There are other benefits too. First our athletes, both females and males, are really important role models for children and young people. Decades of research tell us you cannot be what you cannot see. This week, our athletes have certainly been seen and there is no doubt they will inspire a new generation of Olympic dreamers.
That so many of the athletes that have been successful in the last week are women is especially welcome. I say this for a couple of reasons. There are very many highly visible role models and sporting careers apparent for boys, but these are sometimes not as readily apparent or accessible to girls.
This new generation of positive female role models are likely to inspire a new generation of girls wanting to follow in the impressive footsteps (pun intended) of these medalists. There are very few other sports where we have mixed teams, where women and men are competing together side by side. Women and men’s races have equal status. This tells children who participate that boys and girls are to be valued in the sport equally, which is an important message for boys and girls to hear.
Newport during the closing lap pic.twitter.com/px4Q1wEmVh
— Conor Kane (@ConorKane0909) June 12, 2024
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