Matt Burrell reports
Hi all
New Delhi has been an interesting place. It is very much a
city of contrast. For example, the main athletics stadium is
within a matter of a few minutes of a slum (in fact I have pictures
to prove it!). Similarly, we are staying at the Sheraton
hotel, which is a fantastic hotel. But, within a few minutes
in either direction, there are buildings in a state of disrepair,
tent houses, and streets which have broken footpaths that you can
look through the holes to the sewer. Then a couple minutes
further on a world class looking hospital and a mall that is again
better than most in NZ.
On to the work side of things. We have had some really hot
days over here. Certainly, the middle of the day has been
high 30's one would think and it has been humid. It is not
the easiest conditions to umpire in. However, as you can see
by the scores matches have been short so far. We expect the
tournament will get much more competitive from now onwards.
We have also had squirrels, mongooses and the odd hawk come by
various courts. And yes we are aware that it is likely the
mongoose is after a snake, which must also be nearby. This also
makes life interesting on court.
In the next few days we will get the medal matches, which will be
interesting although no New Zealanders are in action. We will
also get the opportunity to watch other sports. We all got
given some free tickets so that shall be interesting also.
Some of my colleagues have already seen some sports and they
enjoyed the experience.
Anyway on a whole it has been really interesting so far. The
car travel (no sticking to your lane and horns are a necessary part
of travel), the sights and smells have all been quite eye
opening. If you ever get a chance to come here you should
take it. I definitely feel we are extremely lucky to live in
the country that we do.
Bye for now
Matt