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London 2012 slogan ‘Inspire a generation.’ How will we judge it?


London 2012's chairman, Sebastian Coe, told a news conference at Kew Gardens: "I am delighted to announce the motto 'Inspire a generation'. With 100 days to go to the start of the Games, millions of people are getting ready to do the best work of their lives and welcome the world this summer. Expectations are high and we won't disappoint."

The 2012 Olympics in London will be great for many who watch (on TV, or in-person for the lucky ones with tickets). We will watch great performances and see missed opportunities. But will it ‘Inspire a generation?’

For me this will demonstrated in 2 ways
  1. With more athletes involved in sport staying the course, reaching international standards in competition (European, World, Olympic championships) 
  2. With more people becoming more active, reaching the Government / NHS DoH targets for activity, halting the increase in sedentary lifestyles and associated ill-health in the general (non-sporting) population
While international medal performances in championships are great to watch and great for the athletes who are performing, surely 2012 provides a great chance inspire our generation to become more active and therefore healthier. I believe that this should stand as the longer-term barometer of 2012 success. 

Dr Victor Thompson
www.sportspsychologist.com 
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