Security, as many of you know, is the biggest story here in Sochi. So for the past few days, I have been trying to illustrate the level of police and military presence at the Olympic Park. And that’s not always so easy (security officials here are not too keen about having a lens pointed at them). Above, security patrols outside Adler Arena.
I have to admit, it is a bit uneasy reading daily reports of direct terror threats to this area. But I can’t live and work in constant fear while I’m here, I just have to trust that authorities are doing everything they can about the situation. I am no terrorism or security expert, but I feel safe here.
Security checkpoint just outside Main Media Center.
Police patrol the Black Sea shore outside the Olympic Park. This was shot through a fence, which explains the light and dark areas of the frame.
A silhouetted security officer at the base of the Olympic Cauldron.
Gate outside Adler Arena
Probably the second largest story here concerns preparations for the Games. It is now two weeks from Opening Ceremonies, and crews are working feverishly to complete construction of many buildings in and around Olympic Park. I am actually moving to a different hotel building because the room was not completed when I arrived at the beginning of last week. But I do think everything will be completed by the time the Games start. Things like this always seem to magically get done despite insanely short time frames.
Workers put the finishing touches on the Olympic Rings.
Crews working in Olympic Park.
An interesting-looking amusement park is near the Olympic venues is also going up.
A worker scales the top of Bolshoy Ice Dome. I know I have photographed men on top of this thing in an earlier post, but this made such a cool frame, I had to post it here.
Rappelling from the top of the Olympic Cauldron, a worker checks a few things out.
I’ll leave you guys with a couple photos shot with my iPhone, things that I found interesting. This place is fascinating to me.
Dried fish snacks! Anybody back home want any?
Very interesting choice of images for the restrooms in Adler Arena.
Well that’s it for this post, thanks everyone for the kind and encouraging words, they are much appreciated. I will be updating this blog as much as time permits, which I know will be more and more difficult as the games begin. Thanks for stopping by!
Kim Peace says
I want some of those yummy fish snacks.lol can”t find them here in Bostwick, ya know. Great pictures Kevin. Stay safe. We should have a welcome home lunch so you can tell us all about your Sochi experience.
Beth Myers says
Be safe! Love looking at the pictures. The worker scaling the top of the Bolshoy Ice Dome is fantastic! I can’t wait to see the interiors of some of the buildings – especially the Cauldron. Thanks for sharing!
Kevin Liles says
Hey Beth! They won’t allow us to publish photos from inside the venues yet (both coastal and mountain clusters). I have been in all of the coastal venues (where all the indoor sports are taking place), and they look amazing! I’ll keep you guys posted. Thanks for looking at the blog!
Jimmy and Pansy says
I totally agree with Kim!! We need some of those “fish snacks” in Bostwick!! AND we need to have a good Southern “get-together” so everyone can hear all about your travels and all you saw and did!!!!
Joy says
Wonderful Pics! Keep up the great work. Most of all enjoy.
Ken Johnson says
Just found your blog. Great pics and interesting first look at most of these locations. Keep up the good work, from another one of your moms neighbors. Stay safe.
Raynor Cathey says
Great photos! I am still enjoying your blogs and think I will pass on the fish snacks!
Andy Barr says
Fun fact: Russia has 40,000 security officers on Sochi!
Kevin Liles says
Thank you guys for the comments and especially for taking the time to look at the blog. It has been raining almost every day since I have been here, hopefully that will end soon! Talk to all of y’all soon.
Kimmie K. says
So cool to see Sochi through your eyes and lens! Your photos are always so amazing. As for the fish snacks……while they do look interesting……there really is no need to bring any home. :) LOL!
Phil says
Loving your work buddy! Keep creating and sharing for the world to see. Btw, that Ice Dome shot is beautiful. – Phil
Kevin Liles says
Thanks Philly. Looks life is treating you well out there in Cali, you have a beautiful family. Talk to you soon brother.
Joanie L says
I am so glad you have taken the attitude of trusting the security and are venturing out to share this wonderful life event with so many. Enjoy my friend and keep blogging buddy! God bless you…
Tammy says
Love viewing through your lens. Excellent captures!!!
Natalie McFalls says
Love seeing your. Pictures.