As the 2026 Milan-Cortina Winter Olympics approaches, Larry Smith, a seasoned correspondent for LEX 18, reflects on his enriching experience covering the 2006 Torino Games for CNN. Smith candidly shares that while covering the Olympics might not be the glamorous endeavor many envision, it was an irreplaceable experience filled with challenges that enriched his career.
The journey began for Smith right after he covered Super Bowl XL in Detroit, leading him to Torino, a city synonymous with Italy’s automotive legacy. He describes his modest dorm-style accommodations, where everyday inconveniences like cold showers added to the unique experience. Despite the hurdles, Smith and his colleagues showcased remarkable resourcefulness, especially when navigating media access limitations set by networks like NBC, which held exclusive contracts with top athletes.
Creativity became essential as the team sought access to events at sponsor venues such as “Puma House,” “Visa Club,” and “Bud Light Plaza,” which allowed them to connect with gold medalists. The challenges extended beyond media logistics; the Italian dining hours also posed difficulties given the team’s tight schedule. Undeterred, Smith and his peers ingeniously persuaded a local museum chef to extend his hours and whip up homemade pasta for the starving media team.
Smith’s demanding schedule involved up to six live shots per hour, which he meticulously managed with a complex system of notepads while broadcasting against the picturesque backdrop of Torino’s Mole museum and the majestic Italian Alps. These demanding hours were complemented by the hidden beauty of industrial Torino, which Smith discovered during leisurely walks along the River Po, capturing moments that contrasted with the city’s industrial reputation.
Reflecting on the significance of the Olympics, Smith emphasizes their unique status as one of the most cherished sporting events globally. He expresses pride in being part of the machinery that reports on these monumental competitions, marking it as a career highlight. As the world gears up for the upcoming Winter Olympics, Smith’s memories remind us of the enduring spirit and dedication that takes center stage during such monumental sporting events.