Olympic memories from the Opening Ceremony

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The U.S. Olympic Committee has compiled quotes from some of the U.S. athletes who took part in the Opening Ceremony for the Beijing Games on Friday in the Bird’s Nest. Here are a few more comments:

Jennifer Joines (Volleyball)

“For four years we have been training in a quiet gym. Tonight we walked into the stadium with everyone watching. It truly was amazing. This journey was well worth the wait.”

Oganna Nnamani (Volleyball)

“It was a breathtaking experience walking into the stadium. I am thankful to be part of this moment.

Phil Dalhausser (Beach Volleyball)

“It was really cool. My favorite part was definitely walking around the track. It was the whole atmosphere. I had chills, especially when we first walked out.”

Giddeon Massie (Cycling)

“I think it’s great having done this once before and having the opportunity to do it again. They’ve really stepped up the apparel and I’m really looking forward to it. I think they all look good.”

Glenn Eller (Shooting)

“It was the best Opening Ceremonies I’ve ever seen. They did an awesome job and it was amazing to be out there, representing the United States. I also got to meet President George Bush, so that was really neat. I took pictures with him and Laura. It was really cool – he was there energizing us before we walked out.”

Caitlin Lowe (Softball)

“It was so amazing and wonderful to see the torch lit. There is nothing anything like it, it was so cool.’ Meeting all the U.S. athletes before was incredible because we were all dressed the same as one team. Everyone was taking pictures, wishing good luck.. It was so neat to meet all the famous athletes.”

Natasha Watley (Softball)

“What an amazing night. It was a lot of fun getting a chance before we lined up to mingle with the other U.S. Athletes in the delegation. Also meeting the President... Wow, just a crazy, crazy night. The best part was the guy running around the top with the images of the torch being shown. Being in the middle of the venue and watching the fireworks was an incredible feeling.”

Kate Hooven (Synchronized Swimming)

“What got to me the most was the lighting of the torch. It was so amazing, it brought me to tears. It was overwhelming and embodied everything that is ‘Olympic’ to me.”