2012’s British legacy began with nationwide celebrations for
the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee. If staging the Jubilee concert and Thames Pageant appeared
a daunting task, try multiplying the security risk, number of tourists, television
coverage and patriotic flag waving by a hundred and we are somewhere close to
the gigantic scale of the London Olympics.
What struck me most about the London Olympics – aside from
the fact that the heavens above glistened golden rays of sunshine and cast
warmth upon us for the small two week window of the Games - was the fact that
the British people finally became united in feeling a sense of pride and
admiration for our nation. The Olympics was a step towards accomplishing
something that governments of yesteryear have been aiming towards, eradicating
the notion that only the privileged can afford to become Olympians. Contrast
the equestrian events with the track events where Britain has now showcased incredible
talent, and reminisce in the victory of our very own legend Mo Farah.
Furthermore, people within the UK from a broad spectrum of
ethnic backgrounds and from all classes of society became united in the support
of our nation’s sports men and women and willed them to succeed. The London Games
can pride itself in the knowledge that unlike Olympic Games of the past, locals
and tourists alike cheered on teams and individuals from all corners of the
globe in seeking to drive them to their best.
What became apparent was that unlike Central America where
the US flag is hoisted and proudly displayed on most houses and where school
children sing the national anthem on important occasions; in the UK we tend to
be more reserved and timid in our displays of patriotism... until now. Flags
were flying off the shelves in sports stores up and down the country, and soon
became the newest ‘must-have’ fashion accessory. The London Games has ignited
something into British culture that has been striving to be showcased for a
long time. It is now more than ever cool to be British.
