Why Should We Continue to Try to Own the Podium

The Olympics have ended and we are all returning to a normal state. I may be suffering a bit of withdrawal from the excitement and I never went to Vancouver. As Canadians I think we must look back and take away the good and the bad.

One of the good things that came out of hosting the games was Own the Podium.

There are several benefits to the program beyond just putting athletes on the podium during Olympic competition. A program that produces elite athletes in a position to win has significant grass roots impact. As young people choose activities to participate in and work hard at and try to excel at, their choice will be impacted on by what support they will have down the road. Nearly everyone wants to play hockey, partly because it can pay the bills. If you can compete in Skeleton or Cross-country skiing knowing that you can have quality equipment, good coaching, and food to eat, then these sports will become much more attractive to pursue.

So why would Canadians want more people pursuing sports.

Canada is quickly getting out of shape. I see more and more youths with weight and fitness problems. We need to make sport and exercise the activity of choice for all Canadians. By doing so, we will see a long term benefit of healthier, happier, and more productive Canadians. The health care system will be less burdened and the quality of all Canadians lives will be improved.

Own the Podium does not necessarily be an entirely government funded program. It will probably be most successful if it is a joint program between government and private enterprise. The actual structure will take some time to develop but the purpose must be there as it will provide many benefits for generations to come.