Getting Behind Team GB... and Bedford Borough's Guests
I've enjoyed following the fortunes of Team GB's athletes in the Olympics coverage I've been able to catch so far, and am obviously looking forward to seeing the medals tally rise. In addition to Team GB, there's another team whose exploits I'll be keeping an eye out for, and that's the Maldives, whose Olympic squad stayed here in Bedford for a number of weeks for their Pre-Games Training Camp.
After the huge turnout for the Olympic Torch relay, and with the exciting 'Olympic Live Site' to come at Bedford International Athletics Stadium from Friday, it's great how we've been able to enjoy and contribute to some of the Olympic experience close to home here in Bedford Borough. Another way in which we've been able to do this is by hosting a large number of teams for 'Pre Games Training Camps.' The paralympic teams are beginning to arrive now, and we should be very proud that we are hosting more teams than any other town (other than those with Games venues, of course). The Maldives Squad were wonderful guests of this Borough, taking a full part in a number of local events and activities during their stay here, amongst training for the biggest event in their sporting careers.
I was lucky enough to meet them a few times during their stay here, including hosting a visit to the Mayor's Parlour. It's that visit which is illustrated in this photo, in which you can also see Howard Darbon, who has done so much as a volunteer in working to attract teams to come to Bedford, and ensuring their visits are a success.
The Maldives Team have competitors in Athletics, Badminton and Swimming. If you want to follow their progress, here's a link to the BBC website's page on the Maldives Team: http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/olympics/2012/countries/maldives
If you're wondering why there are more squad members in the photo than they have competitors, it's because they brought one or two young athletes over for the experience and for their development, with an eye on future Olympics.