On the 116th anniversary of the signing of charter of the International Olympic Committee, June 23rd is recognized as Olympic Day around the world.  I feel embarrassed that I never knew the significance of today, especially as someone who works in the Olympic Movement, so hopefully everyone reading this blog will remember the importance of today as it relates to the Olympic Games. 
 
In honor of Olympic Day, we did a run as a group around the campus of the International Olympic Academy.  Everyone was decked out in the gear from their own country (flags, face paint, matching outfits, etc.), except for Angie, Gina, and me.  I took a walk into town this afternoon to try to find some face paint, as neither of us brought the US flag or matching shirts.  I really wish that I would have packed an American flag, or my American flag bandanna, as I would have felt more in touch with the celebration.
 
I have a pictured of me with my roommate Murodali Teshaev from Tajikistan. He's getting a little better at his communication, which is nice.
 
The dean of the IOA, Mr. Gangos, talked about the fact that he thinks the Olympic Games should not have records, nor should they have flags raised and anthems played for the Olympic gold medalists.  A big part of the reason he feels this way is that he thinks this would limit the amount of doping in the Olympic Games.  Fortunately, I am not the only one to disagree with him about this.  Do you agree with me?  I think that part of what makes the Olympic Games so special is that I am cheering for Team USA, not just someone from the USA. Think about it and see if you agree with Gangos or with the rest of us.
 
Last night was the first social night, where participants from other countries put on a presentation to enlighten the rest of us about their cultures.  The dances were a big hit.  We might do a dance to Steve Earle's “Copperhead Road,” as the audience will be able to easily join us.  That won't help out the with stereotype that all Americans line dance, but it's all good.
 
I'm about to head for dinner, so I will try to write more later.  Before I sign off, how about that soccer game?!?!?!  1-0 baby!
 
Citius! Altius! Fortius!