Missy Franklin Celebrates Gold Number One
Missy Franklin is proving what is good about the Olympic games. The 17 year old from local Regis Jesuit high school reminded us what emotions can be evoked at the Olympics. Barely qualifying for the 100 Meter backstroke, Missy had the race of her life last night in the backstroke finals. Grabbing the eighth spot in the final race, Franklin merely wanted a spot in the finals. The ideal lane to have in any swimming race is the 4th lane, not the 8th but Missy Franklin was able to do what many can’t – come from behind and win the 100 Meter backstroke by a hair taking her first individual gold medal. The first of hopefully many to come.
As I sat and watched the medal ceremony I was reminded of the pride I have in the United States and the athletes that represent our country. With tears streaming down not only Missy Franklin’s face her parents as well, the Franklin’s were overcome with emotion and didn’t hold back the years of emotions watching their daughter race as they openly cried with pride. It pains me to see athletes showing no emotion when they represent our country in the Olympics. Stone faced with no tears or struggling to mouth the words to our national anthem drives me crazy. Making the Olympics takes years and most of your life in training and pushing. Many athletes have to put their lives aside to train and push to make the U.S. Olympic team so show that sacrifice when you hit the podium to accept that medal.
Looking forward Missy Franklin has six more chances to win individual medals and is the favorite to do so in most events. Take pause and look at where you were at 17 and think if you could have handled the pressure Missy is facing going forward. I was more worried about getting a prom date than worrying about making all of the United States and more so the state of Colorado proud. Even if you can’t watch the games live, make sure to DVR the events as we have one of the strongest Olympic teams in history. Be sure to watch the likes of Missy Franklin and get some inspiration in your life to strive to do better for your family and your country.
USA, USA, USA
Denver Sports Chat – Kris Loco
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