Sport and patriotism

[claidheamhmor]

Anyone who knows me knows I have about zero interest in sport, and that I'm terribly cynical about patriotism.

This last week, however, has been amazing. Like many South Africans, I had my doubts about SA being able to deliver the Soccer World Cup, even though I had some information about preparations a couple of years ago.

Friday showed the world, though.

On Wednesday, we had a national demonstration of support for Bafana Bafana, our team. My company's building was done up in flags and banners, as were many other companies, and people came onto the streets in their thousands to support the team and the tournament. It was great to look out on all that, and see the crowds. Up till then, we'd seen a lot of support anyway; many people have South African and other flags on their cars - hell, even I have one!

Then, on Friday, it all came together. The SWC started, and everything worked. All the stadiums were ready. Most of the new freeways were done. The Gautrain was rolling (ahead of schedule!). Everything looked amazing.

And South Africa scored the very first SWC goal on African soil. I was in a shopping centre at the time, and all the staff were clustered around a TV, cheering, and I was there with them, grinning like an idiot.

I watched part of the US-England game on Saturday, and that was great too; the spirit is amazing.

I'm really proud that South Africa can deliver a world-class global sports tournament, the biggest in the world. SA has hosted more global sports events than any other country over the last 15 years, so I suppose we shouldn't be surprised, but the Soccer World Cup is on a completely different scale.

For the next few weeks, the national language is "soccer", and people are forgetting their racial and language divisions. I love it.

Comments

[ereneth.livejournal.com]

Isn't it just absolutely frickin' amazing???

I am SO proud of SA and the boys. To the extent that I can't bear to watch the next two games 'cos I just want them to go through to the next round so bad I can taste it.

[claidheamhmor]

You must see the spirit and enthusiasm around here...

[gridlore.livejournal.com]

Seen from the other side of the planet, I'm very happy to see the RSA emerge not just as a better state, but as a real player in international affairs and culture. I still plan to visit someday just so I can see Ladysmith (Great-grandfather was one of the besieged British troops there).

Go Bafana Bafana! At least up to the point y'all play Team USA.

[claidheamhmor]

Drop me a note whenever you intend to come - we'll make sure you have a good time. :)