The Aussie Olympic spirit is getting to me. Was most surprised to realize I was unconsciously rooting for the Australian Men’s 4×200 freestyle relay, as evidenced by the fact that I was totally disappointed when they lost by hundredths of a second. True, the dismay wasn’t exactly long-lived, but hey, for one who has previously never shown any patriotic dispositions, it’s a good start, even if it’s for the wrong country.
In my defence though, I’ve yet to see a single Malaysian in action. I was hoping to catch some of our swimmers in action, but I guess I’m going to have to settle for the divers instead. I am so totally rooting for our 14 year old flag-bearer, even if he’s nowhere near a whiff of a medal.
Speaking of diving though, did anyone catch the shocking stuff-up by the Chinese and the Russians in the 3 metre springboard synchronized diving? Both gold medal contenders, one Chinese diver landed on his back/bum, whilst a Russian diver hit the springboard midway through his somersault. Ouch. And the Greeks won gold. And Australia made the bronze.
These Olympics are proving to be quite a surprise. In true Greece-won-the-Euro (in other words, “OMG I can’t believe it!”) fashion, other shocks include:
1. The US basketball Dream Team were beaten by Puerto Rico.
2. A US women’s tennis doubles pair, one-half of whom was the all-intimidating Venus Williams, were beaten by a pair from China.
3. Tennis great (and cutie) Juan Carlos Ferrero was beaten by some unheard-of American.
Patriotism is a mighty force indeed. This is by no means a conclusive list – I’m sure I’ve missed out many more – but breakfast awaits.
I can’t wait for the athletics to start.
