What a joy it was to see the Olympic and Paralympic Games in Tokyo take place with athletes demonstrating their extraordinary talent, together with their gratitude to simply be able to compete.
Our thanks and congratulations are extended to the Australian Olympic Committee and Paralympics Australia for navigating the most challenging of circumstances and yet enabling an environment where athletes felt safe and ready to perform. The Tokyo Organising Committee and the Japanese community were wonderful in hosting and supporting the event despite what must have been a level of disappointment for them that they could not showcase the events to spectators and event partners.
So, this edition of the Pinnacle will provide you with unique insights into the experiences and performances of our athletes, coaches and staff at the Tokyo Games. Take a moment to enjoy, reflect and relive their journey over the last 5 years to arrive at the Games prepared to represent their country and compete at the highest level.
Of course, we are also in the final preparations for the next Games. The Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games will take place in Beijing during February and March and the Commonwealth Games in Birmingham in July/August. Whilst the challenges of domestic competition, let alone international travel remain, we offer our very best wishes for selection to all athletes who have set these events as their performance target.
This year has been busy for all at the Victorian Institute of Sport. In addition to managing our way through COVID-19 and supporting athletes to maintain some routine and training opportunities, we have also completed our new Strategic Plan, commenced our Reconciliation Action Plan, established an Alumni and through the strong support of Minister Martin Pakula secured a significant increase in funding for the Paris cycle. Our thanks are expressed to all who play an important role in enabling us to strive towards our Mission; Victorians are proud and inspired by our national and international sporting success and support our athletes to achieve Success in Sport and Life.
Anne Marie Harrison, VIS CEO
The Victorian Institute of Sport has two annual publications, Pinnacle Magazine and the Annual Review.
Image Credit: GettyImages
