danny crates

Since returning from South Africa in February, I could safely say that Feb. and March was a period of highs and lows, or to steal a much over used phrase, a roller coaster of emotions.

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On April 6th Danny carried the torch along the river at Greenwich before handing over to Theo Walcott.

It was a great honor, to help the flame on its journey to the Olympics and Paralympics in Beijing. As an athlete the flame represents every thing about the games. When they light the cauldron at the opening ceremony, you know the games have begun, and that’s when the nerves really start to get to you.

It was a real shame that every thing that is good about the relay was overshadowed by the demonstrations, not the 99% that demonstrated peacefully, but as always that 1% you always get, that are out there to cause disruption. I am sure there were thousands of families who chose not to go due to the threat of trouble, my wife and 6month old son being among those who sadly thought it would be safer to stay at home. And for those who did brave the cold, they did not get to see the torch as up close and personal as they would have desired and deserved. You see the flame represents every thing that is good about the games; it does not represent the country that hosts it. The Olympics is the friendly games, where athletes come together to compete with no political agendas.

Danny is awarded an honorary degree by the university of essex and south East Essex College at the graduation awards ceremony.
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