There’s been controversy in Canada over the Own The Podium program, a 5yr, $120 million supplimentary investment in high performance Olympic sport. Much was copied from programs in Australia and the U.S.A.
Personally I agree with Olympic great Ken Reed:
… The intent of Canada’s Own The Podium program has become lost – or perhaps obscured – with the focus on the medal count. Yes, it was always about trying to win more medals than anyone in 2010. But from the get-go, it was clearly stated that this was a stretch goal – an ambitious target intended to galvanize our nation, inspire our athletes, focus our funding and build a foundation of partnership. …
… OTP is an overwhelming success. We have delivered funding, coaching resources, technology, preparation and team unity to build an environment for success. Regardless of the medal count, this is a fact. Canada’s team was prepared. …
On the other hand, decisions have already been made to change leadership, perhaps shift the focus of Own the Podium, and possibly even changing the much mocked name.
details – Baumann to take over Own the Podium
related – Should Own the Podium have been branded differently?
UPDATE: The U.S.A. owned the podium at this Olympics. Germany was fantastic, too. Congratulations. But Canadians are not disappointed with our results, overall. And once we defeat the States today in Men’s Hockey, we’ll have the most Gold medals for any host nation in Olympic history.
… Most of my friends are convinced that the upstart Americans will win Hockey. But I’m not worried.
11 comments ↓
Not just the most gold medals of any host nation… but the most of any country ever for the Winter Games
Right, Nick. I’ll edit that text.
OTP paid off – we should be so lucky to have such results in our summer sports…
What’s wrong with owning the podium? At this level, winning medals IS much touted and I think it’s great you guys set a goal and really started to make it happen. Congratulations!
there are twice as many events as there used to be so winning more medals seems likely. Don’t you think?
Is that true, Bob?
I’ll do some research on that.
Looks to me like you are right, Bob.
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Winter_olympics#Current_sport_disciplines
Were you able to hear the roar where you live when Canada won the ice hockey, Rick??
My girls’ RG coaches have been wearing all their Canada gear this last week in support of their homeland and the home game- and it’s hot here at the moment!
Will OTP bear fruit in New Delhi, I wonder?
Hi Kath,
I watched the second period at City Hall, a giant party. But went home to watch the third and overtime with my Dad. The only cheering was our own.
No doubt about it, OTP is here to stay. GREAT news for athletes and coaches.
It will have a new name soon, though.
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