*insert Topical Blogpost ____HERE*

I'm as patriotic as the next person, but I must make mention that I have always felt that the Olympics is possibly one of the most over-hyped events around. I mean, why interrupt my life to tell me some guy threw a shot-put further than some other dude by 0.2mm or some wanna-be-super-human got done for Roid-Rage? What is the role of these Athletes outside filling their pockets and enjoying a free all expense paid EuroTrip? Until today I had no real idea what it meant to be an "Olympian" or what exactly they did with their time outside of the once-in-a-blue-moon event. But it turns out they do quite a bit... 

This morning I was invited along to listen to a key note speaker at a Leadership Forum on the GoldCoast. Lara Davenport (2008 relay-team swimmer) was presenting on what it meant to be a leader, I was skeptical as to what an Ex-somewhat-recognizable-Olympic-token would know about facing difficult challenges in the real world, but I went along anyway. 

To say the least, I was astounded by the commitment and mental strength she had shown throughout her career as a swimmer and even more impressed by her down to earth attitude in terms of where she's headed and what she'll become. At one point, Lara recited the "Olympic Club" passage (which all Olympians are given upon admission into the Olympics) and left a resonating impression among those in attendance. "Don't let outside pressures spoil your dreams"... I understand that phrase is aimed at hard-working, focused athletes but it is just as relevant in everyday life. It seems the role of Olympians within our society is simply to inspire excellence.

Well played Ms Davenport, I have officially been converted.

aussieaussieaussie oioioi!

EllaParis x