The final day of of the tour were spent enjoying the sights, sounds, and eateries of LA.
During the trip we have visited many amazing places and today was no exception. First up... one of the best (and even though it was mostly closed due to Independence Day, it was still amazing).... University Southern California.
We were greet by a member of the swim team, an impressive 19yr old man from Philadelphia, Jake. He took us on an extensive tour of the campus, going through the spots areas, inc an amazing gym facility. Unfortunately the book store was closed, so we were unable to buy any gear from the Campus. Overall a sight to see. What a beautiful campus. To top it all off, we went back to the Pool and had a Q&A session with the Head Swimming Coach, Dave Salo. He's an impressive guess and gave the boys some wonderful knowledge on the NCAA and college life.
After nearly 2 hrs on campus, we beg our thanks to both our hosts, and we went off to explore the Tourist 'traps' of LA. Please have a look on the Flickr page. Places like the Walk of Fame, Sunset Blvd, Hollywood Hills, and the Observatory are the usual tourist traps, but certainly again work a visit (once). So many people....visitors from all around the world (like us) all in one place...
We walked down to Santa Monica. What an interesting walk that was. All sorts of sights, smells and people. The boys got walk the Pier and see how America traditionally in California spend their Independence day at the Beach (it was packed). Followed by a last dash for the boys to the shops for last minute items.
Finally, after a day of bus riding, looking at the attractions of a warm LA, we headed off to LAX and battled the 4th July Traffic, looking forward to our early flight home later that evening. 13 hrs home on QANTAS, seem to go fast... mainly because most of us will sleep the entire way.
Finally, as this is my last blog, I want to thank a few people.
To the staff, Mark Wilkins and Kerrie Dickson... a big thanks for sharing this wonderful experience with me. Many many stories, and wonderful experiences... thankyou.
Finally to all the boys.. you were awesome!!! Ive been on many overseas, and local tours with TSS boys, but never have I toured/traveled with a group of such wonderful representative of our wonderful School. Great ambassadors for TSS and just great guys to hang out with for two weeks.
All the best, I hope you have enjoyed the photos and blog. They will remain up for at least the next few months. If you have trouble downloading the photos you want, please just email me at TSS.
Best regards, and signing off..
Ian.
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