TRAVEL BLOG
Thursday, March 16, 2006
Melbourne Commonwealth Games
The 2006 Commonwealth Games are currently on in Melbourne.
It is an odd event these Commonwealth Games (they were originally called the Empire Games). 71 nations and dependencies in total are represented, which is not a bad number if you are collecting numbers for a Commonwealth of Nations. The U.K though in their usual identity crisis when it comes to international sport are here as England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey.
I was lucky enough to go to the opening ceremony. Australia's head of State, her Majesty opened the proceedings and the night included the usual cheesy rock eisteddfod stadium performances that come with opening ceremonies/superbowls/grand finals. The highlight of the night probably being the flying iconic W-class tram, which descended from the MCG roof to the centre of the ground.
Flying Tram
Like many fellow Melburnians, I was a bit sceptical of the games before it started. As a sporting event most of us take it as a practice run for real games. Australia, Canada and England competing against an assortment of Pacific Island nations and dependencies is hardly competitive. The medal tally has shown how lop sided the competition is.
I must say now though that I have been won over by the Games. There is quite a buzz and festive atmosphere throughout the city and lots to do apart from going to see sport. Festival Melbourne2006 is on during the games, with "music, dance, circus, street theatre and visual arts from all the corners of the Commonwealth".
It is great seeing people from all nations walking the streets and all the Commonwealth flags are waving in the city as well.
It is an odd event these Commonwealth Games (they were originally called the Empire Games). 71 nations and dependencies in total are represented, which is not a bad number if you are collecting numbers for a Commonwealth of Nations. The U.K though in their usual identity crisis when it comes to international sport are here as England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, Isle of Man, Guernsey and Jersey.
I was lucky enough to go to the opening ceremony. Australia's head of State, her Majesty opened the proceedings and the night included the usual cheesy rock eisteddfod stadium performances that come with opening ceremonies/superbowls/grand finals. The highlight of the night probably being the flying iconic W-class tram, which descended from the MCG roof to the centre of the ground.
Flying Tram
Like many fellow Melburnians, I was a bit sceptical of the games before it started. As a sporting event most of us take it as a practice run for real games. Australia, Canada and England competing against an assortment of Pacific Island nations and dependencies is hardly competitive. The medal tally has shown how lop sided the competition is.
I must say now though that I have been won over by the Games. There is quite a buzz and festive atmosphere throughout the city and lots to do apart from going to see sport. Festival Melbourne2006 is on during the games, with "music, dance, circus, street theatre and visual arts from all the corners of the Commonwealth".
It is great seeing people from all nations walking the streets and all the Commonwealth flags are waving in the city as well.
Labels: australia, melbourne, sport
Posted by James Clark - editor of itravelnet.com
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