The amount of training, hard work, sweat, and tears that every Olympic athlete builds up over the course of their preparation could overflow their massive swimming pools.
That's what makes it all the more heartbreaking when their dreams shatter due to an injury or unfortunate mistake.
In 1992, Derek Redmond suffered that bad luck when the British athlete began his dash at the 400-meter track in Barcelona, Spain. Though Redmond had a history of ailments, he felt confident as he stepped into the fifth lane and readied himself for the semifinal competition.
That self-assurance was sadly short-lived as he soon felt an agonizing pain in his hamstring, immediately collapsing to the ground while hundreds watched from the stands. Redmond, who had a fighting chance at the gold, now appeared to be totally defeated before ever really gaining momentum.
But he wasn't going to let the setback stop him from finishing, and one special person in the crowd helped make sure that Redmond crossed the finish line.
Just one year before this, Derek Redmond helped his team crush their United States opponents in the 1991 World Championship relay race.
However, that victory was overshadowed by this tragic Olympic moment.
His career was riddled with injuries over the years, usually involving his achilles tendon, but Redmond still managed to break the British record for speed in 1987 before finally making it to Barcelona.
After collapsing to the ground, he initially felt that he couldn't go on. Then, as he says, "I remembered where I was."
Redmond struggled to stand back up and began carefully hopping his way toward the finish line, the determination clear on his face.
And soon, he wasn't alone. A man from the stands made his way down to the track and despite staff members' attempts to stop him, he found his way by the athlete's side.
As soon as Redmond heard a voice shouting, "Derek, it's me," he knew it was his father hoisting him up and helping him finish what he started.
With his dad's encouragement, his emotions began to flow as they made their way back to his lane and to the end of the lane. Though it was certainly a disappointment, Redmond's persistence has inspired countless others to stick with their passions even when times get tough.
It's also a reminder of how powerful the support from a loved one can truly be.
Take a look at the clip below to hear more from Redmond about that historical day.
And don't forget to SHARE his story with your friends and family.
