RIO 2016: It wouldn’t be an Olympic Games without merchandise.
There are literally thousands of pieces. From toys to t-shirts, pins to posters, walking into the Rio Megastore inside Olympic Park is somewhat overwhelming.
What to buy? Who to buy for?
Luckily on Day 1 there’s a queue that wraps around and around and around so there’s plenty of time to prepare a mental list while waiting patiently in line.
It’s a hot day in Rio – about 30 degrees.
Upon entering, you’re handed a giant blue Visa-branded shopping bag – much bigger than the standard green shopping bags we’re used to back home. Their size, perhaps an indication of how much merch the fans are due to amass.
You quickly realise why it’s called a “Megastore”. It’s an expansive pavilion with high ceilings with rafters from which colourful banners hang. Stickered animal footprints line the wooden floor, signalling that perhaps Rio’s mascot Vinicius has been on the loose.
All the typical items are there - plush toys of the mascots in a variety of sizes, Rio 2016 branded cups and mugs, caps, hoodies, postcards and bags.
There’s a buzz in the air as locals and tourists alike pore through the shelves.
There’s a yellow cap of Vinicius complete with furry ears and hands that protrude from the sides and a curly lime green tail out the back. It’s a hit with the kids.
And then there’s your merchandise that you’d only expect here in Brazil. Brightly coloured bikinis (high cut Brazilian-style of course) and boardshorts, singlets and sunscreen, bold beachbags and towels and even a Rio 2016 branded volleyball.
Australia has a presence inside the Megastore with a yellow Australia-branded t-shirt. There’s even a throwback to Sydney 2000. A blue t-shirt featuring the Sydney 2000 logo. A pang of pride hits as I am reminded of home and the breathtaking Sydney Opera House.
Pin collectors have happily parted with their reals (Brazilian currency) – especially when it comes to the rare flashing Rio 2016 pin.
There are some strange items too.
For the first time ever, Olympic mascot Vinicius and Paralympic mascot Tom are available as a pair in Lego. It’s a hot-ticket item as adults and kids walk around proudly carrying the small box.
But the hottest item by far is the humble thong. No, not the type you’re thinking. The rubber variety, Havaianas, of course. Despite their huge popularity in Australia, they are made right here in Brazil. The “flip flops” as they’re known here, are branded with either Rio 2016 or Brazil. There are about half a dozen varieties to choose from and they are being swept up.
And despite the queues inside, those in the line are patient and happy; enjoying the energy being emanating from the nearby venues where competition is underway. But it looks like the real battle will be who will claim the last pair of Havaianas.
Sophie Onikul
olympics.com.au
