Sunday, August 10, 2008

A Salute to Olympic Fever

Ever since I was a kid, I've always loved watching the Olympics. It was a family tradition to get together and watch the pageantry, each country competing on the world stage. It was also my first introduction to geo-politics.

I remember in 1980 staying up late to watch the USA Hockey team beat the Russians in the "Miracle on Ice" that was never supposed to happen. It was the Cold War, and the Americans stole one from the Russians. It was right then and there I realized the thrill of watching an underdog win. It gave me goose bumps then...and now.

Ever since, I've always taken out time to watch the Olympics. After the elaborate display at the Opening Ceremonies, I was duly rewarded once again...It was an impressive display of China's power and resources, and sent a very clear message to the world: China has arrived.

I was happy to see how much work China has put into cleaning up Beijing for the Olympics, including $20 billion invested in mass transit and renewable energy. The views of the city can be disheartening at times, and I hope their efforts continue beyond the games.

In a tip 'o the hat to our athletes, take a look at the latest medal count.

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