More Olympics Inspiration

Besides Phelps- and who doesn't love him! ( I do...I love Phelps!)

Stany Kempompo Nagangola- Congo

Want some inspiration? See if you can find the NBC clip on this 50 meter swimmer. He is a 34 year old swimmer that came in 97th place...out of 97 in the prelims. As he walks to the pool, you can see how nervous he is. He looks like he is 16 years old and he is tiny- he does not have the body of the men whom have trained for decades like the other swimmers. When he gets on the blocks, it is as though he has never even seen blocks. He is not sure how to really get on them. I would not be surprised if he does not have the training facilities that even have blocks. No Lazr suit on him, either.

I always have really strong feelings when I see competitors like Stany. How must that feel to stand next to the big dogs? The 6 ft 7 in men that could lap you in a 50- the world record holders that stroll by you? The men that have been swimming their whole lives under the best coaches and best support- while you have not had that privilege? Their bodies have been formed since young children to be machines- and yours is just learning?

Well, all I know is this man is an Olympian! It brought tears to my eyes to see how nervous he was walking into the swimming arena. And, to come in last of the last- all I know is I felt very proud of his effort. So many times we have an opportunity to just do our best, even if we will be last or lapped. And, that is really what the Olympic spirit is all about. It encourages all of us to go for it and just do the best that we can do. So, be proud of yourselves this week and all of the things you have accomplished.

After all, it is better to try and come in last than to never try and never give yourself that chance. Like Stany, just get out there. Don't feel embarrassed if you are last- give yourself the pride you deserve!