Location: Hotel Grand Chancellor, Auckland, New Zealand
Time 12.30pm
So here it is! We are on the cusp of the wave that is the Rugby World Cup and its literally just a few short hours to kick off. As mentioned in yesterdays blog the rugby world cup has been my goal ever since I began this madness of traveling not just in being a far off goal to aim for but also a goal to make enough cash along the way to actually afford to be here - well goals accomplished as long as I can stay disciplined on the amount of beer I drink over the next 7 weeks!
In October 2007 at the last world cup in Paris, France I had the opportunity to visit the giant rugby ball the New Zealand tourist board had erected underneath the Eiffel tower as a way to showcase their country for the next world cup in 2011. It was awe inspiring and it convinced me there and then that in four years time I would have to if all possible be where I am right now to witness it. The giant rugby ball just like myself has spent alot of its time since traveling the world and taking its time to get here but it was nice to see my old friend once again yesterday on Aucklands waterfront.....
Separated in Paris - reunited in Auckland!
And so it begins, 20 teams, 48 games and a worldwide audience of approx. 2 billion people and thus for the next 7 weeks at least all eyes are on New Zealand. Its a pleasure and a privilege to be here in the thick of it. From where im staying its merrily a stones through to Auckland's waterfront which is "fan central" with its bars, restaurants, and huge screen tvs. It is also the venue for the opening day (today!) parade and firework display and giant Haka, so like the rest of the city im off the que for that in approx an hour and I guarantee its a celebration that will go on into the early hours of tomorrow morning. The city is electric not least with fans and supporters from all over the world but with the kiwis themselves and there very high expectations from Dan Carter, Richie McCaw and their fellow All Blacks. Everywhere in the city is decorated and ready to go and even the que to have a picture taken with the Webb Ellis Trophy (the World Cup itself!) took well over an hour but was certainly worth it....
The Rugby World Cup & Me
As for the first game of the All Blacks v Tonga it should really be a glorified training session for the much superior Kiwis, however I wont the the only one in the city secretly hoping the south pacific islanders give them a scare! The is some Irish interest in the game of note also as it will be refereed by Limerick man George Clancy. Its an interesting appointment as its just his first would cup but he is very experienced and just last month was the man in charge for the Australia's win over the All Blacks in their Tri-Nations decider. Also of interest is that he will be continuing a rugby world cup tradition of using the same coin & whistle that has been used at all world cups since their inception in 1987!!!
Ok so im off to enjoy the opening day festivities..... until tomorrow....