What do the Olympics and Pokemon have in common? Well, not much really except that they’re both topical and highly competitive. So, when my suggestion to join my ‘nephew’ and his Mum at the Olympic park to hunt Pokemon was met by a youthful ‘Yeah okay’ that was enough encouragement.
I did the downloading and arrived at the beautifully landscaped venue of so many inspiring memories from 2012. Alliums and long tall grasses gently swayed in the breeze, a blazing sun bounced off the River Lea and cyclists rode slowly past curvaceous benches, enjoying the sense of freedom and space afforded.
J came running towards me: “You need a name! Have you got one yet?”
“No – any bright ideas?”
We stood by the aquatic centre looking up at curves side-framing a blue sky.
“I don’t know – Helexium?”
“Whatever you say, you’re the expert.”
I punched in my virtual self’s new name, added a few numbers and I was off.
My first Pokemon appeared floating in front of me, hovering just above the grass. I tried to zap him with the ball but to no avail.
“Here let me do it for you” J said grabbing the phone. “Gotcha! You got a Staryu, I’ll power it up, it’s only CP 11 though..”
Conversations with Strangers 