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LONDON — With a flare for the dramatic, the British Royal Marines choppered the Olympic torch into central London; An unmistakable cue that the games are about to begin.
It will spread the crackling bushfire of enthusiasm throughout the city. As the flame finishes an 8,000 mile journey athletes pour into the country and Olympic organizers put final touches on their $14 billion project.
After rehearsals for the opening ceremony, costumed extras roam the Olympic park.
The venues are finished on time and London 2012 is still under budget, but there have been some worrying last minute snags. A lack of security guards forced the British military to supply an extra 3,500 troops another 1,200 are on standby.
But many military experts say they aren't worried about security.
"The concern is more because of the appearances I think. In reality the plan is not in any way compromised," said Royal United Services Institute's Michael Clarke. "It's just that different people are carrying out the plan."
The transportation system is another concern, as it has yet to be really tested.
London's is the oldest underground train in the world, and the city of London is constantly putting in money to improve it, but it's not entirely perfect. It's crowded during busy times when things are running smoothly, but with the slightest disruption it can turn into chaos.
Still, anyone searching for a good omen Saturday only had to look up. The rain was gone, the sun was shining and the forecast promising.
"I feel really elated actually," said Meteorologist Margaret Emerson. "I can tell people it's going to be fine weather coming at last."
The Olympic games, just like the sun, ready to prove they're worth the wait.
