Watching the Rio Olympic Games 2016 can be nerve-wracking for normal viewers. There is anxiety, worry, and excitement as Olympians go through their routines in the international competition. If this event is too nail-biting for an audience who has no relation to the athlete whatsoever, imagine the emotional rollercoaster their parents go through as they watch their child compete.
On Tuesday, August 9, five young American gymnasts -- Simone Biles, Laurie Hernandez, Gabby Douglas, Madison Kocian, and Aly Raisman -- won a gold medal in the women's team gymnastics competition. Their routines were nearly flawless, but the stress and joy of the whole thing were evident on the faces of their parents.
Madison's father, Thomas, had an intense expression on his face as his 15-year-old daughter did her routines on bars, her specialty. Thomas didn't move or smile the whole time, but jumped up and pumped his fist in the air when Madison nailed her dismount, according to the New York Times.
Douglas' mother, Natalie Hawkins, was composed as her daughter did her impressive handstands on the uneven bars. The 20-year-old's mother watched in rapt attention while gripping her cellphone.
Biles' complex and almost perfect floor routine showcased her signature move called "The Biles." The 19-year-old's mother, Nellie, was emotional and tearful while Biles did her stunts. After the routine, she hugged her husband, Ron, and their daughter, Adria.
Hernandez's father, Anthony, was also a picture of composure and concentration as the 16-year-old gymnast performed her floor routine. After the performance, a wide smile was seen on Anthony's face.
"I'm ecstatic. I can't believe this is happening. I mean, pinch me," Anthony gushed, as quoted by the New York Times.
Lynn and Rick Raisman, Aly's parents, looked extremely tense and was squirming from side to side during the 22-year-old's almost flawless performance on the balance beam. Later, Lynn admitted that she was so nervous that she actually watched her daughter's performance through her fingers.
Lynn said her nervousness comes from knowing how much effort Aly invested for her sport. Lynn saw "how many hours she's prepared and how hard she is on herself," LifeZette reported. But ultimately, like any parent, Lynn wants Aly to "be happy and go out there and do the best performance she can do."
Parents' investment in their child's athletic goals is huge. There's the potential retirement funds going to the kid's sports trainings instead, the injuries the young athletes have sustained, and the consoling and encouragement when the going gets tough. Those sacrifices, however, are definitely worth it once they see their child step into a competition and succeed in what he/she has trained hard for.
