The much-anticipated Opening Ceremony for the 2016 Rio Olympic Games took place earlier today with 207 countries marching in the Parade of Nations.   For the first time in Olympic history, a team of refugee athletes with no country to represent, were given the second most rousing welcome, with only the Brazilian athletes more warmly received. The Aussies were in great spirits and look forward to taking part in the competition over the next couple of weeks.

The dominant theme for this gala ceremony was protection of the environment, action on climate change and implementing measures to address global warming. "It is not enough to stop harming the planet, it is time to start healing it," was the impassioned message that accompanied a scene depicting the beginning of life. The sprouting of green leaves from the floor symbolized the need to focus on the preservation of the Amazon rainforest.

Staging the Olympic Games has given Brazil some political “headaches” with many citizens critical of the financial commitment.  The capacity crowd was treated to a colourful welcome that creatively used comparatively simple props and themes to tell of the significant times in Brazil’s history and the influences that have gone to make a modern and diverse nation.   There was a special appearance by Brazilian ”super model” Gisele Bündchen, who received rapturous applause for what would be her final trip down the catwalk.

The staging highlighted the Brazilian joy of life to the rest of the world. It has been reported that Brazil’s Olympic welcome cost just 10% of the London extravaganza 4 years ago, an opening that has been compared to the Ric Birch staged Sydney opening which wowed the world 16 years ago.  Brazil has given the Olympic movement a beautiful celebration of international goodwill, uniting nations and building on the bond formed between the athletes who proudly represent their countries.

Vanderlei Cordeiro de Lima ignited the Olympic flame the Brazilian marathon runner who was robbed of Olympic glory when a crazy spectator attacked him, just metres from the finish line in Athens 2004. (pic: with thanks and by arrangement with the FEI)

Australia’s contingent was led into the stadium by cyclist Anna Meares, the winner of two Olympic gold medals. A number of Aussies made an early exit from the parade of nations as they are scheduled to compete early tomorrow morning. (pic: with thanks and by arrangement with the FEI)

Saddleworld is proud to have supported many of Australia’s home-based equestrian qualifying events and wish our teams a very successful, safe and rewarding experience in Rio.  A Saddleworld spokesperson said, “We all benefit from the experiences of our Olympic riders as they share the knowledge gained and make a significant contribution to developing the Olympic disciplines for future combinations.”

Watch the ABC’s video of the Opening Ceremony:
http://www.abc.net.au/news/2016-08-06/rio-2016-olympic-games-begin-with-spectacular-party/7697194

For a detailed schedule of all Olympic events GO to:
http://www.nbcolympics.com/full-schedule

Your local Saddleworld Store has a comprehensive range of riding equipment and expert advice.  Go to www.saddleworld.com.au for store details or a link to the 2016 Saddleworld Product Guide for more product information and prices.