February 23, 2002
Hello everyone,
Today Soldier Hollow hosted a marathon. The cross country skiers in today's event had to ski a 33 mile race. That is longer than the Boston Marathon and includes uphill as well as down hill. All this is done at a 5,000 foot elevation where the air is so thin you can run out of breath just walking around. You really have to admire the athletes who are taking part in these Olympics; especially in events like todays.
Only one more day. It's hard to believe the time has passed so quickly. Quite a few of our drivers have already left, or are leaving in the next day or two. I am one of the people staying until the end. Soldier Hollow is host to one of only three events taking place on the last day. Many of the drivers still here are feeling a little remorse that we have to say good-bye to each other. It's pretty amazing how close knit we have become as a group in just three weeks. We are all exchanging addresses and email addresses. We are even talking about having a reunion next February.
I have to relate to you one experience I had today. Kelly is one of the hosts who guide the people boarding the buses. She is very outgoing and always has a smile on her face. It is a pleasure to work with her. This morning she got on my bus after I had loaded all the passengers. She said good morning to everyone and introduced me as their driver and told them I was from Michigan. One guy in the back piped up and said, "That's OK, we'll forgive him for that." Everyone on the bus had a good laugh. I then opened the rear door and pointed out to him the location of the door. This elicited even more laughter from the people on board. When we arrived at the venue, I made the announcement I usually make with one addition. I said, "Welcome to Soldier Hollow, even to the guy who doesn't like Michigan." Everyone on the bus again broke out in laughter. As people got off the bus, almost every person said good-bye to me by name, telling me to have a good day and thanking me for the ride. Even the man who made the comment about Michigan came up with a smile on his face and said, "You're alright, Leonard, have a great day." It again showed me the spirit and the attitude of everyone here at the Olympics. It was just a small incident, yet it brought together this bus load of strangers, gave them something to share and put a bright spot on the beginning of their day.
I know I will miss everyone here, I don't want this experience to end.
Len
