Guyanese athletes get 1st session at ‘Birds Nest’ in Beijing

Aug 13, 2008 Sports

Head coach of Guyana’s Track Team at the Olympics being held in Beijing, China, Joe Ryan, took his charges for their first practice session at the ‘Birds Nest’, yesterday.

Aliann Pompey, who will be running in the 400 meters and Alan Harris who will vie for top honours in the 100 meters both had a good session.

The athletes were also taken to get oriented with the check in procedures at the new facility.
According to Ryan, the Chinese actually have a starter on the warm-up track all day giving commands to sprinters who want to do block work.

“The blocks are hooked up to an electronic sensor and if the sprinter breaks early an alarm will sound. The electronic system is not new, but having the starter there was certainly an innovation and a good idea. I had Adam Harris jump in with the No. 1 sprinter from Great Britain who has run 10.06 (100m) this year and Adam was reacting form the blocks with him.”

Both athletes said they were very happy with their sessions after which they walked through the check in procedures in preparation for the actual races.

“We got into the stadium as far as we could and workers were putting the finishing touches in preparation for the opening of the track events on Friday. The stadium is truly unique and the surrounding Olympic park area is awe inspiring.”

Coach Ryan said the weather yesterday was very clear and the air felt fine. “If it stays like this we are in good shape.”

Meanwhile, the Guyanese team attended a function on Monday night at the Guyanese Embassy in Beijing where the traditional Chinese food was glorious along with the accompanying Calypso music. Host was Charge D’Affaires, Ms. Chu Annyan.