VANCOUVER WINTER OLYMPICS DAY -1

Clearly I misjudged the mood yesterday. What I took to be a lack of enthusiasm for the Olympics was in fact just Canadian reserve. Seeking out a much needed haircut my hairdresser assured me that Vancouver was abuzz with the Olympic spirit, it’s just that after a 7-year build-up no one can quite believe that the big day is almost here. Similar enthusiasm was encountered queuing to buy a tie in Olympic shop. One of the pleasures of the Sydney Games was chatting to complete strangers from around the world whilst waiting in enormous queues; queuing actually became a highlight and could well be the same in Vancouver.


Earlier in the day we hung-out our Australian flag, somewhat smaller than many Canadian flags flying from adjacent balconies, an upgrade may be warranted. No doubt it will be encouragement to the Australian team whose residence in the Olympic Village is directly across the water of False Creek, prominently visible with its controversial Boxing Kangaroo banner.



As events turned it was just as well I had a groom and put on tie. We dined at the City Terminal Club, a rather grand old-world affair where the dress code is enforced. Little do they know that back in Sydney City Tatts Club with which membership is reciprocated is a den of pokies in which any sense of grandeur has to be sought-out. A most important evening for us as we collected out Olympic tickets purchased discreetly by our Vancouver friends Jas & Jenny through the allocation for locals – you have to know how to play the system. The dining experience was to be savoured, attentive and well in-formed waiting staff, delicately flavoured food and absolutely no rush. On leaving we encountered Princess Anne arriving for the GB Team reception, clearly we chose the right club and had we not been heading to the theatre would have stopped to chat with HRH.