Olympic torch route now shrouded in mystery?
Things got kind of crazy in Paris last week, and San Francisco is certainly bracing for tomorrows run. Will we get a chance to see the Torch on it’s only pass through the US? Hard to tell, as the Mayor announced that the published route for the Torch run “may” change. The intent seems to be to “adapt” the route as protests may interfere with the planned route.
“Newsom said the planned 6-mile torch route along the central waterfront and around Fisherman’s Wharf could change up to and even during the relay. Police said security plans would include having officers run alongside torchbearers to protect them and the flame from any protesters who might try to disrupt the run.”
Note that the Beijing Olympic Organizing Committee sent out a team of 30 flame attendants selected from the People’s Armed Police to escort the flame throughout its journey. Which means that it may be hard to see the Torch at all behind the massive throngs of security officials from the SFPD and Chinese government.
It goes without saying, but I’ll say it anyways, be careful if you are going to watch or protest this event. It’s looking like things may get a little crazy.
Details…
The current published route has the Torch ceremony beginning at 1 P.M., in McCovey Cove and wrapping up at Justin Herman Plaza. (SFGate Map of Run Route)
There was a Tibet Rally and Peace March today (h/t to SFist). There will be music, speeches and a candlelight vigil tonight at U.N. Plaza Downtown. On hand will be Richard Gere and Archbishop Desmond Tutu. (h/t to Pacifica Riptide)
Related:
BOOC’s men guarding the flame aren’t just regular soldiers… I think it was the IHT that said those guys are elite special ops from the Chinese Army! Imagine if we [Brits] sent the SAS to guard the crown jewels, or you guys sent the 101st Airborne to protect the Constitution. Right now those national treasures are guarded by technology and janitors, which I think is far more appropriate.
Super sneaky of mayor Newsom to change up the route, and weird that the flame won’t go through Chinatown, but anything to avoid the Paris/London disruptions I suppose.