INSPIRATION WHEN WE ALL NEEDED IT THE MOST

FOR the past 18 months, the 2020 Olympic Games have, for many, been relegated to back of mind as the world battles the continuing onslaught of Covid-19. How could sport possibly matter when people are sick, dying and living restricted half-lives amid this ruthless illness?

Yet while governments struggle to find a balance between helping people survive and letting them live, Tokyo has been there showing the world the power of determination, strength and co-operation.

The past two weeks have brought into sharp relief the irrepressible role that sport, culture and entertainment play in society. They have given a global audience a real-time example of what people are capable of, even under incredible pressure.

It’s inspiration when we have needed it most – held a year late with seemingly insurmountable challenges – and much of it is homegrown here on the Gold Coast.

Team GC accounts for 49 of the 472 Australians competing in the Games and has been responsible for some of the most spine-tingling, tear-jerking performances of the fortnight.

Emma McKeon etched her name in the history books and in the hearts of Aussies glued to their screens as she stormed her way to seven medals, including four gold, in Tokyo.

McKeon is Australia’s most successful Olympian – with 11 career Olympic medals – and she’s ours.

Then there were the absolutely ripping performances from skateboarder Keegan Palmer and BMX freestyle rider Logan Martin – both fresh gold medallists, both legends.

And what about Mat Belcher? A two-time Olympic gold medal winner, including one in Tokyo alongside sailing partner Will Ryan.

In their defiance of a historic yearlong postponement – despite the empty grandstands and in the masked-up face of life-threatening illness – the Tokyo Games have prevailed. The city, organisers and athletes’ triumph over unprecedented and unrelenting adversity is a remarkable and awe-inspiring feat.

Sure, nothing about these Games – or about life in general right now – could be described as “ideal”. But just look at what they did.

They made us look beyond ourselves and troubles – towards celebration, strength and victory.

Of course, it’s not over once the curtain closes on the closing ceremony this weekend – be sure to tune back in to Tokyo for the 2020 Paralympics from August 24.

Anyone who needs a demonstration of human determination, power and grit will find it there.