Let the Games Begin – Rio 2016 off to a great start!
The much-anticipated Opening Ceremony for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games took
place earlier today with 207 countries marching in the Parade of Nations. For the
first time in Olympic history, a team of refugee athletes with no country to represent,
were given the second most rousing welcome, with only the Brazilian athletes more
warmly received.
The dominant theme for this gala ceremony was protection of the environment,
action on climate change and implementing measures to address global warming. "It
is not enough to stop harming the planet, it is time to start healing it," was the
impassioned message that accompanied a scene depicting the beginning of life. The
sprouting of green leaves from the floor symbolized the need to focus on the
preservation of the Amazon rainforest.
Staging the Olympic Games has given Brazil some political “headaches” with many
citizens critical of the financial commitment. The capacity crowd was treated to a
colourful welcome that creatively used comparatively simple props and themes to tell
of the significant times in Brazil’s history and the influences that have gone to make a
modern and diverse nation. There was a special appearance by Brazilian ”super
model” Gisele Bündchen, who received rapturous applause for what would be her
final trip down the catwalk.
The staging highlighted the Brazilian joy of life to the rest of the world. It has been
reported that Brazil’s Olympic welcome cost just 10% of the London extravaganza 4
years ago, an opening that has been compared to the Ric Birch staged Sydney
opening which wowed the world 16 years ago. Brazil has given the Olympic
movement a beautiful celebration of international goodwill, uniting nations and
building on the bond formed between the athletes who proudly represent their
countries.
Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima ignited the Olympic flame the Brazilian marathon runner
who was robbed of Olympic glory when a crazy spectator attacked him, just metres
from the finish line in Athens 2004.
Australia’s contingent was led into the stadium by cyclist Anna Meares, the winner of
two Olympic gold medals. A number of Aussies made an early exit from the parade
of nations as they are scheduled to compete early tomorrow morning.
Saddleworld is proud to have supported many of Australia’s home-based equestrian
qualifying events and wish our teams a very successful, safe and rewarding
experience in Rio. A Saddleworld spokesperson said, “We all benefit from the
experiences of our Olympic riders as they share the knowledge gained and make a
significant contribution to developing the Olympic disciplines for future combinations.”
Watch the ABC’s video of the Opening Ceremony:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-06/rio-2016-olympic-games-begin-withspectacular-party/7697194
For a detailed schedule of all Olympic events GO to:
http://www.nbcolympics.com/full-schedule