Racing at the Olympics: A Journey of Pride, Perseverance, and Patriotism

By Andy Potts

When I think back on my Olympic journey, it’s hard to put into words the mix of emotions, experiences, and pride that comes with representing Team USA on the world’s biggest stage. Competing at the Olympics isn’t just about racing—it’s about embodying the spirit of a nation, pushing your limits, and being part of something much larger than yourself. It truly was for me the chance to fulfill a childhood dream that I thought about every single day of my life for years.

The Road to the Olympics

Representing Team USA at the Olympics was something I thought about every single day of my life for years- it was my chance to fulfill a childhood dream. For me, the journey began years before the actual race, with countless hours of training, racing, and refining my skills. The road was anything but easy. There were injuries, setbacks, and moments of doubt. But each obstacle was a stepping stone, pushing me to dig deeper and come back stronger.

For as long as I can remember, my goal to represent Team USA was part of my daily life. I can remember eating breakfast and would scoop 5 Honey Nut Cheerios into my spoon because they represented the Olympic rings. It was crazy- I would match any circular objects in sets of fives. While the physical demands of training and racing are huge, an unwavering belief in yourself and the support of a dedicated team is critical for success. Coaches, family, friends, and fellow athletes all play a crucial role in getting you to that starting line. Their belief in me fueled my determination, and every workout was a step closer to achieving a lifelong dream.

The Olympic Experience

Stepping into the Olympic Village for the first time is an experience unlike any other. The energy, the camaraderie, and the palpable sense of global unity are overwhelming. As athletes from all corners of the world come together, you realize that the Olympics are about more than just competition—they’re about celebrating the human spirit. It is amazing to be at the Games with other US Athletes ranging from swimmers to NBA stars to T&F athletes. It was surreal to be sharing an experience with athletes like Lebron James, Michael Phelps, Alison Felix, Tom Malchow, and Lindsay Mintenko (Benko).

Race day at the Olympics is electric. The atmosphere is charged with anticipation, and you can feel the weight of the moment. Standing at the start line with the best in the world, wearing the stars and stripes, is a feeling of immense pride. You know that every step you take, every stroke you make, is not just for yourself but for your country.

The Race

The Olympic triathlon is a unique beast. The pressure is intense, and the stakes are incredibly high. For me, I had a goal to ‘win the swim’ because of my background as a swimmer and try to really bust up the race with a ferocious swim-bike combo for a chance to medal. The swim, bike, and run each presented their own challenges, but it was the mental game that made all the difference. Staying focused, managing your energy, and adapting to the ever-changing dynamics of the race are key. Every single athlete is on ‘high-alert’ and at the top of their game, so it really makes the race tense. Every move, every surge, every reordering of who was in the lead felt critical. Those who can keep their wits about them were the ones who found success on the day.

As I crossed the finish line, the mix of pride, honor, satisfaction, exhaustion, and even relief was overwhelming. The result was secondary to the knowledge that I had given everything I had. Representing the United States at the Olympics was not just about winning a medal; it was about showcasing the grit, determination, and heart that define our nation.

The Aftermath

Racing at the Olympics leaves a lasting impact. It’s a moment in time that stays with you forever, shaping the athlete and person you become. The sense of accomplishment is profound, but so is the responsibility. As an Olympian, you become a symbol of hope and inspiration for others. The lessons learned from the Olympics extend beyond sport—they’re about perseverance, humility, and the relentless pursuit of excellence. 

Pride in Representing Team USA

There’s no greater honor than representing your country on the world stage. The pride that comes with wearing the red, white, and blue is unmatched. It’s a reminder that, as athletes, we have the power to unite, inspire, and uplift. The Olympics are more than just a race—they’re a celebration of the human spirit, and being part of that is a privilege I’ll carry with me forever.

Looking back, the Olympics taught me that the journey is just as important as the destination. The memories, the friendships, and the lessons learned along the way are what make the experience truly special. I am so grateful for the opportunity to race for Team USA.

Keep chasing your dreams, because you never know where they might lead you—even to the Olympics.