, that's not possible... the synergy of technology, machinery, and pure manpower was just overwhelming. It was a event that will stand the test of time when compared to other great events... and not just the opening ceremonies of other Olympic Games.
I also had the pleasure of watching the fireworks out my livingroom window. Not quite the same as actually being there (as were a couple of friends), but gratifying nonetheless.
The parade of athletes were in stark contrast to the precision of the rest of the event. These kids (at the age of 43 I guess I can now use this term in describing them) displayed the unbridled joy of having made it to this sporting event. They took pictures with cameras, described the surroundings to friends and family on cellphones, and generally rejoiced.
Some observations... the Bermudan team wore Bermuda shorts. The flag bearer for Denmark must've been a weightlifter or something like that... he straight-armed the damn thing, grinning, through the entire walk. Great Dane, indeed. The Aussies seemed to be having the most fun. Some of the outfits worn by the teams would've had Joan Rivers screaming. One team looked like they were dressed in a red cowskin pattern... don't know how else to describe it.
It was so, so nice to see our friends Rudd, Karzai and Sarkozy in the stands to wave at the athletes... not sure where Musharraf was, however.
btw, I think I might better understand why some folks at the BBC have been so critical of China as of late... I would hate to have to follow such an occurrence, as London will have to do in 2012. It'd be like a trio of accordion players taking the stage after, well, The Rolling Stones.
What's a wonderful night and a perfect Opening Ceremony!
Well, every culture is different and has its own value.
Anyway, I like The Rolling Stones take their living stage at Beijing!
They only at ShangHai for once time, what's a pity :)
Posted by Robin Guo on August 09, 2008 at 11:52 PM HKT #
I didn't see the Opening Ceremony but I did see the medal presentation where the silver and bronze medallists from Russia and Georgia completely ignored the Chinese winner so that they could embrace and show how sport is more important that bloody politics. I do think they could have included her after the initial hug, rather than left her standing there like a lemon.
Posted by havingmycake on August 12, 2008 at 12:22 AM HKT #
Mr Musharraf was back in Pakistan because he decided the threat of impeachment was more important to him.
Posted by James McPherson on August 12, 2008 at 02:10 PM HKT #