Meikayla Moore at the 2024 Paris Olympics

The Olympics it is a phenomenon you watch as a youngster and feel like you could only dream of competing at. I certainly had that dream as a young child. My earliest Olympics memory is Sarah Ulmer and her 2004 Gold Medal in the 3km individual pursuit. Not only did she set a world record, but she was also the first New Zealander to win an Olympic cycling gold medal. I was an avid cyclist, and my training wheels did not last long. My daily ritual became consuming several Weetbix and biking to school, dreaming big. To be able to say I am a 3 times Olympian leaves me speechless. Despite knowing the work and time you put into a craft you never quite feel like it will ever completely sink in. I am immensely proud and honoured to wear the fern at such a prestigious event. At the Olympics you are not only embodying Football, but you are also representing the New Zealand Olympic team alongside 194 athletes.

That is empowering, standing with our country’s best athletes, and watching them compete in their own events is surreal. Unfortunately, that is a feeling only a limited number get to experience, and I am extremely grateful to be one of those lucky few.

The Olympics games in tandem with the Paralympic Games was a remarkable achievement for Paris, some are saying it was the greatest games yet. Not only did my own experience fuel the fire to keep committing to the game and all it affords me, but I am also feeling more inspired witnessing others do what they love on one of the world’s biggest stages. I cannot help but be in absolute awe of the Paralympic competitors who are powerful forces beyond measure.

As always, I am extremely grateful to HHG and their ongoing support.

Also, to my incredible family and partner who made the trip over to Paris to support me, having them in the stands was grounding, comforting, and uplifting.