Our journey to the Olympics started at 4 a.m. Tuesday as the Jason Morris Judo Center's own Olympian, Travis Stevens, 22, Olympic alternate Jeremy Liggett, 19, and myself left Glenville for a 5:30 a.m. flight from Albany to San Francisco, then an hour bus ride to San Jose State University.

The entire Olympic team passes through San Jose State for processing, which includes taking team photos, getting fitted for Team USA apparel and various United States Olympic Committee information meetings to help the athletes and staff best prepare for our life in China.

In my case, that life will last until Aug. 16, the day after the final judo competition. Liggett will go home with me, but Stevens will stay and soak up as much of the Olympic experience as possible, as he will return August 22.

Liggett is required to return with me as that's when all USA Judo's "Project 2012" athletes leave. Liggett was one of six chosen to accompany our Olympic team to Beijing. Along with taking in all the Olympics have to offer, the Project 2012 athletes will aid the Olympic team in it's preparation for the competition, which goes from Aug. 9-15.

USA Judo Team head coach Jason Morris is also posting photos to accompany his blog in the gallery "Olympic Experience". You can view the gallery by clicking here.