So, now it’s official our blogshere will soon be shared with the athletes themselves. This can only be a good thing, an opinion shared by fellow bloggers. I for one can’t wait to read their take on everything from life in the athletes’ village to life on the track.

Now, comes the tricky part. Interpreting the rules, and who and how they will be policed.

For instance: The IOC says blogs must be kept within the IOC format and “confined solely to their own personal Olympic-related experience” and that they should also adhere to the Olympic spirit “and be dignified and in good taste”.

Got that? And there will be no cheating, drug use, politiking etc.  Hmmmm.

A couple of other things regarding their blogs. Athletes or officials who blog can only post still pictures taken outside accredited areas or their own pictures taken within these areas that do not contain any sporting action. Apparently this is to protect rights holders as Games broadcasting contracts are worth several billion euros.

So, Michael don’t forget to take your camera again this year. But no video or audio!

And athletes cannot use their blogs for commercial gain.

Now then, let the blogs begin! 

Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps of the U.S. takes a happy snap during the closing ceremony of the Athens 2004 Olympic Games. Photo by Adrees Latif/Reuters