To say I enjoy watching the Olympics would be an understatement; I love the olympics. They are an inspiration. When we watch these young athletes on TV we see grit, determination, and passion. We are given the opportunity to see decades of work and sacrifice at its finest. Still, I can't deny that for me the Olympics are a tear fest. There is something so beautiful about watching athletes' realize their goals.
Here are 6 times (so far) the 2016 olympics made me cry tears of joy.
1. Watching Aly Raisman Earn Her All-Around Silver Medal.
In addition to being a member of the 2016 Olympic team, Aly Raisman was also the team captain of the 2012 Olympic Gymnastics Team (The Fierce Five), where she qualified for the all-around final. Aly tied for third place but did not receive a bronze medal due to a rare tie-breaking policy. Aly still left London with two gold medals and one bronze, but she always dreamt of standing on that coveted all-around podium.
The second she landed her floor routine in All-Around finals, she started crying, because she knew she had earned an all- around medal. American gymnasts rarely come back for two Olympic cycles, but Aly's dedication was evident. Seeing her finally clench that medal was incredible.
2. Every time Michael Phelps Even Came Near A Pool
2. Every time Michael Phelps Even Came Near A PoolEvery time the TV even showed Michael Phelps, I think my eyes welled up. Not only is he one of the best athletes to ever live, but his passion for the sport is unmistakable. He's made comebacks before, but there is something about these Olympics that have a sense of finality to them. Phelps competed in his first Olympics at age 15; now he is 31. He has spent more than half of his life training for the Olympics. Watching him close the door on that chapter of his life made quite an impression.
3. Townley Haas Wins Gold While Swimming With Michael Phelps
We all have our hometown heroes. This year Richmond, Va was lucky enough to cheer on Townley Haas. Whether you know the Olympian or not, it is truly remarkable to see someone from your hometown not only go to the Olympics, but thrive. Haas swam his way to gold with Michael Phelps, Ryan Lochte, and Connor Dwyer in the 4X200 Meter Freestyle. I cannot even imagine what it was like to be on the same team with the greatest swimmer of all time.
4. Mo Farah Overcome A Fall To Win Gold In The Men's 10,000 Meter
In 2012 Mo Farah won both the 5,000 Meter and 10,000 Meter races. He traveled to Rio with the goal of a repeat. However, in his tenth lap, he accidentally tripped on another runner, causing him to tumble to the ground. The entire stadium gasped in unison, wondering if he would able to recover. Not only did he recover, but Farah was able to add to his medal collection with a gold. This race was a true testimant to Farah's determination, and it was inspiring to see him fight his way back to win the race.
5. Simone Manuel Wins Gold
Simone Manuel became the first African-American to win an individual medal. She appeared to be in disbelief from the moment she touched the wall, and she continued crying tears of joy throughout her medal ceremony and post-meet interviews. Her emotions show how passionate she is about her sport, and that is special to watch.
6. Watching The Parents
One of my all time favorite parts of the Olympics is watching the parents. It is our parents who teach us perseverance. They support us and encourage us. They are there for every broken bone and bad game, meet, etc. All they want is for their children to be successful, and it shows on their faces. The emotions that parents show when watching their children thrive are like no other. All I can do is cry when I look at the pride manifest.
