What It Takes

Many who watch the Olympics (including myself) will turn on their televisions and be inspired in various ways over the course of these next three weeks. Sports will take on an entirely new meaning and seeing will truly turn into believing, as many “wow” moments will take place each and every hour of every day of competition.  I have been able to sit down just for a few hours these last couple of days and become enthralled with road cycling, swimming, beach volleyball and women’s gymnastics, and watch as if I have played these sports and know these competitors personally. I have never played or excelled at any of the sports I just listed, but the Olympics has that magic that makes one feel connected to something so far away from the realm of possibility that the feeling of Christmas or a birthday can be multiplied exponentially when a member of Team USA succeeds.

NBC spotlights so many different athletes during the Olympics, giving us some insight on training, their personal lives and their team in Rio. Watching, reading articles and listening to interviews can only do so much into allowing that mirage between a normal person and an elite athlete to occur. I consider myself to be an elite runner, but when I watch these Olympic sports, even I wonder what these athletes have done to get to this ultimate level in their respective sports. Bridging the gap between this so-called unknown is what drives me every day. Simplifying the process of success is quite difficult, and understanding what it takes to be "elite" is still daunting and confusing--even to someone like myself. When the goal so much larger than yourself, it is often hard to fathom what it really takes to achieve it.

So, I challenge you and remind myself as we watch these 31^st Olympic Games in Rio, to remember the sacrifice of time, talent and treasure these spectacular athletes have taken to reach this point in their career that is a window so small one would do anything to make it last forever. The good news is, no one can ever take away the accomplishment of qualifying for the Olympic Games--no matter how they fare in competition.

I continue to delve into my own mind, and strive to find ways to push my body to find what it takes for me—Matt Elliott—to be what I need (and want) to be as an athlete. Looking back on my past, I hope for a future that exceeds my expectations in ways I cannot even imagine. Onwards and Upwards! Make today better than yesterday. Go Team USA!

And, on a personal note, we rescued an American Bulldog puppy this weekend. Her name is Faith and she is amazing! I did not realize I would enjoy having a dog so much--nor did I believe an animal could be so sweet.