Most people know the story of Seabiscuit, the racehorse whose grit and determination in the face of adversity captured the hearts of Americans during the depression years of the thirties. Though much can be said of the speed and will of “the little horse that could”, even more can be said of the way he inspired a nation. Undeniably a world class athlete, Seabiscuit became a symbol of hope in an era of hopelessness. Fans followed his career with fanaticism. They flooded the tracks to watch his workouts, smashed attendance records at his races, mourned every injury, and celebrated his victories en masse. And they believed. The nation needed something to believe in and the under-sized, crooked legged, mud-coloured racehorse with the heart of a lion was that “something”
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The 2010 Olympics may have had somewhat the same effect on Canadians. As the Olympic flame made its way across Canada, it generated an infectious energy until, in Vancouver, almost every Canadian wanted to be part of it. Sitting at home in the Chilcotin with no possibility of attending, I did not expect to feel connected to the excitement, but after the opening ceremonies that was nothing less than magical, I was hooked. As the games unfolded, Canada came together as a nation in a way no one expected.
In the throes of a depressed economy, Canadian athletes and fans alike needed to believe… and they did. The 2010 Olympics have been our Seabiscuit. We rode along with every athlete. We felt their glory. We felt their pain. And now, we celebrate a Gold Medal record.
Next step – reining an Olympic sport. Remember Seabiscuit. Remember the 2010 Olympics. If we can believe it, it can happen.
Congratualtions to all the Olympic athletes. Mission accomplished and job well done!