Saw an interview with Stephen (?Steven - I should learn to spell his name!) tonight. His plan before arriving for the games was to repeat his bronze of four years ago. The tactics were to skate his best, get into the final, take rear position and assume / hope at least one would fall, hence opening the way for a place. He succeeded beyond his wildest dreams.
He stated that the win didn't feel quite right, but that was an appropriate reward for him and his parents, considering all the hard work and sacrifices over the past 13 years. (In his words, "Short Track is a low profile sport in Australia and there's no money in it").
This is his 3rd Olympics - and his last. It will feel better with time.
My wife and I (probably with many others) were proud of the humility he showed on his victory lap and on the dias - and the fact that he sang along with the national anthem - the first time it's been played at a Winter Olympics!
stales
