London olympics - the big question ???

[Silver Fox]

OLYMPIC GAMES – THE BIG QUESTION ?

Should GB Olympic competitors have the opportunity to buy tickets for their immediate family support team..?

Just remember…thousands of miles in transportation…thousands of hours supporting at training (usually at unsociable times) and competitive events…thousands of pounds for fees, equipment, special food, etc., etc., etc.

And all the immediate family support team want…is to support their daughter/son at the biggest event of their young lives…is this too much to ask?

They are not asking for something for nothing…they are used to paying for everything…

Is the London Olympic Committee going to ignore the very people that are providing the GB competitors…?

Without them there would be no GB team…………….

They deserve to be recognised…they deserve to have the opportunity to support their child at this, the biggest event in their lives, as they have done throughout their sporting career…

What do you think…?

[BIGBrian]

Didn't I read somewhere that all competitors get two tickets for their family to watch them compete?

[BIGBrian]

I saw this on the North East Region website:

"Having decided to accept its allocation of London 2012 tickets for swimming, diving, open water, synchro and water polo, the ASA NER Regional Board is delighted to offer the regions’ members the opportunity to purchase tickets for the London 2012 Games"

Presumably this arrangement was available to all regions? Did they all take it up?

[Juicy Lucy]

Presumably this arrangement was available to all regions? Did they all take it up?

Yes, swimming tickets were made available to all regions. Here's ours (West Midlands):

The ASA West Midland Region has an allocation of Olympic tickets for Aquatic events at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

A limited number of tickets for the swimming. open water, synchronised swimming and water polo events at the Games are available to purchase by ASA members of clubs affiliated to the West Midland Region in the form of an open ballot.

The application process will commence on 1st June 2011 and close at midnight on 15th July 2011 and only fully completed application forms will be accepted.

Only one application form per ASA member with up to 3 choices of tickets will be accepted.

Only 2 (or 3 tickets as applicable) can be requested.

Applications must be received by midnight on Friday 15th July either by post or email.

* The ballot will be drawn between 18th and 21st July 2011.

* Successful applicants will be informed by email (or by post if no email address provided) by 31st July 2011.

* Payment to be received by 31st August by cheque or bank transfer.

* Non payment by that date will result in the tickets being reallocated.

[Silver Fox]

and yet another lottery!!!...competitors should have a right to tickets...you know it makes sense!!!

[chris_lamb]

From the telegraph (http://www.telegraph.co.uk/sport/othersports/olympics/news/8553385/London-2012-Olympics-row-over-South-African-boy-who-helped-in-bid-to-win-Games-adds-to-tickets-farce.html):

While diver Tom Daley and cyclist Bradley Wiggins were two who missed out in the public ballot, the British Olympic Association has confirmed that all Team GB athletes will have access to up to two tickets for their family to attend every session in which they compete.

These tickets are a result of Locog’s deal with the International Olympic Committee to have two tickets available for every athlete each time they compete. In the case of swimmers, however, there will only be one ticket per session.

Olympic officials say the restriction is because of the limited venue capacity of 17,000 and the extraordinary demand from the public, sponsors and media.

[Steve]

and yet another lottery!!!...competitors should have a right to tickets...you know it makes sense!!!
The BOA have said they will provide the opportunity for athletes to purchase 2 tickets for each session they are competing in. However for swimming that reduces to 1 (presumably because of seating restrictions from LOCOG)

[BIGBrian]

Yes, swimming tickets were made available to all regions. Here's ours (West Midlands):

The ASA West Midland Region has an allocation of Olympic tickets for Aquatic events at the London 2012 Olympic Games.

Looking forward to finding out how the SE Region are allocating theirs then!

[Dave_G]

While diver Tom Daley and cyclist Bradley Wiggins were two who missed out in the public ballot, the British Olympic Association has confirmed that all Team GB athletes will have access to up to two tickets for their family to attend every session in which they compete.

So they should! Anything else is an absolute disgrace and totally unacceptable!

Olympic officials say the restriction is because of the limited venue capacity of 17,000 and the extraordinary demand from the public, sponsors and media.

Well, perhaps there would be more seats available, if there were fewer places provided for corporate businesses, politicians and other so-called VIPs, many of whom probably have no interest in swimming.

[Silver Fox]

Can you imagine the discussions (and that is saying it nicely) in a swimmer's family when they try to decide who is to have the ONE TICKET to watch their child swim in the biggest event of their lives...

[Styx]

Shame on the organising Committee. Disgraceful.

[Juicy Lucy]

Looking forward to finding out how the SE Region are allocating theirs then!

It would be wrong of me to think that some regions won't even release them to clubs.

[Silver Fox]

I am still waiting to hear from Swim North West

[Silver Fox]

I understand that some regions may be giving them to their staff rather than to the clubs

[Linny]

Interested to know how you think these tickets given to regions (I have no idea about the number involved, nor what they are supposed to be for) should be allocated?

I would give them to swimmers and coaches, not staff, nor Clubs, but I don't know quite how others think it should be done. Not an easy job.

[Juicy Lucy]

I am still waiting to hear from Swim North West

You'll be waiting for quite some time, judging by the look of their website...

http://www.swimnorthwest.org/cgi-sys/suspendedpage.cgi

[Pandi]

I have not applied for any tickets.So not worried.Have a TV.And internet.No hassle with travel,parking,accomodation etc.Or being RIPPED OFF.

[chris_lamb]

You'll be waiting for quite some time, judging by the look of their website...

http://www.swimnorthwest.org/cgi-sys/suspendedpage.cgi

Moved to http://www.swimming.org/NorthWest/

[Silver Fox]

you beat me to it Chris

[KatieBun]

I have not applied for any tickets.So not worried.Have a TV.And internet.No hassle with travel,parking,accomodation etc.Or being RIPPED OFF.

:) I couldn't agree more!

[Silver Fox]

Hi Linny...I totally agree with you that the regional tickets should go to swimmers and coaches not staff

[Swim Widow]

:devil: Can't see any details on the Swim South West Site. Perhaps they didn't get any ?:shocking:

[Silver Fox]

Maybe all ASA Regions should be required to publicise what they are doing with their tickets

[Linny]

Maybe all ASA Regions should be required to publicise what they are doing with their ticketsI think that all bodies funded by membership fees and/or other public money should account for all their assets.

[chris_lamb]

Maybe all ASA Regions should be required to publicise what they are doing with their tickets

You could try asking.

[lane4]

I have no doubt that all those in the various governing bodies and UK sporting organisations who will be getting free tickets to every swimming session in London, plus a nice all expenses paid hotel, food and transport, will only be glad to hand over their tickets to any parents or coaches who can't get hold of one to see their child/athlete compete.

[Pandi]

I have no doubt that all those in the various governing bodies and UK sporting organisations who will be getting free tickets to every swimming session in London, plus a nice all expenses paid hotel, food and transport, will only be glad to hand over their tickets to any parents or coaches who can't get hold of one to see their child/athlete compete.

Given,your connections MR LAME 4.Yam either being smug,:wave: .Or are you:confused:

[manic porpoise]

OLYMPIC GAMES – THE BIG QUESTION ?

Should GB Olympic competitors have the opportunity to buy tickets for their immediate family support team..?

Just remember…thousands of miles in transportation…thousands of hours supporting at training (usually at unsociable times) and competitive events…thousands of pounds for fees, equipment, special food, etc., etc., etc.

And all the immediate family support team want…is to support their daughter/son at the biggest event of their young lives…is this too much to ask?

They are not asking for something for nothing…they are used to paying for everything…

Is the London Olympic Committee going to ignore the very people that are providing the GB competitors…?

Without them there would be no GB team…………….

They deserve to be recognised…they deserve to have the opportunity to support their child at this, the biggest event in their lives, as they have done throughout their sporting career…

What do you think…?

After pondering this one, I'm inclined to agree that the families of the participants should be able to get tickets. With a capacity of about 17500 I think it would be a good thing to reserve up to 500 tickets per session for families. That would be far more than 2 tickets per swimmer (all swimmers and not just GB) even for the heats sessions. Those who have managed to qualify to swim at the Olympics deserve to be able to have a few family members present to support them.

[Silver Fox]

To Manic Porpoise...Thank you for your support and encouragement in this matter...If only all the members of Swimclub Forum would express the same in writing we might get the powers that be, to do something about it...COME ON SWIMCLUB FORUM MEMBERS VOICE YOUR OPINION PLEASE

[manic porpoise]

Silver Fox, if you have an email address (and name and position) of someone in the ASA, or even someone to do with the Olympic organisation, then I would be happy to write to them requesting that families be given priority. I'd only be one voice but it can't hurt - so long as I'm polite!

[Silver Fox]

I have searched for an email but unfortunately I have not been successful...I am of the opinion that that the organisations concerned do not want to listen to the views or complaints of the people actually involved in sport...I thought it might be a good idea to email Lord Coe but do you know...he has not got an email address available to the public to contact him...I will keep on trying because I believe this is so important...

[Silver Fox]

If you agree that all competitors should have the right to be able to purchase tickets,(more than ONE in the case of swimmers) so that their family support team (Mum & Dad) can watch them compete in the biggest event of their young lives,please write to:-
The Secretary of State for Culture,Olympics,Media and Sport - Jeremy Hunt MP at
enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk
it will be interesting to see what sort of reply you get

[Leprechaun]

To Manic Porpoise...Thank you for your support and encouragement in this matter...If only all the members of Swimclub Forum would express the same in writing we might get the powers that be, to do something about it...COME ON SWIMCLUB FORUM MEMBERS VOICE YOUR OPINION PLEASE

It would be a disgrace if the hierarchy of officials - I mean functionaries not referees judges etc - in the ASA at all level got their tickets and there werent any to be given out an a "two tickets per swimmer per session they swim in" basis. And for swimmer read water polo player synchro OW etc.

It doesnt take too much brainpower to work out what this allocation would be as a maximum and bag this for the ASA. Sure, if swimmers dont want them, make the finals at the rate predicted then functionaries can use the spares, or use them to honour deserving Officials and stalwarts of the sport.

To add insult to injury I read today in the Sunday Times that Blatter and his freeloading circus have tickets, chauffeurs and the option to buy tickets at face value in the queue beyond us peasants. Until we have the Government mechanism to listen to the undoubted public outrage and ACT (withdraw any tickets to FIFA) then we are going nowhere...

Would like to know how our local region is contemplating dispensing its allocation - no problem, here's the answer:

Olympic tickets – We have been given a notional allocation at a cost of £33K; once we have agreed to this we cannot get money back on any of the tickets we do not sell. It was thought that the Region will be able to sell all the tickets.

I look forward to finding out how we buy

[Juicy Lucy]

If you agree that all competitors should have the right to be able to purchase tickets,(more than ONE in the case of swimmers) so that their family support team (Mum & Dad) can watch them compete in the biggest event of their young lives,please write to:-
The Secretary of State for Culture,Olympics,Media and Sport - Jeremy Hunt MP at
enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk
it will be interesting to see what sort of reply you get

I've emailed him. We'll see.

[Dunc]

I seem to remember that the original plans catered for almost twice as many spectators/seats.
Surely if the tickets are currently that expensive, then reverting to all this additional seating would actually make them more money. Or is that too simple a solution?

[Silver Fox]

Quote from Fran Halsall's Twitter page
'how can they give every other sport 2 (tickets) and swimming only one? Surely that's not fair'

[BIGBrian]

Quote from Fran Halsall's Twitter page
'how can they give every other sport 2 (tickets) and swimming only one? Surely that's not fair'

I believe the thinking is that the pool only has 17,000 seats, whereas the Olympic statium has 80,000 seats.

They're presumably hoping that people won't ask how many seats there are in the hockey stadium, or the boxing hall, or the velodrome or any of the other venues with fewer than 17,000 seats where the competitors get 2 tickets each.

And, in any event, it seems that for key events, only 32,000 of the 80,000 seats in the stadium are being made available to the public. The rest are going....well, you can guess where

[KatieBun]

Quote from Fran Halsall's Twitter page
'how can they give every other sport 2 (tickets) and swimming only one? Surely that's not fair'

I may not want to actually go, but this is so unfair. If anybody has to sacrifice tickets, it should be the troughers and "dignitaries", certainly never the athletes. Will write, SF.

[Pandi]

Quote from Fran Halsall's Twitter page
'how can they give every other sport 2 (tickets) and swimming only one? Sureley that's not fair'

Lifes not fair Silver.The London 2012 ticket fiasco,is causing some pretty good posts on various tinter-web sites.:shocking:
http://meandmybigmouth.typepad.com/scottpack/2011/04/dear-seb-coe.html

[BIGBrian]

Lifes not fair Silver.The London 2012 ticket fiasco,is causing some pretty good posts on various tinter-web sites.:shocking:
http://meandmybigmouth.typepad.com/scottpack/2011/04/dear-seb-coe.html

Anyone noticed the recent increase in TV ads from companies like Proctor and Gamble and other sponsors urging people to buy their products for the chance to win tickets?

A cynic might conclude that a very high number of disappointed people from the first ballot might not be the worst thing in the world to the corporate sponsors who now have an immediate opportunity to tap into a captive market for their own ticket allocations....

[Duck]

:) I couldn't agree more!

Hummm.....I am still gutted that I was not successful with my tickets bid.....I wanted to take My girls to the 2012 Olympic Games, so they could feel the atmosphere etc......:mad:

The fridge freezer has just broken down, so guess where my £400 is going now:mad::banghead::rolleyes:

Dave.

[KatieBun]

I'm just copying my letter to my MP, too. If you all do that, at least it gets seen by somebody else. (The only reason I don't want to go is that I hate being in crowds and I couldn't bear the disappointment of applying and getting nothing. It's only the swimming and diving I want to watch anyway.)

[Silver Fox]

Many thanks Katie for your support and encouragement...COME ON SWIMCLUB MEMBERS LET US TELL THE WORLD ,well at least Jeremy Hunt MP,Secretary of Culture,Olympics,Media and Sport at enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk
about the way GB Olympic competitors are being treated so unfairly...ESPECIALLY ONE TICKET ONLY for swimmer's families...this is ridiculous...TELL JEREMY HUNT MP !

[Duck]

I'm just copying my letter to my MP, too. If you all do that, at least it gets seen by somebody else. (The only reason I don't want to go is that I hate being in crowds and I couldn't bear the disappointment of applying and getting nothing. It's only the swimming and diving I want to watch anyway.)

I only applied for 4 tickets (1 for each of us) for a swimming final......I just wanted the girls to experience the excitement etc....TV and online just won't be the same:(

Gutted
Gutted
Gutted
..................................

[Duck]

Many thanks Katie for your support and encouragement...COME ON SWIMCLUB MEMBERS LET US TELL THE WORLD ,well at least Jeremy Hunt MP,Secretary of Culture,Olympics,Media and Sport at enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk
about the way GB Olympic competitors are being treated so unfairly...ESPECIALLY ONE TICKET ONLY for swimmer's families...this is ridiculous...TELL JEREMY HUNT MP !

I can't imagine how gutted they must feel.................

[Styx]

If you agree that all competitors should have the right to be able to purchase tickets,(more than ONE in the case of swimmers) so that their family support team (Mum & Dad) can watch them compete in the biggest event of their young lives,please write to:-
The Secretary of State for Culture,Olympics,Media and Sport - Jeremy Hunt MP at
enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk
it will be interesting to see what sort of reply you get

I've emailed.

[KatieBun]

Have also now done so....although obviously I have two "out of office" replies, it being Sunday.

[Juicy Lucy]

http://www.olympicticket.info/

Buy all the swimming tickets you want!

[manic porpoise]

http://www.olympicticket.info/

Buy all the swimming tickets you want!

And receive none!

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-12870448

[BIGBrian]

http://www.olympicticket.info/

Buy all the swimming tickets you want!

Err.....I assume this is irony, but just in case anyone is thinking of doing this.....

DON'T !!

Olympicticket.info is the same company as Euroteam, who royally shafted a load of people over the 2010 World Cup in South Africa

http://www.complaintsboard.com/complaints/euroteam-tickets-c242817.html

They don't have any ticket allocation for the Olympics.

[chris_lamb]

A good place to check if a site is legitimate before parting with money:

http://www.london2012.com/about-this-website/ticketing-website-checker.php

[Silver Fox]

Known unauthorised websites claiming to offer London 2012 tickets
These websites are the latest reported to LOCOG as being fake or unauthorised ticket outlets for the London 2012 Games. Please do not buy London 2012 tickets from any of these sites. Note: this is not an exhaustive list of unofficial or fraudulent sites, so always use caution online.
www.london-olympics-tickets.org.uk
www.euroteam.infowww.worldticketshop.com
www.olympicticket.info
www.edusport.co.za
www.globaleventforum.com
www.euroteamtickets.com
www.freetickets.org.uk/entertainment/sports-tickets/london-2012-olympics-tickets
www.britainolympics2012.co.uk
www.ticketcity.com
www.london-2012-games.com/2012-olympics-tickets

[Silver Fox]

Another one not recognised is:-
www.Smartolympic2012.com

[Judge Dredd]

Would like to know how our local region is contemplating dispensing its allocation - no problem, here's the answer:

Olympic tickets – We have been given a notional allocation at a cost of £33K; once we have agreed to this we cannot get money back on any of the tickets we do not sell. It was thought that the Region will be able to sell all the tickets.

I look forward to finding out how we buy

Probably from the same source, this is what I got in reply to an enquiry:

The ASA South East Region does have an allocation of Olympic figures, once the process and protocol for allocation has been finalised this will be posted on our website www.southeastswimming.org and sent to clubs.

[Dave_G]

Anyone noticed the recent increase in TV ads from companies like Proctor and Gamble and other sponsors urging people to buy their products for the chance to win tickets?
A cynic might conclude that a very high number of disappointed people from the first ballot might not be the worst thing in the world to the corporate sponsors who now have an immediate opportunity to tap into a captive market for their own ticket allocations....

This sums up all that is wrong with the current system of allocating tickets. Families of competitors should come first, followed by genuine sports enthusiasts. If this means there are few left over for corporate 'hospitality', sponsors, politicians and other so-called VIPs, TOUGH!

[Leprechaun]

This sums up all that is wrong with the current system of allocating tickets. Families of competitors should come first, followed by genuine sports enthusiasts. If this means there are few left over for corporate 'hospitality', sponsors, politicians and other so-called VIPs, TOUGH!

One minor problem sponsors is that they want tickets as part of the deal.

Just one of the harsh realities of commercial sponsorship. I agree with dignitaries not getting a whiff of tickets

[Silver Fox]

Reply from North West region:-

'The NW Board will have a small working group being set up to decide how regional tickets are distributed. They will work out the criteria as it’s them who have committed funds to buy the tickets on behalf of the wider NW swimming community'.

I have asked them to keep me informed

[manic porpoise]

If you agree that all competitors should have the right to be able to purchase tickets,(more than ONE in the case of swimmers) so that their family support team (Mum & Dad) can watch them compete in the biggest event of their young lives,please write to:-
The Secretary of State for Culture,Olympics,Media and Sport - Jeremy Hunt MP at
enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk
it will be interesting to see what sort of reply you get

I've emailed too. No response yet - no surprise.

SF, if you find anyone else to get in touch with then let me know. I'm getting the hang of this complaining lark.

[Silver Fox]

If you can come up with an email address for Lord Seb Coe that would be great , then we can all write to him about this 'mess-up'...

[BIGBrian]

One minor problem sponsors is that they want tickets as part of the deal.

Just one of the harsh realities of commercial sponsorship. I agree with dignitaries not getting a whiff of tickets

It seems FIFA - which last time I looked weren't sponsoring the Olympics - have been given a substantial allocation of tickets, very few of which are for football events.

Do they really expect people not to ask.... "why?" ?

[KatieBun]

It seems FIFA - which last time I looked weren't sponsoring the Olympics - have been given a substantial allocation of tickets, very few of which are for football events.

Do they really expect people not to ask.... "why?" ?

That's a total disgrace.

I wrote to Hunt and copied my MP in at the weekend. No response yet.

Don't have an email address for Seb Coe but he is on Twitter.

[lane 2]

I wonder how many of Seb Coe's family had tickets to watch him compete in the Olympics???????

[Silver Fox]

That is just what I was thinking....if only I could ask him that question!!!!

[SwimMumx2]

Many thanks Katie for your support and encouragement...COME ON SWIMCLUB MEMBERS LET US TELL THE WORLD ,well at least Jeremy Hunt MP,Secretary of Culture,Olympics,Media and Sport at enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk
about the way GB Olympic competitors are being treated so unfairly...ESPECIALLY ONE TICKET ONLY for swimmer's families...this is ridiculous...TELL JEREMY HUNT MP !

... as usual, I got a bit carried away, and emailed this (but with my real name :flash:):

"Dear Mr. Hunt MP,

I am writing to express my dismay at what seems a callous oversight or insensitive snub by your department of people who have given years of sweat and sometimes blood, literally, to represent their country - GB, in the Olympics.

It doesn't take being a rocket scientist to appreciate that an athlete's journey is not a solo one. There is a lot of family and other support and immense sacrifice that goes into producing an elite athlete. However, GB has not ensured that such supporters can share in their 'family dream' culminating in the athlete representing GB in LONDON! Ticket allocations are limited to 2 per athlete, and in the case of swimming, 1! This is insulting to the effort that the country seems to be taking for granted from these athletes. Rhetorically, is there no one in your department with an athletic background? I am just baffled as to how we got to this situation at all. I am also writing as I hope that it is not too late for the country to treat its top athletes honourably.

Yours sincerely

xxxxxxxx

p.s. for the avoidance of doubt, I do not have any family member competing in the London Olympics."

[SwimMumx2]

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[Silver Fox]

Brilliant SwimMum ! What a great letter ! Surely Jeremy Hunt MUST respond positively to an appeal like this ... please let us know if and when you receive a reply

[Silver Fox]

Swim Mum...I note the phrase 'we will not be sending individual responses'...is that because they have received so many complaints ...or they are not really bothered what people think... or is this is a way of avoiding having to give us an answer to a question IT APPEARS THAT THE WHOLE COUNTRY IS NOW ASKING !!!

[SwimMumx2]

SF, I suspect it is probably more of the first, because after the LibDem meltdown in the last local elections, I doubt any serious politician would risk the wrath of the electorate by not being bothered about people's opinions. On the other hand, they might reckon that the athletic world is small enough to be ignored! :confused:

I am assuming you have someone who will be competing. If so, all the very very best to your swimmer and all the others, and I hope all the families can watch their loved ones. Good Luck!!!

[SwimMumx2]

... oops, and if you are the one competing, the same wishes to you!!!!

[Silver Fox]

Exclusive: Public urged to protest to Culture Minister over London 2012 tickets
By Tom Degun - Inside The Games
June 7 - A new initiative urging the public to write to the Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport Jeremy Hunt to request that more tickets for London 2012 are given to the family members of the athletes, rather than to dignitaries and sponsors, has been launched by the relative of a British swimmer who hopes to qualify for the Games.
Laurie Denton, who is the grandfather of a swimmer hoping to compete in the Olympics next year, has claimed that the public must contact Hunt after it emerged that athletes competing in the pool will only be able to purchase one ticket for a family member at the 17,000 capacity Aquatics Centre at the Olympic Park in Stratford.
Earlier this year Australia's triple Olympic gold medallist Stephanie Rice claimed it was "unfair" that the swimmers got such a small allocation, a situation which left her with the prospect of having to choose between her parents, her sister and boyfriend Quade Cooper, the Australian rugby star, as to who would be able to watch her in action in London.
"I don't know how it is fair that the likes of [FIFA President] Sepp Blatter gets the best Olympic tickets in the house while the family members of athletes, who put in endless hours of time and huge amounts of money to make sure their children get to the top level, get nothing," said Laurie Denton, who has refused to identify which swimmer he is the grandfather of for fear of her being victimised as a result of his campaign.
"All competitors should have the right to be able to purchase more than one ticket so that their family support team can see them on the biggest day of their life and I urge everyone to write to Jeremy Hunt to see if he can intervene in what London 2012 is doing as they have clearly ignored all rational calls from the public.
"It is not so much about the grandparents like me, but surely both the mums and dads deserve to be there.
"All they want is to support their daughter or son at the biggest event of their young lives.
"Is this too much to ask?"
The petition comes following the news that over half of the amount of people who applied for tickets to the London 2012 Olympic Games did not receive any in the controversial random ballot to decide where they are allocated.
Hunt can be contacted at enquiries@culture.gsi.gov.uk .
You can contact the writer of this story at tom.degun@insidethegames.biz

[broomhillsaved]

Good SF - I'm glad people are making a fuss about this. The offer of one ticket is really insulting.

[saturdaynighter]

It would probably be 'good PR' if the ASA/British Swimming (in conjunction with it's regional governing bodies) was able to make a simple 2-ticket provision for its succesful athletes. There can hardly be more than 10 or 15 athletes swimming in any evening session - 30 tickets max, of which 15 will come through the allocation system anyway. That's the equivalent of a small Junket a la FIFA/FINA/FIA/...!

The athletes swim for, and are affilliated to, the ASA - the glory of success will return huge dividends to British Swimming. Perhaps it's time for somebody at the top to recognise the problem and sort it before it becomes a running sore.

[Leprechaun]

It would probably be 'good PR' if the ASA/British Swimming (in conjunction with it's regional governing bodies) was able to make a simple 2-ticket provision for its succesful athletes. There can hardly be more than 10 or 15 athletes swimming in any evening session - 30 tickets max, of which 15 will come through the allocation system anyway. That's the equivalent of a small Junket a la FIFA/FINA/FIA/...!

The athletes swim for, and are affilliated to, the ASA - the glory of success will return huge dividends to British Swimming. Perhaps it's time for somebody at the top to recognise the problem and sort it before it becomes a running sore.

Completely agree but don't expect the Organisation to work this out.

We are all affiliated to one or other Region so shouldn't we be writing to the Regional Boards asking them to unilaterally state they will provide, on a first call face value basis two tickets for all sessions for all their aquatics athlete, ie swimmers polo synchro and open water

If you don't ask they probably won't act

[saturdaynighter]

Completely agree but don't expect the Organisation to work this out.

We are all affiliated to one or other Region so shouldn't we be writing to the Regional Boards asking them to unilaterally state they will provide, on a first call face value basis two tickets for all sessions for any aquatics athlete, ie swimmers polo synchro and open water

If you don't ask they probably won't act

very valid point

I was trying to think of a way to get across-the-board action initiated by somebody who ''has the power'' to make the regional bodies act.

it's very likely that everybody else from the Minister, through the Games glitterati, will refer the problem on to somebody else - a political hot potato

a directive from the ASA to the regional bodies (assuming they have adequate tickets allocated to them anyway) would nip the issue in the bud

it's not as if anybody has proposed 8 tickets per athlete family!!!

[Leprechaun]

very valid point

I was trying to think of a way to get across-the-board action initiated by somebody who ''has the power'' to make the regional bodies act.

it's very likely that everybody else from the Minister, through the Games glitterati, will refer the problem on to somebody else - a political hot potato

a directive from the ASA to the regional bodies (assuming they have adequate tickets allocated to them anyway) would nip the issue in the bud

it's not as if anybody has proposed 8 tickets per athlete family!!!

A Directive would take forever let's just pick up our pens and keyboards and write

Such a deluge of communication may even help their KPIs :-)

[Silver Fox]

Good Point:- write to your regions...this is what I sent to the North West region...

will you kindly put this request to the NW Board that will be discussing the distribution of tickets please...

two tickets for all sessions, when they are competing, for all their aquatics athlete, ie swimmers polo synchro and open water

[saturdaynighter]

a quick TV interview with Michael Scott at the Championships, or the Worlds, might get things moving remarkably quickly too

[Juicy Lucy]

Silver Fox, every swimming enthusiast on this forum, and outside it, will agree with your sentiments - 100 per cent. Unfortunately the regions and the governing body are unlikely to listen to you.

The regions will only take any campaign seriously if the governing body receives complaints about their unprofessionalism or inadequacy to perform their job properly. Believe me, only then will the regions go in to panic mode! People are fearful of losing their jobs. In this instance, the regions are being directed by the governing body, so they won't give a toss, they will refer you on.

The governing body will only take any campaign seriously if their income is affected or if their image is tarnished by bad publicity.

Over the years I have seen vociferous protests and petitions, voiced by well-meaning individuals, fall on deaf ears. If you eventually achieve what you are asking for, you will have done well.

[Silver Fox]

I have heard from the North West region and their reply is as follows:-

'I attended an ASA Management Meeting on Monday and family support is being dealt with directly by our national team and not by the regions and their allocation. You’re request needs to be made to the CENTRAL TEAM. I’ve copied them into this email for their reference.'

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE !!!

[Silver Fox]

The London Olympics - the Big Question first discussed on Swim Club Forum, will be discussed on Talk Sport Radio at approximately 11.45pm today (8th June)

[saturdaynighter]

I have heard from the North West region and their reply is as follows:-

'I attended an ASA Management Meeting on Monday and family support is being dealt with directly by our national team and not by the regions and their allocation. You’re request needs to be made to the CENTRAL TEAM. I’ve copied them into this email for their reference.'

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE !!!

go to the top - and then get a leg-up to the next level

[Silver Fox]

RADIO TALK SPORT - Silver Fox was interviewed before the news today and Paul Deighton,Chief Executive Officer of London 2012 was interviewed after the news - why did they not let the two be interviewed together?
Paul Deighton in answer to why could swimmer's parents not have 2 seats and not only one, he replied 'there are so many swimmers and so few seats' When asked how did he expect parents to split the one ticket between them he answered 'there are a limited number of tickets' He went on to say that 25% of the tckets have gone to put the games on' Does that not include athletes who surely are the main ingredient of any sporting event? Paul Deighton was asked to think about the swimmer's allocation and he replied that 'we will do all we can' The commentator said at the end of the interview that 'Tickets for swimmers-it's a joke!'
What do we do now...write an email to Paul Deighton at LOCOG please - he seems a nice chap!

[Silver Fox]

Next step I think is David Sparkes - Chief Executive of ASA

[Silver Fox]

Email received today 8th June 2011
Thank you for your email of 3 June about Olympic athlete’s being able to purchase tickets for their immediate family.
As we previously advised, in our letter to you of 14 February, the ticketing strategy for the London 2012 Olympics is the responsibility of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG), who are a private company operating independently of Government.
For the first time at a Games, LOCOG has set up an Athletes’ Friends and Families programme. The programme provides two tickets per session for each athlete for their friends or families to watch them compete. (The pressure on capacity for Swimming is due to the capacity of the venue and the number of athletes competing which means that this is limited to one ticket). Tickets need to be purchased by the athlete, or the National Olympic Committee.
Within the UK, the British Olympic Association and National Governing Bodies communicated to athletes that if they wanted further tickets, they were encouraged to apply through the public ballot. They will also be able to buy tickets from the Athletes’ Village Ticket Box Office that will be in place, or indeed public Box Offices or online depending on availability.
If you have any further questions relating to ticket allocation I would recommend that you contact LOCOG at the following address:

London 2012,
One Churchill Place,
Canary Wharf,
London
E14 5LN;Tel: 0203 2012 000;
or enquiries@london2012.com

Kind regards,
Charlotte Morris



Ministerial Support Team
Department for Culture, Media and Sport |2-4 Cockspur Street |London |SW1Y 5DH
DCMS aims to improve the quality of life for all through cultural and sporting activities, to support the pursuit of excellence and to champion the tourism, creative and leisure industries.

[KatieBun]

Mine's almost the same. Just the first couple of lines differ.

Our Ref: 176547/CM/8

Dear Ms Robarts,

Thank you for your email of 5 June about the ticket allocation to Olympic Swimmers' friends and families.

As you are aware the ticketing strategy for the London 2012 Olympics is the responsibility of the London Organising Committee of the Olympic and Paralympic Games (LOCOG), who are a private company operating independently of Government.

...


It's called passing the buck/ washing your hands of the responsibility etc.

[Styx]

My reply received today.


Thank you for your email to Jeremy Hunt. I have been asked to reply.

We have asked LOCOG for information on this issue and they have advised that athletes get accreditation for their own sports, which includes seating. For a different sport (for example, to cheer on a team-mate), an athlete would request a ticket through the British Olympic Association (BOA) or other National Olympic Committee (NOC). These are distributed at the Athletes’ Village during Games-time. There is no charge for these tickets from LOCOG, but there are obviously a limited number of tickets for each sport/session. If the athletes want further tickets they can purchase any additional ones from the Athletes’ Village Ticket Box Office that will be in place or the public Box Offices or online depending on availability.

With regard to tickets for family and friends of competitors, LOCOG has set up an Athletes’ Friends and Families programme. This is the first time this has been done at a Games. The programme provides two tickets per session for each athlete for their friends or families to watch them compete.

You ask particularly about swimming. The pressure on tickets for Swimming is due to the capacity of the venue and the number of athletes competing which means that for this sport the scheme is limited to one ticket. The ticket needs to be purchased by the athlete, or the NOC.

Within the UK, the BOA and the sports National Governing Bodies communicated to athletes that if they wanted further tickets, they were encouraged to apply through the public ballot. They will also be able to buy tickets from the Athletes’ Village Ticket Box Office or indeed public Box Offices or online depending on availability.

Yours sincerely


Colin Burton
Olympics, Sport & Leisure Team
Ministerial Support Team
Department for Culture, Media and Sport | 2-4 Cockspur Street | London SW1Y 5DH
www.culture.gov.uk
DCMS aims to improve the quality of life for all through cultural and sporting activities, to support the pursuit of excellence and to champion the tourism, creative and leisure industries.

[saturdaynighter]

how about Joanna Lumley and the Minister of Sport

[Juicy Lucy]

British Swimming press release today (8th June 2011)


Losing out on Olympics swimming tickets doesn't have to mean you miss out on heart thumping action.

Missed out on London 2012 swimming tickets? Then make sure you don't miss out twice in one week. Grab your chance to cheer on our best Olympic swimming hopefuls in Sheffield 14-17 June as they battle for a place at the World Championships in Shanghai next month.


There you are, sorted!

[saturdaynighter]

I hope they have Olympic souvenirs there too - something to show the grandchildren...

[Spidey]

I hope they have Olympic souvenirs there too - something to show the grandchildren...

You can get lots from the 2012 site (http://shop.london2012.com/on/demandware.store/Sites-ldn-Site/default/Default-Start?cm_mmc=LOCOG-_-website-_-navigation-_-homepage) already.

[saturdaynighter]

thanks, Spidey

i was being very slightly sarcastic - "a la juicy lucy"

[Silver Fox]

I was due to go on ITV tonight but they failed to show up unfortunately...maybe they had an emergency and will get back to me sometime and give me another opportunity to air my views

[Spidey]

thanks, Spidey

i was being very slightly sarcastic - "a la juicy lucy"I want a Richmond pin badge, but they are sold out - this early on?

[Silver Fox]

Prime Minister speaks up against Blatter'e election in PM's Question Time but still Blatter is getting hundreds of Olympic Tickets and our swimmers families are getting ONE TICKET ONLY...its a disgrace

[saturdaynighter]

twitter/facebook campaign next, Silver Fox

you will win - simply because there will be a riot in the media and a PR disaster if some provision isn't made

bizarrely, even my most disinterested colleagues think that you (and the potential swimming olympian parents) have 'just cause'

[Laugh Out Loud]

What are other countries giving their swimming families does anyone know?

[Silver Fox]

ssshhh...don't tell anyone but a message from Mr.David Sparkes, Chief Executive of the ASA received today says 'The matter is in hand and progressing'

[Silver Fox]

The big boys (SKY TV) are now coming out to play!

[BIGBrian]

The big boys (SKY TV) are now coming out to play!

At some point, someone has to realise how its going to look when, come the day, the TV coverage will show empty seats at the pool, FIFA delegates watching the swimming, and parents of swimmers unable to get a ticket to see them swim

It will happen unless they get a handle on this

[saturdaynighter]

At some point, someone has to realise how its going to look when, come the day, the TV coverage will show empty seats at the pool, FIFA delegates watching the swimming, and parents of swimmers unable to get a ticket to see them swim

It will happen unless they get a handle on this

Methinx they'll go for PR glory now, rather than a running sore and the picture you paint, BigBrian. Every local TV and radio broadcaster will be on the case, if they're not already.

I think it might be worth e-mailing a couple of the major sponsors to see if they have any spare tickets, Silver Fox!!!

[Juicy Lucy]

... when, come the day, the TV coverage will show empty seats at the pool, ...

I don't think we will see empty seats. Those who applied for tickets didn't get them. Too many Brits think that because the Games are held here, they should be entitled to all the tickets.

We should remember that those coming from abroad will have paid out much more than us.

[Silver Fox]

SKY NEWS...did anyone hear what was said on Sky News at 6pm this evening...would be interested to know!

[Chris]

SKY NEWS...did anyone hear what was said on Sky News at 6pm this evening...would be interested to know!

I know someone who was interviewed but I didn't see it ...

[BIGBrian]

I don't think we will see empty seats.

I think empty seats are inevitable. There will always be people who have tickets who won't show up on the day, for whatever reason. Unless there'sa mechanism in place to allow people in to seats that have already been sold to someone else, those seats will remain empty.

In any event, the media will be looking to focus on empty seats, even if those seats are only empty because the person who's occupying them has stepped out to the loo, or the cafe, or wherever. They won't actually care why they're empty at any given moment.

[Juicy Lucy]

In any event, the media will be looking to focus on empty seats, even if those seats are only empty because the person who's occupying them has stepped out to the loo, or the cafe, or wherever. They won't actually care why they're empty at any given moment.

So if a parent of a British swimmer leaves his seat to visit the toilet, it will be commented upon? Never known this happen before at any sporting event.

By the time the Olympics come around nobody will be talking about the number of tickets not made available to athletes.

[saturdaynighter]

So if a parent of a British swimmer leaves his seat to visit the toilet, it will be commented upon? Never known this happen before at any sporting event.

By the time the Olympics come around nobody will be talking about the number of tickets not made available to athletes.

Bet you they will, if Silver Fox is found on top of the pool roof in his spiderman outfit!

[Silver Fox]

I am still hoping that seats WILL be made available to athletes and swimmers in particular so that parents can attend the Olympics to watch their daughter/son compete in the biggest event of their young lives...I am not giving up and ask all the members of Swim Club to continue to give support ...

[BIGBrian]

So if a parent of a British swimmer leaves his seat to visit the toilet, it will be commented upon? Never known this happen before at any sporting event.

No. But if there are parents of swimmers who haven't been able to get a ticket, the red tops will be more than happy to show photos of the swimming seating with empty seats.

By the time the Olympics come around nobody will be talking about the number of tickets not made available to athletes.

I suspect that largely depends on what happens between now and then. People still remember that Rebecca Adlington's parents only got to see her swim in Beijing because the BBC gave them seats from their own resources.

[BIGBrian]

I know someone who was interviewed but I didn't see it ...

I heard Fran Halsall's dad, Andrew Halsall interviewed, and Sharron Davies also expressing her displeasure at the situation

[Juicy Lucy]

I heard Fran Halsall's dad, Andrew Halsall interviewed, and Sharron Davies also expressing her displeasure at the situation

I'd be surprised if anything can be done now. Tickets can't be taken off those who have bought them.

[BIGBrian]

I'd be surprised if anything can be done now. Tickets can't be taken off those who have bought them.

Not all tickets have been issued.

And I'm sure some of the corporates can be persuaded to swap their swimming tickets for alternative sports in the interests of PR

[Juicy Lucy]

It's the same for the Aussies...


Australia's 2012 swimmers angered by one ticket per athlete allocation

30th March 2011,

London 2012 have defended the allocation of tickets for athletes competing at the Olympic Games after Australian swimmers, including triple Olympic gold medallist Stephanie Rice, expressed disappointment that only one family member will get to see them live in action at the 2012 Games next year.

London 2012 recently announced the ticket allocations for the families of athletes competing at the Games, which has been described as a "huge kick in the guts" by Australian Swimmers after they found out their ticket allocation would be just one.

London 2012 indicated to insidethegames that due to the popularity of the swimming event and the relatively small size of the 17,000 seat Aquatics Centre, they could not issue as many tickets to the National Olympic Committees (NOCs) as they could for the bigger venues, such as at the at the 80,000 seat Olympic Stadium, but added that it is up to the NOCs to cater for their athletes, which they suggest the Australian Olympic Committee (AOC) may not have done sufficiently for their swimmers.

"We have allocated tickets to National Olympic Committees and it is up to the individual NOC how those tickets are distributed – including how their athletes are catered for," a London 2012 spokesperson told insidethegames.

"In addition, we have enabled athletes to purchase extra tickets for events they are competing in – we have made more available than any previous Games in this regard."

[Juicy Lucy]

Could be worth a try...


PRESS RELEASE: LONDON June 2011

Procter & Gamble UK and Ireland announce it is giving away an unprecedented 90% of its Olympic 2012 ticket allocation to mums and families

As people across Britain check their bank accounts to see if they have a ticket to the London 2012 Olympic Games, Official Partner to the International Olympic Committee (IOC), P&G has announced it is giving away 90% of its ticket allocation to the public to demonstrate its commitment to supporting mums and families.

P&G, which is the company behind brands including Olay, Fairy and Ariel, has a variety of activity planned which will give mums and their families a chance to win thousands of tickets over the course of the next 15 months.

The first activity sees 2012 tickets being given to the public between now and 31st October 2011. Simply by purchasing any P&G product through major retailers, customers will have the chance to win tickets.

To highlight all the ways families can still get involved with this once-in-a-lifetime event and to get mums across the UK to enter into the Olympic and Paralympic spirit, P&G has teamed up with former Olympic Silver medallist and mother of three, Sharron Davies (MBE).

Sharron comments: “As both a former Olympian and more importantly, a mother, I’m thrilled Great Britain will be hosting such a monumental event and feel passionately that people should try and be a part of it. While the official ballot has closed, there will be plenty of opportunities for people to get tickets still and I’m so glad to hear that P&G is encouraging families to get involved in the Games. And it’s brilliant that they are giving such a massive proportion of their tickets to the public.”

Sharron continues; “The Olympic and Paralympic Games really should be thought of as a family event, it’s a great chance to inspire and there’s something for everyone. With the Paralympic ballot opening later in the year and sponsors such as P&G pledging the majority of their tickets to families I’d encourage mums to look out for the many ways to get involved in seeing this once-in-a-lifetime event.”

For more information on how P&G are giving their tickets to mums and families, visit www.pg.com/en_UK

- ends -

[Apostle]

I think empty seats are inevitable. There will always be people who have tickets who won't show up on the day, for whatever reason. Unless there'sa mechanism in place to allow people in to seats that have already been sold to someone else, those seats will remain empty.

In any event, the media will be looking to focus on empty seats, even if those seats are only empty because the person who's occupying them has stepped out to the loo, or the cafe, or wherever. They won't actually care why they're empty at any given moment.

I believe that if you dont show up they will resell the seat. If you turn up halfway through you wont have your seat anymore.

[Silver Fox]

Received today and still, they are avoiding answering THE BIG QUESTION:-

We aim to give as many people as possible the chance to attend the Olympic Games and Paralympic Games. The fairest way to do this is via a fair and open application process. Where demand exceeds the supply of available tickets for specific sessions an automated and random selection process ('ballot') is applied using special ticketing system software. This ensures the ticketing process is fair and equitable to all applicants. This random selection process is now the standard for all major international sporting events including the Vancouver 2010 Winter Olympic and Paralympic Games, the Beijing 2008 Olympic and Paralympic Games and the Athens 2004 Olympic and Paralympic Games.

We hope this information has been useful. Please get in touch if you have any further questions.

Best wishes,
Peter
The London 2012 Ticketing Team.

[saturdaynighter]

Silver Fox, I would forget all of the 'officionados' and go for the Big Splash PR route.

If you got "TICKETS FOR PARENTS" tattooed on you bum and made a naked burst for the Ponds Forge pool next Tuesday, I am sure Craig Lord will have it well and truly covered in the papers the next day - remember, the football season is over ;-) - it might make the back cover - that would be one for the scrap books!

[Silver Fox]

How do I contact Craig Lord please...not that I am having any tattoo but I want to send him some details...

[Silver Fox]

Littlemonkey and storpedo91...what do you think of the ticket farce

[selkie]

IIRC, I got ahold of Craig Lord for a story correction once by doing a whois search for swimnews.com, and then e-mailing the administrative contact listed there, who passed the info along to Craig or something.

http://www.networksolutions.com/whois/index.jsp

gets you to that database.

[Silver Fox]

Many thanks...have sent an email that way...let's hope it works...I knew someone at SwimClub Forum would know!!!

[mother]

there suppose to be an article in the daily mail tomorrow

[Silver Fox]

Many thanks for that...I will buy the Daily Mail tomorrow

[Juicy Lucy]

How do I contact Craig Lord please...not that I am having any tattoo but I want to send him some details...

craig.lord@thetimes.co.uk

[Silver Fox]

LONDON OLYMPICS - THE BIG QUESTION CAMPAIGN,as it is now being called , seems to be going quite well up-to-date, with loads of support with people all over the UK speaking up about the injustice of ONLY ONE TICKET for swimmers' families at the Olympics ... Let's hope that the image of the games being 'for the family' will eventually come true and those who have given up so much so that their daughter/son will perform well for Great Britain, will get the opportunity to watch them compete in the biggest event of their young lives...

[Silver Fox]

Congratulations to DAVID SPARKES,Chief Executive of the ASA, on receiving the OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List...

[mother]

sorry it wasnt in, but they did interview kate this week and sent a photographer to see me so maybe it will be in another day!

[Silver Fox]

Please keep me informed...was it about the number of tickets for swimmers please?

[Juicy Lucy]

You are trying hard, Silver Fox. I applaud you.

There are some here, especially masters swimmers, who are afraid to stick their head above the parapet, but who are happy to let others do it. Then they are there with open hands ready to pick up the spoils when the hard work has been done for them.

Well done SF.

[mother]

yeh it was aboout not getting any tickets, they picked it up from the local paper as kate was interviewed by them, anyway if i hear anything i'll let u know, keep up the pressure as i expect they hope it will go quiet! they dont give a **** about us parents!

[Silver Fox]

Good luck to all the swimmers who will be competing at Sheffield next week...To all those parents who will be supporting their youngsters...DO YOU KNOW that, if they eventually qualify for the Olympics next year...you may only receive ONE TICKET...
who will stay at home MUM OR DAD ?...sounds ridiculous doesn't it but it may well be the case that one of you will miss out on supporting your youngsters in the biggest event of their young lives...
when you are at Sheffield...spread the word...
LONDON OLYMPICS - THE BIG QUESTION CAMPAIGN...
read all about it on www.SwimClub.co.uk and tell your friends ...please do not sit back and do nothing...
STAND UP AND BE COUNTED...SWIMMER'S PARENTS HAVE A RIGHT TO DEMAND,YES DEMAND, MORE THAN JUST ONE TICKET FOR THE OLYMPICS...THEY DESERVE IT

[Silver Fox]

Well Done-Keep It Up!...Thank you all for your messages of encouragement in this matter...Some of you are asking...what can we do to help?...May I suggest one idea that is quite easy to do and will take you only a few minutes...If you are like me you have dozens or even hundreds of names in your computer ADDRESS BOOK...with one click please send them the following message:-

LONDON OLYMPICS
THE BIG QUESTION
CAMPAIGN
See It On
www.SwimClub.co.uk

Please give it a try....THANK YOU

[saturdaynighter]

OBE - what on earth does that mean???

I have been thinking long and hard. Surely it must be....

OhMyGodI'mReallyImportantNow
BollocksToTheRulesI'mGoingToOrganiseTwoTicketsFor
EveryFamilyGeneticallyConnected2SwimmersWhoQualify For2012AndHaveHelpedMakeBritishSwimmingWhatItIs2da y

[Silver Fox]

Very interesting email received from NEW YORK expressing an interest in the campaign...further discussion taking place...watch this space!!!

[Steve]

Silver fox - I've had my 2p's worth:

Opinion: BOA must treat swimming equally: http://www.pullbuoy.co.uk/?p=1809

Hope it helps!

[Silver Fox]

Many thanks Steve...well put

[saturdaynighter]

Silver fox - I've had my 2p's worth:

Opinion: BOA must treat swimming equally: http://www.pullbuoy.co.uk/?p=1809

Hope it helps!

Very professionally and coherently written, Steve.

To depersonalise it a little, the tickets could be in a 'pooled' area for the parents/partner of any swimmer taking part in each session. They don't need to be given in advance to swimmers who 'expect' to qualify, or to make it through to the finals. In practice, the 18 extra tickets would probably be more like 10.

TEN OUT OF 17,000 - ARE LOCOG, BRITISH SWIMMING AND ALL OTHER PARTIES REALLY UNABLE TO SET ASIDE 10 EXTRA TICKETS?

I suspect that the 'powers that be' have made contingencies for this already, but haven't got their head round how to present it. Steve, perhaps you could volunteer to write the Press Release for them so that the emerge smelling of roses:D

[Juicy Lucy]

Silver fox - I've had my 2p's worth:

Opinion: BOA must treat swimming equally: http://www.pullbuoy.co.uk/?p=1809

Hope it helps!

Nice article, Steve.

[Juicy Lucy]

Congratulations to DAVID SPARKES,Chief Executive of the ASA, on receiving the OBE in the Queen's Birthday Honours List...

Yes, congratulations indeed.

He's come a long way, when as a 15-year-old he used to be a lifeguard at the Droitwich Lido.

[Silver Fox]

Good morning on this wet and dismal Monday morning...This thread will probably be a bit quiet over the next few days because many will be at the Nationals in Sheffield...I will still be working hard behind the scenes in the hope that this ridiculous situation will be put right sooner than later please

[Silver Fox]

Another idea to publicise the Campaign...write to your local newspaper under the heading LETTERS TO THE EDITOR...one of my letters has been printed in the Lancashire Telegraph on 13th June

[Linny]

Well done Silver Fox! (http://www.swimming.org/britishswimming/news/swimming/boa-and-british-swimming-dedicate-tickets-to-team-gb-swimmers-at-2012/9680/)

[Silver Fox]

BOA and British Swimming Dedicate Tickets to Team GB Swimmers at 2012



The British Olympic Association (BOA) and British Swimming (BS) are delighted to announce that they will be dedicating a substantial part of their allocation of swimming tickets for the London 2012 Olympic Games to Team GB swimmers. This means that a second ticket has now been secured by the BOA and BS for close family and friends for each session in which Team GB swimmers compete at the London 2012 Olympic Games.



Understanding the significance of having the support of family and friends and the impact of that on athlete performance, Team GB Chef de Mission Andy Hunt and British Swimming Chief Executive David Sparkes have prioritised Team GB swimmers’ families and friends, bringing Team GB swimmers in line with athletes from the other sports on the London 2012 Olympic Programme for whom the London 2012 Organising Committee (LOCOG) is making two tickets per athlete available for purchase, for each session in which they are competing.



All Team GB athletes, across all 26 sports, will now be able to purchase two tickets for each session in which they are competing – a position unique to Team GB.



The BOA is now working with the sport Team Leaders and LOCOG to put in place an effective system for the management of the distribution of tickets that will allow Team GB’s athletes to remain fully focused on their performance and not have to worry about, or be distracted by, the management and distribution of tickets to their family and friends.





Andy Hunt, Team GB Chef de Mission and BOA CEO, said:



“We fully recognise the importance to our athletes of having their close family and friends in the stadium to support them during what will, for many, be the greatest moment of their sporting careers. The British Olympic Association has worked very hard in partnership with British Swimming to ensure that Team GB’s swimmers will have the same access to tickets as all the other sports and I am delighted that we have been able to achieve a positive result by allocating the clear majority of the swimming tickets that we have access to, to Team GB swimmers’ family and friends. We want to do everything possible to make certain tickets do not become a considerable distraction to athletes who are now training for the biggest competition of their lives and, in many cases, attempting to secure qualification for the 2012 Olympics.”



David Sparkes, British Swimming Chief Executive, said:



"British Swimming were determined to support our athletes and their parents and close friends, and we were delighted to work in collaboration with the BOA in ensuring that each athlete had two tickets for the Games. The athletes can now focus on their preparation for what promises to be a fantastic show in the pool with outstanding performances from one of the best prepared and supported teams in the swimming world."



Sarah Winckless, BOA Athletes’ Commission Chairman, said:



“A Home Games will only come once in our lifetime and as athletes it is really important to have the support of friends and family close by. It can make the crucial difference to your performance. This represents another significant step forward in the BOA’s support of Team GB and is great news for Team GB swimmers. It is pleasing that all Team GB athletes are now in a position of equality with regard to access to tickets.”

[Silver Fox]

Thank you to all the SWIM CLUB MEMBERS and FRIENDS who helped in this matter and a special THANK YOU to the powers that be for listening...Silver Fox

[saturdaynighter]

Well done, Silver Fox - methinx they spotted your campaign looming!

[Shezzaxx]

Thank you to all the SWIM CLUB MEMBERS and FRIENDS who helped in this matter and a special THANK YOU to the powers that be for listening...Silver Fox

Well done SF for championing the cause. You should be proud of your campaign.

[manic porpoise]

This is good news for the swimmers SF. I would still like to see one of the sponsors step in closer to the meet and offer more tickets to allow more family members to attend. For those with a partner it is still difficult to decide who should be there.

[KatieBun]

Well done, SF. Agree with what mp says, but it's a big step in the right direction.

[Silver Fox]

I am happy to know that if my grandson qualifies to compete at the Olympics, at least his Mum and Dad will be able to watch him in the most important sporting event of his life. I know that it would be nice if other members of his family support team could go as well but at least the powers that be, have done something for which I for one am very grateful.

[Breaststrokemum]

I am happy to know that if my grandson qualifies to compete at the Olympics, at least his Mum and Dad will be able to watch him in the most important sporting event of his life. I know that it would be nice if other members of his family support team could go as well but at least the powers that be, have done something for which I for one am very grateful.

Fantastic news, SF! :)

BM

[Shezzaxx]

I am happy to know that if my grandson qualifies to compete at the Olympics, at least his Mum and Dad will be able to watch him in the most important sporting event of his life. I know that it would be nice if other members of his family support team could go as well but at least the powers that be, have done something for which I for one am very grateful.

Concur with this SF. Very outside chance of my one qualifying but would then still have a bit of a dilemma regarding my other sibling. Would be awkward for Mum and Dad to go to watch one "child" leaving the other to be looked after while we relished the moment. However I accept that it's impossible to cater for every scenario and the bare minimum must be two tickets - mission accomplished. If more become available even better. Well done again.

[selkie]

I wonder if the kerfluffle over Libya getting a ticket allotment spurred the change. Easy for the press to bite down a story about how Qaudafi's son is supposed to get tickets to any event he wants to go to while Becky Adlington's family might get largely shut out of seeing her swim live.

[Juicy Lucy]

Well done Silver Fox. It shows what can be achieved when the passion is there.

[Silver Fox]

My wife says I have not got any- passion I mean!
Thanks for your encouragement during the past few weeks

[Styx]

...For those with a partner it is still difficult to decide who should be there.

Definitely the Mum!!!

[Silver Fox]

July 1 - Boris Johnson, the Mayor of London, has acknowledged that many tickets allocated to corporate guests at next year's Olympics are likely not to be used, and has set in motion plans to fill the gaps with brightly-clad schoolchildren.

"During the Games we want to do a kind of anti-Beijing programme so we don't have any prospect of loads of the empty venues you saw on occasion at the last Olympics," he told insidethegames as he attended the launch of the London School Games.

"We are going to make sure that there will be the opportunity to get loads of people, loads of school children, into the venues during Games time itself if we think the venues, as they may very well be, are going to be a bit under-populated."

Asked how empty spaces could be envisaged given the number of people who have been desperate to get hold of tickets in the first two London 2012 ballots, Johnson responded: "You may well ask.

"It's the corporates.

"It may well be that there are going to be spaces and I just want to make sure that we have a programme that will ensure spaces are used.

"I went to the Beijing Games and it was pretty disappointing to see some of those venues under-populated.


"You never know what's going to happen, you never know if people are going to turn up in the way they say they are going to turn up."

Asked if that meant transporting in groups of children in brightly coloured t-shirts, Johnson responded: "We are looking at things like that.

"I don't want to see those gaps.

"It would be a crying shame if the corporates took loads of tickets and then excluded the possibility of people who desperately want to be there."

The Mayor, who had declared himself "cheesed off" after failing to get Olympic tickets in the first ballot, revealed that he had been more successful second time around.

"I was cheesed off, but thankfully I was successful in the second go and got tickets for basketball and beach volleyball," he said.

"I have the best possible excuse for the beach volleyball, which was that was all there was there."

Asked what he would wear to the event he responded: "Something tasteful. Something discreet."

He added: "I'm happy but I do recognise and I have talked to loads of people who feel really aggrieved about not getting tickets and I do understand their feelings."

He also urged the 22 per cent of eligible schools who had not yet signed up to the scheme, which will deliver 125,000 free Olympic tickets to one-in-eight London schoolchildren, to come forward and register.

"They have got until December 16 to do it," he said.

Culture secretary Jeremy Hunt, standing alongside Johnson inside a tennis court full of competing children and, perilously flying tennis balls, defended the Government's right to offer a section of Olympic tickets to VIPs.

"We have got a very small allocation for guests of the Government, international business people who would like to invest in the UK and who can create jobs," he said.

"We have been very careful not to ask for more than we need."

[Silver Fox]

Is this a picture of things to come? I hope not!!!

[Verity]

whooooooo Olympic Swimming Tickets!

[Juicy Lucy]

whooooooo Olympic Swimming Tickets!

So are you the only one on SwimClub who has managed to get some?

Well done, Perseverance, I guess?

What's up with the other whingers here who ended up empty-handed?

[Verity]

Courtesy of the ASANER ballot!

[manic porpoise]

Would you like me to escort you? It's not safe down there but I'll protect you.

[Shezzaxx]

Courtesy of the ASANER ballot!

Did any other Region have a similar ballot in the end?

[Verity]

I think most of the other regions have a similar ballot.

V

[selkie]

Now you know you've got to do some obnoxious costume thing so we all can easily see you when the camera does a scan and pan shot of the folks in the seats.

[taxi service]

So are you the only one on SwimClub who has managed to get some?

Well done, Perseverance, I guess?

What's up with the other whingers here who ended up empty-handed?
Actually, we got 2 tickets for Sun 29 July. Pretty good. Plus 2 lots of tennis, including the finals session.
Already have my companion(s) booked, thanks.
Got the tickets in the main ballot.

[Griffins Master]

Missed out on Swimming tickets - but got Athletics in first ballot - day session and "Pay your age" for Kids - so family day out to remember for us all.

Will probably try for swimming tickets for Paralympics.

[adamlelean]

I think most of the other regions have a similar ballot.

V

East Region certainly did, but since I had gone for tickets in the main ballot, and the ones from the region were just "swimming tickets" rather than a particular session. I was after tickets for pretty much every session of the swimming, and didn't want to double up, so didn't bother.

I'm regretting it now of course.

[chris_lamb]

Did any other Region have a similar ballot in the end?

South East have a tickets available to members - details on the website.

[manic porpoise]

West Midlands did a ballot too. I didn't see one for my region but I could have missed it.

[Verity]

Now you know you've got to do some obnoxious costume

Just be myself then (according to Juicy!)

the original toothless, spineless and couldn't careless Binge Swimmer

V

[Juicy Lucy]

West Midlands did a ballot too.

They went 'In house' so I heard.

[SwimMumx2]

Watching our swimmers in Shanghai and listening to everyone saying how athletes are lifted to new highs on their home turf, really made me worry. With the ticket fiasco, will our swimmers get the lift they deserve? Will the corporate big wigs be able to cheer them to victory????? I guess time will tell. It will be a big shame though if as a nation we miss the opportunity of a life time.

[Silver Fox]

Swimmers in Shanghai have said on air that it will be good to have their family and friends around them cheering them on but it sounds to me that although there will be a big crowd of 'Brits' in the pool, their nearest and dearest, the people that are important to them, will have to watch them on TV....SF

[Silver Fox]

I wonder if we are going to have the same problem with tickets for the Trials in March 2012 as we have with tickets for the actual Games ? It appears that there has been far more people wanting tickets than is available. What happens now ? Do we have another ballot ? Will it be first come first served ? Will swimmer's families be allocated tickets ? If they are will they get one ?

[Shezzaxx]

I wonder if we are going to have the same problem with tickets for the Trials in March 2012 as we have with tickets for the actual Games ? It appears that there has been far more people wanting tickets than is available. What happens now ? Do we have another ballot ? Will it be first come first served ? Will swimmer's families be allocated tickets ? If they are will they get one ?

I really hope not but I do fear that there will be shortages. I struggled to get tickets to watch one of the finals sessions in Sheffield in 2009. This year in Manchester was tight for many of the finals sessions. Sheffield holds 2-3,000 (albeit only one side was used) and Manchester only held 500ish. As we've seen, the marketing teams are in full swing and I'm sure demand will be really high. That is why I fear that only making 3,000 seats available out of 17,500 is likely to cause big problems for parents and friends of swimmers. A lot of non-active, casual, swimming fans are likely to want to see the Aquatic Centre. Londoners have just not had the chance to watch a quality swimming meet before and the Olympic frenzy will introduce new fans. I just hope that there is a fair allocation of tickets for family and friends ahead of non-swimmer spectators. Better still open up all the seats available to promote the sport to the masses. Why wouldn't you if the demand is there???

[Breaststrokemum]

south east have a tickets available to members - details on the website.


:)

[Dave_G]

Watching our swimmers in Shanghai and listening to everyone saying how athletes are lifted to new highs on their home turf, really made me worry. With the ticket fiasco, will our swimmers get the lift they deserve? Will the corporate big wigs be able to cheer them to victory????? I guess time will tell. It will be a big shame though if as a nation we miss the opportunity of a life time.

As far as I'm concerned, these corporate bigwigs should not only have to pay for their own tickets, but have to apply like everyone else. In fact, I'd like to go further, by discriminating against the corporate lobby, in favour of genuine supporters of our athletes, although I don't know whether it would be practical to do so.

[Big Nev]

As far as I'm concerned, these corporate bigwigs should not only have to pay for their own tickets, but have to apply like everyone else. In fact, I'd like to go further, by discriminating against the corporate lobby, in favour of genuine supporters of our athletes, although I don't know whether it would be practical to do so.

I think the problem, Dave is as the corporates pay pretty much the whole cost of putting on a meet they will want to have their allocation of tickets.

We general punters are quite happy to pay a heavily susidised £10 a ticket.
We would probably baulk at paying £30 - £40 for say the finals at the British Championships.

[Silver Fox]

GOOD NEWS -------- October 5 -------- Proctor & Gamble UK (P&G) has joined forces with Paralympics GB and the British Olympic Association (BOA) to announce the creation of a programme designed to help the friends and families of athletes taking part in the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games to support them before and during competition.

The initiative by the worldwide Olympic sponsor will include a road show which will see the "nearest and dearest" of athletes given the opportunity to take part in two-hour sessions giving them advice on how best to support their loved one during competition.

There will also be an athlete's lounge at the Olympic Games and each Olympian will be given two free (FREE!!) tickets for their first event, with every Paralympian having four tickets for the opening stage of their competitions. WELL DONE PROCTOR & GAMBLE

[Silver Fox]

They are giving 90% of their corporate tickets so that families can support their "nearest & dearest" in the biggest event of their young lives. I think this is the best news since London being selected to host the Games. Without the athletes,their families and support teams, there would be no games. I repeat -----WELL DONE PROCTOR & GAMBLE.

[Dave_G]

I agree! A gold medal for Proctor and Gamble! A pity a few more don't follow suit!

[Silver Fox]

Olympic sponsor Proctor and Gamble is supporting the campaign with a series of roadshows staged for families around the country, and will also ensure every athlete's parents will be provided one free pair of tickets to watch their son or daughter at the Games.
In addition athletes will also be able to purchase two tickets for every session they compete in - under London 2012's unique competitor ticket scheme launched earlier this year.
"We all remember the Beijing Games when a number of athletes could not get tickets," said British Olympic Association chief executive Andy Hunt.
"We are doing all we can to prevent that and also ensure the family have operational support.
"Friends and family have made a huge investment in the Olympics."

[Silver Fox]

Can I have Gaddaffi's tickets please?

[Spidey]

Can I have Gaddaffi's tickets please?
Depends if the estate is subject to probate?

[chris_lamb]

Surely the most important question would be whether he had any? http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-13777148

[Apostle]

Can I have Gaddaffi's tickets please?

I have it on good authority that they have been invalidated by unauthorised holes punched into them.

[Cordwangle]

http://www.swimming.org/NorthWest/news/Club-News/2012-olympic-tickets1/11719/

[Silver Fox]

Glad to see the clubs are top of the list...

It says on the North West Website...
'All NW Swim21 Accredited clubs-4 tickets (where possible two pairs)

[Silver Fox]

Thomas Cook is a sponsor of the London Olympic Games...It has just been announced that they made a 398m loss for the year to September 30th...they owe the banks One Billion Pound...200 stores are to close and 1,000 jobs will go starting today...where does that leave their sponsorship of the London Olympic Games?

[BIGBrian]

Thomas Cook is a sponsor of the London Olympic Games...It has just been announced that they made a 398m loss for the year to September 30th...they owe the banks One Billion Pound...200 stores are to close and 1,000 jobs will go starting today...where does that leave their sponsorship of the London Olympic Games?

Hitherto not very effective as a marketing strategy?

[Silver Fox]

TICKETS RESALE...

The London 2012 ticket resale programme will launch on 6 January 2012.

The resale programme is a safe and secure way for ticketholders to sell any Olympic or Paralympic Games tickets that they are unable to use, for the face value of the ticket.

Buying tickets
Keep checking the ticketing website as tickets may be released for purchase during the ticket resale period (6 January to 3 February 2012).

All tickets will be sold on a first come, first served basis.

Please note: tickets will only be released if put up for resale by another ticketholder.

More information on the ticket resale programme will be available on the ticketing website no later than 6 January 2012.