WHAT does it take to become a successful national athlete, we asked Allyson Felix, a four-time Olympic gold medalist and eight-time world champion.
The 27-year-old American track star can definitely attest that government support — financial or otherwise — is among the necessary things to achieve greatness.
“I think it’s important that you have that support, that backing behind you so that you can focus on your training,” said Felix, who was in town last Wednesday as part of her three-city Southeast Asian tour for Nike.
Ironically, she’s in the Philippines, where some athletes have hardly received support from the government.
Aside from government support, many things are needed to shine in sports.
Felix, one of the world’s fastest women and who competes in the 100-, 200-, and 400-meter events, preaches patience and total commitment - a trait she wants to inculcate to Pinoy athletes.
“I think that’s one of the biggest lessons I’ve learned.”
“Often, you want things to happen overnight, but it’s about understanding that it’s a process and a journey. You just have to be committed and make sacrifices and you’ll get there.”
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