Vancouver Opens the Olympic Winter Games
Posted by Pete Canalichio on Sat, Feb 13, 2010 @ 06:50 PM
I watched the Opening Ceremonies at a gathering with some Canadian friends last night. My friend, Rory, has a condo on the 20th floor of a high rise that overlooks False Creek, Canada Hockey Place and BC Place Stadium - site of the Opening Ceremonies. The view was spectacular of the skyline and it was fascinating to watch the TV and then actually view the locations being referenced.
The Canadians were extremely proud of their country as we watched the performance. Still, we couldn't help but have conflicting emotions as we thought of the senseless and tragic death of the Georgian luge athlete who lost his life earlier in the day. We all commented that we were pleased to see Jacque Rogge address the crowd and offer up a moment of silence. My friends were also glad to see that the aboriginal people of Canada were embraced by VANOC and that the Four Host First Nations played an important part in the Olympic experience. They wondered if America would ever treat its aboriginal people in the same way.
Throughout the night we jumped from NBC (broadcast out of Seattle) and CTV to see how the American and Canadian commentators viewed the performance. They were keenly interested in how America perceived Vancouver. They also made a point to let me know that Canada had a much more laid back attitude about things. It was fascinating for me to watch and observe their reactions.
The show was spectacular until it got to the lighting of the indoor cauldron and everyone held their collective breath hoping whatever was keeping the pillars from rising would let loose its grip. Then it did for three but not the fourth. The Canadians wondered if the world would judge them harshly. Finally Gretsky carried the Olympic flame into downtown Vancouver and lit the outdoor cauldron. The fireworks went off illuminating the skyline in majestic fashion. The Opening Ceremonies were over and we could finally hit the streets for some night life.
As is customary in Vancouver, the rain was coming down hard with puddles everywhere. Yet, no one seemed to notice. We hit the bars and restaurants in Yaletown. The streets were packed and the place was abuzz with chatter and celebration. Lots of Canadians were walking around with maple leafs painted in red and white on their faces cheering and chanting. You could feel the energy. After the fourth attempt we finally found a place where we could grab a drink and a bite without too long of a wait. Everyone in the restaurant was drinking up the festivities.
Looks like the Games are off to an excellent start.