Light the Fire Within

The Olympic Games, a time where nations put their differences aside and come together to compete and celebrate humanity. Building a peaceful and better world by education through sport without discrimination, requiring mutual understanding with a spirit of friendship, solidarity and fair play.

One of my favorite Olympic memories was having the opportunity to meeting Mr. Apolo Anton Ono. This humble speedster was team USA’s hope of winning 5 Olympic gold medals in short track in 2002. His disposition was surprisingly down to earth; as we only conversed for a few minutes, he still took the time to remember my name.

As I look forward to the games next month, I wonder what it is about the Olympic Games that get people so excited. For me I think there is something infectious about seeing someone that has found their purpose. They dedicate years of their lives to training and perfecting their sport to the point that they get a chance to compete to be the best. The hunger and drive of the athletes is unmatched, the excitement in those moments right before the race is unreal, and the knowledge that your nation has an interest in the outcome must be unbelievable.