Are you watching the Olympics? I’ve been so impressed with
the skiing, especially the new sport for this games slope-style snowboarding.
Wow. Daredevils. But my favorite is the figure skating. The gracefulness
combined with athleticism. They keep pushing the envelope with the jumps. I
remember when triple jumps were rare. Now the men are doing quads as a matter
of fact.
Figure skating has special meaning because it was part of my
youth. Every winter, Mom would haul out a hose and flood a low spot in our
backyard. Our nearest neighbor was a good couple of acres away so no problem
there. My sister (two years younger) and I learned to skate on that pond. She
was always so much better than I was. I remember watching Carol Heiss and
Tenley Albright win gold. So my sister and I tried to do spins and skate
backward. On our little pond we could pretend to be Olympians.
As a young adult, I tried downhill skiing. Not a good sport
for someone afraid of heights. I did better with cross-country. I was always a
klutz as an athlete. Things haven’t changed. Still a klutz. So I watch athletes who have been skating or
skiing since they were babies. It’s no wonder 15 year olds can win gold.
Did you ever dream of being an Olympian? Even
unrealistically.
I've been very impressed by the snowboarders, too. That takes way more intestinal fortitude than I've ever had! The skating is my favorite, too. I love the combination of artistry and athleticism.
ReplyDeleteDid I ever dream of being an Olympian? No, I was always too much of a klutz. There would have to have been a category for best skinned knee or something, LOL.
LOL I hear you, Linda. I think I would've won best ankle wobble on skates.
DeleteI would love to have the athletic ability to excel in ANY sport. Unfortunately, I don't even come close. Gotta hang on the sidelines and watch, but what a show. I'm loving it.
ReplyDeleteMe, too, Kim.
DeleteWinter Olympics are fun because we always have local athletes to cheer for. Squaw Valley produces amazing skiers, and it's fun rooting for the hometown heroes! I'm no athlete, but my girls are both downhill and Nordic skiers, though they won't ever compete at this level. They have their dad to thank for the athletic genes!
ReplyDeleteIsn't it fun to cheer on those you know? That's great your girls enjoy skiing. The younger they are when they start the easier it is.
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