Locals gather for Olympics parties

HAMPTON ROADS, Va. (WAVY) - While some gathered at a local British-themed pub to watch the 2012 Olympic Opening Ceremony, others gathered to cheer on a local athlete participating in the summer games.

Family and friends gathered at a Portsmouth home to make t-shirts and support LaShawn Merritt, participating in the track and field portion of the games.

"I am actually excited for Shawn," Merritt's cousin Katris Harris said. "It's been a long, long journey for him. He's been though some obstacles, he's ready, we're ready. and we're going for the gold."

Dozens gathered at Hampton's Park Lane Tavern Friday night to watch the ceremony, including British native Jimmy Nutt.

"I've got to represent in the good old United States," Nutt said. "I'm here, I wish I could be overseas, but I [had] to work!"