Arrival at the Olympic Village

After so much wait: we're here. At least some of us are. The Villages, both in Vancouver and Whistler, opened today to allow all delegations to come and settle in. As we landed in Vancouver, we were met by beautiful sunchine and something closer to the "Summer Olympics".... Have no fear, there was a nice looking white snow cap on Cypress, the site of Freestyle skiing, snowboarding and much press regarding the lack of snow due to the warmest January on record for this area.


They've been working hard and the Games will go as planned.


It was relatively quiet at the airport but I wouldn't want to get close to that area in the next few days as the world will unleash its athletes and they'll all arrive. Some are already here, easily noticing the immense yellow and green flag of the Aussies hanging on the side of their building. Every country takes little time to show their presence. The Canadian residences are front and centre, the largest building and already we see Canadian flags hanging on each balcony. The accomodations are stunning. They will become high end condos and have beautiful views of the city and False Creek.





The Village has a great athlete "hangin out" area where pool tables, a DJ, a great looking bar (no alcoholic beverages of course) will encourage international gatherings. It's great to see members of different countries wearing their team apparel. Everyone is already eying other countries' "good finds" as people who have experienced these international multisport events know that the end is also the time for open market on trades for cool looking clothing from other countries.


Canada's sponsor, HBC, has done a great job again with the clothing package provided to every team member. Lots of good looking and comfortable clothes we all wear proudly as part of our "uniform". You'll get to see some interesting stuff at opening and closing ceremonies. A lot is already displayed and for sale at HBC stores but we all get some unique pieces.





For the medical members here, today was mostly spent unloading "stuff" and equipment in the medical clinic. Since I'm the only doctor who is on the ground, I spent most of it setting up the doctor's office. The other members worked on the therapy area, massage area and even a little in the Wellness area. I'll have pictures and descriptions of these on another day when they're all finished.



UNfortunately, the internet signal I am getting is too erratic to get some of the pictures loaded. I'll catch up in the next few days when things improve.

For now, I'll sign off. Chat with you tomorrow.

Richard