As a matter of fact, I’m currently helping a very large government agency through a Vision process, and “Own the Podium” was a godsend as an example of a clear, bold statement that is obviously risky, but takes a STAND (podium?). Of course, the risk side is also something I’m highlighting as often as I can. We’ll be the best in the world” is easy to say, but can you actually DO it? More to the point, can you do it AND PROVE IT?

Thanks too for making the connection to Mark Lowry – I found a very moving tribute to the man here. And it seems we’ve lost a good one – a man of vision. http://www.olympic.ca/en/news/teeing-remember-mark-lowrys-lasting-influence-canadian-sport/

We are on the same page.

Now our Prime Minister sitting next to the Wayner every chance he could get … that is a different kind of shame.

I feel none of the collective guilt for having been part of our country’s bold adventure to rise above the ignominy of being the only country ever to host the Olympics (twice) but never win a gold medal. It took what it took. Clarity of vision and an understanding of the mechanisms which would make it happen.

I remember standing up to a bully on my street when I was five years old and putting an end to his reign of terror, only to be criticized by the other victims I had freed from his tyranny for being harsh. What find Canadians they were. But seriously, something had to be done and it was.

So bronze your gold medals if you wish, and keep the “brocoli” ..but remember …without Mark’s vision and sincere concern about our country … we would not be in this wonderfully awkward situation.

Support the COC and Alex Baumann, as they continue in his memory to strive to Own The Podium.