From the moment I stepped off the bus at the rowing venue, I felt reassured that the London Olympic Games were operating like a well-oiled machine. There was an abundance of smiling volunteers wishing everyone a good morning, clear signage—bright pink—showing the way, barriers made less intimidating by the lively logo on them. At the entrance to the venue the military personnel, while serving as a stark reminder that not everything has gone to plan, kept the baggage screening lines moving efficiently.