I was lucky enough to get a ticket for the swimming finals last night. Spent the whole day at the Olympic Park, taking in the atmosphere and getting a good look at all those brand new arenas and stadia that have been built on what was a derelict, run down, poisoned and desperate piece of land in the east of London.
I have to say that, in contrast to the worries and gripes of all the cynics, I was completely blown away by every aspect of the experience. The park is magnificent and every venue looks a picture. The aquatics centre, even with its temporary seating, looks and sounds magnificent when 17,000 spectators are inside. Certainly, the TV sound mix doesn't do any justice to the atmosphere that is created inside, particularly when a Brit is competing.
I have to say that we really have pulled off a miracle in putting together the infrastructure in that area, in contrast to previous games which have taken place miles from the centre of whichever city they purported to represent.
And two other things that stood out for me, both of which would be expected to be weaknesses in the UK. Firstly, the transport - it worked! It's only my personal experience, but there were no delays, crowds, crushes, panics and disasters. Everything worked smoothly, promptly and efficiently.
Secondly, the volunteers. In a nation which generally prefers to sit back and let somebody else get on with it, we have managed to assemble a volunteer force that knows their jobs, are helpful, knowledgeable, courteous and enthusiastic. They are absolutely fantastic.
There's a long way to go to the end of the games, and plenty of scope for mishaps, but I really do think this is an achievement to put the Great back into Britain
Did you manage to get any tickets South London Redskin?