Wednesday January 20, 2010
On this day, the journey to Vancouver gained genuine emotion. The Torch relay returned to Canada Olympic Park, to one of the original 1988 Calgary Olympic sites.
The pre-announced location of the festivities was at the "bottom" of the hill, but as a olympic veteran I was certain the real action would be at the top of the hill. I was right.
A small crowd of specators were scattered around the entry to the Bob Sled Track where the official sled sat waiting. I was literally at the heels of the four athletes who pushed the sled, bearing the torch and torch bearer, down the track.
When the lit torch re-appeared on the chair lift some twenty minutes later, I was there to welcome and "high five" the torch bearer.
My new friend, the Snow Boarder, received the flame at the top of the Half Pipe. After absorbing the applause of the small but boisterous cheering section, he disappeared.
The seeds of anticipation were planted. My next Olympic Flame encounter would be in Vancouver.
The O Rings
The Olympic Rings burned brightly over Burrard Inlet for all 16 days of the games...Thanks Vancouver for the unforgettable memories.....and thanks blog fans for sharing the "Trip of Lifetime" for Don and Me. And thanks to our amazing wives who supported our adventure to Vancouver 2010!!
February 28 - Gold Medal Hockey
Could Ryan Miller single handedly deliver a gold medal to the USA? Despite a great game, he allowed the winner in overtime. Don and I drove all day on Saturday to get home in time to sleep well and be ready for this game. The blurred pictures following are those of the television screen.
Innocent Fans
This little American Girl clearly and innocently thought her country's hockey team had a chance. It is so hard to see the hopes of the children dashed! In all fairness, they should be better prepared to face the realities of who has prowess in the hockey world.
Olympic Men's Hockey Results
Bragging rights for the next four years...Canada wins 3-2 in O.T. thanks to 'Sid the Kid'.
Victory
Celebration of a hard earned victory...Canadian teams rise to the challenge.
A Last Torch Touch
The scrall in ink above the Olympic Inukshuk is the signature of Sydney Crosby. The flame is out....at least until the next Olympic Games. Torches are selling on EBay in excess of $1,000.00 so I felt honoured to touch one as our olympic experience drew to a close.
Saying Goodbye
During the Olympics I felt a growing bond with mascot Quattchi and took time to bid him (her??? how do you know with a mascot?) farewell. Quattchie was cute enough but not so smart. He (or she, how do you tell with Mascots??) wore his/her ear muffs even on the sunny hot days!!! Not so smart Quattchie!
Saying Goodbye
We forged deep connections with fellow Canadian fans...Don tearfully said his farewells. The woman (on Don's right) had an unusual tatoo on her midrift but it sure was suitable for these olympics on home turf. Up close that did not appear to be her natural hair colour!!!
End of a Long Two Weeks
Despite an excellent new subway line...the olympics require lots of walking...but for an occassional high calorie treat, we may have lost weight from all of the exercise!!
February 26 - Hockey Semi Final Day
The USA were matched against Finland in what appeared to be a challenge for both teams.
US Wins Semi Final
Brian Burke applauds the gift given to his young American Team...Calgary's Mikka Kipprusoff gave the puck away in the first two minutes of the game to yield goal # one. (rumours abounded that Kipper wanted to rest up before resuming NHL play). Following two more quick power play goals for the US, the Finns laid down to rest for the Bronze Medal Game...it was a disappointing (and boring) semi-final to view. Notice Burke's devious use of technology, utilizing an "Android" to analyze the play and give feedback critical information. It worked to this point, but would it be sufficient to overcome the Canadians on Gold Medal Sunday?
A Mixed Marriage
This couple lives in Virginia. He is American and she is Canadian born. Their loyalties are clearly divided but for the USA vs Finaland game she cheered for the US. (The woman is the one on the right!). Mixed marriages can work!
My Protege Sam
Sam arrived at the games during week #2 with his Olympic parents. I briefed him on the games venues and sent him off to experience them for himself. Check out his experiences in the photos that follow. Already, as evidenced by her attire, Sam has influenced his US born Mom to "come on over" to Canadian Red...good work little Sam.
First Time Curling
Sam checked out curling for the first time. It does not seem to be his favourite sport. He clearly likes more action. Sam says, "Soothers get you through everything, even curling." I would say his Dad is looking quite "Scottish" in his Sottish looking hat.
Sam and the Big Boys
Following the very close Canada vs Slovakia Semi Final victory, Sam took time to connect with TSN analysts Bob Mckenzie and Darren Dreger. Sam shows promise as a true student of the games, consulting with the professionals. His Olympic career is launched.
Sam's Olympic Service
Sam shows critical acumen for an olympian of his age. Here he applies makeup to the head of Darren Pang of TSN. Sam had seen the distracting reflections of Pang's head on TV and determined if he got the chance he would apply some dulling makeup to lessen the distraction! Good work little Sam!!!
Tight Seating
Some fans found the seats at Pacific Coleseum tight. Don's seat mates adjusted. The woman left her body at home. Her husband brought her head only. It was a "win win". She got to see the skating and no one was crowded. Don is completely amazed!!!!
Men's Short Track 500 m Race
The flags tell the story...a gold and a bronze medal for Canada. Even we joined in to the singing of O Canada without being expelled for missing key notes that make the song recognizable.
Men's Short Track Relay
A short track relay re-defines organized pandamonium with skaters all over the ice...here I predict a Canadian victory just before the relay begins. The men's relay may well have been the most exciting event of OUR Olympic Experience (well maybe ranking just behind the dominance of Russian Hockey Team).
Olympic Happiness
Canada owned the Gold Medal Podium for the men's short track relay. Don's #1 Olympic goal was to witness a Canadian Gold Medal performance. And doesn't he look happy???
Olympic Flame
The flame at its best on a Vancouver Night drew constant crowds....including Mr. Donald Hunt.
Thurs. Feb. 25 Men's Curling Semi Final
With preliminary draws completed, this was the day for curling semi finals. Cheryl Bernard won her game in the morning to qualify for the Gold Medal Game. In the afternoon we attended the Men's Semi final with Canada playing Sweden.
Martin Rink Victorious
Kevin Martin stole points in both the sixth and seventh ends to open up a lead of 6 to 1 to qualify for the Gold Medal match on Saturday. Since flash photography is disallowed in the venue because of the distraction to players, my question is, "Why can Kevin play without a hat on?"!
Catching Up Day
With only one event today I had time to catch up on posting some filed blog pictures (see below) and Don had a chance to recalculate his finances. What a relief it was to discover (unlike in Lacombe) that he could do his banking in Spanish. This is his more sombre "spanish" look!!!
Young Canadian Fan
For smaller body sizes our considerate olympic committee authorized shirts at a discount using fewer letters as displayed by this little girl. As you can see she is just happy to be at the olympics cheering for her country even though it is now called CNDA!!!
More Infant Security
At first I published the infrared infant security story as a bit tongue in cheek....now I am convinced they are part of the security system...but wait, could I be causing retinal damage to babies at the Olympics? If there is an optometrist out there, please advise me ASAP!
Ways to Help I
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Between hockey games fans not wishing to depart from the secure areas are entertained by a live band until the arena is prepared for the next game. This set was longer than planned for and so I stepped in to relieve the lead singer! Notice the fans in response have moved very far away from the music when I was at the mic!!
Ways to Help II
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Active fans consume a lot of beverages and though I was not on the consuming end, I felt obligated to help out wherever I could!
Ways to Help III
When the attendant (guy running toward me) needed a potty break I was there to assist with pedestrian traffic control at the King Edward "Canada Line" (subway) station.
Above the Law
Do you see what the sign says? I caught this OPP officer from Peterborough in direct violation of the law. The guy in the red shirt was a witness with me, but we decided to give the officer a break and let her off with a warning. I hope she will return the favour sometime!!!
Olympic Hot Dogs
I did not expect to unwrap a hot dog on steriods. The weiner was "foot long" but the bun was NOT! The IOC may want to look in to this before the next olympics!!!
Hot Dogs Make You Smile
Here is Don enjoying his olympic hot dog prepared just the way HE likes it!
Contest Winners
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Who really wins the corporate contests that I enter and never win? A young couple from Poland explained their contest victory from Visa. They flew for 14 hours to be at the Olympics for three short days! Their jet lag was a factor in their olympic experience!!!
Contest Winners II
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The English/German translator for this group of children explained their presence at the Olympics as the successful result of entering a McDonald's contest for kids. Most of this group are from Europe. Someone does win those contests!!!
An Olympic Hero??
Don had never met Batman before. On this day he got his chance and asked Batman to pose.
Wed. Feb. 24 "Hockey Day in Vancouver"
The first Quarterfinal featured Switzerland against the U.S. The home town fans clearly favoured the Swiss. We joined their chants of "hop Suisse, hop Suisse"...maybe if we had chanted "skate Suisse" they might have fared better???
Swiss Olympian and Fan
Displaying her "competitor" ID and her country's colours, this Swiss Hockey Team Player should go home with pride at the outstanding effort of their Men's Hockey squad. The embarrassed Vancouver Canucks fan (along with Steve Hunt) in the background is clearly living in the past!
U.S.A. Advances
The well disciplined Swiss team backed by Anaheim goaltender Jonas Hiller held the US to one goal, but they could not score their own goal to send the game to overtime. An empty netter gave the Yanks a tight 2-0 win. This devout and patriotic family bowed together in a prayer of gratitude at game's end!
Olympic Children
Between the USA game and our Canada game we waited in a secure area with fans. This boy from Russia spoke no English. He was dressed to cheer for the 'mother country'.
Friendly Russians
Through my limitted Russian, we spoke with this man and his friend prior to the "big"match. They were well aware of the "72 Summit Series" and identified a couple of Russian men by the fence as Russian players who skated with the Red Army in that series with Canada. I was able to get the autograph of Alexander Yakushev the dominating defenceman, paired with Fetisov in 1972.
NOT Sleeping With the Enemy
This is NOT what you think. Between games this Russian fan recognized Don from our appearance the evening before on the Weather Network. She asked for a photo with a now "famous" Canadian.
First Period
From the first goal early in period one, Canada demonstrated that we were "on a mission". Don's analysis, "That was the most dominating period of hockey I have ever seen"....and Don has seen a lot of hockey in his LONG life. And as the numbers show, Roberto was ready to do his part.
Another Sea of Red
A pro-Canadian crowd came to cheer...early cheering was effective as our voices did not make it to the end of the game!!
The Final Score
The score board told one story but the dominating play was even more convincing. There was a 100% percent effort on every shift. The hockey team will join our Gold Medalists on the podium.
Russians Go Home
During the third period the crowd chanted, "Where's Ovechkin?". Superior Canadian checking completely eliminated the offensive threat of all of the very talented Russians. We were better coached. We wanted it more.
The Weight of the World
Thanks to Don and the Canadian Hockey Team, the weight of the world and the moon were lifted by Canada's victory.
Slovaks Celebrate
In THE major upset of this hockey Olympics, the Slovaks defeated Sweden in a one goal game. While their fans were singing and dancing afterward in the concourse, this boy suddenly realized he had been at a hockey game and texted his parents to say, "I will be home soon".
At the End of Long Day
We set an Olympic Record. Three successive hockey games in one day. All were great but at the end of the night we felt a hero's ride home was in order. You guessed it, this was not really our limousine!
Tues. Feb. 23
The rain came down...but it did not matter to serious hockey fans...there was a job to get done!!!!
Pumped for Canada vs Germany
The crowd was loud and we were proud (that's my best attempt at poetry). Roberto Luongo replaced Martin in the net much to the delight of home town Vancouver fans.
All Kinds of Fans II
Vanoc said, "No food allowed from outside". Seated next to Don, this woman enjoyed her tuperward encased salad while Canada battled Germany. They are a family from Russia who now live in Toronto. They plan to attend the 2014 Games in their home country.
Canada Gets It Done
A convincing 8 - 2 victory and a solid confident effort advances Canada into the quarterfinal against the Russians
The Russians are Scared
Immediately following the game I caught these Russian officials on camera. One man cannot even look and the other stares in disbelief and utter fear. My lense zoom did not have the power to see the tears!!!
THE Lineup Change
Although the similarities are remarkable, we were not fooled by this look a like of Roberto Luongo. The real Roberto was showering in the dressing room after getting the call to replace Brodeur against the Germans and the Russians. He will take us to the GOLD.
Debriefing the Game
Scotty Bowman came by to review the Canadian win following the game. Jason Cirankewitch, friend from Calgary, pictured here was at the game his dad Harvey
Olympic Childcare
I hate to disagree with someone's parenting tactics, but this little boy needs to learn "We're number ONE" not that we are number two. He was too fussy to make it to the end of the night. His mother picked him up after period #2 at the Norway vs Slovakia game.
The Olympic Difference
On the ice a semi concious Slovak player receives medical attention following a high hit by a Norwegian player. Notice that concern for his well-being is demonstrated by BOTH teams...something that professionals do not do.
Slovaks Qualify
While it looks like a prayer meeting, I expect it is not! In any case, the very talented Slovakian Team won over Norway to advance to the Quarterfinal against reigning Turin Olympic Gold Medalists Sweden.
Monday Feb. 22 Women's Curling
View from inside the secure area at the Curling Venue looking north...Tuesday may be our last day of this brilliant spring weather...sorry Winnipeggers!!!!!!!!!
Women With Brooms?
Once again I had to rescue Don...this time from a group passing themselves off as a Women's Curling Team. Don seemed to buy their story at first. When I told him that curlers don't wear sunglasses he suddently realized his error and fled. They seemed to really, really like him!!!
Swedish Cutie
This is the four year old daughter of Sweden's Lindhal. Obviously her Dad who was with her today, is taking care of her while mom curls! Dad told us that their team is one of only three good Swedish teams in the entire country. Source of her bewilderment....I was using my limitted Swedish to explain Canadian re-cycling in both official languages (neither of which she understands).
Our Canadian Team
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On this Monday afternoon our team defeated rival Sweden by a 6 to 2 score to move into sole possession of the tournament lead and clinch a playoff position. Prior to this Sweden & Canada had identical records of 5 wins/1loss. Will we meet again to curl for gold?
Curling Flexibility
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All curlers MUST be flexible...and that is why I do not curl! Cheryl Bernard of Canada is touted as one of the most fit of this group of athletes...what do you think?
Women's Curling I
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There are a few unique things distinguishing women's curling from men's curling. The first to note is the social grouping behviour. After each end women curlers are compelled to gather for brief sessions of visitting. I have not observed this in men's curling. Here the Denmark and Sweden women catch up with each other.
Women's Curling II
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Note the "strategic arrangment" of water bottles! Female curlers carefully arrange their water bottles. Is it simply random or is this part of the game plan?
Women's Curling III
At women's curling the cameramen struggle to concentrate on thier work!!! This guy was "focusing" on the Russian Team (and so were we).
Expectant Curler
Kristie Moore is the fifth team member (alternate) on our women's team. She entered the game to throw rocks in the ninth end to allow her some olympic exerience. Kristie is five months into a pregnancy. Her unborn child could easily win a medal!
Olympic Decision I
Enroute to short track speed skating on Saturday we realized a nourishment deficiency had overtaken us. Drawn to the skater image on the window I checked out the "Italian Bakery" on East Hastings, one block from the Pacific Coleseum. (Little did I know they had a security camera!) Would the Italian Bakery lead us to "Olympic Success"?
Olympic Decision II
Here Don scopes out the front counter of the Italian Bakery. Precise "Pastry Selections" are critical for Olympic Specialists like us seeking to balance our energy levels before a long evening of speed skating.
Olympic Decision III
The look of satisfaction says it all! Don KNOWS how to pick them (pastries) ...the Italian Bakery was a good decision!!! Note the North Shore mountains and clear blue sky.
Our Olympic Home
Situated in the Fraser valley (does that mean it was meant to be?) the home of Don's very generous Aunt and Uncle has afforded us the accommodation to make our Olympic experience possible. The drive to our city parking spot is a very managable one hour. From that spot we walk to the underground train taking us to downtown Vancouver.
The Nerve Centre
This is the hub for our Olympic activity. The couches are positioned infront of the flat screen TV for 24 hour viewing of live and re-run events...the kitchen to the left allows for food preparation and eating without leaving the room. The patio doors to the right lead out to the Olympic Hot Tub where soft tissue spectator injuries recieve therapy.
Environmental Olympics
We are all doing our part to use receptacles for re-cycle (green bag) and general garbage (blue bag)..or is it the other way around? In any case, I am doing my part. Here on Cambie Street you stand on the curb edge to make your deposit. If you put recyclables in the general garbage the curb drops away suddenly and catapults you into the pathway of an Olympic Bus. Always recycle!!! Notice the adjacent firehydrant....no recycle receptacle. Humans must recycle...dogs are exempt!
Olympic Prices
How about $5.00 for a SMALL bag of M & M's? Or $4.50 for a water? I thought it was too much also. When the attendant at this concession turned her head, I took over and lowered prices at least for awhile for some happy Olympic fans!!!!
Sunday Feb. 21 Hockey Day in Canada
The day of the Canada vs USA rematch dawned brightly in Vancouver...but no outdoor scene would rival the beauty of the Olympic Zamboni as the country waited for THE GAME. Don and I fielded continual text messages from all across Canada as we gave our "on site" commentary to eager fans relying on us for the inside stories.
Before the Game
Hockey fans go through security and then wait behind fences to be let in (just like at concentration camps). In fact if we are ever subject to an evil dictator he (or she to be gender neutral) will only have to tell us there is a hockey game and we WILL line up without resistance! After the arena is cleaned up from the previous game, fans get released through the gate to fight our way to the door. So far no one has been trampled around me! Don is sporting his new red Olympic Hockey Jersey. Danita, don't you think he looks handsome? He is actually turning many heads!!!
Mostly Canadian Fans
Off to the left you will notice a lone American fan kneeling in humility around the dominant Canadian presence. She was praying the rosary and hoping for divine intervention. Her prayers were answered as the US came away with a victory!
Canada vs USA Nosebleed Seats
Now you know why you have not seen us on TV. Here we are in the last row of the upper bowl. Actually their was lounge off to our left (your right) and above our row where Yvan Cournoyer (now in his 60's) and his 40 year old wife were sitting! The rope behind Don appears to be around his neck but it actually is an optional safety strap for people who are afraid of heights. Don felt safer having it attached!
Where is Brodeur now?
The Canadian boys battled hard through the refereeing and the US checking. Our goaltending let us down on at least two if not three of the four goals (the fifth was an empy netter). Here Brodeur is attempting to join the power play unit. Advice to Brodeur, "Stay in the net and play goal". Advice to Mike B. "It's time for Roberto to get his chance".
Departure In Defeat
It was tough to lose to the Americanos but it really just means we have to play one more game...see you next Sunday!
Sea of Yellow and Horns
The late night game between the Swedes and Finns was disappointing. The Finns could not compete against a superior Swedish squad featuring a returning Peter Forsberg (not a factor in the game due gerontological issues) and the Sedin sisters. They were magical using their "twim implanted sonar" to find each other when even the camera man could not!!! Note to my boys...scrutinize carefully any Swedish girl you might be considering...if you notice down near the glass by the camera men, there is a girl with bovine type horns coming out of her head!!!
Security Detail at the Medal Ceremony
On Sunday night we attended the Victory Ceremony and managed to upgrade our seats (unofficially of course) and get close to the stage. I noticed a threatening presence off to the far left of the stage and reported here to the authorities. They never get back to me however so I am left wondering if I am really helping or not????
Security Update
They are billing these games as the "safest games" ever. I believe it. At the Salt Lake Olympics we were unnerved by the presence of uniformed and armed military presence often with security dogs on leash. Our approach is softer and more discreet. Vanoc has done a great job of concealing multiple layers of security to make it safe but not threatening to fan comfort. Notice the infra-red eye cameras implanted in this little baby who was secretly scanning me for concealed weapons. Way to go Vanoc!!!!
Your Questions Answered I
Some of you have been asking, "How does Hugh get such good reports on to the blog so promptly?" Your question answered....Here I am at my personal on site Olympic media station. So far it has been working great. My "official" media pass however is "still in the mail" so I'm told!!!!
Your Questions Answered II
Some of you have been giving favourable feedback about the good camer work at the Olympics and wondering, "How could they be doing that so consistently?" Your question answered...Here I am giving "fan friendly" directions to a one of the many CTV camera men. He liked my advice and asked me to "keep it coming".
The Agony of Defeat
On Saturday afternoon we met these bewildered Norwegian Hocky Fans. They were asking about medication for depression following the third successive defeat of their hockey team. I cheered them up as best I could and led them to the Rexall Drug Store to get their medications. My advice to Norwegians, "Stick to the snow sports".
Olympic Potential
This young woman saw me coming! I expect it was my unusually ripped Olympic body shape exuding "potential" for greter things. She begged me to volunteer for a "fan entertainment" demonstration in the concourse at the Pacific Coleseum. I was too shy to say yes!
The Show I Never Gave
No words needed...but check out the guy leering from behind the post!!!
Saturday Feb. 20th
The crowds in the city are have been growing since Friday. This is a gathered crowd around a street performer on Granville Street Mall. The atmosphere is captivating, unlike any other events that I have attended. The Olympics are unique.
Pacific Coleseum
This is the venue for figure skating (which we did not and do not plan to attend) and Short Track Speed Skating. We had a great evening here and look forward to coming back on Friday evening for three more medal final races. This was my first time back at the PC since Claire and I cheered the Canucks (sorry Flames & Oiler fans) on to a Stanley Cup appearance when I was there as a student in 1982.
Friends and Family
I consider myself a friend of all of our athletes but unfortunately the security people did NOT. We had to walk another 1/2 mile with all other fans to go through the regular entry points.
Snow Angel
Don was accosted by this Snow Angel outside of the Coleseum. I snapped this picture just before he was able to fight hsi way free from her clutches!
Olympic Security I
All venues require all fans to pass through these security stations. There are adequate stations to keep lines moving fairly well...however if you come late, your entry can be delayed.
Olympic Security II
Just like at airports...despite warnings to the contrary, I have successfully carried in sandwiches,oranges and bottled water...it saves a fortune in food costs!!!!!
Not All Fans Are the Same
This little boy from Seattle was consumed in his video game throughout the competition. You can see from the picture that we were up at the top of the arena but our seats were still very good for viewing.
Canadian Short Track Skaters
These two skaters were not competing on this night. The woman skater is Jessica Gregg, daughter of former Edmonton Oiler player Randy Gregg...they guy is from Quebec. Jessica finished a close fourth in a medal final earlier in the week and will skate again next Wednesday.
Men's 1000 m final
Two Canadian men, the Hamelin brothers, qualified for this medal final. They started out in front for several laps but were overtaken by two Koreans and the American skater....No medals for Canada on this night!
Women's Skating Winners
Notice the 'picture in picture' feature taken by Don while the winners of the women's 1500 m race were being introduced. Medals are awarded the next evening at the Victory ceremony at BC Place stadium
"More Than Gold"
Free hot chocolate at the bus stop. There is a "behind the scenes" group of Christians who have organized some supportive services for fans. They identify with the "More Than Gold" slogan as seen on this guy's jacket. They are present at almost all transportation venues at night offering either hot chocolate or coffee at no charge. The Olympics strictly forbid distribution of religious material or any religious activity.
At The End of the Night
Transportation has been generally good. On this night however the 'bus loading system' was deficient. ONE long line was being loaded, one bus at a time when several empty buses were waiting. This guy thought I was taking a picture of him! The good news was, we got on a bus that took us directly up Hastings to the train station at Waterfront.
Winter? Olympics Feb. 19th
Taken from our "secret parking place" near to a subway station, this shows green grass in the city and the absence of snow on the north shore lower mountains. Daytime temps have been in the mid teens with warm sun and no clouds for the last five days. We took a break from events today, so the posts that follow feature some 'non televised' Olympic insights!
Talking To Americans
Since aquiring an American son-in-law I feel more inclined to talk to Americans at the Olympics. And I don't mean "trash talk"! This nice couple from Minnesota were walking back from the curling venue to the subway station. Their son curls with the US men's team. The scuttlebut for the day was that the team "pulled" their skip and replaced him with the "alternate" player. Up until today they had gone four and O with the skip losing three of those games in the 11th end when he had the "hammer" (curling talk) coming home. They won their game this day with the new skip.
Talking to Cops
Even the COPS are friendly at the Olympics. The smiling cop had just shown the others a picture on his cell phone as I walked up. When I asked them what kind of pictures they were looking at they knew they were busted! The smiling lawman instantly denied there were any pictures to see and began texting. His smile tells me otherwise! The big guy turning his back to the camera is from Belleville Ontario. Officers from accross Canada, identified by their shoulder insignias, have come to help with security.
Japanese Broadcasters
If you can't beat them on the ice and snow, beat them with technology. Every other media camera is a 30 pound shoulder-mounted unit. This guy uses a JVC hand held to record a translated interview with a Canadian guy on the street. They were asking him if he had seen any of these women at the Olympics. They are the Japenese curling team. The Japanese guy with the green clipboard is providing musical background to the interview! As you can see, Don hates the lights of the camera!!!
The Olympic Bay
That is NOT a manequin in the foreground. It is Don pointing out the endless line of shoppers waiting to enter the expanisve 'Olympic Souvenir Department' at the downtown Bay. The seperate entrance has a controlled line outside from morning until late night. There are NO discounts! I suggest you "shop at home" this time.
Olympic Coffee
Granville Street Mall features one of about five Starbucks that we have seen in the downtown Olympic core. The giant sponge toffee apparently is a form of art not found in Alberta! These boys tried a taste test and were disappointed. They should have asked me first, it does not taste good!
Olympic Telephones
This girl has been wearing a giant balloon all week. When we told her it was there, she said, "Take a picture to prove it"! Bell is the official supplier of phones to the Olympics and offers invitations to their corporate pavillion. It is low on our priority list!
Riding With Quatchie
Here I am experiencing a bob sled run (NOT) for the first time. Quattchie the mascot was a willing driver!!! "Sleep Country" are the official suppliers of mattresses for the athletes...I have no way to confirm if that is true!
Meeting Athletes from Other Countries
The Olympics is about bringing people and countries together....so out on the street following the game, when the Slovakian Women's Hockey Team asked for a photo with a "real Canadian" I reluctantly agreed. They were so happy to celebrate a victory by the men's team following huge losses in the women's tournament. O ya, the Slovaks upset the Russians in a very entertaining and hardfought tie/shootout win. Pavel Dimitra won it shooting on Ilya Bryzgalov in the seventh round of shots. The flag is not concealing anything...
No Fighting in Olympic Hockey?
You can see big Zedeno Chara seemingly running on his skates to avoid all other players and the possibility of a fight that would expel him from the game. At the same time however notice the posture of the referee. He is clearly ready for some rock'im sock'im action. You may not know, but the Olympic rules do not say anything about referees fighting!!!
Another Kind of Relief
You have to plan your bodily functions well at the Olympics. This bank of public washrooms looks impressive but it actually is located BEHIND the security kiosks at GM Place. Could there be a terrorist threat to the toilettes? I guess the reasoning would be to attack when people are most vulnerable!
Sovakia vs Russia Feb. 18 Night
The Ovechekin led Russians, billed as an Olympic Hockey favourite, took on the Slovaks one night after their loss to the Checks (or cheques). I added my cheering voice to the hopes of these three Slovakian men who travelled to Vancouver just for the Olympics. They took my picture also. Who knows, I may be on the front the page of the Pardubice (is that in Slovakia?) morning news!
Relief and Celebration
If the image looks blurry it could be from the jitters! A tie with overtime and a shootout was not in the plans. A lucky bounce off of a Canadian D man's skate and exceptional goal tending (and some luck) earned the Swiss a tie. Brodeur shut the door in the shootout, and Sydney (on his second shootout attempt in the fifth round) earned us the tie. The Canadians were pretty happy on the ice and everyone in the crowd and at home were too! Up next...the USA on Sunday afternoon.
Jumbotron Interview
I dislike public interviews but because it was for our country, I agreed to comment publicly on the game between periods. The nose to the right of the picture belongs to Lanny McDonald. The camera man was attempting to keep his ridiculous moustache from obscuring the entire screen.
Centre Ice Controversy Continues
As you can see from the postures of the two centremen, they also could not find centre ice. If there was a caption attached I expect the referee would be asking where they want him to drop the puck! Canada was wearing the white jerseys, the Swiss are in red.
Why You Did Not Get Tickets
The lower bowl of the hockey rink on one entire side is dominated by a massive arrangement of press boxes. My suggestion is that one guy writes the stories for each game and someone translates it into all of the Olympic languages. Just think of how much better it would be to have ONE press table and more real fans there. The second level sections, empty at this point before the game, are all reserved for athletes from any country who wish to show up for a game. No wonder you did not get the seats you wanted for the Olympics eh?
The Sea of Red (and White too)
If you have not seen me on TV you can pick me out of this pro Canadian crowd. I am the guy in the white shirt sitting beside a guy in a red shirt! The nationalistic spirit makes your spine tingle.
Helping Out Before the Game
Selling programs with your arms held high in the air can not be easy. I took a few moments to help this vendor hold up a program. You can see how happy she was to have the help. Afterward she was very insistent that I buy a program. They must work on commission eh? Sorry for the cut off look on my head...my pictures with me in it are only as good as my photographer!!! Oh, he says he was NOT focusing on me!
Canada vs Switzerland
You never know who you will meet at the Olympics. And I will never know who I met just outside of GM Place before the game! These committed Canadian fans went all out. The brief look was kind of creepy but I am glad they had them on. I wore sun glasses to conceal my identity.
One More from the Oval
Skater (as in speed skating) Jeremy Wotherspoon attempted a comback for these Olymmpics. The good news was that he did not trip this time, but the bad news was he was not able to get to the podium. Here he is skating his post-race "cool down laps" following a disappointing race. What a hard call to make....come back and try again or accept a past that you cannot change!
Centre Ice
The rink boards here display the colours and pagentry of the Vancouver Olympics. Fences, walls and singnage feature these designs. And as you can see from the referee's posture, he cannot figure out where to drop the puck. I think centre ice is the belly button of the Inukshuk but it is impossible to tell! If there IS a Loonie implanted at centre ice it will never be found!
Men's Hockey Slovakia vs Checkslovakia
These are the first Checks (or is it "cheques" or "cheks") I have ever met. The fans from the two countries came to cheer and the game was one of the best I have watched live in a long time. The Checks (or cheques), featuring the "return of Jaromir Jagr" won the game 3-1 partly due to goaltending by Thomas Voukoun and due to thick goalposts which stopped at least three Slovak shots! Notice my hands are at my sides and all of the drinks are being held "not by me"!
Olympic Medal Cermony Feb. 17 GM Place
Each evening there is a medal presentation ceremony. On this night our Canadian competitor in the Women's Snow Board Cross was presented with a Gold Medal, Canada's second at these olympics. The staging was immpressive...the pro-Canada crowd appreciative and the footlong hotdogs were the best at 8 pm after not eating since lunch time!
Long Track Speed Skating Feb. 17
After walking a chilly 1.5 Km from the train station to the speed skating rink, we settled into our seats to watch the men's 1,000 metre event. The venue is cavernous with an impressive wood ceiling made from "Pine Beatle" infested wood! As the years go by it will interesting to see how that construction affects speed skating! My long-time excellent friend Don is one of the very few people who would make this kind of trip with ME!
The Sedin's Father?
This very Swedish guy showed up in our box during the second period wearing a signed Team Sweden jersey. He claimed to be the father of the Sedins, but his jersey had "Lundquist" on the back. What do you think?
Game Analysis
After the first period vs Norway when the score was tied at 0-0 I offered my advice on the commercial break to the TSN broadcasters pictured here. Although it was not confirmed to me, I expect my analysis got through to the coaches as they altered the system for period number 2 and the goals started to go in!!!
Canada vs Norway Hockey Feb. 16
This is the view from our seats in a skybox high above the ice...I felt like a 'Play by Play' announcer...nice vantage point for Canada's first win at the Olympics. The NHL stars displayed impressive playmaking but of course it was against a weak Norwegian Team!
Men's Curling Feb. 16
Canada's first Men's Curling draw was against Norway who are considered one of the strong teams. Notice their "clown-like" and controversial trousers!!! Kevin Martin's rink won on an 11th end, last rock draw to the button.
Encouraging the Volunteers
Outside of the Curling Venue this volunteer was directing traffic. Don and I try to encourage them for their long hours of service by making them feel important. We obeyed her sign and walked slowly!!!
Atheletes and Their Families
At the curling venue on Feb. 16th I sat beside Kevin Martin's (Canadian Men's skip) father. He finds the high level bonspiels nerve wracking. He watched every single shot with intense scrutiny...nice man...from Lougheed AB.
The World Has Come to Vancouver
This little Korean girl needed help to hold up her flag for friend to snap a picture.
Downtown Vancouver Feb. 15th
A monstrous Canadian flag dominates this street corner in downtown Vancouver. This was our first step out of the subway train upon arriving.
Checking In
Knowing that Bob Nicholson would already be in Vancouver I stopped by the Hockey Canada office to make certain that the support staff were continuing with final preparations.
Will I need my equipment in Vancouver?
I like to be prepared for every scenario, so I dropped my equipment off at the Hockey Canada transport site. For sure it's a long shot, but my motto is "always be prepared".
Final Pre-Olympic Skate
Proudly wearing my Team Canada Jersey, I went for one last skate at the rink just prior to departing for Vancouver. Admittedly it is a long shot, but should my country need me, I WILL be ready to put my skates on!!!!
My Olympic Protege
Little Sam will be attending his first Olympics and he is very happy about it. Here in my Olympic Headquarters Office at First Baptist I gave Sam his orientation. His first event will be Men's Curling featuring Alberta's own Kevin Martin representing Canada. As a dual US/CAN citizen, Sam may be somewhat conflicted. I plan to shape his loyalities however. With fine Olympic Parents including a Mom who competed as a speed skater, I see Sam competing in the 2032 Winter Olympics.
New Torch Bearer Friend
This young man asked to hold my torch for a picture!
The Olympic Torch at C.O.P.
I was passed the torch by this Torch Official at the top of the Bobsleigh Track at Canada Olympic Park. When she realized I was not really the next torch bearer she grabbed it back but not before my official photographer snapped this Olympic Moment.
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