As we all know, the 2020 Olympics were postponed last year due to the concerns around the Coronavirus pandemic. They have been rescheduled for this summer beginning in July of 2021. I am Mitch Vanhille from Singapore, a Triathlete, aka the Triathlon beast, I have learned how to continue to run, and workout yet be safe during the pandemic. I am outdoors, sometimes passing other people who are running, and one never knows how others are truly feeling, if they have a cold, or are sick with something related to Covid, so I am extremely cautious. The Olympics is a huge gathering of people all over the world who come together to see some of the best athletes. Being around huge groups of people like that comes risks, especially during this global pandemic.
From my point of view, the International Olympics Committee needs to take these safety precautions during the games. First and foremost, all athletes need to journal their symptoms and temperatures for two weeks prior to the games. This is incredibly important as not every symptom of Covid has been the same from person to person. So being able to write everything down to show to the medical staff is what each athlete needs to do. After completing a two-week journal, each athlete needs to take a Covid test. Rapid Covid tests come back right away, so once the tests come back negative, then the athlete is cleared to continue in the Olympic games.
Once the athlete has been cleared to enter the Olympics, each person that goes through the doors to the surrounding area and main area at the Olympic Stadium must stay inside that perimeter the entire time they are there. If they absolutely must leave then they must take the rapid Covid test before entering the Stadium again. This is an added precaution I feel is important as everyone needs to remain safe during the process of the Olympics. The last thing anyone wants is to cause another spike in Covid numbers. These simple safety rules will protect everyone there.
Social Distancing is also especially important. While at the games, people must keep their distance from others trying to keep 6 feet apart. It is extremely helpful not having close contact. When you get too close to someone you are risking yourself and the other person a chance to still contract something that could be in the air. I know most people who have been vaccinated do not wear masks, and although it is not mandatory to get vaccinated to attend the Olympics, being vaccinated or not, wearing masks when you are not participating in the games is crucial. Just a few of my safety tips as I see some of my fellow athlete friends go to the Olympics participating in Track and Field. Good luck to you all and may you all stay safe and healthy!