London 2012 - Olympic Beach Volleyball!

So way back, so far back I can't remember when I went into the London 2012 ticketing ballot and requested a shed load of tickets. Weeks passed and I waited anxiously to see what money LOCOG would take from my account. Finally the day came and a measly £40 was taken. If I'm honest I was a little disappointed. The Olympics were coming to London, my home town, and what would I see? Beach Volleyball. In my mind Beach Volleyball was not the most exciting ticket to the Games. Fast forward many months, and after being able to get tickets to test events in the Olympic Park; The World Cup Track Cycling in the Veledrome in Feb 2012 (amazing!) and the BUCS Outdoor Athletics Championships in the Stadium in May 2012 (inspiring!) Olympic fever had really hit me and I was more than excited that I had the chance to watch Beach Volleyball at Horse Guards Parade, in London.

My tickets were for Saturday 28 July, the first official day of the Games, and it was just a stunningly beautiful day. Our tickets were for the afternoon session and Stuart and I, deciding to make the most of the day, jumped on a bus to Central London in the morning to wander around and see London in all it's welcoming Olympic glory. 

London ready to welcome the World!

Film Star Wenlock at Piccadilly Circus.

As you can see London was all spruced up and looking pretty, just ready and waiting for all the visitors to descend. After a strolling around, stopping to photograph bunting and various mascots we decided to get some lunch. In the mood for Mexican we headed to Chiquito in Lecister Square (ok I know, it's probably not real Mexican, and is supposed to just be for tourists, but I like it and we could sit outside, so don't judge me!) I had a this dish where you made your own tacos and Stuart tried the burritto. It was good, nothing earth shattering but tasty enough for me to go there again (perhaps even spend one evening there to try all the cocktails!) From where we were sitting outside we could watch the world go by and see the TV in the bar showing all the Olympic courage. Feeling satisfied and ready for some Olympic action we headed towards Horse Guards Parade.

Heading into the venue and we are given our first reminder that this is the Olympics.

As we entered the venue flags were lining the walkways, there was a party atmosphere and everyone was smiling. For the past 10 years that I've lived in London I have never seen so many smiles - everyone was in a good mood. We mooched about for a while taking in the atmosphere, checking out the stalls and displays, my personal favourite being the sand sculptures. As well as the sculptures there was a marching band, people dressed in ever more colourful get up supporting their countries and plenty of drink. It was very strange to see St James Park transformed into this amazing party venue. Strange but stunning at the same time.

A beach volleyball Wenlock - made out of sand.

The detail on the sand sculptures was amazing.

Me, outside the arena - Inspire a Generation!

Soon it was time for the main event. As we had ended up with the cheapest tickets we were sat right at the back of the arena. This didn't matter though as the view was superb, both looking across the arena, watching the match, and looking over the side and seeing the London skyline. I love London, I think I always have. As a child it's where I knew I had to go when I grew up. I love the theatres, the culture, the skyline, architecture, hell even the transport system. However in recent months I had felt this love declining a little - it's busy, no one smiles, it's dangerous, people litter (by biggest pet hate!). Sitting in my seat, watching the action below and looking across at all the iconic buildings I felt my admiration of London and my pride of being a Londoner returning. We had done it. The Olympics had started and everyone who had doubted London's ability could go do one as far as I was concerned. I was certain this was going to be the best Olympics ever.

Inside the arena!

We were there for 3 matches; two men's and one women's. All of the matches were great. They were easy to follow, kept us on the edge of our seats and when the athletes took a break we were treated to dancers in their bikinis with beach balls. With the sun continuing to shine down I almost felt like I was at Bondi beach. It really was a perfect day out. The last match we watched was when Team GB men took on Canada. Unfortunately I don't think beach volleyball was (it may be getting a lot of interest now) a big sport for GB as the Canadians whooped our arses. This did not put the crowd off though, we cheered, applauded and  whistled as if we had just won the final! 

Team GB take to the beach

It was great to be able to go out and see the positive side of my city and to have my first Olympic experience. It is cliché but it is one I will never forget. On top of all that it also inspired me to get running again. With my half marathon getting ever closer I am now more determined to finish it - but that's a post for another time. For now I'll leave you with this picture of Stuart enjoying the view over the side of the arena.