Apolo shows grace under fire
There’s no denying short track speed skater Apolo Ohno is a class act. Observe how he conducted himself on the medals podium after taking Bronze behind Koreans Ahn Hyun-Soo (Gold) and Lee Ho-Suk (Silver) in the 1000 meters. He put his arms around his competitors, shook their hands and smiled. He appeared genuinely happy for their achievement. It brought to mind the purpose of these Olympic Games – to bring the world together through sport....
Ohno was putting to rest four years of sometimes intense acrimony between himself and what seemed to be the entire Korean nation when he was awarded a Gold medal in Salt Lake City in 2002 after Korea’s skater was disqualified. I was covering the games then, and remember reporting the death threats from angry Korean fans that crashed the International and U.S. Olympic web sites. Threats dogged Ohno whenever the skating circuit took him to Asia – requiring him to have bodyguards.
In an interview with NBC’s Bob Costas, Ohno insisted that “Anytime you make it to the podium, it’s a success,” especially after he failed to make the finals in the 1,500 meters. He said thoughtful contemplation and a pep talk from his dad helped him overcome the mental obstacles so he could put in a medal-winning performance Saturday. A loss? I think not. His gracious behavior and positive attitude make me proud he’s part of Team USA.
Comments
Yes---leave it to our Apolo to make Bronze beautiful.
Posted by: janet | February 19, 2006 3:41 PM
I could not agree more! Apolo's sportsmanship and class make him a true champion and the embodiment of the Olympic Spirit.
Posted by: Melissa | February 20, 2006 9:25 AM
I agree wholeheartedly. Apolo shines as the personification of the Olympic ideal. His goal is to compete and do his very best. He did/does just that. He has a gold medal attitude that makes him a positive example for all athletes.
How refreshing!
Posted by: jennifer g | February 20, 2006 9:43 AM
I'm thrilled for Apolo and agree that it is very refreshing to see an athlete who is able to work through obstacles and consider just making it to the finals in his events a major accomplishment. Congratulations to Apolo, a true class act and one of the best examples of the Olympic spirit I have seen.
Posted by: Linda J. | February 20, 2006 11:53 AM
Yes Apolo won hearts and minds four years ago for his attitude. He just seems to have a special purpose each time around to show people how to behave. That's refreshing and hopefully will be an inspiration for current and future Olympians :)
Posted by: SusanG | February 20, 2006 3:06 PM
Apolo will ALWAYS be GOLD in our hearts! Class act all the way!
Posted by: SusanfromIll | February 20, 2006 3:51 PM
A true human being - someone that is serious about his sport. I wonder if the Koreans still want to hurt him?
Posted by: DebFrmATL | February 21, 2006 6:12 PM
Apolo truly embodies what the Olympic spirit is all about. He is a great representative for the US and a wonderful role model for many.
Posted by: RM | February 27, 2006 9:38 AM