By Michael Collins
In the days leading into the games I have had a chance to do some sight-seeing. The city is quite beautiful. I am getting in as much as possible before the games begin, since I will see little more than the inside of the Aquatic Center and the train ride to and from once it gets started.
Torch Relay
I watched the Olympic Torch Run go by in Marrickville. The crowd was large and excited and cheered as every car went by ahead of the torch. It reminded me of what it's like to watching the Tour de France. You watch 10-15 minutes of cars, buses, trucks, motocycles, and police go by, and finally the race/runner goes by in about 5 seconds. It was a fun atmosphere. The Aussies are pumped for the games to start.
Swimmers Are Famous Here!
On nearly every street corner you can see a larger than life photo of an Aussie swimmer. I saw Susie O'Neill on an ATM Machine as well as Ian Thorpe and Grant Hackett taking up wall space in the Westac Bank.
Beautiful City
I took several shots on and around the city. The main points of interest seem to be the Bridge, Darling Harbour, the Opera House, and Center Point tower. All have been worth visiting in the splendidly clear and warm weather.
