I witnessed one the most inspiring stories I have ever heard today while at the Olympic rowing event. Djibo Issaka is a rower from Nigeria. He is the first rower to represent his country at the Olympics. He won a wild card bid and raced in the men's single reps today. As we were watching the racers pass the finish line we noticed there was a lane missing. Wondering if someone flipped we looked up the course. There was Djibo, more than a minute behind the competition, but from the roar of the crowds you would think he was winning. Turns out Djibo learned to row 3 months ago. His technique was less than impressive, but he was going as hard as he could on an empty course. The crowd continued to cheer him on as he collapsed at the finish line. He looked exhausted, but so happy and proud. I got chills watching him race. I was witnessing true Olympic spirit in person, and it was infectious. He knew he had no chance in the world to win, or even come close, but wanted so badly to represent his country and pave the way for the future athletes of Nigeria. In a later interview he promised he would be back in four years after he trained and learned how to row better. I hope he returns to his country a hero, because he was the bravest man on the course today. I hope he can help develop a rowing program in his country, and be able to train near his home. I will never forget that race, and it will continue to inspire me to be brave and willing to try the impossible.
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