Olympic Torch

A couple weeks ago the Olympic torch made its way to Dublin and I was lucky enough to see it. I got a text from a friend letting me know that the torch had arrived that morning and was being processed through the city by various athletes, political figures, and celebs and finishing up with a 15 minute torch ceremony in St. Stephen's Green. Obviously, this was something I could not miss. I looked at the route online and decided that my best chance for a sighting would be in Stephen's Green.
I hopped on the bike and made it there just in time...following the helicopters and other people with cameras.
When I arrived I could hear people talking and cheering and there was a stage set up but I couldn't see much. The area was fenced off and they had handed out wristbands to get in the fenced area before I got there. As I was standing along the fence I watched a guy exit...spotted the red wristband, followed him, and was certain he did not plan on going back in. I asked him if I could have his wristband and he was more than happy to rip it off. Entry granted!
I ended up moving my way fairly close to the front with a good view of the torch and Jedward. Common question I have gotten: what's a Jedward? Well...short answer they were an Irish act that got 6th place in the 2009 X-Factor. In reality, they are John and Edward, brothers. They have blown up to be some bizzarre, crazy Irish pop act. Slightly annoying to some, but a huge hit selling out concerts all over. If you are interested: http://www.planetjedward.net/
Anyway, they were part of the crew processing with the torch and seeing them just adds to my Irish experience.
My pictures from the day aren't that great...mainly because I thought I was capturing video when apparently I wasn't. Ugh. Happens more than it should.

The torch was lit for the 15 minutes on the stage while they pumped up Dublin for the games and talked about the Irish athletes that were present, then they packed it up and carried it off to its next destination. Pretty cool.