This is a formalization of the traditional "Let the Games begin." By the time the show in the grandstand begins, the Games have been going on for a few hours already: the dancers and athletes are on tip toes, doing their thing; musicians on several stages are into their second set; the food vendors have finished the breakfast round. So when the Chief says "Let the Games begin," it is a ceremonious beginning and a chance for the clans to march, the bands to play and the dignitaries to be dignified.
As the Games got bigger and bigger there could no longer be a point where someone declared them "begun." Now each chairman is at his post with all of the volunteer helpers around 7 A.M., preparing their portion of this huge operation for the competing participants. If you take an early seat in the grandstand, anticipating the first event at 10:45 you could be missing some really exciting stuff elsewhere on the grounds. Remember that your grandstand seats are reserved and you can come and go as you please.
Sergeant At Arms and Marines Leading in Flags
The San Diego Marine Band
Copyright Caledonian Club of San Francisco, 1996-2011
