Friday, August 22, 2008

Press Day




Well, I slept very little last night. That's to be expected. The adrenaline rush and emotional high you are on after accomplishing one of your ultimate goals as an athlete is unexplainable. I probably got a good three hours in.

I had several press engagements this morning in to the afternoon. My favorite was the USOC press conference. I finally got a chance to answer questions that weren't track related. I got to talk about my experience here in Beijing and I got to comment on a variety of topics as well. I got to spend a good amount of time with a good friend of mine and USATF media relations woman, Susan Hazzard, along with my manager Marisa. After we finished all of that up, I spent the rest of the day with Bren and Harold, we hit NIKE for a while, the Hometown Hopefuls place and the USA House.

At the USA House, they gave me a medal for Brooks, which is bigger than the one I have! It is to recognize outstanding coaching and is named in honor of one of the first known Greek coaches back in the 444 b.c. Olympics.

I'm leaving for Zurich tomorrow afternoon, I have another engagement to attend before I head out, it's kind of disappointing that all of this has to come to an end. I had a great time in Beijing and all of the people that were behind me the whole time I really, really thank you. You never know how many lives that you may touch in even a small way. Being a top-tier athlete afforded me the opportunity to affect a lot of peoples lives in a positive way and the Olympics gave me and all of my fellow athletes a platform to really get out there.

I talk to a lot of people on the team, some did as well as they would have liked to, some didn't. At the end of the day, there are billions of people who will never get the opportunity to partake in the Olympic Games or represent their country in any fashion, so I really cherished every moment I had here, from the time I stepped off the plane on July 31st, until the time my plane departs Beijing International tomorrow.

53 comments:

Devyone C said...

I love that you seem to be a humble guy. Usually those are the most hard working people. Are you attending the Olympics in London?

Anonymous said...

You in fact are someone to be admired. You and the other athletes represented the USA WELL! I am proud of you and potentially I can get some SLEEP now from staying up to watch... lol

Have a safe flight home!

Anonymous said...

Oh and please let me know when you want a victory party, I would LOVE to host it!

Email jen@hautmondeevents.com

Anonymous said...

congrats David you have done an excellent job representing in these olympic games and you are just beginning! -04 hu mid distance girl

LaLa said...

I look forward to reading/hearing all of your interviews. Thanks for inviting us along your journey!

Harp03 said...

Congrats! All of Denver has been rooting for you. You probably don't remember me, my name is Marcus Harper I went to East class of 2003. When I first heard about your track success both collegiate and post-grad, it really was no surprise. - Freshman year during varsity football practice you gave me a display of you athleticism. I thought I was fastest around, and we were doing a kick-off scrimmage. I was on the kicking team and you were across from me on the receiving side. As soon as the ball was kicked, I thought, I would "burn" you and make the tackle. Boom, the ball was kicked, I turned on "the jets" thinking I left you in the dust. Running my fastest, I looked to my side you were keeping stride with me doing a fast jog. My fastest run was merely a jog to you! That was the first and only time, that I have been out of contention and embarrassed in terms of speed. The reason I brought that story up is because if there was anybody that I have met through out life who I would think could have been an Olympian, it would have been you. And now it's official Congratulations, Stay up, and tell Lee I said whats up.

IamSomebody said...

Congratulations to you!!! It is amazing to know that wonderfully talented people such as yourself represent our country!!!

Anonymous said...

Wow, what an accomplishment! Everybody is so proud of you. You've definitely inspired me to stop slacking off on these hurdles and maybe I'll make it to London in 2012!


Anyway, I have a question but it's kinda weird. I know you're really busy and probably won't answer, but I asked my coaches and they just gave me a really funny look. Can transgendered athletes compete in the Olympics? One of my teammates is going to have an op to become a woman, and I'm wondering what's gonna happen to his career after that.

Anonymous said...

You are a fantastic person and I would give anything in ths world to me you. You seem to be very down to earth and don't allow all the hype to get to you. I watched every single race and if you heard how I was shouting in my house routing for you..lol..it was just rediculous. My mom was like "you would swear you knew who this man was personally". It's really always a blessing to see one of our very own doing such a fantastic jobn; keep it up beause we are all routing for you. I'm hitting you up all the way from the US Virgin Islands, so you know you're getting love from all over. Take care! www.myspace.com/nrw24

Anonymous said...

David: You were awesome. You represented yourself and the United States in a very positive manner. Best of luck in your future endeavors, and hopefully we'll see you in London in 2012!
UPSers were behind you all the way!

blackbrown said...

I'm sure you've been told congratulations 1000 times, but here's another. And thank you for how you represent. Your talent and humility is worth praise. There are a generation of children that adore atheletes, but all aren't worth looking at. Thank you for being human, but being admirable out there. We sistas love to see it. One love always.

Anonymous said...

As a fellow HU c/o '04er, I am so proud...I didn't really know you but I'm proud nonetheless. Its beautiful to see anyone succeed at something they love but for some reason you make it seem more real. I am almost tempted to quit my job and figure out what I really want to do with my life but rent is due next week so that isn't really an option. Thanks for the motivation, congratulations and I wish you and your family many continued blessings.

Anonymous said...

so proud of you!! congrats and loved your recap of your once in a lifetime opportunity to represent the U.S.!

Anonymous said...

Beijing is a truly amazing place. I hope that you got the chance to experience the true culture outside of the Olympic venue. You deserve the treat. Great Job!!!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on all of your accomplishments, David!!!

Anonymous said...

Hey David,

You’re not just an outstanding athletic but you’re extremely intelligent and I’ve enjoyed reading your blogs and hope that you will continue to write long after the Olympics. Oh and off course you’re the sexiest thing in Beijing. May God continue to bless you. ONE!

Anonymous said...

So many people are so very proud of you. All that you have accomplished, and to see that you are just a stand up person is really amazing. May God continue to bless you!

MissLee said...

You're are one sexy, handsome, special young man. It has been a great pleasure watching you express yourself athletically. Best wishes to you and your family. Have a safe trip home. Every new beginning comes from some other beginnings end.

uptownqt said...

Congrats on your medal!! You are a spectacular athelete!! get in touch oneuptowngirl@att.net

Anonymous said...

David,

CONGRATULATIONS!!! I'm really happy for you! God will always bless you as long as you know you are his child. I'm sure you never knew DJ Scratch . . lol would hold that Olympic medal, but you had to be DJ Scratch to get to your destiny!

Stay humble and watch out for Fame . . . don't you dare allow it to change you because God has created a Masterpiece!

The media can be a friend just as well as an enemy but God will never forsake you! Stay true to David Oliver because one of your dreams have become reality!

Your proud fan,
Reality from the ATL :-)

P.S. You are an amazing blogger. I look forward to your updates. You the MAN :)

SheJay Scarlett DaStarlett said...

“To be yourself in a world that is constantly trying to make you something else is the greatest accomplishment.”
-Ralph Waldo Emerson

Hi David! Strange how people are proud of people they dont know. Im a big sports fan, so between the Olympics, Football, and TiVo... well, I've been watching you. I want to congratulate you on your accomplishments at the Olympics, you've done VERY WELL! Wishing you and your family all the best.

SCARLETT

Anonymous said...

Congrats on such a wonderful accomplishment!! Your blogs have been a great way for those of us who couldn't make it to Beijing to really feel like we were there cheering you on! =)

Your attitude and professionalism along with your God given natural ability on that track is amazing! Keep up the great work and I'll definitely continue to follow your future accomplishments!

I used to work at the Sports Complex at Disney, so it's always exciting to watch some of our athletes that have trained/competed there!

Keep it up & have a safe trip back to the US!!

Much love!
-Mandy

Anonymous said...

I think that what you wrote about Asafa was nice, He didnt do that well in the 100m and some of people here in the Caribbean were hard on him but you know what, none of them every ran an olympic race infront of thousands of people from all over the world. I mean thst is pretty big stuff. I am glad he got his chance to shine. Congrats with your medal, you should be proud of what you have accomplished. I have 2 trophies. One I got when I was 13 for the highest marks in my year group and the other for graduating university. They make me feel very good so i can't even imagine how you feel having an OLYMPIC medal :-) bye.

thejoyfulbee said...

David,

I just wanted to commend you on a fantastic run in the 110 m hurdles final. You gave it your all ! and once you have done your best I am sure you know God will handle all the details.

I celebrate along with my fellow countrymen and women the phenomenal and amazing blessings that have been bestowed on my country, Jamaica in these Olympics but at the same time I wanted to congratulate you on your fantastic run.

God bless and look forward to seeing you blazing down the track in 2012 in London.

One Love,
MMD

Kingston,Jamaica

Anonymous said...

aww...how sweet.
What's next?
Are you gonna take a break or a rest? Or are you going to DISNEYLAND? lol

Natalie said...

David,
First off A BIG CONGRATS!!!! You should be VERY proud of yourself!!! Amazing job! Thanks for representing the U.S.A.!
Second, I really appreciated that you wrote,
"At the end of the day there are billions of people who will never get the opportunity to partake in the Olympic Games."
So true... What a humble, realistic view! I am proud that your able to realize that and "cherish every moment."
That is what life is all about...
Life is so short but making these memories are the threads that are woven into our lives...
Lastly, you did "affect peoples lives in a positive way!"
Stay encouraged and my prayer is that the joy you feel right now will be with you always! GREAT JOB!!!

168yonem said...

wow i m really impressed well i wish i could b like u well they say everyone has their own talent i wish i had one like yours! haha maybe one day.... congratulations on your achievement

Alana Skye said...

Yo! Again, congrats! Hopefully I will see you at homecoming! You made all of us proud!

Alana Wright
C/of 2005

Treasure said...

Hey hope you have/ had (depending on when you read this) a nice, relaxing flight with "extra pillows and seat back love" and no lost luggage or delays!

Congrats again and thanks for sharing your journey with us.

Internal Beauty said...

I’ve continued to watch you throughout the Olympics and you've done an amazing job! You make me wanna start running hurdles again!! =) I know you're family and friends are proud of you! God Bless!!

Anonymous said...

I just wanted to congratulate you on your awesome performance in Bejing! As a native in Denver I was proud of how you represented Colorado and even more important how well you represented the USA! Congratulations and enjoy your triumph, you certainly deserved it!!!

د/ هالة(صيدلانية) said...

wonderful
Good luck

Follow you from Egypt
But my blog in Arabic

Anonymous said...

Hi David, It's such an honor to be an Olympian, why do athletes always rush off and skip the closing ceremonies. I would think people would never want the experience to end.

Anonymous said...

Congratulations darling! Enjoy every moment of it. You have worked so hard to get here.

Unknown said...

Hello David:
I am susie,a volunteer of Dalian Universiry!Really nice to find your blog here.Congratulations to you for getting a Bronze Medal in the olimpics.It's late but sincere.
aha,wishing you a nice trip in beautiful Beijing...

Anonymous said...

Great !! All won!

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on all you've accomplished! You're talented AND gorgeous.

Brianna said...

ughh. all i keep hearing is how attractive that hurdler guy is! enough already!!!!

k. carli said...

Yes David, the flag you mentioned in your previous posting did represent all of your hard work. It is so refreshing to see that humility can be used to describe well known athletes such as yourself. Continue to work hard, keep God first, and listen to your Mom :0) and you will be sure to see all of your dreams become reality. Be safe and see you in London...

Aams said...

Awesome job. Congratulations!!! Have a safe flight.

Anonymous said...

I'm gonna make this super short and say a big **CONGRATS** on your Olympic accomplishments. May God continue to bless you and your family (and may you never have to eat anymore rice and cereal) ;-)

~*~*~

Shavonne Sade' said...

...So im intrigued, wats next for you? Now that you are a bronze medalist, where is your head (or heart) taking you next?

Anonymous said...

hey...congrats. wat now?

Anonymous said...

I wanted to be the first to say, you are sooooo handsome! Why beat around the bush, so every woman that wanted to say it...well I did it for them. You also did an outstanding job in Beijing :)
God Bless>>>>>taylorg_2@hotmail.com

shannel said...

its a crime to look that good in those shorts

SheJay Scarlett DaStarlett said...

Wow! Looks like you are the most wanted man in the Olympics this year. Will they still be acting like this if your accomplishments were different? If you weren't on TV? It's great to want... Greater to be wanted... But let'em know. Wisdom over-powers desperation. Again, you did your thing, a good feeling to be among the best huh?
S-LETT

Shequeta said...

So proud of you hon! Congrats! Have a safe trip home. I'm on blogger too check me out.

www.theblackhollywoodfiles.com

Anonymous said...

Mad props, Mr. Oliver! 'bout time you realized your true talent was hurdling and that you can't medal in an Olympics-level spades tournament! j/k.

Penthouse for life- and I'll buy you a couple rounds of drinks if I run into you at HU Homecoming...

Anonymous said...

Congratulations on your Olympic Medal. I'm so pleased for your success. Continued good health, safe travels and most excellant performances. Truly looking forward to seeing your medal in person. PS your physique truly looks amazing and that's from a trained eye lol
God Bless your efforts my friend,
Dr. C

Tanya said...

Congratulations on your accomplishments in China. Your blog has been an inspiration to me. As school started last week I shared your blog with my students as a testimony for hard work and perseverance. You have touched many lives without even meeting these children. I hope you continue to do great things. You are a great role model. Congratulations again on your medal. Take care.

T

Unknown said...

Hey David,
I wanted to be a part of the many to congratulate you so here goes: "CONGRATULATIONS!!!!"
There was such a positive aura and gratefulness that you gave off after your race, that I wanted to find out more about you. You have had such an amazing journey and it is truly motivating! Thanks for keeping it gansta on this blog:) I wish you all the best in your ventures ahead!
If you get a moment-give me a shout out. My blog is just getting started...peace out!!

Kairi said...

First let me say, your BEAUTIFUL!!!! I'm guessing you probably know that already, but I thought I'd tell you just in case you hadn't heard it today:)

I've been following you since the trials, and quickly became a fan. Continue to stay focused and always keep God first, cause with Christ you can have more than you ask or think! Congrats on winning the bronze, and much success in the future!

P.S. I have a serious crush on you, but I bet you hear that everyday too;)

NayCake said...

congratulations on everything and the medal david!
i really do hope u will be in london in 2012
i will try my hardest to make it there especially if u will be competing =]