Over the last week I closely followed the televised Olympic games coverage as time allowed. I was in awe of the talented, focused athletes, who have worked exceptionally hard and undeniably faced many sacrifices to reach such elite status. Of course, I am nation proud and celebrated Australia's amazing achievements, however it was the individual efforts and life stories of the collective Olympians that tugged at my heart strings throughout the games.
I can't even begin to imagine the blood, sweat and tears shed over the countless years of training toward reaching such significant personal goals. I'm sure illnesses and injuries have had their place too, amidst endless hours of mundane repetition. Memories of triumphs along the way blended with unwavering commitment toward aspired dreams, surely feeds the hunger of such successful sporting campaigns.
You could sense the overwhelming pride and joy emanating from the beaming athletes as they entered Tokyo's venue during the opening ceremony; each one exuding an air of honour and humility. Walking tall behind their country's distinctive flags, they would have pinched themselves often. Then, as the games began and the Olympians prepared for their individual sports, emotions and adrenaline ran high - as did mine from my lounge room.
I shed victory tears along with the winners on the podiums, as I watched them sing along to their national anthem under their masks. I was saddened for the athletes who missed out and tried their best to hide their disappointed. I was upset for the devastated athletes, whose nerves engulfed them at crucial points from the sheer pressure of being Olympians. You can learn to prepare for all aspects of a sport, however no one can teach you the overwhelm of an Olympic environment. Knowing the world's eyes are focussed upon you, counting on you to do your country proud, must be a huge, daunting cross to bear among the excitement.
I felt for the coaches, teammates, and the families from afar of these extraordinary sportsmen and women, as they cheered for their stars. I empathized with the repeated Olympians, whose dreams once again came true. Now hanging up their boots, their memories of patriotic accomplishments forever documented in history books, will accompany them through all the days of their lives.
Each and every athlete is admirable, regardless of personal outcome. To be an Olympian is already such an impressive, outstanding ranking, and acknowledges hard yards, pain, stamina and sheer determination. All are incredible competitors.
However we view Tokyo going ahead with the Olympics and Paralympics, the keen spectators among us would have to agree the games have given us a much-needed break from the constant Covid-19 coverage. Whether the prestigious, international event causes a severe, global increase of Covid-19, albeit rigorous safety protocols, is yet to be determined. Was it even worth the risk?
May our Aussies and all the international champions arrive home safely and Corona virus free, to celebrate their Olympic experiences in the arms of their loved ones and countries.
How wonderful that would be ...
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