I suspect that I am not the only one that has spent an abnormal amount of time glued to the spectacle that is the summer olympics.

Soccer, volleyball, basketball, wrestling, rugby, diving, plus plus, and now I confess, at last the closing ceremonies.

It’s a people show. You watch teams win and receive a medal and, if you are like me, you wish both sides could win, that there were more medals for these amazing people.

Now it’s no surprise I enjoyed the beach volleyball, and for more than the reason you think (I saw those raised eyebrows!) – two people in great shape covering a court, making great saves and diving all over the place. It’s all action, and these athletes are in super shape. They know they look good and enjoy being young and admired, so they should. Those abs were earned!

What I also liked about the beach volleyball was the sportsmanship. The teams are always hugging their teammate regardless of whether the point is won or not. These teams travel together, share meals together, compete together, train together and win or lose together. At all times these partnerships are uplifting and encouraging one another. One bad attitude and the team is broken. Wow, I can learn from beach volleyball players. When you hit the sand, hit it smiling and get up, dust yourself off and play the next point. Enjoy the game, and keep supporting the team.

So much people watching, and many stories of huge athleticism. A marathoner from Argentina, Federico Bruno, stood out as he finished his marathon race in pain (read more here) but managed to finish the race. He ran the last 12 kilometres in intense cramping pain but finished by crabbing sideways and still finished the race in under 3 hours beating other competitors. An runner has strong leg muscles, those cramps would have been torture. He managed to finish somehow. Another opportunity to learn for me.

Life may not go as hoped for but do the best you can, and in my marathon I will keep it in mind. 

How about you? What did you learn from Rio?

Thanks for reading, and commenting, your suggestions are welcome.