And on the next day....

Our second instalment of Olympic excitement was entirely different, but no less enjoyable. We had tickets for Women's Volleyball at Earl's Court on Sunday afternoon. 

Now I probably knew even less about volleyball than about hockey, but had watched matches on TV earlier in the Games to prepare. One of those was an epic late-night victory for Team GB's women over Algeria, ranked much higher in the world. No one expected GB to win any matches in these Games, so that was a triumph in itself for an determined bunch of girls whose funding was withdrawn a couple of years ago and had to virtually pay their own way to the Olympics. They deserve a share of the admiration that has gone to more successful British Olympians.

We were going to watch Team GB, ranked 69 in the world, play their last match, against Japan, ranked 5. In the unlikely event of a Team GB victory they would progress through to the next round, to the amazement of the volleyball world. 

Come on, GB!

To be fair they never stood much of a chance against the Japanese, but that didn't stop us cheering every point and there were periods when they matched their more experienced opponents point for point. A nasty injury to one of the GB players marred the occasion, and the expected result duly came. But we had our moments of national pride, and admired the extraordinary athleticism of these women who, again and again, saved points by playing the ball with lightning reactions, inches from the ground.

A second match, between Italy and Russia was closely fought to a very high standard and was finally won by Russia in the deciding 5th set. Two 6' 8" tall Russian girls proved too much for the otherwise skilful Italians.

How on earth did she reach that?

The Italians block at the net

I was so glad to have made the trip to London for the Olympics. It was a 'once in a lifetime' opportunity that fell at just the right time for me. Even our little taste will stay with me for ever. 

I truly and sincerely thank God for sport, which has brought me so much delight and excitement throughout my life, even though I have never played with skill or distinction on any field or court. These Olympic Games in London are about as good as it gets, and have lifted my spirit to great heights. Another ingredient in an extraordinary sabbatical mix.

My Games weren't quite over. After my return from London I also went, on Tuesday, to the semi-final of the football tournament at Old Trafford, accompanied by my colleague, Bishop Chris Edmondson, and 70,000 others. We saw an impressive Brazil team defeat GB's conquerors, South Korea 3-0 to book a place in the final. There was a carnival atmosphere, with samba drums in the stands beating the rhythm and the Brazilian players responding on the field. 

What a fantastic 7 days! 5 international matches in four different sports! Have I gone to heaven?

O give thanks to the Lord, for he is good; for his steadfast love endures for ever.

Psalm 107:1