Let the games commence

Tuesday was a fun day. All of the crews and coaches I spoke to were very happy with their practices. Coach Trond summed it up the straight four's row with one word "Great." Coach Armstrong cancelled the eight's afternoon row-- she told me they were sharp and ready to go and didn't need the second practice. In fact, all of the coaches who planned afternoon sessions cancelled. When coaches are passing on the chance to get water time you know the crews are looking good.

Today the kids got to try the start system. Crews were marshalled into their lanes and backed into the starting platform. For many of us watching, the hydraulic "boot" coming up from under the water to lock their bows in place was pretty cool. Hearing the "attention, go" booming over the P.A. and watching the crews explode out of the gate was plenty sufficient to get your heart beating overtime.

Tomorrow the racing begins for real- the spares' racing is first and then the boys' straight four and girls' quad. I think it is safe to say we're ready to be finished with the practicing. Let's get to it.

The day finished with the Opening Ceremony. Representatives from the Organizing Committee and FISA spoke in front of the majestic towers of Holloway College. All the kids were fired up-- periodically countries would burst into chanting and singing at the top of their lungs. Even the countries with only a handful of athletes gave it their very best shot. There were a lot of patriots in the house. There were speeches and show tunes and lots of flag waving. Be sure to check out the Shutterfly album. I'm sure Dave will post some fantastic shots of Team USA. Craig Slater and Eliza Spillsbury carried our flag in the procession. To their credit I never saw our colors dip at all.... :)

I think I can get online at the course and I will do my best to post updates on the races as they happen. Look for more information on the World Rowing site, row2.com, USRowing.org and USRowingjrs.org.

The kids looked very happy tonight. Their expression of youthful exuberance was very powerful in the Opening Ceremony. That's what is so special about rowing at this level.

GO USA!