Estimated read time: 2-3 minutes
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Shelley Osterloh ReportingIt is always a magical time when that illusive Olympic spirit fills the air. Surely, many of you remember what it was like for us four years ago: the Spectacle, the Entertainment, the Pageantry, it's all there and you don't want to miss a minute of it.
You would think every athlete would want to go, but not so. Those who compete the day after Opening Ceremonies, like the women mogul skiers and 5000 meter speedskaters, worry that standing and waiting in line for hours might hurt their performance.
Jillian Vogtli, Mogul Skier: "I'm debating whether or not to do opening ceremonies. It's 12 hours on your feet the night before we compete."
Michelle Roark, Mogul Skier: "I know that our event is the first one and thus some of the women mogul skiers will not be attending the opening ceremonies. But I plan to go. I think it's something you shouldn't miss, and I've waited so long to be here."
Shannon Bahrke, Mogul Skier: "Oh yeah, you know it's a debate because we definitely compete the next day, but I've got to do it. What are you here for? It's the experience, the people, all of it. "
Chad Hedrick Speedskater: "It's honor and it gives you a great feeling when you come walking through and see thousands and thousands of people screaming for you. It's unfortunate I don't get to, I have to watch it on TV, but I race the next day and I don't want to take any chances, getting too tired."
Chad Hedrick Speedskater: "Yeah, I'm going to be in the opening ceremonies. Then, as soon as we walk in, I'm gong to leave. So I just think it's a good thing for me to feel the Olympic spirit and have positive vibe and come here and have fun."
You can see it all on Channel 5 tonight.
