From Walpole to London: Approaching the Finish Line

Well saturday was a mix of emotions: excited for the final day's action on the track, yet down because it was the final part of my journey at the athletics venue. With Mo Farah going for the distance double (trying to win the 5 and 10k in a week's span) and Usain Bolt trying to break a world record with Jamaica in the 4x100m relay, I was super excited to get the day underway. But, I knew it would soon be over.

Arriving at the venue early, me and the other interns went to the track, walking a lap on the beautiful surface. Thats when it really hit me, that I was literally on the biggest stage in athletics. Posing for pictures at the finish line, we took it all in one last time.

When everyone from the NBC track and field crew arrived, a photographer took a family photo inside the stadium right around the torch. All of my new friends together one final time before our last production.

In the row next to mine was David and Jane Monti, the two people I owe this whole experience to. Without them taking me on for Race Results Weekly, I never would have begun to achieve my journalistic dreams. To David and Jane, I say a very heartfelt thank you.

Returning to the production compound, I took my normal spot in the truck. For the next four hours I watched and logged an amazing series of races, culminating in records falling and an ear-popping 80,000 strong rendition of "God Save The Queen".

While watching these races, I thought to myself how neat it was to be a part of the track and field broadcast team. Experiencing the production in front of me, and just thinking how millions will be watching what is being produced, witnessing the hard work and dedication the producers have put in behind the scenes was really cool. Working so closely with them, the best in the business, truly was an experience unlike any other.

After cleaning up and packing some tapes, we left the venue tired and sleepy at 2:30 a.m., but inspired to further pursue our dreams and reconvene at the next summer games, the 2016 Olympics in Rio.

Though my experience in London isn't yet over, a chapter has been completed with the conclusion of competition at Olympic Stadium.

Used With Permission From Ithaca College Sports Management and Media