So, that was the Olympics

I did enter the London 2012 Olympics with a sense of scepticism and uncertainty. I think it was the negative media that surrounded the build-up to the games. You know, the costs involved (somewhere between 9 and 12 billion pounds), plus those corporations that sponsored the games (Coca Cola, McDonalds etc). Was it money well spent? Could those billions of pounds gone on something more important? Were we sending out the right message via those corporate sponsors? So before the games even got started, my mind was full of media speculation.

I think it has been money well spent, as long as the 'feel good' factor is utilised and we encourage the next generation of young athletes. We've had a record result for team GB... and it would be a shame to loose the vibe that has been built upon in the last two weeks. I personally enjoy most sports, and partake in some myself. I enjoy the competitive, rewarding, team playing aspects. Over the last 2 weeks, we have identified some really strong role models for our kids. These athletes have shown us that you can achieve your goals via hard work and determination, and that's exactly what our children need to see and aspire to. Let's not demolish the Olympic stadium (as some rumours suggest), instead let's work out a way in which we can inspire our children and use the stadium in a positive manner. A balance has to be struck, between making the stadium financially viable whilst delivering its legacy to the next generation of athletes. Me? I would run weekly concerts and events to maintain its upkeep. Then for the rest of the time, I would get children into the stadium practicing their respective disciplines. How great would it be to be able to train on an olympic track, or within an olympic pool? How amazing would that be for the next generation?

As a spectator of the 2012 Olympics, I've really enjoyed it. Especially the cycling and track events. I know there has been a lot of negativity surrounding the games regards its cost and it's corporate sponsors. But I'm trying to weigh up the pros and cons. Yes it's been expensive and the money could have been better spent elsewhere. Yes the games have been funded by corporations that should not be identified with athletes. Yes I don't like it. However, the games have been a huge success and open up some exciting opportunities for our youth. Having watched the Olympics, children actually want to be like the athletes they've seen on TV. It's how we take that positive energy into the coming months and make those important decisions. I think we'll learn a lot about our government over the next year and what they value for the future... and how they plan to match team GB's 2012 success at the 2016 Rio games...