Our sons became proficient skiers, resulting from lots of gate training and downhill races. We had great times and served as gatekeepers on many a mountain. We well understand 1/100th of a second; it can make or break a kid's heart. Still... win, place or lose, they always loved those hours spent running gates. Memories of opening the newspaper the morning after a race are vivid. There would be the results of Brian's competitive team members, dominating races all over... each separated by a hundredth. Christian, three years younger, skied with many siblings of Bri's group, and they comprised yet another hot team. Now... that perspective...
Did you see the commercial about Moms, during the Games? It's great and I relate! With each athlete that comes through the start, my heart is pounding with excitement and fear. Today, they'll modify the icy, 1.8-mile course, to slightly reduce the 80-mph speeds attained. All those crashes during the women's downhill yesterday... Good Lord... I had to turn away. Thank G-d there were no serious injuries, or worse. And how about that half pipe? How glorious to see a new fave of ours reach unbelievable heights above it, to win his Gold... just lovin' Shawn White and his teammates! But from a Mom's perspective...
During his senior year, C made it to New York's Empire State Games; it was quite a thrill. It took place in a former home of the Olympics, Lake Placid. Whiteface Mountain, where the alpine events were, is often referred to as "Iceface". It's true. The weekend prior, a seriously injured skier was airlifted from the mountain. The first day's events were postponed, for the kids. After racing, C commented, "It's the only time I ever felt fear at the top of a course." His friend had missed going by about that 1/100th; he graciously loaned his hot pink downhill suit to C. So, we had a bright focus point. I've said enough; just please watch for that commercial; and be sure to catch Lindsey Vonn's post-race interview. We shared in her tears of released pressure and sheer joy.
Congratulations to all the amazing athletes; they've worked so hard to recognize their dreams. We are so proud for them. Looking forward to tonight...
