I step on the ice and I get this feeling that I’m at the Olympic Games. I don’t just step out there in training and say: Here we go, another program.
Brian Orser, former world champion and two time Olympic Silver medalist in men’s figure skating.
I have never had the ambition to be in the Olympics. Not ever and not in any sport. So what went through my head when my coach Belinda Trussell said to me, a couple of weeks ago, in one of our lessons (before the 3rd wave lockdown): “Pick up the trot and ride like you are in the Olympics.”
Well, since Belinda is a two time Olympian I thought : “Alright ! I better up my game.” There was something about it that was inspirational. Later I remembered Brian Orser saying that every time he went out onto the ice in practice he would take the attitude that he was skating at the Olympic Games. Every practice deserved the Olympic effort.
So now that is what I tell myself every time I start my ride. I must ride like I’m at the Olympics! This certainly sharpens my focus!
HorseAddict 
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