31 Oct The Experience Of A Lifetime

The Youth Olympic Games, as cliché as it sounds, were an experience of a lifetime. The ‘Olympics’ is a name known to everyone. Except, for me, it was more than that. It was a passion, a dream and a goal that I used to define my life and who I was.

It’s reality didn’t disappoint. However, I quickly realised that it wasn’t just about competing against the world’s best. It encompasses more than the area between the start and finish line. Despite the five days of racing being a highlight due to the constant adrenaline rush, the people and the village were also high points. From the slightly disappointing to incredible race results, it had a dramatic effect on who I am. It gave me a spark of confidence that, ‘I am good enough’ and that I belong there. It is a very rewarding feeling, especially with the challenge of racing five days in a row.

When recovery is a primary focus, to ensure you are ready to go fast the next day, you would have to fight the urge to join in in the activities occurring at the village where we stayed. Activities consisted of a circus corner, yoga, karaoke, speeches, pool-table soccer, spray painting and more. This combined with the atmosphere stained with everyone’s happiness made me feel so elated- I was breathing the very air that I had dreamed.

From the airport where nervous excitement bounced from athlete to athlete which continued when I was standing in a sea of international athletes, to competing at the Green Park and to the sad goodbyes to close friends I had made, this journey was a goal come true.

I had never expected my cycling to bring me this incredible opportunity and I am so appreciative of all the support I have received.