The Olympic Winter Games are right around the corner with teams from 100+ nations convening in Beijing for the quadrennial event. For many athletes with a competitive spirit, watching the fanfare of the opening ceremonies makes you think: Could I be an Olympian?
And it's a valid question. Winning a gold medal and representing your nation is one of the biggest thrills in sports.
The United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee knows that better than just about anyone and they want to help turn a few athlete's Olympic dreams into reality.
In a new virtual event called The Road To Gold, the USOPC invites motivated American athletes of every age to showcase their story and athleticism in a virtual tryout. Through video responses to various online activities, athletes can connect with staff and athletes from USA's Winter Olympic and Paralympic teams.
As most athletes won't have experience with winter sports or access to facilities, this tryout is created to be performed from home and help participants to display attributes Team USA coaches look for off of the snow and ice. Talent-transfer athletes (or athletes transitioning to a new sport) are a vital part of Team USA's recruiting process and a number of them have even won medals for the red, white, and blue.
Speed, strength, stamina, and the drive to succeed in a new space are what scouts are looking for. And this interactive event allows hopeful Olympians from around the United States to showcase their athleticism and be discovered.
Participation in the event is free for all athletes and each activity is created so it can be recorded and performed in any space. Below, you can find detailed instructions on how to find the event and participate for yourself.
Follow the instructions below to learn how to start your USOPC Winter Sports Tryout:
Step 1: Log into GMTM or Create a Profile
Step 2: Find The Road To Gold Talent Tryout in the Activities Menu
Step 3: Click Participate on each Activity and provide info about yourself
Step 4: After completing the tasks in each Activity, click Submit
