jul.31.2008
T&T Chef de Mission Michael Valentine says all?is well as the T&TOC administration and medical staff arrived safely and are settling in at the Beijing 2008 Olympic Village.
Valentine speaking to www.ttoc.org pointed out that the arrangements in place at the airport and reception center are well organised and efficient.
"The drive to the Olympic Village from the airport was quick?as designated Olympic lanes? were used to avoid the traffic"
He said it was "smoggy" but described Beijing as quite beautiful. "The Olympic village is extraordinary. The creativity and design exhibited are quite beautiful . The village is like a Chinese museum, providing glimpses into the 1000 year history dating past the Qing dynasty 1644 - 1911.The accommodation arrangement is quite nice. Very clean and spacious"
Already in Beijing with the T&T team leader is TTOC assistant secretary general Wendell Labastide, the assistant Chef de Mission.
Valentine confirmed that he will decide on the flag bearer for the opening ceremony in a couple days.Carrying the National flag at an Olympic games opening ceremony is a coveted role and the announcement is always highly anticipated.
Meanwhile, Dr.Terry Ali and the medical team arrived in Beijing a day after Valentine and are ensuring that the medical services infrastructure is set and ready for the T&T athletes.
"It is a busy time for all of us,the flight here was long and tiring ,but we have to hit the ground running as we are all here with specific objectives in mind, and that is to ensure the T&T athletes have the best support possible"said Valentine.