The science of sport must be a fascinating study. Olympic athletes train for years for their chance at winning a gold medal. Special attention is paid to every aspect of the athlete’s physical and mental wellbeing. Many sacrifices are made along the way as an athlete focuses on their dream to represent their country at the Olympic Games. But why do some athletes perform beyond even their most vivid dreams while others falter?
The spectators at the Pacific Coliseum for both the Mens and Pairs events witnessed some pretty good skating. The Olympic Pairs Champions , Xue Chen and Hongbo Zhao , skated well but their performance was marred with small errors. The Men’s event had some personal best scores but many of the favoured skaters put in lackluster performances opening the door for Evan Lysacek to seize the moment and win Olympic gold. But there had yet to be a performance that electrified the audience...the kind of performance that the spectators jump to their feet. There had not been that magical moment.
Until last night....
They stood alone at center ice. Millions of people worldwide and Canadians from coast to coast hoped for a flawless performance. Many athletes would allow the pressures and expectation to cripple them but Scott and Tessa embraced those hopes and allowed that energy to lift them to a magical skating place and their spot on top of the Olympic podium.
What a thrill it was to be in the rink for the medal presentation and the singing of the Canadian National anthem...Now I know how you felt, Adam and Jess!
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