Summer is notorious for lacking quality television shows, which is why the 2012 London Olympics are a much-needed respite from my marathons of Criminal Minds’ reruns! The high intensity and drama of the Olympics makes for great television, and it stirs the feeling of patriotism as you watch the men and women that are representing our great country. You even feel like you are part of the action, and their win is your win!
This is especially true as you realize how many of your fellow San Franciscans are a part of this year’s summer games. Athletes from San Francisco include such hopefuls as: Chioma Amaechi (Weightlifting), Howard Bach (Badminton), Kibwe Johnson (Hammer Toss), Alexander Massialas and Gerek Meinhardt (both, Fencing in foil). Although these might not be events that are the most popular to watch, all these events are sure to be both inspiring and entertaining as each is an amazing testament to the capabilities of the human body. I personally want to check out Kibwe Johnson’s Hammer Toss event, since I did not even know the event existed and Johnson won gold at the 2011 Pan American Games.
If you want to feel like you are in London watching the world’s best athletes compete, then check out one of San Francisco’s many British Pubs that have the atmosphere and the televisions to make you feel like you are at the games; such as, Mad Dog in the Fog with its reputation as a great sports bar. Another possibility is Cameron’s British Pub in Half Moon Bay, which not only features many televisions to watch your favorite events but also has a double decker bus so that you feel just like your in London.
If you want to get into the competitive spirit of the games, the Impala Bar and Ultra Lounge in San Francisco is hosting the SF Beer Olympics coinciding with the Opening Ceremonies of the Summer Olympics on Friday, July 27th, at 8:30 pm. The games include Flip Cup, Beer Pong, and Relays and are free to play and free entry. It is a great place to be social as everyone is placed on a team, and, even if you do not want to play, it is fun to watch!
A full-schedule of Olympic events can be found here.
