As I watched the Olympic Games in Paris last month, it seemed for the thousands of competitors, this was their “once in a lifetime.” For the athletes, regardless the sport, training had been their fulltime goal for decades. For some, it would be their first competing in an Olympic Game; for others, probably their last.
Marty Coffin Evans 2024
Years ago I had the opportunity to participate in another of the Olympic Games. I didn’t do so as an athlete but, rather as a volunteer.
The opportunity came as a result of a program given by Art, Director of PR and Personnel for Santa Anita Race Track in Arcadia, California. I wondered about volunteering for those Summer Games. “People are taking their vacation time to volunteer,” Art said.
I debated – should I take vacation time and volunteer? Or, should I give this “once in a lifetime” opportunity a miss. I said “Yes” and never looked back.
From hearing Peter Ueberroth, president of the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee, give an opening address to the assembled volunteers at UCLA to following the yellow footprints to receive our uniforms, it became magical. My cornflower blue skirt and jacket w/ teal-colored white shirt, enabled me to be easily identified in the stands if needed for assistance. If our uniforms were red, white and blue, the expected colors, volunteers would blend in with the crowds.
Working the Athletes Lounge gave me a different perspective on the competitors as many equestrian riders were older. Helping Lord and Lady Callenan find their chauffer, after a Turf Club party, became another different, yet gratifying, experience. Seeing Prince Phillip added yet another dimension.
The Olympic Torch Relay took a strong hold during those Games. I know I’ve stood on street corners waiting for the torch to pass.
How many times have we missed an opportunity? I took mine! I encourage you to take yours.
Martha (Marty) Coffin Evans, Ed.D., freelance writer with MACE Associates, LLC, can be reached at itsmemartee@aol.com or www.martycoffingevans.com