It made me very nervous to be the first Venezuelan athlete to compete in the
Olympic Games at London 1948.
I felt a huge sense of responsibility, and had my doubts about
whether I had the training and ability to compete with the best cyclists from
all over the world.
Since there had been so many difficulties for me to actually come and compete
in the Olympic Games, I was very keen on giving my best and representing the
Venezuelan people, as well as the British Embassy, who had made it possible for
me to be there.
Although I
narrowly missed out on a medal, reaching the semi-finals in the 2000m
competition, I took a great deal away from the Games experience. I had never even
seen a velodrome before that! I was very impressed and took it as a great
opportunity to learn and to perfect myself, for example observing the
techniques that the best cyclists in the world were using. I didn’t win a
medal, it’s true, but I did receive the recognition of having been classified
among the eight best cyclists in the world.
London 1948 was
also was a great human and cultural experience, and I made many friends there.
I also watched television for the first time in my life while in London, and
was in total awe of such a leap in scientific discovery!
I was also so
impressed with the British people’s efforts, after having just gone through the
destruction of the Second World War, to achieve the success they were hoping
for in hosting a fantastic Games.
It felt wonderful
to revisit the Herne Hill Velodrome again, 63 years after I competed
there. I never imagined I would return.
On the subject of
venues, I think
the London 2012 venues are marvellous. They give me a really vibrant
sensation,
even more than the arenas at Beijing.
Happy memories
I fondly recall the Opening and Closing Ceremonies at London 1948. I had never seen
an event of such magnitude so I was very nervous, but at the same time very
happy because my dream had come true. I recall with great emotion walking with
the Venezuelan national flag and seeing our colours flying high among those of
other countries.
Although during
London 1948 I was housed in former army barracks, I still felt like the
luckiest man alive. I was there and had somewhere to sleep, so nothing else
really mattered.
I’m especially looking
forward to London 2012 as I will be participating in the Opening Ceremony as
part of the Venezuelan delegation, but I also can’t wait to watch some of the
world’s best sportsmen and women on such a massive stage.
Obviously I’m especially excited about the Cycling, but am also looking forward
to watching Swimming and the other Aquatic sports. I’ll also be watching the
Venezuelan athletes closely, and think we have a good chance to win a medal,
perhaps in Judo, Taekwondo or Boxing.
Coming back to London after all these years has been an incredible
experience. Not only did I get the chance to relive some of my fondest sporting
memories, but it’s also whetted my appetite for what I’m sure will be an
incredible Olympic and Paralympic Games next summer.
