An interview with the 1976 decathlon gold medalist Bruce Jenner aired today on XM Radio, Channel 209. Bruce Jenner was asked about the events which led him toward competing in the decathlon. Jenner began contemplating the decathlon in 1970, 2 years prior to the 1972 Summer Olympics in Mexico City. During the 1972 America Trials, Jenner was not even in the top 10 after 3 of the 10 events, yet he kept fighting to see where he would finish.
As the interview continued, Jenner discusses just how close he came to not making the 1972 Olympic Team. With 4 events remaining, Jenner reached the top 10. However, with just the 1500 meter race remaining, Jenner was in 5th place. To make the team, he had to beat the runner in 3rd place by 18 seconds. During this race, Jenner talked about digging down deep into his soul. In this time of desperation, Jenner found a gear he never knew he had, besting his career time by 8 seconds, beating the person in 3rd place by 21 seconds to qualify for the third and final spot.
In the 1972 decathlon, Bruce Jenner finished 10th overall. However, it was during the gold medal ceremony which spurred Jenner to reach another level. Observing from a distance, a thought came to Jenner, ” what if I dedicate the next 4 years of my life to the decathlon?” This moment sparkled a fire in Jenner’s heart which burned all the way to the medal stand in Montreal, Canada.
As listened to this interview on my way home from the beach, I was inspired to carry on with the rest of my life. All I need is a vision like Jenner. Once I receive this vision, I will need to put in the hard work, sweat and tears to make this a reality. As for now, I will be eagerly listening to discern what’s next for me and my family.
by Jay Mankus
ExpressYourself4Him 