This will be my 3rd Olympics as a spectator and I have learned few things that I would like to share with you before you embark on this 34 day odyssey of sport and culture and fun.
1) The Olympics and Paralympics are about Relationships
Everyone has a story at the Olympics. Whether it is an athlete, family member, official, media person or spectator everyone has a story that needs to be heard. Meet the people behind the stories and take the time to listen. You’ll be amazed with who you meet and it will make your 34 days that much more enjoyable.
Mr. Sehmbi with some Aussie Fans at the Athens Olympics
We met these guys outside the venue, they didn't tell us they had a giant Indian flag. We were immediately best friends with the pro-Indian crowd.
2) Fall in Love with the City. Olympic host cities are alive and full of amazing things to do. Take advantage to every night and get out and see as much as you can. Free concerts, arts exhibitions and live shows. If you aren’t in to big crowds, walk around and just take in the sights. Host cities are beautiful during the Olympics.
The Vancouver skyline from behind the nine o'clock gun in Stanley Park.
The Richmond Ozone Fireworks... home to some great concerts in the next few weeks
3) Support someone… anyone…
Cheer… cheer loud.. and cheer often. Cheer for whomever you wish, but make sure they hear your voice, you know you’d want to hear someone cheering for you. It is also the easiest way to make friends when you go to a venue.
I became an adopted Greek when I was in Athens... a definite fan favorite
"We're Red, We're White our Team is Dynamite"
Hopefully these little bits of knowledge will help the spectators enjoy the 2010 Games!!!
Mr. Sehmbi
