The Olympic team numbers swelled with the arrival of the high profile rowing squad who arrived late last night from a direct flight via Sydney.

The 24-strong squad – 16 rowers and eight team staff – were greeted to a rousing welcome from the rest of the village team, led by the men's football team.

Despite the late evening arrival, a full contingent welcomed the rowers to the nine-story block that houses the New Zealand team.

Both the rowers and men's football team wasted no time getting back into their training routine, with the football team already joined by high profile professionals Chris Killen, who plays for Glasgow Celtics, and Simon Elliott, who played in the US league with LA Galaxy.

They will be joined this week by Blackburn captain Ryan Nelsen to link up with the under-23 team.

The rowers spent the day at the brand-new Shunyi Rowing course on the outskirts of Beijing. Light rain, cooler temperatures and a slight head-wind greated the teams as they rigged and trialled boats on the man-made lake.

Tomorrow is a busy time with the arrival of the women's basketball and women's football teams among other individuals.

By People's Daily Online