Future Olympian

As the Olympics come to a close tonight with the somewhat lengthy closing ceremony it really has been an awesome few weeks of sport.

Considering that Britain is a pretty tiny island famous for tea, queueing, winning a world cup 50 years ago and having bad teeth we’ve done pretty bloody well to finish second in the medal table! And I’ve loved every minute of it!

But now it’s all over let’s have a look at what talents my little one has demonstrated that indicate he may be destined for success in future Olympics.

1. Running

Generally away from us. Especially if trying to get him to stop digging. Or have his nappy changed. Or go home from the park. For his size he’s a speedy little bugger and requires me to actually break into an uncomfortable jog in order to catch up with him. Starts very quickly so potential for 100m.

2. Throwing

Generally when asking him to stop digging. Or telling him he can’t have any more cheese. Things fly across the room like no one’s business to indicate displeasure. Needs to work on distance and accuracy but definitely potential for hammer or discus.

3. Diving

Generally from sofas and beds but occasionally from window ledges. Rarely displaying any kind of grace or poise but certainly fearless and repetitive.

4. Cycling

Pretty nippy on his tricycle, but tendency to pick it up when turning corners and to drive into flower borders and legs. Promise shown but will need to learn to peddle at some stage rather than use feet to walk bike along floor.

5. Hockey

Likes to hit things with broom / mop. Strong grip and fluid wrist action. However as hockey is a team sport he will need to learn to share and to not randomly call everyone ‘girl’ in order to succeed in this field. Dad has new found love of women’s hockey after this Olympics so may see some encouragement here.

6. Gymnastics / Climbing

Lots of potential here as loves climbing and propelling himself from objects with no inhibitions or regard for personal safety. Pretty agile and unexpectedly strong for a 2 year old. Floor routine involves climbing across cushions and parents.

7. Horse Riding

Likes horses a lot. To be fair that’s about it so far but it’s a start!!

8. Medal receiving / post-event interviewing

Very capable of bursting into tears without warning. Will happily claim anything as his, so will likely grab gold medal even if he finishes last.

So there we have it. With a bit of nurturing and focus, Joshua has every chance of being an Olympic champion in 2032 with his dad cheering him on from the sidelines (as long as it doesn’t clash with the women’s hockey or cycling).