Venue Training: Week One

I am incredibly lucky to have been chosen to work at the National Aquatic Centre for the Beijing Olympics.

This was my first preference, so whatever else happens, I am glad I am at The Cube.

For our first week of on-site training, the security has been tight.

I really appreciate this.

It is a massive, iconic venue and admittedly, could be a target for unspeakable acts.

Having to clear so much security makes me realise that BOCOG and the Chinese Government are doing whatever they can to ensure the safety of everyone attending, competing and working at the 2008 Games.

From this early stage, I think we have a team of strong, talented individuals.

With more training and more interaction between team members, I think we will be able to strengthen the bond and work well together.

Our ONS Managers are very experienced professionals and I feel inspired to work alongside such people.

I like the dual-manager system and that it is made clear who should be spoken to about certain issues.

The organisation of some of our training however, has given me slight cause for concern.

We have had a few sessions cancelled at the last minute and others rescheduled with minimal notice.

We have been notified about these changes by an ONS Manager telephoning one team member from our University.

Obviously I am in Beijing to do this job and have no other commitments, but it still causes some disruption.

Yesterday however, we got our roster starting from Sunday July 27th until the end the games.

We also got to meet the Sports Information Specialists (SIS) for swimming and diving.

They are highly knowledgeable, approachable and completely invaluable to our ONS team.

I know that the job of a Flash Quote Reporter will be challenging but I have faith in my own ability to work with our team to produce the level of excellence the Olympic News Service is known for.

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