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February 26, 2006
Tag Team: SI and Bud
If someone has ever told you they went to the best party ever, they lied to you. Well, unless they were at Sports Illustrated’s blowout party last night at Club Bud.
Every Olympic year, there is one final party for the athletes the night before the Closing Ceremony.
Sports Illustrated teamed up with Budweiser to host this year’s festa in Torino.
The star-studded room allowed the athletes to finally enjoy themselves out of the spotlight and in an invite-only surrounding. Passes were given out to select members of the press while all Olympic athletes were able to invite a few guests each. Well, almost all athletes. Sometimes, it can be detrimental having an event of the last day of the Olympics.
By the way, Derek Parra is the man. I have never met a nicer person in my life.
New SI Swimsuit issues lined the walls and tables while loud (and well-mixed) music, varying from rock to techno, filled the glass pyramidal Club Bud. Beers (and surprisingly mixed drinks) flowed freely all night. Attractive dancers were positioned throughout the club, intermittently stopped by presentations of athleticism, including two contortionists and a tightrope-like display.
In the side lounge, a Jacuzzi filled with models overlooked the Po River. Are you kidding me? Free alcohol and women in bikinis?
There were many photo opportunities, especially as the party was starting. I took advantage at first, but it got to the point where I felt guilty taking pictures with some of the athletes.
Some of the athletes, including Apolo Anton Ohno handled the attention very well. Ohno arrived to the party shortly after winning the 500m event, with a gold medal around his neck. It was the perfect pregame for an Olympic Party.
I was very lucky to get a ticket and bump shoulders with many famous athletes and sportswriters, but it was also very enlightening. I am usually star struck, but after talking with some of the athletes, I realized that although they have characteristics that distinguish themselves, athletes are still just everyday people.
Posted by Marco Santini 
at 5:44 PM | Permalink
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