Thursday, 13 October 2016

Olympic Triathlon Coaches

On the Sidelines 

Swim-bike-run is on the Olympic agenda today (19 August 2016) and much is being made about the favourites. The men’s race kicks off around 4pm SA time and will be a spectacle of tactics, bloody-mindedness and sheer athleticism no doubt. After four long years, it is the triathletes’ time to shine.

Amid all this analysis and debate, let’s spare a thought for those behind the scenes who have been instrumental in making things happen. Yes, there are several federation coaches and staff who will be on the sidelines doing their thing and, quite possibly, more nervous and caught up in the race than the athletes. For many of these dedicated folk, their jobs literally depend upon national funding, politics and, above all, results. And it is not like they’re getting rewarded with big bucks and fancy cars either. But then they’re not in it for that.

So with this in mind, best wishes to Kate Roberts, Lindsey Parry, Bobby McGee, Ben Bright, Glenn Cook, Adam Elliot, Stefan Grosse and dozens of others no doubt. You may very well be in the background but there are many who appreciate what you do.