Crazy Travels, BNU, The Silk Market, and The Opening Ceremonies

So I left Dalian yesterday to head to Beijing and I had quite the experience.  I was the only one heading to the hotel for my 10:30 flight and I got my own personal police escort!!

Once we finally arrived at the airport, after a few close calls and several red lights run, one of the guys that brought me to the airport took me to the VIP counter of China Southern and helped check me in.  I was then met by a woman who led me to the VIP security line and then on to the VIP lounge where I got free internet access and free coffee.  As my plane was about to take off, I was walked down to the gate and I proceeded to take my seat.  I thought that this was the end of the crazy treatment, but I was pleasantly surprised.  The Chinese really want us to feel special and they must not have a clue about who I am, so about 10 minutes after the plane took off, a stewardess walked back and said to me in broken english: "It would be my pleasure to take you up to first class."  Who am I to argue.  It was only an hour flight but I wasn't complaining.  I was the first person off of the plane and as soon as I walked off there was a woman there with my name on a piece of paper to take me to get my bags, which were also the first off of the plane!  I could get used to this.  She proceeded to walk me around the airport until we got to the shuttles which were only going to the Olympic Village.  I had to explain to them that I wasn't going to the Village but to Beijing Normal University, which is where the USOC (US Olympic Committee) has set up shop.  A lot of practices are taking place there and they have a weight room and an amazing dining facility as well.  So my suite mate is Mark Wetmore, the head coach at Colorado who has two athletes here, Jenny Barringer, the American record holder in the steeplechase,  and Billy Nelson, who is also here in the steeplechase.

I'm not here but for 5 minutes when Carrie Lane, my friend from UVA, walks in with Adam Nelson, her athlete and an Olympic Medalist in the shot from 2004.  We go upstairs to grab some lunch and then proceed to head to the Silk Market.  I didn't have my camera with me, but I will bring it when I go back.  It's basically 7 stories of vendors selling knock off watches, glasses, shoes, luggage, etc and some nice local trinkets as well.  Carrie and I did our best to haggle our way to some good deals and I think we did alright.  We headed back to BNU in a cab, which are really cheap by the way, and decided to grab some dinner.  

We weren't sure what we were going to do for the opening ceremonies, as we heard of a bunch of different things, all which seemed pretty involved.  We decided to stay in the dining facility and watch it on the big screens there with about 50 - 75 of our newest friends from all over the US!  As I'm sure most of you watched it, you know how amazing it was.  Let's just say that the Chinese are here to put on a show and to welcome themselves to the world.  I was quite impressed.

That is all for now.  A light practice with Shani in a bit to see how she is feeling after the ceremonies.  Then who knows.  I'll keep you guys posted.  Thanks for checking in!