Thought For The Day – Thursday October 6th 2022 – Perseverance and Support
Perseverance and Support
At the 1992 Olympic Games in Barcelona, a wonderful games, there was a particularly special moment.
British athlete Derek Redmond, then the British men’s record holder for the 400 metres, who had won gold in the relay at the World Championships the year before, but who had had no less than eight operations on injuries before the 1992 Olympics, was injured running in the 400 metres semi-final. Derek pulled up with an injury, whilst in brilliant full flow, just before he was about to enter the home straight.
But Derek Redmond was determined to finish the race even if he had to hobble, walk or crawl. He was going to get to that finish line even if he was in agony and however long it took. He kept on going. He showed resilience. He showed “The Olympic Spirit”. The crowd gave him a standing ovation.
But Derek did not do this alone. His dad, Jim, who passed away on Sunday aged 81 it was announced earlier this week, went on to the track to help his son. The officials would have to wait for humanity, kindness, support, empathy and compassion came first. “I intended to go over the line with him. We started this career together, I think we should finish it together“, said Jim after the race.
Perseverance and support.
Officially, Derek was disqualified, and listed as “Did Not Finish”, for having such help. But the record books do not always tell the full story and context in life. In actuality, this became one of the greatest ever sporting moments. It was “one of the most inspirational moments in Olympic history“ said the International Olympic Committee earlier this week. A few years ago, Derek and Jim Redmond featured in a “Celebrate Humanity” video which stated: “Strength is measured in pounds. Speed is measured in seconds. Courage? You can’t measure courage”.
Here is the iconic clip: https://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/av/olympics/17779148
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Britain’s Derek Redmond recalls the semi-final of the 400m at the 1992 Barcelona Olympics when, following a hamstring injury, his father helped him over the line.
www.bbc.co.uk
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It most certainly shows “The Black and Gold Spirit”.
Speaking of which, congratulations to students in the first XV Rugby squad, Mr. Kelsall, all the rugby staff, Mr. Trigg and the Parents’ Sports Association, for a famous, inspirational and brilliant win by 14 points to 12 against Gresham’s School in the “Schools Cup”. The very final and skillful play was made by I. Adjei and T. Griffiths in the very final minute.
Perseverance and support.
