I have to say, the European Indoor Championships has been fantastic. From day 1, here are five observations, not in any order, on my first night in the Omnisport Apeldoorn.
- The Omnisport is sold out and has been for months. One of the most respected indoor facilities in the Netherlands. The crowd, while happily partisan Dutch, has excellent groups of fans from all over. We see the Irish, the Estonians (they love the multi-events), and the overwhelming orange of the Dutch fans!
- The Men’s 1,500-meter heat was Jakob Ingbebrigtsen’s story. Jakob is doubling in the 1,500 meters and 3,000 meters. He has won 14 European titles, 3 at 3,000m indoors, and a silver and two gold at the 1,500 meters. Ingebrigtsen’s recent WRs at the 1,500m (3:29.83) and mile (3:45.14) suggest a level of fitness that is frightening this early in the year!
- The men’s and Women’s 60-meter hurdles have Dutch and French stars! One should not forget about the Swiss hurdlers, but remember this: There is no room for error in the 60-meter hurdles. One misstep, and the party is over!
- Announcing has been crisp and fun! The music is lots of 1970s rock (AC/DC, ZZ top, even Jackson Five remastered), Ton-Loc (1980s hip hop), and some modern music, as our granddaughter, Fiona, would say. The Omnsport has wonderfully strong coffee, sandwiches, snacks, and sparkling water, which is my favorite!
- I am in the top media row, seats 31-32, where I can see the finish line across from me, observe the track, and walk around almost the entire facility. To keep the jet lag in control, I will walk 20-30 minutes at a time and check out the fans, coaches, and athletes. The Wi-Fi is good, so I am happy!
