Vilma Ryytty, 24, got off the bus in Italy and was immediately surprised: 'I didn't think about it'
Finnish skier Vilma Ryytty expressed surprise at security procedures upon arriving in Italy for the Milan-Cortina Olympics, noting the differences from World Cup and World Championship events.
Finnish athletes Vilma Ryytty and Arsi Ruuskanen encountered unexpected security protocols when they arrived at the Milan-Cortina Olympic Games. This marks both skiers' debut at such a grand scale event, where they experienced a level of security that they had not encountered in World Cup or World Championship competitions. Ryytty remarked on the bustling atmosphere of the Olympics, highlighting the different procedures they were subjected to before reaching the competition venues.
Upon arriving, Ryytty noted that they had to undergo a security screening similar to those at airports, which involved passing through metal detectors and having their bags screened. This level of scrutiny was surprising for her, as she was not accustomed to such measures in her previous racing experiences. Moreover, while Finland's team is not residing in the Olympic Village, the athletes still had to complete an accreditation process which required them to travel there and comply with these security checks.
This encounter underscores the heightened security and logistical complexities that come with the Olympic Games, contrasting sharply with the more relaxed environment of less significant competitions. Ryytty's experience reflects the adjustments athletes must make when participating in such high-profile events, potentially setting the stage for further developments in how security is managed at sports events in general.