The atmosphere in Horse Guards Parade was quite festive, and there were a large number of American fans, making me feel like I was in friendly company. A public address announcer with a thick Scottish accent actively spurred on the near capacity crowd.
“When I say ‘Switzer’, you say ‘land!’” he exclaimed. “When I say ‘U-S’, you say ‘A!’”
That led to some fun back and forth cheers. He also got the crowd to do the wave, a slow clap, and then he had some sidekick announcer who would occasionally say: “I need to hear more noise!” During timeouts the “Horse Guards Parade Dance Crew” came out in ridiculous pseudo retro beachwear, and did a conga line, among other dances.
It sounds corny, but throwing all these things together in the middle of a historic London landmark made for an enjoyable evening. What wasn’t enjoyable was the following match. Defending Beijing gold medalists Phil Dalhuasser and Todd Rogers of the United States were the overwhelming favorites against Italian pair Paolo Nicolai and Daniele Lupo. But the American duo looked flat the entire time, and couldn’t develop any consistent rhythm. Instead it was Nicolai who dominated at the net and led Italy to the tournament’s biggest upset at 21-15, 21-19. It was a disappointing end to an otherwise great time at this unique Olympic venue.
There’s another week of Olympic action, but alas, I had to head back to Los Angeles. Hopefully, I’ll be reporting from Rio in 2016.
Check out Wallace’s first two reports on Olympic Park Crowds and Unsold Events.
For more Olympics travel, check out our London 2012 coverage:
- Peter’s Video Travel Tip on What to Know Before You Go: London 2012
- Peter’s Travel Detective Blog on Olympic Myths and How Travelers Can Benefit
- Our live coverage from the Games, London Olympics Insider’s Guide: Finding Unsold Seats and Unsung Events
- Our news coverage, Could London Lose Money from the Olympic Games?
- 4 Last-Minute Olympics Accommodation Ideas
- Peter’s Video Travel Tip on Olympic Planning & Peter’s Travel Tip: Free & Affordable Olympic Events
By Phil Wallace for PeterGreenberg.com. Phil Wallace is the founder and president of Picktainment.com.
