Author: xiaomeng.li

Over the course of 18 days, from July 25th to August 11th, I embarked on a journey that transformed my perception of the Olympics. My roles were diverse—I was a volunteer, a student, a tourist, and a sports fan. But by the end, I had become something much more: a true believer in the Olympic spirit.

Throughout this experience, I had the privilege of hearing from fascinating speakers and witnessing the remarkable showcases of sponsors. These were not just displays of products or brands, but powerful narratives of how the Olympics serve as a platform for hope, unity, and belonging. The national parks and cultural exhibitions highlighted the rich heritage of the host country, reminding me that the Olympics are about more than just sports—they are about bringing the world together.

This journey has left an indelible mark on me. The words shared by inspiring leaders resonated deeply, and I hope that, like me, others found these experiences not only interesting and useful but also profoundly inspirational. I’m certain that no matter where life takes me, a small part of this Paris experience will always stay with me, guiding both my personal and professional paths.

The Olympics, as I now understand, are not merely about competition; they are about hope and belonging. Millions of words have been and will be written about the Paris 2024 Olympic Games, but the essence of it all boils down to one thing: this event came at a time when the world desperately needed it. We were starved for a positive Olympic experience, and Paris delivered just that.

The world today is reeling from division, fear, and misunderstanding, perpetuated by a relentless business model that thrives on chaos and hate. Yet, the Olympics have always stood as a beacon against these forces, offering a vaccine of sorts—against hate, against fear, and against the fragmentation of our global community. This is why the Olympics were invented, and Paris 2024 proved that this power still resides within us.

The magic of the Olympics never disappeared; it was always there, quietly reminding us of what we are capable of when we come together. Paris 2024 was a testament to the idea that the Olympics are about more than just transactions; they are about relationships, hope, and the sense of belonging that unites us all. The Olympic Family is, in essence, the human family, and through this experience, I’ve come to realize that every one of us belongs to it.

As I reflect on these past 18 days, I am filled with a renewed sense of purpose and a deeper appreciation for the power of the Olympics. This journey has not only shaped my understanding of the Games but has also reinforced the belief that, even in a divided world, there is still a place where we can all come together, share in the magic, and remember that we all, truly, belong.

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Volunteering at the USA House during the Olympics has been an incredible and unique experience. For the first time ever, Team USA House is open to the public through packages offered by USOPC’s hospitality partner, On Location. This has brought a mix of excitement and responsibility to my role, especially since my first assignment was at the VIP entrance.

Each day, my primary task was to greet guests, scan the QR code on their credentials, and apply a stamp on their left wrist in the color designated for that day. The color of the stamp changes daily, which I believe is a clever security measure to prevent any fraudulent entry. Guests have the freedom to re-enter the House multiple times throughout the day, and each time, their tickets and credentials are scanned again. This allows us to track and analyze data on how often guests return, providing valuable insights for future events.

This role has allowed me to interact with a wide range of people, including sponsors’ guests and even some current athletes, making each day a new adventure. I also had the opportunity to familiarize myself with the ticket management system, which was both challenging and rewarding. The experience has not only enhanced my skills but also deepened my appreciation for the behind-the-scenes work that goes into managing such a prestigious venue.

Overall, volunteering at the USA House has been a fantastic experience, one that has given me a unique perspective on the Olympic Games and the intricate details that contribute to their success. I’m grateful for the opportunity to be a part of this remarkable event and look forward to what the coming days will bring.

It was a drizzly day, the kind that usually makes you want to stay indoors, but nothing could dampen my excitement as I took the metro to ARENA PARIS SUD. I was on my way to witness my first-ever live Olympic handball match, a sport I had only seen on TV until now. The anticipation grew as the train approached the station, and I could feel my heart racing with excitement.

As soon as I exited the metro, I was greeted by a sight that both surprised and impressed me—a long queue stretching about 800 meters from the entrance of the arena. Despite the light rain, everyone in line seemed unfazed, forming two orderly rows as they patiently waited to pass through security. The line moved steadily, and although the process took around 25 minutes, the camaraderie among the fans made the time fly by. I soon learned that three different events—handball, table tennis, and tennis—were taking place simultaneously in the arena, with all spectators entering through the same gate. This explained the lengthy line, but the organization was commendable.

Once I made it inside, the atmosphere was nothing short of electric. The energy in the air was palpable, as fans from all over the world gathered to support their teams. The DJ played upbeat music, and the crowd eagerly followed his lead, singing and chanting to cheer on the players. To my amazement, the stadium was packed, with not a single empty seat in sight. The enthusiasm of the spectators was contagious, and I found myself swept up in the excitement.

Watching handball live, surrounded by such passionate fans, was an unforgettable experience. The intensity of the game, combined with the vibrant atmosphere in the arena, made for a truly memorable day. It was more than just a match; it was a celebration of sport, unity, and the Olympic spirit.

On July 26th night, my friends and I had the pleasure of attending the much-anticipated Olympic opening ceremony. Initially, we planned to watch the spectacle from the rooftop bar of a hotel that boasted stunning views of the Eiffel Tower. The evening promised an exhilarating experience, featuring a flyover and what was supposed to be a magnificent fireworks display. However, Mother Nature had different plans.

As we settled into our spot, the rain started to fall, gently at first. We managed to catch the impressive flyover, with planes leaving trails of smoke in patriotic colors across the Parisian sky. The Eiffel Tower stood tall and proud, adding to the majestic backdrop. Unfortunately, the rain became heavier, and we missed out on the much-anticipated fireworks display due to the inclement weather. It was a bit of a letdown, but we adapted quickly, streaming the live broadcast on our phones.

Through the raindrops on our screens, we could see the audience at the event being thoroughly drenched. The interaction between the crowd and the athletes didn’t seem as lively as one might have hoped, perhaps dampened by the relentless downpour. A friend mentioned that entering the venue had been a chaotic experience. The lines for security checks were extremely long, and eventually, in an attempt to expedite entry, officials decided to check only the tickets, foregoing the usual comprehensive security and bag checks. This raised some concerns about potential safety risks.

As the night progressed, the rain showed no sign of letting up. By the time we decided to head home, the metro was packed with people who, like us, had been caught in the rain. Despite everyone looking like “drowned rats,” there was a notable sense of satisfaction in the air. Faces were tired but adorned with smiles, evidence of the enjoyment people derived from being part of such a historic event.

In conclusion, despite the rain and minor logistical hiccups, the opening ceremony was an unforgettable experience. It was a testament to the enduring appeal of the Olympics and the joy it brings to people worldwide. Watching the event with friends, even from afar, and sharing in the collective excitement and pride was a wonderful way to kick off the games.

Before embarking on my journey to Paris for the 2024 Olympic Games, I decided to make a stop in Lausanne, Switzerland, to visit the Olympic Museum. This trip not only gave me a chance to delve deep into the rich history of the Olympic Games but also heightened my anticipation and understanding of the upcoming Paris Olympics.

The Olympic Museum: A Blend of History and Modernity

As soon as I arrived in Lausanne, I felt a youthful and athletic vibe permeating the city. Everywhere I looked, there were people cycling, running, and even swimming in the lake. Nestled on the shores of Lake Geneva, the Olympic Museum in Lausanne is surrounded by stunning natural beauty and exudes a profound sense of sports culture. The museum houses a vast array of Olympic artifacts and precious footage, documenting the evolution of the Olympic Games from ancient Greece to the present day. Each exhibit hall feels like a journey through time.

Paris 2024: An Olympic Games Like No Other

After learning about the history of the Olympics, my curiosity and excitement for the upcoming Paris Olympics grew immensely. This will be Paris’s third time hosting the Olympics, and this edition promises to be markedly different from its predecessors.

No Main Stadium for the Opening Ceremony

One of the most significant changes is that, for the first time in Olympic history, the opening ceremony will not take place in a stadium. Instead, the event will be held along the Seine River, integrating the sports celebration into the city’s fabric and making use of one of Paris’s major arteries. This innovative approach aims to blend the spirit of the Games with the iconic landscape of the city.

Equal Number of Male and Female Athletes

Paris 2024 will be the first Olympic Games where the number of male and female athletes is equal. Out of a total of 10,500 participants, there will be 5,250 men and 5,250 women. This 50% ratio marks a historic milestone in the 128-year history of the modern Olympic Games, showcasing a complete gender parity in athlete participation.

Inviting “Running Friends” to the Olympic Marathon Course

For the first time in Olympic history, the Paris organizing committee will invite 40,048 marathon enthusiasts from around the world to participate in a full marathon and a 10K race on the same day as the Olympic men’s marathon event. This unprecedented move allows ordinary people to run on the Olympic course, making history and expanding the inclusivity of the Games.

My journey in Lausanne not only deepened my understanding of the history and development of the Olympic Games but also fueled my anticipation for Paris 2024. The Olympic spirit is more than just a sports ethos; it is a universal pursuit of values that resonate with all of humanity. The upcoming Paris Olympics, with its unique charm and innovative approach, is set to once again showcase the brilliance of the Olympic spirit to the world.

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• Paris
• PyeongChang
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• Paris
• PyeongChang
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