Image by familymwr via Flickr

Here we are – the Olympic Games in China, better known as the Beijing Olympics 2008 – a review by none other than “yours truly”.  So, don’t expect the usual “sports” commentary.  Mine is about CONNECTIONS, what else!!

We have enough people writing about this very special event in all its glory - some very detailed accounts have been published on  the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, the Winners’ records (like who clocked what, if you like figures), all the tantrums displayed by the less-than-happy runner-ups, alot of heartbreaking moments, etc, etc.

So, what else do I have to add?  Just this…  I am glad that the Chinese Government ensured that all the political protests that were in place did not disrupt the Olympic Games.  I’m sure the activists found the event an ideal setting for their political stand.  But in all fairness, the event is about SPORTS, not POLITICS.  Whatever good intentions they may have, things could likely get out of hand.  We’re talking about people here, people with emotions.  So, I think the Chinese Government did a good job to make sure that nothing untoward happens in their country, especially when there’s such a big gathering of the top athletes from all parts of the world congregating,  with the whole world watching.  For those of us not fortunate to be in China to witness the Olympics “live”, we hover over our television sets, day-in and day-out (confessions:  not me, tho’ – I’m not into sports really) in anticipation of who’s gonna be the next champ in this event or that.

I would like to share a couple of stories which some of you may have already come across.  One story was about 2 candidates from Somalia - Samia Yusuf Omar, a runner who came in last in the 200-meter dash (slowest at 32 seconds) and Abdi, a distance runner who also finished last.  In spite of the fact that they came from a country where a Civil War is still brewing, they still exhibited a spirit worthy of being Olympic candidates.  They exhibited pride and dignity even as they lost because the preparation itself to get to the Olympics speaks so much of the qualities of what true athletes should possess – the determination and the will, in all its purity.  When you compare their spirit with some of the candidates who trained under far-better conditions, you are left speechless.  There is just no comparison, period.

The other story is about the 10-meter air pistol event when the whole world saw gold medallist, Nino Salukvadze of Georgia embrace runner-up, Natalia Paderina of Russia while fighting was still raging on in Georgia.

Now, does everybody understand the true meaning of CONNECTIONS?  These athletes CONNECT with each other for the love of SPORTS, and they CONNECT to us for the spirit they exhibited.  If all governments throughout the world have similar “pure” competitive spirits and not engage in war, the world will be a better place to live, no??

On both the Opening and Closing Ceremonies, I only have one word to say, and that is “BRAVO”!!  The whole concept was almost perfect.  The traditional, cultural displays intermingling with a futuristic space setting.  The children, yes, the children, all smiles and innocence, the amazing aerial acrobats.  Much, much more, but these are my favorites.

In closing, I’d like to say:  CHINA, WELL DONE!!!  You have entertained all of us, citizens of the world.  You have exceeded our expectations as Host to the Olympics.  London – u have a tough time ahead!!