Ride like you are in the Olympics!

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.”

Belinda rode for Canada in Athens 2004 and Rio 2016

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.

Belinda and Anton at the Rio Olympics 2016

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!

Comments

14 responses to “Ride like you are in the Olympics!”

  1. Gavin and Wyatt Avatar

    Sharpens one’s focus…though also scary.

  2. Subbashini Meenakshi Sundaram Avatar

    This is truly a great message, anyone can take it in the way we want. Great share.

    1. anne leueen Avatar

      Thank you!

  3. Emma Cownie Avatar

    It’s funny how we need something to aim for to motivate us, like a competition or exhibition. And it works, we are motivated and put a lot of effort into our work but the “aftermath”, when that intense focus is gone, can be tough to deal with too.

    1. anne leueen Avatar

      Yes it can be difficult. I did an interview with Belinda after the Rio Olympics and she talked about the let down. Apparently it is common for most Olympians. I think there is a link to it at the bottom of my post as one of the related posts.

  4. Tina Schell Avatar

    The more important the match, the worse I play Anne! If I had to pretend I was in the Olympics I’d be a downright mess!!! Some people love a competitive environment. It’s never been my strength. Good for you for finding it inspirational!

    1. anne leueen Avatar

      I think I came hard wired like that. It does make me focus and think faster! But I know it is not a mindset that works for everyone. Thanks for reading the post and commenting Tina .

  5. Irene Avatar

    What a motivating thought. Can’t even imagine how different results could be if we approached life’s challenges with an attitude like that. 😊

  6. workinacresnothours Avatar

    My friends & I used to play competitions, lol even in my 40s such fun. Seriously, It really is a great way to practice, awesome inspirational blogging. Thankyou.

    1. anne leueen Avatar

      You are most welcome. Thank you for your comment.

  7. Lesley Avatar
    Lesley

    That is such motivating advice and the photo of Belinda and Anton is beautiful!

    1. anne leueen Avatar

      Yes it is a nice photo. I did not take it as I was not it Rio. But I have accreditation with the Canadian Olympic Committee so I was able to use photos that had been taken by the professional photographer who was there to cover the dressage.

  8. Debbie Smyth Avatar

    A good message. We should always remember to do our very very best.

    1. anne leueen Avatar

      Thank you Debbie!

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