The four-day test event pitted the world's number one and number two-ranked men's teams, Germany and Australia, against each other in a thrilling final; while the women's final saw Great Britain overcome the might of the Champion's Cup holders, Argentina to take gold - much to the delight of the home crowd.The participating teams were:
Women's section, GB, Korea, China and Argentina.
Men's section, GB, Australia, Germany and India.
As a test event, I don't think things could have gone better - unless someone at the head of the London 2012 organising committee has a direct line to the god of weather. Despite the odd downpour, the more continuous steady drizzle and a bitter wind, the tournament went smoothly.
The blue pitch with the pink surround was well received by spectators, camera-people and players alike. The stadium, although compared to a set of match sticks by one eminent hockey journalist (who clearly didn't realise it is a temporary structure), was really well set out. The spectators could get in and out easily, the seats all had great views and the big screens were visible around the ground.
The team's changing rooms were a short walk away but nothing too strenuous - we are talking metres not miles. The press facilities were a bit cold but nothing that a hot British summer won't cure.
Down points
The injuries to GB's Alex Danson and Crista Cullen will leave coach Danny Kerry sweating on his team selection. See the England Hockey website for updates and team news.
The distance that people have to walk from the entrance to the park to the hockey arena may cause elderly or disabled people a problem, although there are buggies available.
The replica fans, which seem to have replaced the vuvuzela, will eventually get on people's nerves, as might the band that accompanies all GB matches - fine for four days, not sure about 14.
Moments of controversy
The GB men conceded a goal when the hooter went before they were all on the pitch. The goal scorers - obviously the German's, so will it be a case of 'don't mention ze score' come August?
The Argentinian player, Fernando Zylberberg, who featured in an advert for the games, doing step-ups on the British war memorial in the Falklands - he has not been picked but bad feeling may linger.
The bounciness of the pitch - venerable Aussie coach Ric Charlesworth was among those who complained that the pitch was too bouncy and may not settle in time for the Games. And pommes are whingy?
Anyway, 12,000 spectators on finals day and many thousands more in the previous three days of competition, all agreed that as a test event, hockey had come out with top marks.
