Science and the Olympics

In a few hours the Olympic torch will be lit in London to signify the start of the 30th Olympiad, but as I sat in the stadium on Wednesday evening watching a dress rehearsal for the Opening Ceremony I was struck by the good nature of the many different nationalities there with me. Everyone was positive and looking forward to enjoying the next few weeks together. We all had our national favourites of course, but the overriding feeling was one of: "may the best man (or woman) win" and, beyond that, every participant merited our applause and good wishes.
In twenty-five years working to support the scientific community, I have been impressed by the fact that - more often than not - the academics and researchers I deal with are happy to set aside nationality, ethnicity or religion to work with each other toward a common goal, to achieve success for the greater good of humanity. And once someone has achieved that recognition, there is rarely any petty jealously to be seen.
I hope - and strongly suspect - that the the similarities between this approach to science and research are replicated in the London Olympics and Paralympics and hope you enjoy the competition and atmosphere whether you are visiting Great Britain or watching television from an armchair.
Best wishes, 
David