Most people know that the Olympic Games originated in classical times at the city of Olympia in Ancient Greece. Situated on the western coast of Greece, in the heart of the Mediterranean, Olympia is not really an emblematic location for the modern Winter Olympics. Yet, this years Olympics in Vancouver, actually had their genesis in Olympia. A little known fact is that the modern Olympic flame is lit in Olympia by the reflection of sunlight in a parabolic mirror and transported by torch to the place where the games are held. The sun god Apollo stretches his fiery finger from the heavens and catalyzes each gathering of athletes from around the globe. The laurel was sacred to Apollo – hence the crowned wreath worn by triumphant Olympians during the medal ceremonies.
I doubt that the athletes of ancient times could have even imagined the magnificent displays of grace, speed, and agility which have become commonplace in the modern day Games. Should these ancient competitors have been treated to a vision of their 21st century compatriots in Zeus’ all-seeing Oracle atop Mt. Olympus, I’m pretty sure they would bow their heads in reverence to these modern gods.
As I look into my all-seeing Oracle (aka Facebook) from my desk high atop Columbus Circle, I, too, must bow my head in reverence to the gods of technology who have made it possible for fans to get closer to the Olympic action than ever before.
A team of Buddy Media gladiators worked round the clock, creating designs worthy of Palas Athena and writing code that would make Homer blush, in order to launch two Olympic-sized Facebook Pages for two Titans of the modern world.
The New York Times Olympics tab features videos of aerialist floating through the heavens like winged Pegasus and photos of figure skaters twirling above the ice, carried aloft by the sweet smelling west wind. The NY Times prolific writing staff is represented with stories and tweets sent directly from British Columbia on the wings of Hermes’ heels. And fans have a say too through an interactive Wall that prompts users to share their thoughts, opinions, and dreams with the Facebook community.
Anheuser Busch has also gotten in on the Olympic action with a tab on the Budweiser Fan Page (ah, the sweet, sweet nectar of the gods). Budweiser will be streaming live video, exclusive to fans, from the Club Bud in Vancouver. Surely, this was accomplished with the help of the gods? (Our modern gods are hipsters who huddle over laptops all day). Graphical polls and interactive Walls survey the populace about their favorite events and more.
So, strap on your sandals, call you favorite augur, and click on the links below to behold the power of the Buddy Media Platform, the New York Times, and the King of Beers.
