Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
This archived news story is available only for your personal, non-commercial use. Information in the story may be outdated or superseded by additional information. Reading or replaying the story in its archived form does not constitute a republication of the story.
Shelley Osterloh Reporting The Olympics aren't officially underway until opening ceremonies on Friday night, but athletes are there and taking in the whole experience.
Athletes say coming to the Olympics is a special experience. Whether they are a first-time Olympian or have several behind them, each of them say it is unique and full of surprises.
The US speedskating team was among the first to arrive in Torino. They've been training here for nearly a week. The team is a mix of experienced veterans, like gold medalists Casey FitzRandoloph, Derek Parra, and Chris Witty.
It's the third Olympics for Casey and Derek, and the fifth for Chris Witty, who also competed in cycling in the summer games.
Chris Witty, Five Time Olympian: "I don't know. I've just always wanted to be part of the Olympics. It's my fifth, but every time is an honor. I don't take it for granted. I'm just happy to be part of my fifth Olympics."
And each sees the experience a little differently.
Casey FitzRandolph, Third Time Olympian: "Every one is different. Every one you gain a little perspective. But, it's fun having been to a few and to see where you are at the first time, where you are at the next time, and where we are now."
Derek Parra, Third Time Olympian: "It reminded me of '98 and being just so awestruck. And having Chad with me as we walked in, being my roommate and experiencing that with him. I could reflect on how I felt, and I thought this must be really cool for him."
So what were some of the surprises for the first time Olympians?
Chad Hedrick, First Time Olympian: "The thing that shocked me the most was going into the village and they had a McDonald's built for us."
Tucker Fredricks, First Time Olympian: "Free McDonald's. They have McDonald's every day. I don't know if it's a good thing, but it is fun."
Charles Ryan Leveille, First Time Olympian: "Just seeing all the different athletes. You know, I've only been to a few World Cups in long track, and now I'm starting to see the figure skaters and the hockey players, that kind of thing. The village, it has a very good vibe to it."
