Yes, Heidi, you are still an Olympian
As she was being placed in the ambulance at the Rosa Khutor Ski Area, she asked her father, Mike Kloser a world-class mogul skier and member of the Mountain Bike Hall of Fame, “am I still an Olympian?”
That is the question that echoes off all the news stories surrounding the 2014 Winter Olympics such as security and gay rights, here in Russia. The athletes are here and tonight is their night at the Opening Ceremonies of the 2014 Winter Games. They have committed their lives to sport, channeled all of their passion and motivation toward participating in the Olympics.
For Bode Miller, Shaun White, and other big names, they will attempt to win medals, but for the vast majority of the competitors in in Sochi, they are joining an elite group of athletes that get to call themselves Olympians and medals are a long shot.
So for Kloser and all the other world-class athletes who won't get to stand on podiums, get big sponsors, and won't be interviewed by Bob Costas, take a moment during the Opening Ceremonies tonight and think about them, their families and friends who already understand that their victory has already been won.
Yes Heidi Kloser you are, and will always be, an Olympian.
Olympics bloggers
Look for updates, news, analysis and commentary from the following reporters:.- Dan Egan, Boston.com blogger
- John Powers, Globe staff
- Shira Springer, Globe staff
- Scott Thurston, Globe staff
Nice work, Dan. You coverage has been insightful. Keep up the good work.