Thoughts on the Olympics
Britain is enjoying its best Olympics for a generation. And I’m glad to see at least one paper (The Telegraph) gave credit where it is due - John Major. There’s an apocraphyl story that Jim Callagham was asked what the best thing about his premiership was, and he replied “cat’s eyes”, the reflectors that illuminate the middle of the road at night. His point was (if indeed he said it) that these would endure far longer than any other achievement (not hard in the case with his premiership). So it is with the Lottery, where John Major (and Ken Baker) can reflect on the dozens of new art buildings, the hundreds of heritage sites, and now the dozens of athletes who have all been given a chance because of the Lottery. Typical that new Labour is raiding it for its own pet causes.
While on the Olympics, it does show the powerful effect of sport. Credit crunch and all, there is no doubt it feels better to be British today, with us lying third in the table, than it did a week ago. if only our footballers could perform on a similar level of investment!
Final thought - am I the only person in the country who cannot stand the phrase “Team GB”. What is wrong with “Great Britain” or “The British Team?”
Votedave said on August 21st, 2008 at 7:24 pm:
Could that be because GB stands for Gordon Brown?
A fantastic performance in the Olympic Games - it makes a refreshing change to see a variety of sports on TV too - not the usual football.
canvas said on August 23rd, 2008 at 11:28 pm:
So, please, let us give David Beckham the knighthood that he so richly deserves.
Credit due where credit is due…
Sue said on August 24th, 2008 at 7:33 pm:
I think David Beckham gets enough of a reward in his pay packet - he’s done nothing to deserve a knighthood, and he doesn’t even live in this country any more.
As for the Olympics - Beijing did a good job, and the British competitors were amazing - ending up 4th on the Medal Table is a huge achievement and I’m glad there’s going to be a parade later in the year for them.
I’ve kind of gotten used to the term “Team GB” and, thankfully, I don’t think of Gordon Brown when I hear it
By the way, congrats Ed on making the top 20 MP blogs on Iain Dale’s site
canvas said on August 25th, 2008 at 9:33 am:
Sue, David Beckham does truly amazing things for charity in the UK. For example, do you know about his football Academy? If you have the time look into it - great stuff. Beckham also played a huge part in Brtiain getting the 2012 Olympics. I don’t begrudge Becs a penny of his vast wealth. He is an icon and a national hero. Vive le Becs! Give the man his knighthood!
canvas said on August 28th, 2008 at 8:07 pm:
PS> I’m so impressed with Boris for not buttoning up his jacket. What a good attitude. Vive le punk. Boris rocks
Sue said on September 14th, 2008 at 12:25 am:
Our Para-Olympians are doing brilliantly as well - pity they’re not getting as much media coverage as the regular Olympics.
Have just watched “Last Night of the Proms” and am feeling very proud to be British - I love singing along with those patriotic songs. I feel it’s a shame that there’s not more patriotism for our country, because nights like tonight make me want to celebrate our country (despite all the agonies we’re going through right now!) At least the parade for the Olympic medal winners will be a good opportunity to celebrate - whenever it’s held
Sue said on September 26th, 2008 at 11:12 pm:
Belated HAPPY BIRTHDAY to little Joseph