There have been potential rumors circulating that the Tokyo 2021 Games may be cancelled due to COVID-19 concerns. Whether or not these rumors have any truth to them at this point, this news is not shocking.
In the past year, we have seen postponements of major high level sporting events, including the Olympics and World Championships. National Championships and many other competitions have been cancelled as well. It is becoming the new norm to question whether large events will go as planned.
These times have shown that there is so much that is out of our control. Although these are unfortunate possibilities, we can still look for the positives in every situation. For one, I think the idea of completely doing without the Olympic Games is interesting as it will reveal many truths about each athlete views their careers. What truly drives them? How strong is their desire and passion for their event? How much value do they place on outcomes they cannot control?
Losing an opportunity like the Olympics really makes you ask yourself why you do this sport because for many of us it is the ultimate target we aim for. With the idea of the Olympics being cancelled, it becomes apparent that we place SO much value on the Olympic Games alone. So many athletes are pulled by their "Olympic dream". But when it comes down to it, if we lose the Olympics (hypothetically), does what you are doing still matter to you?
The Olympics can be very motivating. I believe these times will pass and there will be more competitive opportunities on the world stage again soon. However, I challenge each athlete to honestly ask themselves if this one event is why you do what you do. Are you only in this for the sole purpose of competing at the Olympics?
For someone lie myself, as a post-collegiate elite vaulter who has not yet met the qualifying standard for the Olympic trials, the answer is no. I pole vault for more than just a goal of qualifying to compete at the Olympic Trials and earn a sport to compete for Team USA. I have more growth before I get there. But I do believe it is possible and that I can become a top U.S. vaulter.
To me, this is a strong reminder that there is more to pole vault than one glorified event itself. Focusing on the Olympics is attaching ourselves to the outcome and materialistic rewards that come with achieving high levels of status. This is a self-centered perspective that can ultimately harm us and suck the joy out of what we do.
Instead of placing all of our eggs in the Olympic basket, there are so many other opportunities to compete with the best in the world. Who can still put up the highest mark? That is competition. Competition is a huge part of sport and we thrive in it.
Sport goes even deeper than competition for me. My pole vault journey is a mission to chase and achieve my fullest potential. That alone gives me a deep level of fulfillment and satisfaction. I have not jumped my potential yet, but I will. Meanwhile, I am enjoying the process of becoming the best version of myself and having extraordinary experiences while pushing limits and comfort zones.
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