IN the world of sports, the spotlight often shines brightest on those who stand on the podium, their necks adorned with gold, silver, or bronze medals. While the achievements of these top athletes are certainly worthy of celebration, it is equally important to recognise the dedication, perseverance, and mental fortitude of all athletes, regardless of their placement in competitions. The journey of an athlete is fraught with challenges, sacrifices, and countless hours of training.
Whether they reach the podium or not, every athlete who competes at a high level has a story of determination and resilience that deserves to be celebrated. The psychological struggles of an Olympian Olympians often train for years to compete on the world stage. For many athletes, making it to the Olympics is the culmination of a lifelong dream.
They devote countless hours to training, sacrificing personal time and opportunities to pursue excellence in their sport. The Olympic Games are incredibly selective, with only about 11,000 athletes qualifying globally every four years out of millions who compete. The chances of becoming an Olympian are less than 0.
001 per cent for most sports. Yet, the intense focus on winning medals can overshadow the accomplishments of those who don’t make it to the finals, impacting their mental health and self-esteem. Orlando Bennett, a 24-year-old Olympian, exemplifies the extraordinary dedication it takes to reach such heights.
He is set to compete in the 110m hurdles.