Picture, postcard moment at stadium

BEIJING -- It was 3 a.m., and three American reporters were the only people left in the press room at Workers’ Stadium after the U.S. beat Brazil to win the women’s Olympic soccer tournament.

As we prepared to leave, we were approached by some of the volunteers who had been working in the press room.

We were the last people remaining after the last game at that venue, they explained, and they wanted to remember the moment. Would we be kind enough to pose for pictures with them?

We were honored. All of us lined up and said “cheese” a few times, then we prepared again to leave.

Before we could turn toward the door, we were stopped again, this time to receive some gifts: a CD of Chinese music and two packets of postcards. We were touched beyond words.

The Olympic spirit really does exist. Near the end of a long few weeks, I welcomed that reminder.

-- Helene Elliott

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Show some respect

IOC President Jacques Rogge said Jamaica’s Usain Bolt disrespected his opponents by failing to acknowledge their attempts to congratulate him after he set world records here in the 100 and 200 meters.

“That’s not the way we perceive being a champion,” Rogge said. “I have no problem with him doing a show. I think he should show more respect for his competitors.”

-- Randy Harvey