What no-one wants to admit about the 2014 Commonwealth Games
1February 10, 2013 by Colin Kelly
Their success or failure largely depends on the weather.
That sounds ridiculous so let me rephrase it.
Their success or failure depends on how we respond to bad weather.
Still sounds extreme but it’s true.
10 glorious days next summer and the whole country will get behind the games and enjoy a feel good high that could inspire a generation, or whatever slogan they go for.
If it chucks it down non stop, as it sometimes does at that time of year, people will be miserable. Attendances will drop, media coverage will be ‘it’s all a bit shit but we’re doing our best’ and inspiration will give way to embarrassment.
I fully expect Glasgow’s games to be brilliantly organised. I expect some outstanding athletic performances, and new Scottish talent to step up and shine.
But beyond that, in terms of what the games will do for the country, more than any other host city, the weather will have a massive impact.
There’s no point denying it, so the smart thing is to plan for it. To put as much as possible in place to ensure that day after day of downpours don’t spoil people’s enjoyment.
What could they do? I’d like to hear your ideas. There needs to be serious entertainment. Music, comedy, video, interaction, surprises. Affordable but quality food. Free ponchos. Towels to dry seats. Everything that’s ever been brilliant about Glasgow needs to come alive and be represented at every venue. The sponsors need to get down and dirty and work hard to do their bit, entertain the crowds, pull some strings and provide a ‘wow’ instead of sitting back lounging in a corporate box somewhere.
The organisers and politicians need to be totally transparent and engaging. They need to win people over, capture their imaginations and convince them to give 100 percent support, even in a challenging (soaking wet) environment.
When Scotland footballers qualify for major tournaments our fans are regarded as the best in the world. It’s about the joy of being there rather than the outcome. That’s the attitude that will get Glasgow through the worst case weather scenario. Everybody needs to do their bit and the planning needs to start now. Of course there’s nothing anyone can do to make the sun shine but there’s a lot that can be done to make things more bearable in the rain.
Colin Kelly
I would like to see a good celebration of Scottish culture. How about a mini Highland Games on Glasgow Green (obviously still a problem in bad weather though). Or an attempt at the kilt race world record? Would be good in general to have some stages/venues throughout the site showcasing Scottish music etc, with performers who are prepared to brave the rain to keep the crowds happy. In 2007 I spent many hours standing in the pouring rain and wind at Loch Ness watching a variety of Scottish performers, while waiting for Runrig to headline. The stage was damaged by the weather and they nearly had to call it off before they came on stage. But they didn’t want to let down the fans who’d braved the rain for hours. They took down the side panels of the stage which were causing the problem, and the show went on – despite them having removed the bit that protected them from the weather. They go absolutely soaked but it was the best gig I’ve ever been to. That’s the attitude we need.