Monday, August 4, 2008

DJ from Macau

Macau is a little island known as the Las Vegas of Asia. And I mean it is the Las Vegas of Asia, the casinos are exactly the same here as on the strip, Wynn's, the Venetian, MGM, etc. It is kind of weird seeing these hotels here knowing I am far from the States.
Today is the first day, so I am battling jetlag. Tried to stay up all night last night. made it to 5am and then slept until 10, went to the track, and now I am trying to not sleep. If I can make it, I will sleep all night and come out of the other side acclimatized. If I am lucky.
Meanwhile, in track I cannot believe the news from another little island, Jamaica. The internal battle that has become public is ridiculous. Grown men, some of who once competed at the highest level are now playing a game of roulette with athletes that were born long after their successes. Get out of these kids lives and allow them to fulfill their legacies. Whatever differences franno and JAAA have is between them. This is the Olympic Games, all pettiness should be tabled and dealt with afterwards. I feel bad for the athletes, as they are the bearers of the ultimate burden. Unbelievable is the word I think of.
Here in Macau everything is going according to plan. Nothing special in the works. All the athletes look happy and healthy. I have heard nothing special out of Dalian. Training reports are good, and folks are just looking forward to competing.

I do have one pet peeve. The federations have forgotten this is a once in a life time experience. This is the Olympics. People train their whole lives for this opportunity. That means experiencing the village, the opening ceremony and everything in between. The experience has been broken down to many as a track meet. Having been through this twice, and walking the opening twice, I am telling you there is nothing like this. As a track man walking into that stadium was magical, even as a coach. 100,000 people happy and cheering is something to experience and feel.
Weight room time.

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