Saturday 7 July 2012

Olympic Torch comes to town

Our town became part of the route that the Olympic torch is taking on it’s way round the country today.  I couldn’t decide whether or not to go and queue up to see it but at the last minute decided that if we could park up easily and find a space along the route, then we would and if not we would turn back and go home.  So we found a side road to park in for free, walked down into town (popping into the Portuguese deli on the way to stock up on ‘Nata’ custard tarts and a coffee to take away) and easily found a space which was a good vantage point.  30 mins before it was due to arrive, the skies darkened and the cagoules came out just as the first heavy drops of rain started! 

Nevertheless, it was a good atmosphere and the crowds were not put off staying.  The flag sellers and people selling fake gold medals were doing a roaring trade around us.  The rain stopped, the sun came back out and we then discovered that quite by accident, we had positioned ourselves exactly at a point where a handover was going to take place!  I think there may well be a layout made from these photos in the near future …

flag seller mascot P1030659 handover2 relay 2 handover3 torch 2

I’m so pleased we decided to go as it really was a once in a lifetime experience and we were just so lucky with the photos we were able to get.  Has anyone else had the flame go through their town yet? 

10 comments:

Scrappi Sandi said...

I am gutted about missing the torch coming through our village tomorrow morning! Did you know that when one torch passes the flame to another it's called a kiss? I love your photo's & it's so true, it is a once in a lifetime experience, so glad you got to enjoy it! :D

Elizabeth said...

How exciting for you to actually be right there to see the transfer. Definitely make a layout of the event.

Cheri said...

So glad you went - some great captures! And I learned a new word today (yes, I had to google "cagoule").

scrappyjacky said...

Definately worth going to a once in a lifetime event.....it comes through our town in just over a week.....I'll be there!!

Irene said...

How exciting for you and to get so near to the handover. Magic! The photographs will make a great layout. It's a piece of history.

Denise said...

Jane said she had never seen so many people in Ware as there were this morning- not my cuppa tea but I spose it is a once in a lifetime thing - good to see you back blogging again x x x Look forward to your Olympic flame layout!:-)) x x x

Alison said...

A worthwhile trip the?! Great pics
Alison xx

Ruth said...

Great photos! It comes to us on the 24th.

Abi said...

Amazing pics. You really did get close up didn't you! I didn't get to see the torch as I was working. X

Maria Ontiveros said...

Catching up on my blog reading today - yea for all your scavenger hunt finds! I love the idea of you stopping at the stable and taking pictures - that's exactly what I love about the scavenger hunt. And the lines in you clothesline photo are very intriguing. Plus, you found a maze!!! That's really cool.
I'm very impressed by your son and all he's doing. It's amazing how "small" the internet can make the world.
Please continue to get better!
Lots of hugs,
Rinda