 Speaking from personal experience, while training full-time to be an Olympic rower in the 1970s, I also had to work a full-time job to support myself. One of the glaring difficulties that Olympic hopefuls face, especially from the United States, is that government or corporate funding for athletes is the exception, not the rule. Work-life balance has been, and continues to be, an ongoing challenge for those who want to compete in the Games. To Zoe and others who are putting everything into their quest, I salute you!
Link to article: https://www.irishexaminer.com/business/companies/arid-41211364.html
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 I had the privilege of joining the remarkable Kathleen Francis on the Wise Women Podcast. We delved into my journey as an Olympian, the challenges I've faced, and the life lessons I've garnered along the way. I'm honored to share these moments and insights with you all. Tune in and let's continue our journey of learning and growing together. 🎙🏅 🔗 https://youtu.be/F0V_Pbx14Dc #WiseWomenPodcast #JourneyShared #OlympianLife #LifeLessons #InspirationForAll  Just read a riveting article by Sean Ingle on the upcoming Paris 2024 Olympics. This grand vision to reboot the Olympic games is inspiring, to say the least. With planned innovations such as a flotilla traveling along the Seine for the opening ceremony, breakdancing competitions, and an emphasis on inclusivity and responsibility, these Games promise to be an extraordinary celebration.
I applaud the efforts of Étienne Thobois and his team, as they plan to use 95% of existing or temporary venues, reducing costs and environmental impact. They're also working on creating a lasting legacy, including 6,000 new houses in Saint Denis and environmental recovery of the Seine. Challenges exist, including concerns over security and recent unrest in France, and the organizers are addressing them head-on. Let's remember that the Olympics are a time to put aside differences and unite in the celebration of athletic prowess and human spirit. I'm excited to see the new chapter of the Olympic history that Paris 2024 will write. #Paris2024 #Olympics" Link: https://www.theguardian.com/sport/2023/jul/25/paris-2024-one-year-out-olympics-readies-reboot-amid-disquiet-france  In May, I had the honor of speaking at the Pacific Council on International Policy in Los Angeles. It was an enriching experience to share insights on the intersection of sports, international relations, and social equity with a highly engaged audience.
We delved into meaningful conversations about the transformative power of sports, the importance of equitable representation, and the need for fostering international cooperation through dialogue. I truly believe that sports is a universal language, one that transcends borders and can play a vital role in fostering global unity. I want to extend my sincere thanks to the Pacific Council for hosting this event and for their tireless efforts in promoting international policy dialogue. I look forward to continued collaboration and discourse on these critical issues.  As we celebrate this 4th of July, let us remember the principles of freedom, unity, and courage that define our great nation. Today, we not only celebrate the birth of American independence but also the enduring spirit of resilience and diversity that shapes us.
May we continue to strive for justice and equality in every sphere, from our sports fields to our community spaces, mirroring the inclusivity and determination that make our nation strong. Let us remember, the power of unity is the essence of our strength. Wishing everyone a safe and joyful Independence Day! Let the spirit of freedom, peace, and unity prevail today and always. -Anita #4thofJuly #IndependenceDay #UnitedWeStand #Sports #IOC #OlympicGames #Olympics #USOPC #AnitaDeFrantz  A month ago, I had the privilege of attending the Pacific Council on International Policy's "Let the Games Begin" Gala in Los Angeles. It was an evening filled with insightful conversations and meaningful connections, and I continue to reflect on the important discussions had that night.
The Pacific Council's tireless efforts to foster international policy dialogue and promote global cooperation are truly commendable. Their work is instrumental in bridging gaps, fostering understanding, and promoting collaboration across borders. I'm grateful for the Council's continuous efforts to drive change on a global scale. Engaging in such events underscores the importance of international discourse and cooperation, both within and beyond the world of sports. I look forward to seeing the impact of the Pacific Council's work continue to unfold in the months and years ahead. #PacificCouncil #GlobalCooperation #LetTheGamesBeginGala #Sports #IOC #OlympicGames #Olympics #USOPC #AnitaDeFrantz  Today, as we celebrate #Juneteenth, let us remember its significance in our nation's history. On this day in 1865, over two years after the Emancipation Proclamation was issued, the last enslaved African Americans in Galveston, Texas, were finally informed of their freedom.
Juneteenth is a poignant reminder of our nation's journey towards freedom and equality. It symbolizes both the long, hard road endured by African Americans in the past and the progress still needed to achieve racial equity and justice. As we commemorate this day, let us honor the resilience and strength of those who fought tirelessly for freedom. And - let's recommit ourselves to the ongoing work of achieving true equality in every corner of our society, from the playing fields to the boardrooms and beyond. #Juneteenth2023 #FreedomDay #EqualityForAll #AnitaDeFrantz #USOPC #Olympics #OlympicGames #IOC #Sports  On this Father's Day, I reflect on the vital role that fathers and father figures play in our lives. They guide us, support us, and inspire us. Their lessons shape us in ways both seen and unseen. Whether it's cheering us on from the sidelines of a sports event or guiding us through life's challenges, their presence is invaluable.
To all fathers, and to those who step into the role of fathers, your impact is immeasurable. Thank you for your strength, wisdom, and unwavering love. Happy Father's Day! -Anita #FathersDay #DadsOfTheWorld #AnitaDeFrantz #USOPC #Olympics #OlympicGames #IOC #Sports  In honor of #PrideMonth, I want to celebrate the courageous LGBTQ+ athletes who have paved the way for equality and representation in sport, including the Olympics. Your achievements echo beyond the finish lines and scoreboards.
We remember the likes of Greg Louganis, a champion diver and an inspiration to us all. His courage to publicly share his journey as an openly gay, HIV-positive Olympian is nothing short of monumental. Let's also honor Megan Rapinoe, a tireless advocate for equality, whose skill on the soccer field is rivaled only by her advocacy off it. Megan, you have shown us that being an athlete means more than just winning medals; it means standing up for what you believe in. This month, we celebrate your victories, your strength, and your advocacy. We affirm that sport is a universal language that should unite us, irrespective of our sexual orientation or gender identity. Let's strive to create a world where every athlete can compete as a sports figure, role model, and inspiring influence, regardless of their individual persuasion. #PrideInSport #LGBTQ+ #PrideMonth #Olympics2023  Today, on Memorial Day, we reflect on the courageous sacrifices of our service men and women, who laid down their lives for our freedom. Their selflessness allows us the liberties we cherish, the freedom to dream, to excel, and to participate in the sports we love.
In their honor, I would like to highlight some inspiring figures who transitioned from military service to Olympic success, embodying the enduring spirit of our armed forces. Let us remember Louis Zamperini, a World War II veteran and former Olympian, who showcased the resilience and strength of our servicemen. His incredible journey from the 1936 Berlin Olympics to a prisoner-of-war camp embodies the indomitable spirit of an American hero. We also celebrate Melissa Stockwell, an Iraq War veteran, who became the first American woman to lose a limb in active combat. Her determination led her to become a world-class Paralympian and a symbol of resilience for us all. And of course, we salute David Robinson, a US Naval Academy graduate, who not only dominated the courts in the NBA but also represented us brilliantly on the Olympic stage. Today, we pay tribute to those who served, and to their families, who share in their sacrifice. Their valor remains our inspiration in every sphere of life. Let us carry their legacy forward, promoting peace and unity in all that we do. #MemorialDay #HonorAndRemember #VeteranOlympians |
AuthorOfficial blog of author, athlete, and IOC official, Ms. Anita DeFrantz. Archives
October 2023
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The information provided on this website is for general information purposes only and is not intended to serve as legal advice. I am licensed to practice law in Pennsylvania and this website is intended to comply with the rules of this state. By using this website, you acknowledge that no attorney-client relationship has been formed and you are advised to seek legal counsel if you need legal advice.