Adam Nelson went to Athens in 2004 as favourite to win gold for USA in the shot put. He lost by the slimmest of margins, took silver and continued with his life – until he was asked to meet an Olympics official at an airport food court By Jonathan Drennan for Behind the Lines, part of the Guardian Sport Network Adam Nelson had imagined what winning Olympic gold would feel like as a young boy growing up in Atlanta. The shot putter would stand tall on the top podium and close his eyes when he heard the Star-Spangled Banner played. He won Olympic gold as an adult, but the medal ceremony came nine years after he competed and it was considerably more humble than his childhood dreams. Among the hustle and bustle of travellers in Atlanta airport, Nelson sat down outside Burger King and was awarded his medal by an United States Olympic Committee official. His medal had been upgraded due to a competitor doping nine years earlier. Nelson’s road to recognition was far harder than any gruelling training session at the track. In 2004 shot putter Adam Nelson entered the ancient stadium at Olympia for his second Olympic Games. A harsh sun baked the dusty ground, dazzling the athletes and the spectators. The last time an Olympic event had taken place here, the ancient Greeks were using their sporting talents to impress Zeus, whereas Nelson just wanted a gold medal. He flexed his neck muscles, exhaled and stepped up to take his first throw. White chalk dust was spread all over his chin and thick neck. After spinning, he released the shot and yelled in ecstasy. He knew the throw was good and he took an early lead over his opponents. He was on course to achieve gold. Continue reading...
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