There is nothing quite like the Olympics for bringing the world together in sport.
Of course we are all here to support our own national teams and athletes but this is so much more of a celebration of everything that sport has to offer than more tribal events.
The Irish are on the ground in force for this likely last Games in Europe until 204 and they are determined to enjoy themselves.
We were in the Stade de France yesterday and there were flags all around the stadium. Our enthusiasm was infectious with French, Chinese and German fans all around us joining in the cheering for Rhasidat, Sharlene and Sophie in the 400 metres, just as we did for their runners, discus throwers and pole vaulters in action around the infield.
The father of a German Discus thrower was sitting in front of us and the joy and emotion of seeing your loved ones in action is universal.
Paris has been a glory of organisation, good humour and celebration.
The French are having the games of their lives and every medal performance is cheered wildly across the city.
In Volleyball they came from two sets down against Germany in yesterday’s Quarter Final. Pandemonium!
In 3×3 Basketball they lost to the Netherlands with a wild throw from outside the inner scoring zone to just miss out. Asterix was devastated but the party carries on.
The Park of Champions celebrated Ireland’s medalists yesterday, cheered to the blue skies overhead by every nationality.
Tonight we will be in Roland Garros to witness potential history as Kellie Harrington enters the ring looking for back to back Olympic Golds. The atmosphere will be as intense as at any sporting event we have ever had the privilege to witness.
Having been in London’s Excel Arena for Katie Taylor’s Gold in 2012 this has a neat sense of completing a circle of sporting brilliance.
This is the kind of moment that moves you to breathless terror and the potential of unconfined joy. It is life in three rounds of three minutes. It is the best of times. And it is happening today.
Sport for Business will host its inaugural Children and Sport Conference in Dublin on Thursday, September 19th, with the support of Allianz Ireland and Sport Ireland. This is one of many events planned for the remainder of 2024.
Register your interest to attend a Sport for Business event here.
The Olympic Federation of Ireland and PTSB are among the 300 organisations, which include all the leading sports and sponsors, as well as commercial and state agencies, that are members of the Sport for Business community.
Find out more about joining us today.
Check out our upcoming events to discover ways of connecting in person with our membership.
