Olympic Ode

This new Olympic flame behold, 
that once burned bright in Greece of old; 
with happy hearts receive once more 
these Games revived on London's shore. 
Praise rival teams, in sport allied,
as athletes stream from far and wide;the poet too must take the road 
conveying praise to victory owed.
Millions of watchers will embrace 
the passion of each close-run race, 
the efforts of the rowing teams 
and gymnasts balancing on beams. 
They will observe with rapt delight 
the archer draw his bowstring tight, 
the skilful rider guide her horse, 
and lightning bolt around the course. The pipes will play, the drum resound, 
as medallists are daily crowned; 
the crowd's hurrah will reach the skies 
when victors hoist the golden prize. 
Now welcome to this sea-girt land, 
with London's mayor and co at hand. 
Good luck to all who strive to win: 
applaud, and let the Games begin!

- a specially-written Olympic ode for the International Olympic Committee. The poem, written by Dr Armand D’Angour of the University of Oxford, will be engraved in bronze at the Olympic Park.