This is the article, which mainly focuses on the economic disadvantages of hosting the Games. Being an avid fan of sports, I would like to show how the Games were impressive in other ways( or rather, beneficial to China in other ways) and debunk the claim that China will suffer a post-Beijing financial drain.
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Amidst mountains of funfare, the Beijing Olympics kickstarted with an impressive opening ceremony, one dubbed "the epitome of Chinese success and dominance". Award-winning medallist Li Ning bounding against the side walls of the Bird's Nest Stadium and sparking off the Olympic flame was simply an astounding sight and one that made my father cry out in utter disbelief. The only thought stream that coursed through my psyche was the addidas catchphrase " Impossible Is Nothing". Sights of brilliantly-clad drummers and dancers synchronising to perfect harmony was not only a sight to behold, but the way they switched between formation and formation so neatly and swiftly was amazing. Yet, as I watched the continuous bursts of fireworks( exploding in the air with a pride and arrogance, the same pride and arrogance edged in every Chinese citizen's heart), it randomly occured to me that whilst the Beijing Olympics would certainly elevate China's status on the world map, it could potentially drain its economy and aggravate a negative economic slump. Thus, I shall now review the boons and banes of China hosting the Olympics Games to better my understanding.
The world's biggest event. China's first shot at it. Acres of media coverage, ready to amplify every mistake or examine every action undertaken by the Chinese government. Yet, all around the world, no negative criticisms arose. This can be said by virtue of the fact that the opening and closing ceremonies were simply acts of pure class; entertaining, thrilling and unbelievable. With the world's expectations burdened upon China, China not only did not crumble under immense pressure but also delivered a show that surpassed all expectations and will forever be etched in every mind. The Chinese were jubliant when they heard they won the rights to host and it is certain that with this spectacular Games, their confidence on presenting themselves upon the global arena would be doubled. The successful Games were merely the culmination of three years of hard work, countless rehearsals and the strength of a common goal. A common goal to elevate China's status. A common goal to prove to the world that the Chinese are a force to be reckoned with. A common goal to leave people gaping puzzled as to how such an effective and efficient Games can possibly be organised. This psychological boon will present Chinese from all around the world a new outlook of confidence, as they continue with the challenge of boosting China's economic status in the world.
Socially, The Games have rooted the deep history of Chinese culture and traditions upon the hearts of athletes all around the world. The incorporation of traditional Chinese elements like wushu, calligraphy and paper-making into the ceremonies only served to make the show more impressive and vibrant, not forgetting the resultant didactic purpose. Oftentimes, Chinese culture is being overshadowed by modern American culture, yet this hosting has dawned light on some of the ingenuities of Chinese culture, most notably paper-making. This Games has totally opened a new cultural dimension to China and as Chinese continues its progress from the notion of "a sleeping dragon", it is only fitting that people all round the world gain a better insight towards Chinese culture so as to cement a stand on the international arena. Like the Yangtze River, Chinese culture is an art form accumulated over time and whose sheer substance and beauty exemplifies the richness of Chinese history and values.
Economically, this hosting is a double-edged sword. As China steps into the golden age of economic flourish, it is important to maintain this equilibrium in check. Yet, billions of dollars have been pumped into this major project in terms of infrastructure( check that ICE CUBE out!), media promotion, gimmicks, souvenirs. You name it, they have it. However, economic analysts have predicted a post-Olympic drain where the economic progress of China stagnates and eventually breaks down( due to the density of Chinese investment in this Games.) It is certain that with athletes all round the world, ensuing economic gains will follow. They are merely tourists, yet are in Beijing for a noble cause- to do their country proud. However, picture the ICE CUBE five years later, painting a desolate figure in the Beijing skyline, its past glory long abandoned. Is it really worth spending three years of preparation on the heat of events, which lasts a mere two weeks? Is it economic sustainable and beneficial? With taxpayers' money pouring in, will the income gap between rural and city citizens be significantly widened? An entire torrent of issues, the country has to address before enforcing its firm threshold on the global arena. Despite constant reassurements from Chinese authorities that Beijing only makes up 4% of the Chinese economy, can such long-term observations be disproved in the short run? No current concrete evidence doesn't neccesarily signify that no evidence will ever arise on a long-term basis.
We all unanimously agree that the Chinese have done an excellent job out of the Olympics, even small details like Chinese models turning upon the arrival of guests( to create a red-carpet/ celebrity feel) are well-scripted and paid attention to. Whats comical yet impressive is the observation that wardens have to MARCH from point to point, something that highlights the seriousness of the Chinese authorities. As Jacques Rogge, president of International Olympic Committee(IOC) simply put it, "These were truly exceptional Games" and I have no choice but to agree.
One world, one dream. Can they relive the dream in times to come?
Only time can tell...
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