It was just over seven years ago that London won their bid to host the 2012 Olympic Games.
I remember exactly what I was doing when we began our campaign. I was on my honeymoon at the Atlantis Resort in the the Bahamas. I cannot express the joy and hearing the news… or the sorrow the following day when the 7/7 bombs devastated London.
Now, seven years later, London is stronger than ever.
However, our efforts to hold one of the most memorable moments in history haven’t gone without its problems.
It was feared that London traffic would come to a standstill in a bid to get Olympic officials to the venues on time with the introduction of the ‘Olympic lanes’.
Many tax payers protested at the amount of money being spent on the venues when the current economic climate was already in a state. Then there was the outrageous scenes of blocks of empty venue seats when tickets were impossible to purchase.
Most embarrassing of all? Only a fraction of the security team arriving for work on the first day of the Games.
And then there was this man, Minister Jeremy Hunt – the cherry on the cake…
But, Britain is strong. We will always survive.
And here’s why…
It all started with the torch bearers, cheered on by thousands of supporters who lined the streets come rain or shine as they carried the Olympic flame around the country.
But, our Armed Forces stepped in to secure the venues and the opening ceremony was absolutely breathtaking. Millions around the world watch Kenneth Branagh ‘build’ London. Dancers danced, singers sang, and we even had a little help from Mr Bean.
When it was time for the Her Majesty, Queen Elizabeth to arrive, who better to escort her than James Bond himself.
And Britain went on to have one of their most successful Olympics…EVER!
But it’s not just the British that have made these past two weeks so special. It has been an entire nation.
There have been tears of joy and sorrow. Medals have been won, and medals have been lost. But above all, for two weeks, countries rejoiced together. War and disagreements were buried and put aside. Instead, we supported one and other.
I just hope that spirit can continue.
Did you watch the Olympics? What was your favourite moment? How do you think London did hosting the games? Did you find it hard getting tickets? Did you attend any of the events? Let me know.
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Donna Collins' Blog 