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Dear friends,
"Share
the experience" is written across the T-shirts of the
participants of the Athens 2004 Olympic Torch Relay
last Saturday, June 19. This logo compels me to scribble
a few words about my experience.
It
was a great honor and a privilege for me to photograph
the torchbearers across the five boroughs. In spite
of being physically challenged to run all over the boroughs
with my camera equipment, I was proud to be in company
with distinct photographers who were scrambling along
with me. Emotions ran high as the flame from Atlanta
arrived to Athens Square in Queens.
As
my lens zoomed in on the facial expressions of the carriers
of the flame, I captured only pride and joy. Each one
carried the torch as if it was a precious treasure to
protect. One woman passed out from excitement as she
received the flame in her torch. The transfer of the
flame from one person to another was a split second;
but, if you could freeze that moment, the image radiated
the goodness of the human spirit in solidarity and in
benevolence. All the conflicts appeared to be distant
during those moments. Isn’t that what the Olympic is
all about? All nations come together in spite of their
differences. On the same context, UN Secretary-General
Kofi Annan spoke of the Olympic truce during the touching
presentation at the United Nations’ courtyard.
Cheering
crowds lined the route to take a glimpse of the glorious
flame. The climax of the relay was in Times Square packed
with enthusiasts to witness the song-and-dance celebration.
It was such a surprise when the final torchbearer, gymnast
Nadia Comaneci descended from the top of the famous
landmark, Nasdaq building, to the stage to light the
cauldron. Next stop is Montreal. Pass on the torch to
give light to the world!
This
adventure is another milestone in my career. By sharing
my experience with all of you, I hope to spark enthusiasm
for the summer Olympic games in August. |
