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A smile and a medal for Ukraine. Photo courtesy Fastbreak Connect.
By Ray Glier
GAINESVILLE, Fla.____Wherever they walked___or ran, or threw___here this week at the World Masters Athletics championships, the athletes from Ukraine were met with compassion.
Compassion doesn't take sides or have to be political.
Their country has been invaded and bombed and parts of it occupied by Russia. Many civilians have died. The Ukrainian athletes carried some of that sorrow and desperation here to the U.S. All were grateful for the humanitarian and military support from the U.S.
Tetiana Nasonova won the country’s first gold medal Tuesday in the Women’s (45-49) Weight Throw.
“It means everything,” said Nasonova. “My son’s town is under occupation and in the line of fire. Every day there is bombing, and I am so grateful to come to the United States and win gold for him and my country.”
Ukraine’s Natalia Radionova’s won the bronze medal in the Women’s (50-54) hammer on Wednesday. It was her second medal of the games. On Monday, she won silver in the Women’s (50-54) Weight Throw.
“I dedicate both medals to the people of Ukraine,” said Radionova. “My hometown is completely destroyed, and I am now training in France. It’s a big deal. It’s important to show the people of the world that we are still alive.
***
I saw Flo Meiler, 90, near the awards stage with her back and fast asleep in one of the lounge chairs.
She was accomplishing two things. One, getting rest after setting three world records (60 meter hurdles, high jump, pentathlon). Two, saving her energy by staying close to the awards stage. She will be back again and again.
Flo's legacy will forever be "It's never too late" as she says. She started track & field at 60.
**
Two photos caught my attention from shaggysphotos.com.
One is the modest contingent of Ukrainians at the Opening Ceremonies. The other was the U.S. team and flag passing by the section of stands with the Canadian team. The northern neighbors are applauding, some are standing and applauding. There's some ill will going on between the two countries, but not here.
(story written with contribution from WMA Communications staff)
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