Letter from Rep. Danou: The Summer Olympics are here

• Rep. Danou

Rep. Danou

Talk about it

Every four years, thousands of athletes from over 200 countries around the world come together to compete in the Summer Olympic Games. The Olympics are considered to be the world’s foremost sports competition and has ancient roots dating as far back as the 8th Century BC in Olympia, Greece.

The Ancient Games were held regularly in Greece until the 5th Century AD. After about a 1,500-year absence, the Olympics were revived in 1896 in Athens, Greece and by 1906, the modern Olympic Games began to take shape as they gained international attention and popularity. While the competitive spirit and historical tradition is relatively unchanged, plenty has changed since 1906. The Games put the host city on center stage with the opportunity to shine before the world. Also, the Olympics give all of us an opportunity to get behind and support our athletes in their quest for the gold.

As I watched the opening ceremonies and some of the first events with my family, I can’t help but be amazed when thinking about everything that goes into this global event. So many people use their talents and creativity to make the experience memorable for billions of people around the world.

London has been planning the 17-day Olympics for years. Imagine all the logistics and implementation that go into making the Olympics smooth and successful. Athletes from around the world have been training and working hard for years to make the Olympics. Imagine all the blood, sweat and tears that athletes have shed in their preparation for the Olympics and the chance to be the best in the world.

Any athlete who qualifies for the Olympics is in an elite category. Only a few have the privilege to compete and even fewer earn the honor of returning home with a medal. These athletes inspire, motivate and truly make their countries proud.

The Olympics bring people together from around the globe in a positive spirit that encourages competition and embraces sportsmanship. While every athlete strives to win the gold, at the end of the day the Olympics remind us that there is more to the competition than simply winning a medal. These athletes exhibit the highest level of hard work and sportsmanship no matter the outcome.

The Olympics introduce us to one another and provide us with the unique opportunity to learn from each other. Of course, we learn about the events and the discipline that goes into each performance but we also learn about other countries and their various cultures. Most importantly, we are reminded that great achievement is possible with hard work, determination and support.

Olympic events take place everyday until August 12th. Please take some time between now and then to witness this global event and cheer on the 556 American athletes that make up Team USA!

Tags: wisconsin legislature, news, wisconsin, government, politics