United by the moment

A WORLD record, six Australian gold medals and a party like atmosphere were just a few of the many highlights that greeted fans on day five of the swimming at the Commonwealth Games.
After enjoying the first four days of the Games from the comfort of my lounge room, it was time to embrace the spirit that has captured Melbourne and attend a live sporting event.
The Melbourne Sports and Aquatic Centre was my destination for the penultimate night of swimming and it was evident from the train ride up that Melbournians were attending the Games in large numbers.
The stadium was full and Australian flags were dotted throughout the stands, reinforcing just where the Games are being held.
The crystal clear water of the pool shimmered under the lights and the stage was set for an entertaining night of swimming.
Eleven gold medals were awarded throughout the night and while every race was appreciated by the fans, two events stood out from the rest.
The 50 metres freestyle, otherwise known as the splash and dash, was won by Libby Lenton with Jodie Henry and Alice Mills finishing second and third respectively.
The Aussie girls were all crowd favourites and acknowledged the crowd for the support they received.
Prime Minister John Howard was on hand to present the medals and, to the girls’ amusement offered each a congratulatory kiss.
Leisel Jones was racing the clock as much as the other seven swimmers in the 100 metres breaststroke.
The spectators knew they were in for something special and Jones didn’t disappoint, setting a new world record on her way to claiming her third gold medal of the games.
In between the records and the medals the crowd was treated to an electric atmosphere that included an impromptu haka chant by the New Zealand swim team and a performance of Scotland the Brave by a bagpipe playing Scotsman.
And anyone who didn’t know the words to the Australian National Anthem was word perfect after the sixth rendition of the night.
It’s 50 years since Melbourne hosted the Olympic Games and our city has that special ability to put on a world class show that truly gets everyone united by the moment.