8 March 2010

Whistler Olympic Village



Team GB is in the Olympic Village! I can't believe all I've worked towards over the past three years is coming to fruition here and now. Thanks to everyone who has helped me to get here.

The village is as expected; a large dining hall open 24/7 with various types of (free) food, gym, comfy apartments, internet suites, plus a whole lot of surprising extras including games room, music room, movie room and red and white lights everywhere, on bridges and decorating trees. Paralympics GB have looked after the team fantastically so far and done everything they could to make us feel at home, although the whole experience is somewhat surreal so far!

Every time you enter the village there is the airport style security but it was worth going to see the torch bearers in Whistler village and then get mobbed for photos, its fun to feel like a celebrity but I am exhausted! The Team Welcome Ceremony was an interesting experience, watching native dancing and the Union Jack being raised to the National Anthem, a little emotional. I feel proud to be here, excited and nervous, as though it’s all a dream.

Most of the Winter Park team, who I've been training with over the past couple of years, are out here representing a number of nations. I am really glad to have done the World Champs last year not least because I now recognise quite a few alpine racers, and they're a friendly bunch.

We went up the mountain for the first time today; snow's good but it is a bit warm. We will be training GS tomorrow.

12th March: Opening Ceremony
Russ and Sean start downhill training Wednesday. Come on Team GB!
19th March: Giant Slalom
21st March: Slalom and Closing Ceremony

The events will be aired on www.paralympicsport.tv

2 comments:

Norm DePlume said...

Well done m'dear, I'm truly proud to know you. And Welcome back, I knew you'd make it back. Congrats!
PC x

Anonymous said...

Dear Anna,

My Dad (Jim) caught up with your Dad in NZ back in January, and he was telling me all about your training for the games. I just wanted to congratulate you on making the team and wish you all the best for your races.

Good luck and have fun!

Danielle Houghton