World Cup musings

In an earlier posting, I promised that I would share some of my thoughts on Africa's first World Cup

Needless to say, but I think this World Cup was a resounding success. Upsets, controversies, surprises abounded. South Africa scoring the first World Cup goal, watching a nation united like never before, and the hospitality and generosity of South Africans.

Before we embarked on this adventure, all we heard were dire warnings about crime and security and reports that getting to and from games was going to be a nightmare. I know that many people did not travel to SA because of these reports. I can only say that they missed an opportunity of a lifetime. We never felt threatened in the least (in fact, we were made to feel most welcome) and getting in and out of the 90,000 capacity Soccer City was easier than getting out of the Corel Centre!!

The Fan Parks provided us with some of our best World Cup memories. Imagine over 100,000 people at Fan Parks on the beautiful Durban beaches, decked out in team colours, watching the game while the cool Indian Ocean breezes kept us cool. Then dancing 'till the early hours to South African beats!! Even FIFA acknowledged that these were the best Fan Parks ever!!! By the way, the Fan Parks were closed at 5 p.m. on Sunday for the final because they had reached capacity - more than 3 hours before kick-off.

And the stadiums - Soccer City in Johannesburg is stunningly beautiful as you approach it. The Moses Mabida Stadium in Durban is just off the beaches and the arch (which is in the shape of the V in the flag) is a sight to behold. FIFA claims that the Cape Town Stadium is the most perfect soccer stadium in the world.

Now, about the vuvuzelas. First, they sounded much louder on TV than in the stadiums. Second, I believe that when the Europeans and South Americans complained about them, more people were motivated to blow them. Finally, as we know, most media reports implied that the vuvuzelas were being blown by South Africans. This I can say with certainty - had the Europen and South American fans NOT bought vuvuzelas of their own, the noise woud have been cut down by one-half or more!!!

Finally, I can say that I am so proud of my home country and the fantastic job done in hosting the biggest sporting event in the world. They overcame large odds and a tremendous amount of international skepticism. The warmth, generosity and kindness my family and I experienced far exceeded our expectations. We are so grateful that we had this opportuntiy to experience this once-in-a-lefetime event.