Olympic Rehearsal

Had the opportunity today to catch a close up of Jessica Ennis  and Louise Hazell  as they continued their Olympic preparation at Loughborough's Paula Radcliffe stadium. Both heptathletes appeared in the long jump competition and the Javelin at the meet. My special photographer was on hand to capture them both.

A Particular Favourite

                                                 
I was surprised to find that I could park for free and without queuing and that I was just one of about 500 people watching. It was certainly a most muted occasion. The positive was that I was able to listen in as both girls received direction from their coaches during the throws. It was intimate. It did make me wonder though at the lack of drawing power of an Olympic Gold medal favourite just 3 weeks before the Games. Of course the British public will get up for the Games, just like Wimbledon, but there must be incredibly little interest in the Sport itself. There is certainly no visible evidence of 'Pre Games legacy'.

Golden Smile

                                                         
I would like to have seen bus loads of children being brought to the occasion. In just over 3 weeks Jessica Ennis may become practically immortal. What a missed opportunity to get tomorrow's athletes inspired and involved. It might have provided a timely boost to both Jess and Louise as well.
Miss Hazell fascinates me. She just oozes charisma and panache. Maybe not the greatest ever athlete, but she will undoubtedly be a star long after most better athletes have been forgotten.

Panache!

                                                             

Photographs Courtesy of BuBu Photography