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Albert Sim
Executive Photojournalist
After Beijing
August 29, 2008 Friday, 09:56 AM
Albert Sim describes lessons learned at his third Olympics. THE Beijing Olympics have ended in a sea of pomp and pageantry, colorful costumes, songs and stunning performances, drawing a fitting closure to a Games never before seen in such scale and magnitude. It has been a long journey. After two Olympics, Beijing is my last destination. As I reflect upon my three Olympic experiences, many things stood out. The spirit of volunteerism in the people of China was outstanding. From the young volunteers at various competition venues to the service staff, everyone I encountered approached their tasks with bright smiles and a willingness to offer their help. Language was no barrier for them as they managed to successfully converse in a multitude of languages - English, Russian, French, German and even Italian.  Ever-ready with a smile.
ST photo: Albert Sim The audience was simply great.
Their boundless energy and infectious cheers drew me into the performances. Through them, I not only captured each image of the athletes in action, I too captured their unfailing spirit and tenacity. The Chinese supporters cheered on relentlessly for their teams at the various events, their voices merging together and soaring as one. Theirs was truly a unity to behold.
Security was tight and smooth-running for the media at all the venues. It was the first time I did not have to go through the lengthy process of clearing check after check. Transport was very efficient.
Beijing also stood out from the previous two Olympics because I saw the Singapore flag flying high for the first time. Our table tennis girls have done well in winning the silver medal. As my lens clicked into place, I captured the moment when a jubilant Feng Tianwei ran into the arms of her coach in joy.
The experience I had in Beijing was surreal, memorable, and certainly unforgettable. I brought back with me - not only my camera - but lessons of success, fighting spirit and friendship.
"Faster, higher, stronger".
Yes, we will all remember the Games of 2008, and also look forward to London 2012.
Tags: olympics2008 
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Yes the volunteers did made "mistakes". One directed me to an exit meant for volunteers (which was a short cut to get out of the venue, I have to take a 2 minute detour), another told me that the subway station is "very near" which turn out to be a 20 minute walk. And yet another told me that the subway station is far away but turn out to be only a 10 minute walk.
But the fact is they are really helping! Is a 10 minute walk or a 20 minute walk , "long or short"?
The US should not be sending athletes to the Beijing Games or even participate in any sporting events around the world. The US Presidents and Bill Gates should not be traveling to the Beijing Games ........... the reason is ...... New Orleans has not been re-built after Katrina. Buildings are still falling apart, debris have still not been cleared.
But no problem, life goes on non of the Presidential candidates think it's an issue, none of the US journalist think New Orleans is a problem.
Good to see an Asian journalist writting something positive about the Beijing Olympics and not suck up to the western media's China bashing. Good for you Albert Sim.
Contrast this report with with Chua Chin Hon's article " (No) Service With A Smile" which is no different from the anti China thrash coming out from the west, In fact his articles are almost all China bashing.
http://blogs.straitstimes.com/2008/8/11/no-service-with-a-smile