Shift - Day 1

Today is our first day in venue - mostly spent familiarising ourselves with layout, competition staff, and general issues. It was, therefore, the first day for wearing my uniform.  At least it fits, although I’ve been issued with a 3XXL gilet - which is way too big.  It was warm first thing this morning, so didn’t need either the gilet or the waterproof (2XL size).  A not very flattering self portrait.  Note I’ve turned my accreditation around so no-one could copy it, and see which venues I’m allowed entry to.  The key bit is the blue bar at the bottom - that indicates that I have access to the Field of Play. 

Leisurely breakfast from a standard hotel serve yourself buffet, meeting up with my co-workers at the same time.  After breakfast it is just a 5-10min walk (via short cut at the back of the hotel) to the International Railway station and the dedicated accreditation entry and search area.  

As it is Sunday today, there are a lot more spectators around, and the NEC is busy.  The concession stalls seem to be doing good business.  There is a Fan Zone just outside, across from the Bear Grylls Adventure where you can do the Royal Marines-inspired Assault Course, Archery, Axe Throwing, High Ropes, Climbing, Shooting, Escape Rooms, Cage Snorkel, and Shark Dive.  It is open during the Games, but access is only for those who have entry tickets for the NEC Precinct, and then buy whatever adventure they want to do.

Lunch today, as for all our meals, will be cold sandwiches, wraps, or salads with a biscuit or muffin, and a piece of fruit.  The smoked salmon and cottage cheese sandwich seems to have been made by vintage British Railways catering - dry bread, turning up at the ends (remember them?). As these are being touted as the sustainable games no plastic bottles of juice, soda or water available - just a water refill station. Although out in the public area there are plenty of soda dispensing machines as well as in each of the concessions.  There is also a reminder of what we were exhorted to do at London 2022 - “Know your Bins” - food waste, mixed recycling and general waste. Only difference - no longer coloured wheelie bins but cardboard boxes (admittedly lined with plastic bags for ease of emptying).

Also tickets for sessions are digital - although you can Print at Home if you are not digital savvy.

At the end of the shift, went into the City Centre - very busy.  Took a quick walk up to Victoria Square where the Festival Site is situated.  Back then to hotel on the X1 bus.  Will be a quiet night - catching up with some of the work needed for tomorrow, plus dipping (get it?) into some CG events in Aquatic Centre and channel (English?) hopping for the Women’s Euro 2022 Football Final - England v Germany.

To end today’s blog some trivia info:  Birmingham has 35 miles of canals, apparently more than in Venice

Plus Cryptic crossword clue of the day:  Antipodean, also in French and English (6)





 
Fan Zone, NEC




Somehow don’t think I’ll be clambering up this!


Victoria Square Festival Site







 




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