Bad Games or Bad Press

I have been continually reading in the media about how bad the Vancouver Games are.  Most often, this has come from news reports in the UK but I have seen some from Canadian newspapers, as well.

For what it is worth, allow me to state...these are not poorly organized Games.  In fact, you would be proud to know that VANOC has done and is doing a great job in hosting the Olympics.  Yes, it would be nice if the weather would not be the source for delays, cancellations and lack of snow.  But, these are Winter Olympic Games and the very definition of "winter" indicates that bad weather may be part of it.  I fear this is what the UK media may be missing.  You can't just turn on cold weather and snow.  There is a reason why there is a ski hill at Cypress....they normally get lots of snow.  Unfortunately, we have a weird year on our hands, which is actually a great testament to VANOC's organization skills, that they have some very good conditions, even though mother nature has not cooperated.

If you look at the photo of Cypress' mogul run, you can see the depth of the base of snow.  I would suggest that this is deeper than many resorts have in most seasons.  That is a clear example of the work organizers have put in to create very good conditions.

Having said all of that, I do agree that the Olympic Cauldron issue is an embarassing one.  I cannot see how anyone would find the 12 foot high chain link fence surrounding it, keeping fans 50 feet away, acceptable.  They have now found a very good solution, allowing fans to use the elevated walkway to get closer and to have an unobstructed view of the flame.

For what is it worth, this is my two cents.....and you get what you pay for!!!