MCLEOD GANJ, India, 15 May 2008 — With much excitement, the participants of the Tibetan Olympics arrived today. They were welcomed by the staff and the media. A busy day ensued with a welcome speech and instructions on the coming 10 days by the Director Lobasng Wangyal while having brunch on the roof top of the camp.

The athletes were issued their official Tibetan Olympics tracksuits, after which they got the feel of the air rifles.

There were a couple of last-minute withdrawals due to illness and personal problems, but luckily some new contestants took those places.

Everyone is having an early night tonight after a long day of preparations, and looking forward to the first day of training tomorrow.

The participants will do yoga in the morning from 7:15 a.m. to 8:15 p.m. with yoga master Vijay. A press conference will be held at the Bhagsu Hotel at 10 a.m., followed by the first swimming training in the afternoon at Funky Town, Sidhpur.

(Text by Catherine Schuetze, photos by Suzanne Hayano)