Olympics - London 2012 - General Chat including Opening Ceremony and the Finale

[KnightOwl]

With just 70 days to go until the Opening Ceremony, it must be time we had a chat thread!


http://www.andymurrayfanforum.com/images/olympics/London2012_pink.png


What are your hopes & dreams for London 2012?

Which sporting events are you most looking forward to?

How many medals do you think your country will get?

Who do you think the biggest stars will be?

Have you been able to get tickets, and for which events?


Share your thoughts & experiences with the forum on this thread.

[Nina]

Who's going to carry Olympic flag?
Beckham?

[cazza99]

Who's going to carry Olympic flag?
Beckham?

I doubt it will be Beckham as he is not a medalist.

Chris Hoy?

[Sallydaisy]

Have many other countries announced yet who'll be carrying their national flags into the Olympic stadium? I think Rafael Nadal is doing Spain - any others?

I'd have thought for Team GB it'd be Sir Chris Hoy or perhaps Ben Ainslie?

[VamosVixs]

I would love it to be Sir Chris. :thumbup:

Tennis is well represented this year.

Rafa - Spain
Nole - Serbia
Sharapova - Russia

[RoastLamb]

Surely Federer for La Suisse? I'll bet my bottom dollar on that one.

[KnightOwl]

I would love it to be Sir Chris. :thumbup:

Yes, me too - I think that would be well-deserved....!

[Sallydaisy]

CHECKING THE BEDS!
:olympics:
There's an item (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18658814) on the BBC about how 1000 journalists former Olympians and various other people were invited to spend a night in the Olympic village to road test the facilities ahead of the game starting in just over 3 weeks time. It makes interesting reading!

The duvet covers are certainly colourful .......... wonder if the athletes get to keep them?

http://news.bbcimg.co.uk/media/images/61279000/jpg/_61279466_61279465.jpg

[RoastLamb]

That's pretty cool! Love the bedspreads. I do hope no one stands on the bedside tables, esp. the tennis players.

[-J-]

GB Medal Targets:
Athletics 6.5,
Cycling 8,
Diving 2,
Sailing 4,
Swimming 6,
Taekwondo 2,
Equestrian 2.5,
Rowing 6,
Triathlon 1.5,
Boxing 4

i smell a competition ;)

[Sallydaisy]

Some photos of Heather Watson as you've NEVER seen her before .........
:laugh:

adidas UK ‏@adidasUK (https://twitter.com/#%21/adidasUK) Check out @TeamGB (https://twitter.com/#%21/TeamGB) tennis player @HeatherWatson92 (https://twitter.com/#%21/HeatherWatson92)
in the Kitting Out photobooth! #takethestage (https://twitter.com/#%21/search/%23takethestage) http://pic.twitter.com/PXUwF4bX (http://t.co/PXUwF4bX)

[Sallydaisy]

A nice reward for AggieRad for reaching the Wimbledon Final.


Fed Cup ‏@FedCup (https://twitter.com/FedCup) Congratulations to @aradwanska (https://twitter.com/aradwanska) for being chosen to carry Poland's flag at the Opening Ceremony for #London2012 (https://twitter.com/#%21/search/%23London2012). Well deserved!

[RoastLamb]

Awww good for Aga!

[Sallydaisy]

FROM THE AIR!

https://p.twimg.com/Ax7ImLzCIAAGaKO.jpg


London 2012 ‏@London2012 (https://twitter.com/London2012) Pic: Check out this new aerial view of #London2012 (https://twitter.com/#%21/search/%23London2012) Olympic Park looking ready to welcome the world in just 11 days! http://pic.twitter.com/QCmSwRw5 (http://t.co/QCmSwRw5)

[Sallydaisy]

Gold medal-winning Chinese athlete leaves London because it's too cold here Article in the Evening Standard. (http://www.standard.co.uk/news/london/gold-medalwinning-chinese-athlete-leaves-london-because-its-too-cold-here-7946473.html)

A gold medal-winning Olympic hurdler has fled the UK because it is too cold to train here, according to his coach.

Liu Xiang had been training at St Mary's University College in Twickenham but just days later headed to Germany instead.
Talking to the the Xinmin Evening News, his coach said: "Due to the low temperatures in London many Chinese athletes and other sports teams have chosen to look for other training bases. Liu Xiang is not the only one."

[Sallydaisy]

The Wimbledon Way - no idea what it's going to look like but this is an article (http://www.wimbledonsw19.com/default.asp?section=info&page=grantforwimbledonway.htm) I found about how it came about and a subsequent website (http://thewimbledonway.org/).

[Sallydaisy]

Team uniforms (http://www.shrewdtennis.com/tennis-olympic-games-opening-ceremony-uniforms/) for the Olympics opening ceremony ........
:sofa:

[Sallydaisy]

Guide to the Opening Ceremony and which athletes have been named as flagbearers so far! (http://www.shrewdtennis.com/tennis-a-guide-to-the-opening-ceremony-of-the-olympic-games/)



Rafael Nadal for Spain.
Novak Djokovic for Serbia. .
Horia Tecau for Romania.
Max Mirnyi for Belarus.
Stephanie Vogt for Liechtenstein.
Agnieszka Radwanska for Poland.
Tsvetana Pironkova for Bulgaria.
Marcos Baghdatis for Cyprus.
Maria Sharapova for Russia.

[Linda]

It's amazing how many tennis players are flagbearers for their countries! Do we know yet who is the British flagbearer?

[Jan]

It's amazing how many tennis players are flagbearers for their countries! Do we know yet who is the British flagbearer?
not as far as I know

[Sallydaisy]

There's a full list of countries competing at the Olympics with flagbearers so far here in Wiki. (http://webcache.googleusercontent.com/search?q=cache:4ESYkHEYFMMJ:en.wikipedia.org/wiki/2012_Summer_Olympics_national_flag_bearers+olympic +flag+bearers&cd=1&hl=en&ct=clnk&gl=uk)
(Quicker to look there than on London 2012 website).

There are still a lot to be named.
FYI the list is A-Z but as host country Great Britain is last - and parades last on the Opening night.

[Sallydaisy]

There's an alternative torch relay that has progressed along the same route as the Olympic flame!
But they've RUN all the way!!

See BBC report (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18800162) here.

[Jan]

I'd heard about that - quite a feat!

[cazza99]

http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/olympics/18071080



The BBC's Red Button service for the Olympics on Sky, Virgin Media and Freesat will offer audiences access to up to 24 live streams, while there will be an additional 24-hour channel of extra BBC Olympics content available via the BBC Red Button for audiences with Freeview and BT Vision.

.....

"We will be bringing live coverage of every Olympic Sport from every venue, through a combination of BBC One and BBC Three and up to 24 simultaneous streams live online on PC, mobile, tablet or connected TV.

"These services will be complemented by coverage on Radio 5 live, mobile and tablet.

"The majority of cable and satellite viewers will be able to access the 24 channels on their providers' platform through the BBC Red Button.

"Alongside our sport offering, our news services will be providing impartial news coverage on all the big Olympic stories."

The flagship Olympic channels, BBC One, BBC Two (when BBC One switches to the news), BBC Three, BBC HD and BBC One HD will be dedicated to the event over the 17 days of competition.

A 24-hour digital radio station, Radio 5 live Olympic Extra, will complement BBC Radio 5 live and BBC Radio 5 live Sports Extra for the duration of the Games.

[Hawkeye]

Us poor folk with council telly get left out again. :(

[cazza99]

There is a 72 page Olympic Special magazine coming out with the Radio Times next week.

[cazza99]

Sun (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/olympics/4436841/Olympic-gods-Top-ten-hot-shots-of-the-2012-Games.html)- Olympic gods: Top ten hot shots of the 2012 Games

[Lizzim]

Am I the only one that thinks all of the Olympics security restrictions etc are ridiculous?

I was checking the guidance for the Milennium Stadium (I'm going to my first ever football match) and they strongly advise not taking a bag....well where are people supposed to put wallets, phones and cameras?

I have been and got a tiny bag in the hope this won't delay my entry by too much!

[Sallydaisy]

Am I the only one that thinks all of the Olympics security restrictions etc are ridiculous?

I was checking the guidance for the Milennium Stadium (I'm going to my first ever football match) and they strongly advise not taking a bag....well where are people supposed to put wallets, phones and cameras?

I have been and got a tiny bag in the hope this won't delay my entry by too much!
I agree with you; it all sounds OTT. This business of refusing entry if someone wears the wrong trainers is nuts! I know why they are doing it but the tickets cost a fair bit in the first place without moreorless insisting people go and buy trainers with the sponsors name on the side. I'm not a big fan of the nanny state and this is a good example of it being taken too far.
erm, now where did I put my soapbox ...
:getcoat:

[-J-]

I agree with you; it all sounds OTT. This business of refusing entry if someone wears the wrong trainers is nuts! I know why they are doing it but the tickets cost a fair bit in the first place without moreorless insisting people go and buy trainers with the sponsors name on the side. I'm not a big fan of the nanny state and this is a good example of it being taken too far.
erm, now where did I put my soapbox ...
:getcoat:are you a fan of higher taxes to pay for the games, you sell the soul to the devil you have to dance to his tune

[Sallydaisy]

I understand why the sponsors need their rights protected but seems to me there's a bit of a difference between someone trying to ship in 20,000 counterfeit Olympic flags (they got caught) or organising 'ambush marketing' and a youngster innocently going to watch a swimming event with t-shirt with the wrong logo on. Just hope they'll be sensible on the day!

[cazza99]

:shocked: I didn't know they stopped people wearing their clothes. That is going to far.

Maybe everyone should turn up naked.

[JAMES4578]

Am I the only one that thinks all of the Olympics security restrictions etc are ridiculous?

I was checking the guidance for the Milennium Stadium (I'm going to my first ever football match) and they strongly advise not taking a bag....well where are people supposed to put wallets, phones and cameras?

I have been and got a tiny bag in the hope this won't delay my entry by too much!

I really think they are a bit over Zealous. Got a letter last week stating they strongly suggest not to bring a bag to a football match and that you could even miss your event. However, if you're there in plenty time surely unlikely to happen!


I understand why the sponsors need their rights protected but seems to me there's a bit of a difference between someone trying to ship in 20,000 counterfeit Olympic flags (they got caught) or organising 'ambush marketing' and a youngster innocently going to watch a swimming event with t-shirt with the wrong logo on. Just hope they'll be sensible on the day!

Obviously that would be crazy! Seems that Seb Coe got it wrong though,according to Locog individuals will be able to wear whatever they like. Olympic Rules (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-18922964)


:shocked: I didn't know they stopped people wearing their clothes. That is going to far.

Maybe everyone should turn up naked.

lol, you would be assured of getting publicity!

[Sallydaisy]

:shocked: I didn't know they stopped people wearing their clothes. That is going to far.

Maybe everyone should turn up naked.
They've backtracked and said they probably wouldn't refuse entry unless the 'ambush marketing' is blatant i.e. a bunch of people turfing up wearing Fosters t-shirts ...

I read a bit about all this on the BBC the other day - link here (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-18628635)
This is the bit that got a few people's back up:-

Children lining the route of the athletes parade through the Olympic Park are being advised to wear "comfortable, unbranded or Adidas shoes".
.......The authorities say they are ready for anything at the 2012 Games, but have stressed that spectators will not be ordered to change if they are wearing the "wrong brand" of T-shirt.


Protection against ambush marketing is aimed initially at protecting the reputation of the Games themselves, but also the commercial value of the Games and the financial commitment of the official sponsors.

Officers will be expected to disrupt any ambush marketing before it happens. This includes powers to take down temporary advertising structures, stop mass giveaways of items such as umbrellas or T-shirts, or remove counterfeit goods from sale.



One eye will also be kept on the digital world, with social media opening a new avenue for businesses to market their goods.
The Advertising Standards Authority (ASA) recently censured a Nike Twitter campaign for failing to make clear that the messages were "identifiable as marketing communications".

[Sallydaisy]

Stanislas Wawrinka will carry the Olympic flag for Switzerland!
However, Tsvetana Pironkova, who was reported in Bulgaria as the pick, will now march behind their chosen flag-bearer gymnast Yordan Yochev.

[VamosVixs]

Sir Chris Hoy is Team GB flagbearer, well deserved!! :thumbup:

[Sallydaisy]

Yay!!! Congratulations to him - much deserved.
Where did you hear the news Vixs? I've been keeping an eye out because there was supposed to be a press conference today so was hoping to see it reported on the Beeb.

[KnightOwl]

That's great news - I was hoping it would be him!

More details can be found on the BBC News (http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/olympics/18953729) Website.

[Sallydaisy]

:grrr:
They just snuck that onto 'breaking news' ...
:laugh:

I liked that it was the participating athletes who made the choice.

The British Olympic Association appointed Hoy the flagbearer after asking each sport represented in Team GB to nominate one candidate. The team leaders of each sport then voted on the shortlist.

[KnightOwl]

Yes, that's a really nice touch :)

[VamosVixs]

Yay!!! Congratulations to him - much deserved.
Where did you hear the news Vixs? I've been keeping an eye out because there was supposed to be a press conference today so was hoping to see it reported on the Beeb.

It was on the bbc news channel.

[VamosVixs]

@chrishoy


Delighted to be able to say that I'll be carrying the flag at the Opening Ceremony! Massive honour!

[supergran]

Pleased for Chris:thumbup:.....now all I want is for Daley Thompson to light the flame! My greatest Olympian!!:cheer::olympics:

[Sallydaisy]

There's an Olympic edition of Question of Sport on tonight at 8.30pm on BBC1

Sue Barker hosts a special Olympic-themed version of the light-hearted sports quiz, looking forward to the start of London 2012. Joining team captains Matt Dawson and Phil Tufnell are four British Olympic gold medal winning greats: Denise Lewis, James Cracknell, Sean Kerly and Sally Gunnell.

[Helen40]

Just read that Federer declined t carry the Swiss flag, but no reason was given. Anyone got any information?

[JAMES4578]

Well done Chris, certainly a deserved honour! Don't know why Fed declined to carry the Switz flag but must say I am a bit surprised!

[Golden Lady]

Just read that Federer declined t carry the Swiss flag, but no reason was given. Anyone got any information?


I found this (http://www.10sballs.com/2012/07/12/roger-federer-declined-to-carry-the) and from what it says he a) wants to give another swiss athlete a chance and b) he wants to concentrate on winning the gold medal.

[Sallydaisy]

There's also an Absolutely Fabulous Olympic special on tonight - 9pm BBC1.

[cazza99]

And a program about Tom Daley on BBC1 at 10.35 pm.

[cazza99]

BBC (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-18952267)- London 2012: The ones to watch in Team GB

[Sallydaisy]

Team GB were welcomed to the Olympic Village today (as were various other country teams). Here's a few tweets and items about the day - including some photos of other athletes excited to meet Andy Murray in person.

TeamGB and the National Anthem (erm, rubbish sound!).

James PearceVerified ‏@Pearcesport (https://twitter.com/Pearcesport) This is hair standing up on back of neck time. National Anthem plays during London 2012 welcome ceremony for Team GB http://yfrog.com/5i4epz (http://t.co/7D4ymnIr)


belizeolympics2012 ‏@belizeolympics (https://twitter.com/belizeolympics) Andy Murray in the Olympic Village with team Belize http://pic.twitter.com/ipRVjAkm (http://t.co/ipRVjAkm)

https://p.twimg.com/AyltWnOCAAEJHh_.jpg



Roberto Pavoni ‏@Roberto_Pavoni (https://twitter.com/Roberto_Pavoni) Saw @andy_murray (https://twitter.com/andy_murray) in the Olympic Dining Hall today! Feels weird that we are doing the same thing as these superstars. #TeamGB (https://twitter.com/#!/search/%23TeamGB)




DWAYNE FIELDS ‏@DwayneFields (https://twitter.com/DwayneFields) Just saw Andy Murray, he's looking like a champion!


Ollie WilliamsVerified ‏@BBCSport_Ollie (https://twitter.com/BBCSport_Ollie) NBC, occupying roughly half the broadcast centre with 2,700 staff, has built its own (vast) staff-only Starbucks. The BBC has a water cooler



Caroline Cheese ‏@CarolineCheese (https://twitter.com/CarolineCheese) Things I didn't expect to see: Torvill & Dean & Nick Clegg. Also, Princess Anne http://img.ly/lbnx (http://t.co/u8rruPSp)

http://s3.amazonaws.com/imgly_production/5048631/large.jpg

[xenon21]

Another cool tweet from Irish boxer meeting Andy!


Me and some tennis player, he hassled me for a pic....anyone know him????..... pic.twitter.com/ENjJETcI

[cazza99]

Another cool tweet from Irish boxer meeting Andy!

here is the link - https://twitter.com/paddyb_ireland/status/227870701682569216/photo/1

https://p.twimg.com/AymPMiTCMAAHrF6.jpg
picture from twitter

[VamosVixs]

Another pic from an american fencer.


Just Met Andy Murray! http://fb.me/1vwKf3reH (http://t.co/G4IQIT8x)

[Sallydaisy]

Another Andy fan ........
;)

Race Imboden ‏@Race_Imboden (https://twitter.com/Race_Imboden)
Just Met Andy Murray! http://fb.me/1vwKf3reH (http://t.co/G4IQIT8x)









https://www.facebook.com/twitter/photo/?id=192423840825199&l=9ff7f5d762&pid=1044380

[Sallydaisy]

What's lovely about all this is that at the last Olympics in Beijing Andy was awestruck at being with all the famous athletes. This year he's one of them!
:hug:

[cazza99]

My Radio Times has arrived in the post. Its got an excellent 72 page guide to the Olympics and the BBC coverage. I'll certainly be using it as it is very clear.

There are 4 pages for every day of the Olympics:-
- one is to list what is on BBC1, BBC3 and the freeview redbutton.
- one is to list the sports covered on the 24 live channels with their schedules for the day.
- two pages give the "experts choice".

[KnightOwl]

Excellent thought Cazza - I usually only buy one at Christmas, but I think I might make an exception as that sounds really useful!

[cazza99]

The Sun (http://www.thesun.co.uk/sol/homepage/sport/olympics/4448979/Team-GB-march-into-the-Olympic-Village-to-a-carnival-themed-welcome.html) - TEAM GB stars marched into the Olympic Village yesterday — with a carnival-themed welcome.

Medal hopefuls like tennis hero Andy Murray and royal horsewoman Zara Phillips were greeted by jesters, stilt-walkers and cyclists wearing face paint.

[Sallydaisy]

Excellent thought Cazza - I usually only buy one at Christmas, but I think I might make an exception as that sounds really useful!


My Radio Times has arrived in the post. Its got an excellent 72 page guide to the Olympics and the BBC coverage. I'll certainly be using it as it is very clear.

There are 4 pages for every day of the Olympics:-
- one is to list what is on BBC1, BBC3 and the freeview redbutton.
- one is to list the sports covered on the 24 live channels with their schedules for the day.
- two pages give the "experts choice".

I bought a copy this morning and the Olympics guide is absolutely brilliant.
Highly recommended for anyone wanting the follow the 16 days of the Games.
http://www.4smileys.com/smileys/sport-smileys/Olympics.gif

Speaking of TV - there's a bunch of Olympic viewing tonight about the history and build-up.
Some of this information might be repeated in other threads where relevant.

BBC1
15.00: Olympic Dreams
15.30: Cardiff Millenium Stadium Womens Football - first event of the 2012 Games
19.30: Britain's Olympic Torch Story*
21.30: Bert and Dickie - fact based drama about 2 rowers at the 1948 Olympic Games in London


BBC2
23.20: An Odyssey - how London has changed since the IOC announced, in July 2005, that it would host OG2012

ITV1
20.00: Britains Greatest Gold Medallists

* BBC online: a 5 minute round-up of the torch relay featuring Andy on Centre Court and ending with Oli Golding at Kew Gardens dwarfed by the Olympic rings.

[hfwardhouse]

Typical. I buy the Radio Times every week but cancelled my order while we are on holiday!

[Sallydaisy]

Can family/neighbours pick up a copy for you? Catmac?

[cazza99]

Mail (http://www.dailymail.co.uk/sport/olympics/article-2178207/London-2012-Olympics-Opening-ceremony-gaffe-1948.html) - Flagging up concerns! Legendary Bannister remembers 1948 opening ceremony gaffe
:rolling:

[cazza99]

Caroline Cheese ‏@CarolineCheese

Sitting in the garden of residential bit of athletes' village. Canada is most photographed house, here's why: http://img.ly/lfJb
http://s3.amazonaws.com/imgly_production/5065349/large.jpg
picture from twitter

[RoastLamb]

That's AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!! :lol:

[Hawkeye]

One more bit of nonsense tonight...

[-J-]

One more bit of nonsense tonight...that I can deal with

[Linda]

Just seeing on the news, apparently loads of people from all over the world have been turning up to watch the archery today as it was advertised as 'unticketed' - which has been generally interpreted by other sports bodies, travel agencies, etc. as meaning it's free to watch. Some people had even phoned Locog and had that confirmed. But they have been disappointed - apparently 'unticketed' means that it's closed to everyone except the sportspeople and the press!

[-J-]

Just seeing on the news, apparently loads of people from all over the world have been turning up to watch the archery today as it was advertised as 'unticketed' - which has been generally interpreted by other sports bodies, travel agencies, etc. as meaning it's free to watch. Some people had even phoned Locog and had that confirmed. But they have been disappointed - apparently 'unticketed' means that it's closed to everyone except the sportspeople and the press!and they misused seeing two world records both set by an archer who is legally blind :eek:

[Sallydaisy]

Thanks for setting up all the schedules Knightowl.
:flowers:

[KnightOwl]

and they misused seeing two world records both set by an archer who is legally blind :eek:

Ummm...legally blind in just the one eye that is...if he was fully legally blind a World Record would have been a little less likely I suspect ;)

[KnightOwl]

so glad this nonsense is over with, now lets get the real show on the road


One more bit of nonsense tonight...

Bah humbug - you grumpy lot :big grin:

[rondun]

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:excited::excited::excited::excited::excited::exci ted::excited::excited::excited::excited::excited:: excited::excited::excited:

[karanga]

Hope it'll be a young person living in East London. :swingin:

[Sallydaisy]

I met someone today who was at the dress rehearsal for tonight and all he'd say was you'll be surprised, you'll laugh and it's a good idea to watch from the very beginning!

[rondun]

Hope it'll be a young person living in East London. :swingin:Yep - with Danny Boyle you never know.

Or with Kelly Holmes involved maybe an army vet - a real hero?


I met someone today who was at the dress rehearsal for tonight and all he'd say was you'll be surprised, you'll laugh and it's a good idea to watch from the very beginning!Would they use the real person at the dress rehearsal?

[Sallydaisy]

Yep - with Danny Boyle you never know.
Or with Kelly Holmes involved maybe an army vet - a real hero?

Would they use the real person at the dress rehearsal?

There have been many heroes on the torch relay. I'd thought that it'd be someone like Sir Steve or Johnson Beharry or a younger athlete like Tom Daley but all those people have already been involved in things already and some have borne the flame.
We should have opened a book .......

Can't imagine they'd use the real person at the dress rehearsal ...

I want to know if they've got a pot still on the go in that wee cottage in the middle of the stadium!

[Linda]

What time do they light the flame?

[rondun]

I'll be disappointed if its Sir Steve - that's an easy cop out.
Needs to be something unforgettable like Muhammed Ali or El Bow - maybe a cloned sheep "accidentally" knocking over a tilly lamp and setting your pot still on fire

[Linda]

Just interviewing Ben Ainslie in Weymouth so it's not him (really hope he wins his 4th gold)

[rondun]

What time do they light the flame?Think it's around half eleven - yeah I know, it's like waiting for a boxing match.

Oooh - harry potter lighting it with his wand (but they probably wouldn't be able to afford the rights and thinking about it using a VC winner likely wouldnt be PC as it might offend the 8 athletes from Iraq)

[RoastLamb]

Our pre-show is a bit of a snooze fest I'm afraid. I wish I had the BBC coverage over here.

[Sallydaisy]

20:12, 27/7/2012
The Red Arrows fly over the Olympic Stadium

http://www.standard.co.uk/incoming/article7982438.ece/ALTERNATES/w620/redarrows2.jpg

Here's what it looked like to begin ......
https://p.twimg.com/Ay1WlZhCcAAJdAP.jpg

There are quite a few peasants arriving to take up residence .....

[RoastLamb]

So apart from Fitzy is anyone else there from here???

[Sallydaisy]

So apart from Fitzy is anyone else there from here???
He's there with RFS according to tweets earlier.

[RoastLamb]

Didn't see his tweets. Strange.

[Linda]

One of the girls from VB is in the ceremony! Just as a crowd person - she's been doing rehearsals, and she says that after the Green & Pleasant Land she comes on and stands by a loom.

[Sallydaisy]

Well the audience has disappeared - that's a bit of a first ..........
:p

[RoastLamb]

Stands by a loom? :lol: Will look out for that then.

[KnightOwl]

Looking fantastic so far! The voice of the boy singing Jerusalem in solo was incredible, and I love the little bits coming in on video from Ireland, Scotland & Wales...!

[davech]

Well the audience has disappeared - that's a bit of a first ..........
:p

:rolling:

[KnightOwl]

I can't believe they've pretty much built a whole village! It looks amazing, but I hope they've remembered they have to take it all down ready for the Athletics to start next week!

Edit: never mind - they seem to be dismantling it as part of the show :big grin:

[Sallydaisy]

Wow, loving Evelyn Glennie and the 1000 drummers ......

[RoastLamb]

Sheesh I can't believe our tv coverage is showing ads and disrupting the show. Terrible.

[-J-]

Think it's around half eleven - yeah I know, it's like waiting for a boxing match.

Oooh - harry potter lighting it with his wand (but they probably wouldn't be able to afford the rights and thinking about it using a VC winner likely wouldnt be PC as it might offend the 8 athletes from Iraq)I'm expecting Andy to volley a flaming ball into the cauldron

[RoastLamb]

Loved the Flower of Scotland from Edinburgh castle. Fab!

[rondun]

I think the ents are going to have a bit of a revolt here

[davech]

I like the chimneys.

[KnightOwl]

How are they doing this?? Looks at the height of those chimneys - were they stored underneath or something??

I'm a bit worried about the athletics now - some of those hammer throwers are big heavy guys - what if they fall through...!

[rondun]

I like the chimneys.It's a pity Fred Dibnah still isn't around - he knew how to light a fire!

[-J-]

How are they doing this?? Looks at the height of those chimneys - were they stored underneath or something??gotta presume they are telescopic either that or there's a very large void under there

[Sallydaisy]

The Beatles have reformed for the occasion!!!

[davech]

That's a fantastic molten metal effect.

[Sallydaisy]

Uh Oh! UFO's

What's the betting some twerp will ring the police to report them!!

[rondun]

The Beatles have reformed for the occasion!!!There better be some mini skirts in this at some point!

[-J-]

love how they are constructing the rings

[davech]

Ooh - they forged Olympic rings!

[Sallydaisy]

Out of the Industrial Revolution and turmoil are forged the 5 rings ......
Did anyone speak to Frodo's agent???

https://yfrog.com/h3zq3trdj:iphone

[-J-]

think I might leave for this section

[Sallydaisy]

think I might leave for this section
S'ok Jay, it's only another Bond movie!

[KnightOwl]

Good grief - that's the real flipping Queen :big grin:

[davech]

It's gone all weird.

[rondun]

Good grief - that's the real flipping Queen :big grin:Never mind that- it's the real flipping James Bond!

[-J-]

is lizzie gonna parachute in now that would be cool

[Sallydaisy]

You have got to be kidding me!
:laugh:

[KnightOwl]

Fantastic - the timing of interleaving the video footage with the live action is phenomenal!

Bond theme and parachuting Queen - brilliant!

Edit: she's wearing the same outfit, so it must really have been her :big grin:

[Sallydaisy]

Edit: she's wearing the same outfit, so it must really have been her :big grin:
The crash helmet is so neatly tucked under that peach titfer isn't it?

[KnightOwl]

Awwww! The kids singing the National Anthem are all in pyjamas!

[cazza99]

is lizzie gonna parachute in now that would be cool

:rofl:

[RoastLamb]

The Bond thing was kinda lame. They didn't realize the film of him in the helicopter was in daylight and yet they parachuted in during the evening.

Don't think that peachy colour suits the Queen. Nice to see Philip.

[-J-]

poor lizzies looking bit rough, must be her recent stadium tour to many late nites

[KnightOwl]

Kids bouncing on beds!! So cuuuute!

[Sallydaisy]

poor lizzies looking bit rough, must be her recent stadium tour to many late nites
Or having to spend too much time with Rogge

[Sallydaisy]

They're really focussing on children in this - that choir singing and signing the National Anthem were amazing. I hadn't known that JM Barried left all his royalties to Great Ormond Street Hospital

JK Rowling reading from Peter Pan - wonder if we'll have a Hogwarts moment?
EDIT - and there is Voldemort right on cue!

[KnightOwl]

Wasn't that the Childcatcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang?

[-J-]

Wasn't that the Childcatcher from Chitty Chitty Bang Bang?think so Mrs just dived behind the :sofa:

[KnightOwl]

I hope that little girl doesn't fall off the bed - it's getting pretty high now!

[-J-]

is Fleming on commotion thAt 2 of his stories featured :lol:

[KnightOwl]

think so Mrs just dived behind the :sofa:

Yeah, never mind old Voldemort - the Childcatcher was really scary!

[Sallydaisy]

I hope that little girl doesn't fall off the bed - it's getting pretty high now!
She's wearing a harness .........
;)

[KnightOwl]

Chariots of Fire - a tad predictable, but still cool!

Edit: Rowan Atkinson!!!

[-J-]

greatest film theme tune ever

[Sallydaisy]

Not so predictable - with Mr Bean in there anything can happen .........
:big grin:

[RoastLamb]

Ooh Mr Bean!!!!!!!!!!!!! :lol:

[KnightOwl]

Phenomenal. Every time I think it's gone a bit ordinary and predictable, something unexpected happens. Danny Boyle is a genius :big grin:

[rondun]

a tad predictable!yep ;)

[KnightOwl]

They've stuck Mr Bean in the real footage from the film - how the hell have they done this - it's brilliant!

[Sallydaisy]

Who was that in that Chariots of Fire group???

[RoastLamb]

LOVED that!!!!!!!!!!

[-J-]

Who was that in that Chariots of Fire group???I was wondering that

[KnightOwl]

Favourite song ever: The Jam - Going Underground!!! (ok, showing my age!)

[Sallydaisy]

Aaaah it's the teenage rebel years including CND ... and My Boy Lollipop!

[KnightOwl]

And a scene from A Matter of Life and Death - brilliant movie :)

[-J-]

will they do sex pistols god save lizzie

[rondun]

If God had meant for girls to play football...

[Sallydaisy]

If God had meant for girls to play football...
Great movie, so funny!

[KnightOwl]

Loving the mix of music!

[davech]

will they do sex pistols god save lizzie

They already played a bit at the start of the opening ceremony.

[Sallydaisy]

Sweet Dreams from Annie Lennox! Yessssssssssssssss

[KnightOwl]

A bit of self-promotion from Danny Boyle there, with a scene from Trainspotting!

[KnightOwl]

And now a bit of a snog-fest :big grin:

[Sallydaisy]

Music playlist for the ceremony ....
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/9341231/London-2012-Olympics-the-full-musical-playlist-for-the-Olympic-opening-ceremony.html

[RoastLamb]

Oi they missed out Duran Duran for the 80s. Pfft.

[Sallydaisy]

This bit is billed as .............

London 2012 ‏@London2012 (https://twitter.com/London2012) Frankie chases June through night clubs playing music from the 60s, 70s, 90s & today. But can he reach her? #OpeningCeremony (https://twitter.com/#%21/search/%23OpeningCeremony)


but it's really all about Tim Berners-Lee

[Sallydaisy]

This is great - it's all about the torch relay and it's now speedboating up the Thames under Tower Bridge en-route to the stadium!

Was Becks actually driving that bright blue and pink boat?

[KnightOwl]

That's gotta be fake - no way is David Beckham driving that boat! Is he...?

[Sallydaisy]

Abide with me ...... from Emili Sande
For all FA Cup Finals...
To follow up the memories of those lost...
But there is still so much energy in this.

[KnightOwl]

It's wonderful. I love the combination of the simple beautiful voice with the energetic dancing, which is so slick!

Edit: Emeli Sande there - lovely!

[Sallydaisy]

I've just worked it out. They've moved Henman Hill to the Olympic Stadium to plant the flags in.
Wimbledon gets a nice new blue bank called Murray Mound instead.
:shades:

We are only on C so far in the Athletes parade ..............

[Sallydaisy]

Oh Hello Baggy!!!

[Sallydaisy]

Why are the Czechs wearing Welly Boots? And they're BLUE!

[Sallydaisy]

is lizzie gonna parachute in now that would be cool


You have got to be kidding me!
:laugh:
The moment Her Majesty parachuted into the Olympic Stadium ..........

https://p.twimg.com/Ay12QzhCIAAnUOG.jpg

[KnightOwl]

Still only up to G - I always forget how long this bit goes on! We're past Gr so the British team would normally have been out by now, but obviously we're last being the host nation!

[rondun]

Still only up to G - I always forget how long this bit goes on! We're past Gr so the British team would normally have been out by now, but obviously we're last being the host nation!They are all athletes after all- you'd think they could at least jog a little bit

[Alis]

Why are the Czechs wearing Welly Boots? And they're BLUE!

They must have heard that it's been raining in London!

[RoastLamb]

So happy I got to see Milos, Vasek and Danny at the front of Canada's team. :yahoo:

[rondun]

N- past halfway?
Still gonna be midnight for teamGB :crying:

[KnightOwl]

The Serbians, with Nole leading the way, are all wearing red jumpers - are they cold...?

[Sallydaisy]

is lizzie gonna parachute in now that would be cool


You have got to be kidding me!
:laugh:


The Serbians, with Nole leading the way, are all wearing red jumpers - are they cold...?
So were the Swiss team - strange.

[Sallydaisy]

Team GB come out to 'Heroes' by David Bowie!!!
:dance:

[Sallydaisy]

Arctic Monkeys - and the audience are using their light thingies to alter the lighting .......

Come Together and a bunch of cyclists with angel wings ......
:hmm:

[Sallydaisy]

E.T.

[rondun]

Getonwaeit

[Sallydaisy]

Sir Steve collects the flame off the boat 'driven' by David Beckham.

[KnightOwl]

Sir Steve! Had to be I guess :)

Not sure if he's going to light the cauldron himself, or if there will be one more surprise....

[rondun]

Sir Steve collects the flame off the boat 'driven' by David Beckham.He better not have dinged it either, I only loaned it to him until midnight

[Sallydaisy]

This is beautiful.

[KnightOwl]

That is very cool! I wasn't sure when they first lit all the 'copper kettles' but when they all lifted up to form one big torch - fantastic!

[Sallydaisy]

Not yet sure about McCartney; the atmosphere was tremendous but Hey Jude is slowing it all down a lot. I guess most people can sing along with it though!

That cauldron is absolutely fantastic; presumably the copper will have fused all the petals together??? Each one had the name of the participating country on it.

[Hawkeye]

meh at the ending.

[KnightOwl]

I guess most people can sing along with it though!

I guess that was the idea - I would rather they'd cranked it up a bit though...!

[rondun]

Very smart.
As Reese Witherspoon would say... "Denny Boyal!" :clap:

[KnightOwl]

meh at the ending.

Hah! You watched it then...!

[Sallydaisy]

Apparently at the end of the Games each country will be given their copper 'petal' to take back to their home nation and the cauldron will disappear.

That cauldron is absolutely fantastic; presumably the copper will have fused all the petals together??? Each one had the name of the participating country on it.

[KnightOwl]

Ok, bedtime now! Got to get up in 5 hours to catch the train...!

[Hawkeye]

Hah! You watched it then...!Turned it over after the film finished. Wish I hadn't.

[VamosVixs]

Loved the lighting of the cauldron. How wonderful to see 7 young athletes having that honour. :thumbup:

[RoastLamb]

Loved the lighting of the cauldron. How wonderful to see 7 young athletes having that honour. :thumbup:

Yes, I did too. Love the way they designed and executed the cauldron. Sir Paul's voice is a bit shaky now. :sad:

Good show but I have to be honest and say the Beijing one was better.

[MurrayAOne]

Best ceremony I've seen EVER!!! Excellent. Whole thing from start to finish. Not seen a better one. Well in Danny Boyle.

[Sallydaisy]

Turned it over after the film finished. Wish I hadn't.
To be honest it was the earlier part that was the most interesting and entertaining. I thought it all went incredibly well with humour, irreverence and involving as many ordinary people as possible.

I confess I was disappointed that the sound system screwed up when Paul McCartney came on and I thought the song he chose, despite being well known, didn't somehow fit with all that had gone before. I also thought we'd have more songs from Sir Paul which might have helped 'cos there were loads in his back catalogue that the crowd could have sung along with. I know it's a Lennon song but I really wish he'd sung Imagine or something livelier and quirky like Yellow Submarine. The latter would have fitted in better with Danny Boyle's left field approach IMHO.

[MurrayAOne]

Yes, I did too. Love the way they designed and executed the cauldron. Sir Paul's voice is a bit shaky now. :sad:

Good show but I have to be honest and say the Beijing one was better.

Doesn't get any better than James Bond escorting Queen Elizabeth II into the Olympic stadium - via helicpoter. NO-ONE will top that.

[RoastLamb]

Thought the James Bond skit was a bit lame tbh. I did LOVE Mr Bean. He was the star for me.

[Sallydaisy]

Thought the James Bond skit was a bit lame tbh. I did LOVE Mr Bean. He was the star for me.
I think it was a brilliant take On Her Majesty's Secret Service; a complete and utter bit of mickey taking which it seems the Queen (with her own good sense of humour) was happy to go along with.

Funniest bit about Mr Bean was Simon Rattle's expression at the end!
:doh:

[RoastLamb]

Well they're showing it on American tv now (coz it's primetime and they never show anything live unless they have to) and already people are complaining on twitter how hard it is to follow and understand. READ SOME HISTORY BOOKS PEOPLE! They really need subtitles. :facepalm:

[MurrayAOne]

I think it was a brilliant take On Her Majesty's Secret Service; a complete and utter bit of mickey taking which it seems the Queen (with her own good sense of humour) was happy to go along with.



Spot on!

[Sallydaisy]

Good show but I have to be honest and say the Beijing one was better.
They were quite different approaches though.
Beijing was about scale, show of strength, precision, synchronised artistry and regimen.
London had humour, masses of it, inventiveness and wonder and I thought our flame was mind blowing in both design and execution.

Pity the Rio organisers ....... but they have a simple solution on their doorstep. Carnival.

[MurrayAOne]

London had humour, masses of it, inventiveness and wonder and I thought our flame was mind blowing in both design and execution.



Spot on - again!!!

[MurrayAOne]

Yes - 'wonder' is the right word.

[RoastLamb]

I think my expectations were much too high and it all fell a little flat in the end for me. My kids feel the same way. I also think not having Rafa or Andy there sucked. Yes, two different approaches I agree. There were some lovely touches but it just didn't quite work as well as I had anticipated. But it was pretty good overall.

[Sallydaisy]

Well they're showing it on American tv now (coz it's primetime and they never show anything live unless they have to) and already people are complaining on twitter how hard it is to follow and understand. READ SOME HISTORY BOOKS PEOPLE! They really need subtitles. :facepalm:
Yet you'd think the Americans would understand the Industrial Revolution bit ... and the 'teen angst' segments. I guess the bits about the NHS (free medicine!) might be a strange concept in the USA and the Great Ormond Street bit a little too 'colloquial' but it was about one of the main focusses of the ceremony - children.

[RoastLamb]

I thought our flame was mind blowing in both design and execution.

Pity the Rio organisers ....... but they have a simple solution on their doorstep. Carnival.

At least this torch worked 100% - unlike the Vancouver one. :lol:

Yes, I am a wee bit worried about Rio. But they do have the lovely carnival atmosphere and great dancers. And they know how to throw a big party.

[Sallydaisy]

I imagine there are going to be a few conflicting views about the opening ceremony.

It'll be interesting to see which other nations 'get' the British sense of humour and propensity to poke fun at ourselves. I suspect the historical aspects might pass people by and things like choosing a group of disadvantaged kids to sing the National Anthem instead of an established adult choir might seem strange.

If it comes out on DVD I'm buying it.
;)

[RoastLamb]

Funny you should say that, Sally, coz I remember after the Vancouver closing ceremony which had Cdns poke fun at themselves you said you didn't really care for it. And the music that went with it. So, yes, I do wonder if other nations will "get it". Have to be honest also and say the British outfits were a bit OTT. I did love the music but I don't recall any promised Duran Duran's Reflex unless I missed it so I'm really :sad: about that.

[MurrayAOne]

Well it had everything for me. Amazing, brilliantly thought out content and looked absolutely brilliant. Never a boring moment. Have never said that about an opening ceremony. There's generally a dip somewhere. Not here. Loved it all.

[Sallydaisy]

Funny you should say that, Sally, coz I remember after the Vancouver closing ceremony which had Cdns poke fun at themselves you said you didn't really care for it. And the music that went with it. So, yes, I do wonder if other nations will "get it". Have to be honest also and say the British outfits were a bit OTT.
Did I? Oh heck. I hope I didn't offend?
Perhaps you're right then that everyone is going to view it quite diffently.
No harm in that ... and I thought there was quite a lot of humour in the Vancouver event.
Locog did say that they recognised Beijing had the 'awesome' factor and couldn't replicate it.

I thought the British team outfits were horrendous; was looking out for Elvis!
:laugh:

[RoastLamb]

:lol: at Elvis! True!

No offence at all. I knew where you were coming from.

Some inane comments from American journalists:

Dalton Ross‏@DaltonRoss
I feel like these kids being put to sleep. #OpeningCeremonies

Andy Dehnart‏@realityblurred
More excuses for my ignorance: I am from the country whose commentator wants us to believe the Queen just parachuted in to the stadium.

Andy Dehnart‏@realityblurred
I love complexity and intelligence but anything televised that requires this much explanation is too dense. #olympicceremony

[Sallydaisy]

Things missed completely:-
almost nil reference to the Olympic mascots, Wendover and Mandeville, when most other OC's have included their mascots as a focal part ofthe event
- the theme tune to the BBC Olympics coverage as composed by Elbow which has been growing nicely as the background music to the torch webcam

Actually, I think it's a pity Elbow weren't there to perform their piece especially since the drummers could have given ample accompaniment. It would have been a nice way to end proceedings.

[ljs]

I really enjoyed the ceremony , thought it was well done !!! Didnt quite get it all , but thats to be expected I guess

Wow , Paul M sure has aged hasnt he :lol:

( hated having to wait until half way thru for the athletes to enter the stadium , why do they not have them enter at the start ?? )

[Genbrit]

Well, I'm still waiting to see this here in Vegas. Starts in 30 minutes!!!! Not sure why they can't show it live, cause then I could have recorded it, watched it when I got home, fast forward through the commercials and been in bed at a decent time. At least it's Friday. :yahoo:

[KnightOwl]

Now on the train heading to Wimbledon for the tennis - after around 4.5 hours sleep :)

[-J-]

loved just about all the ceremony but think it was a cop out getting the nobodies to light the cauldron ,IMO you would earn the honour to do that
the cauldron itself is stunning love the way it came together, but now they have to move it, and I presume to do that they have to turn it off so much for the eternal flame

[Hawkeye]

Things missed completely:-
almost nil reference to the Olympic mascots, Wendover and Mandeville, when most other OC's have included their mascots as a focal part ofthe event
- the theme tune to the Olympics as composed by Elbow which has been growing nicely as the background music to the torch webcam

Actually, I think it's a pity Elbow weren't there to perform their piece especially since the drummers could have given ample accompaniment. It would have been a nice way to end proceedings.I thought Muse did the Olympic theme?

[Sallydaisy]

I thought Muse did the Olympic theme?
I was referring to the piece created by Elbow, for the BBC, called 'First Steps' which has been played to accompany the adverts for the games coverage. I watched the video of how it was made here. (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/entertainment-arts-18960004) I suppose it was a BBC thing rather than Locog so not up for inclusion.

Muse's "Survival" is the official Olympics song being played at medal ceremonies.

I just think there might have been a better 'ending' piece of music/song rather than Hey Jude!

[Linda]

I thought the ceremony was brilliant! It certainly surpassed my expectations. I was concerned, though, that people from other countries wouldn't understand parts of it.

[Sallydaisy]

Well, depending on what you read (and there's surely a few acres of trees and squid ink being used) there's some varying reviews from other countries.
This (http://sports.nationalpost.com/2012/07/27/please-resist-the-urge-to-mock-londons-opening-ceremony/) from the Canadian National Post takes no prisoners - read with caution!
:whistle:

[Alis]

Loved the pastoral going into the industrial revolution and the lighting of the cauldron - absolutely brilliant! I felt it got a bit disjointed in the middle and could have done without Sir Paul at the end - 'Hey Jude' was an odd choice to finish on but - hey - overall it was fun!

[cazza99]

I thought the ceremony was brilliant! It certainly surpassed my expectations. I was concerned, though, that people from other countries wouldn't understand parts of it.

Two peeps from Hungary were watching it with me and they enjoyed it and understood it.

[traveller7]

I really enjoyed it, and very proud to be British! One of my best friends was in the ceremony last night also!

[Alis]

Berdych lost the first set to Darcis of Belgium - c'mon Darcis!

[cazza99]

I've just discovered that as well as there being up to 24 channels available through the BBC red button on Sky, I can go to the program listings too. They are channels 450-473 on Sky. Which is good cos it will be possible to record them in Sky+.

On Freesat they are on channels 150-173 and on Virgin they are on 574-597.

I only managed to find one of the tennis channels through the BBC red button, but 2 through the Sky listings (EPG)

[KnightOwl]

Now on the way home - had a brilliant day - even though we had Centre Court tickets, we left before Fed's match so we could get on to Court 2 in time to watch the Murray Brothers - enjoyed the match, just a real shame they couldn't quite go the distance :sad:

[Aussie Andy]

Interesting opening ceremony - loved the Queen! And Mr Bean, and the lighting of the Cauldron.

Sorry about Andy and Jamie/pleased about Berdych/hope Andy will do well (Gold, anyone?) in the singles.

[Genbrit]

Can anyone tell me is there a show on BBC or ITV that rounds up the days events? I've found a online link that I can get streams for BBC and ITV but need to know the times of anything that I could get a summary of how the Brit's have done? Any suggestions? Can watch on TV here but obviously showcases the Americans, which is completely normal and I'm not complaining as I choose to live here but it would be great to watch a condensed version of the Brits for the day as unfortunately i can't watch it non stop day after day!!!!

[Linda]

I think that BBC1 (which is also the first livestream on their website) gives a roundup of the day at 10.30pm our time.

[cazza99]

I think that BBC1 (which is also the first livestream on their website) gives a roundup of the day at 10.30pm our time.

Theyhad Johnny Mac on that last night.

[Genbrit]

Theyhad Johnny Mac on that last night.

So, are u telling me I won't be able to escape the yanks even on UK TV!!!! LOL

Thanks Linda, I will try that although it will be in the afternoon and I'm at work, so might not work. Need something on either about 2:30 - 3:30pm or midnight or later UK time. I know I don't ask for much do I!!!!

[RoastLamb]

Italy's doing v. well in the medals. Impressive. Who knew? Where the heck is Spain?

[Sallydaisy]

Olympic Flame moved ...
The Olympic cauldron has been extinguished and relit after being moved into the position occupied by the opening ceremony bell in the stadium.


The flame was taken from the cauldron at 21:00 BST on Sunday and placed in a miner's lantern while the structure was relocated from the field of play.
It was relit at 07:50 BST on Monday, after the move to the south end of the stadium was complete, by Austin Playfoot, who carried the London Olympic torch (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-surrey-18934826) in 1948 and 2012.

Thomas Heatherwick, who designed the cauldron, said: "There is the precedent of the 1948 Games of the cauldron set within the stadium, to one side with the spectators and with the technology we now have that didn't exist in 1948, it can be shared with everyone in the Olympic Park with screens.

Full BBC report here (http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19045915)

[Hawkeye]

To me this goes completely against the idea that the flame remains lit throughout the Games. That's always meant the main flame to me.

[Sallydaisy]

Boris's 20 good reasons (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/comment/columnists/borisjohnson/9437340/Heres-20-jolly-good-reasons-to-feel-cheerful-about-the-Games.html) to feel cheerful about London 2012.


19. As I write these words there are semi-naked women playing beach volleyball in the middle of the Horse Guards Parade immortalised by Canaletto. They are glistening like wet otters and the water is plashing off the brims of the spectators’ sou’westers.
The whole thing is magnificent and bonkers.
:lol:

[cazza99]

:rofl:

[Sallydaisy]

Consternation in the Olympic Village as the Mayor launches latest transport option for athletes.

https://p.twimg.com/AzNkPYfCAAATJ9f.jpg


Photo from twitter
#btlondonlive (https://twitter.com/search/%23btlondonlive) pic.twitter.com/T16RZTmf (http://t.co/T16RZTmf)

[Linda]

There are too many things on at the same time that I want to watch! :crying:

[RoastLamb]

I know the medal table thread is closed but would it be possible to update the international medal table chart, por favor?

[KnightOwl]

I know the medal table thread is closed but would it be possible to update the international medal table chart, por favor?

I updated it less than an hour ago - included Canada just for you RL :big grin:

Has it got much out of date? If so I'll sort it after Andy's match....

[KnightOwl]

Consternation in the Olympic Village as the Mayor launches latest transport option for athletes.

The funny thing about it, though, was that he got stuck!


Mr Johnson was featuring as a “special guest” in Victoria Park, London, to ride the 1,050ft (320m) zip line, donning a hard hat and two Union flags as he attempted to sail down. Instead, he ground steadily to a halt on the wire about 65ft (20m) from the end as the wire sagged, and was left dangling inelegantly in front of a watching crowd.

The Mayor spent around five minutes hanging comically from the drooping line wearing a hard hat, as spectators took video footage and photographs of his misfortune. When one asked how he was feeling, he replied “very, very well thank you”, before shouting: "Get me a rope, get me a ladder" to bystanders.

“It’s very, very well organised,” he assured them. “It’s going well so far. Right."

According to eyewitnesses, he spent the intervening minutes waving his flags and leading the audience in cheering on British gold medal-winning rowers. One member of the public shouted "I heard Ken Livingstone set up the zipline", as Mr Johnson responded: "This is great fun but it needs to go faster."

Eventually, staff came to his rescue and used a rope to tow him to the bottom of the line.
Quote from Daily Telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/olympics/news/9444065/Boris-Johnson-gets-stuck-on-zip-wire-carrying-two-Union-flags.html)


For those who thought they had a breather from the mayor of London's voice following the ditching of his transport message to tube and bus users, they only needed to look up to see the unmistakable figure of Johnson hanging wistfully in the air clutching a union jack in each hand.

He took to the zip-wire in Victoria Park, east London, close to the Olympic Park, with safety helmet firmly on after Team GB's first gold medal victory. But after a promising start, gliding along happily waving his flags, he lost momentum and came to a halt, dangling over a crowd of people, for a long and somewhat awkward moment.

Johnson, always game, flashed his ankles as the safety harness pulled up the trousers of his smart suit, to the evident discomfort of the London mayor. As onlookers snapped photos on their mobile phones, he tried humorous small talk before calling out in mock despair: "Get me a ladder!" Once taken safely to the end of the ride and back on terra firma, the mayor said he thoroughly recommended it and mused that someone may have forgotten to take the brake off.
Quote from The Guardian (http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/aug/01/boris-johnson-zip-wire?newsfeed=true)

[RoastLamb]

I updated it less than an hour ago - included Canada just for you RL :big grin:

Has it got much out of date? If so I'll sort it after Andy's match....

We're not 25th anymore. I think we're around 12 or something.

[Linda]

Canada are currently 26th according to the BBC.

[KnightOwl]

We're not 25th anymore. I think we're around 12 or something.

Hmm...I don't think so...where are you looking?

I know the Americans tend to use a different system, where they count all medals rather than ranking by golds first, then silvers etc - maybe Canadian TV does something similar so you might be getting told something different...?

If you check the link to the official London 2012 (http://www.london2012.com/medals/medal-count/) medal table, I think mine should be roughly in sync with that - positions change at times as other countries win medals and move up, but I shouldn't be far behind....

Edit: Canada just got another bronze though, so I'll add that in a mo... :)

[RoastLamb]

Oh yes we do use a different system. Forgot about that. No wonder coz it makes us look better than we are. :lol:

[KnightOwl]

Well, I didn't like to be the one to say so... ;)

[Sallydaisy]

We're not 25th anymore. I think we're around 12 or something.


Canada are currently 26th according to the BBC.

I think the difference between your 2 statements is how the tables are shown.

The traditional Olympic way (and how they keep the records) is to rank by number of golds first, then silver and then bronze. That explains why Canada, without a Gold so far, is currently at 26 even though they've got move medals overall than a lot of other countries.

The United States tends to rank by number of medals regardless of type so taking it that way would put Canada in 12th/13th.

It's often given rise to debate (sometimes heated!!!); depends which way looks best for each nation.

[KnightOwl]

Yep - I think that's roughly what I said ;)

[Sallydaisy]

Nothing wrong with saying it twice.

[Hawkeye]

I think it's because of the different ways of presenting the tables. :big grin:

[KnightOwl]

:lol: Hawkeye...!

[Alis]

Is it me or do they seem to be deliberately making no mention of the tennis in the roundup of the day's events? In the programmes I've watched the tennis hasn't featured at all apart from the odd shot of Andy in the opening/closing sequence.

[Sallydaisy]

Here's Bradley Wiggins!
I think it's really cool that the Royal Mail are doing this .......

https://p.twimg.com/AzOrjsZCEAAbARS.jpg


Royal Mail News ‏@royalmailnews (https://twitter.com/royalmailnews) Here is your Gold Medal stamp @bradwiggins (https://twitter.com/bradwiggins)! We hope you like it! cc. @BritishCycling (https://twitter.com/BritishCycling) @Cyclingnewsfeed (https://twitter.com/Cyclingnewsfeed) pic.twitter.com/gnU43u32 (http://t.co/gnU43u32)
Retweeted by Lia Hervey (https://twitter.com/SkyNewsOlympic)

[Sallydaisy]

Not good. It's also breaking news on the BBC.
:sad:

@SkyNewsOlympic (https://twitter.com/SkyNewsOlympic): Cyclist dies after being hit by Olympic bus at the Olympic Park
(https://twitter.com/alex_willis/status/230762031844843520)

[RoastLamb]

I think the difference between your 2 statements is how the tables are shown.

The traditional Olympic way (and how they keep the records) is to rank by number of golds first, then silver and then bronze. That explains why Canada, without a Gold so far, is currently at 26 even though they've got move medals overall than a lot of other countries.

The United States tends to rank by number of medals regardless of type so taking it that way would put Canada in 12th/13th.

It's often given rise to debate (sometimes heated!!!); depends which way looks best for each nation.

I'll be honest - I prefer the way we do it. :rolling: