David Roth is an American singer-songwriter and author. He is best known for his poem "Nine Gold Medals," which tells the story of a 100-meter race at the Special Olympics. The poem is a celebration of the true spirit of the Special Olympics, which is about more than just winning and losing. It is about the importance of teamwork, cooperation, and helping others.
Roth was born in New York City in 1947. He began writing songs and poems at a young age, and he eventually went on to study music at the Berklee College of Music. After graduating from Berklee, Roth began performing his songs in clubs and coffeehouses around New York City. He also began writing for various magazines and newspapers.
In 1976, Roth wrote the poem "Nine Gold Medals." The poem was first published in the magazine Sing Out!, and it quickly became a popular anthem for the Special Olympics. The poem has been translated into many languages, and it has been read and performed by people all over the world
POEM:
The athletes had come from all over the country
To run for the gold, for the silver and bronze
Many weeks and months of training
All coming down to these games.
The spectators gathered around the old field
To cheer on all the young women and men
The final event of the day was approaching
Excitement grew high to begin.
The blocks were all lined up for those who would use them
The hundred-yard dash and the race to be run
These were nine resolved athletes in back of the starting line
Poised for the sound of the gun.
The signal was given, the pistol exploded
And so did the runners all charging ahead
But the smallest among them, he stumbled and staggered
And fell to the asphalt instead.
He gave out a cry in frustration and anguish
His dreams and his efforts all dashed in the dirt
But as sure as I’m standing here telling this story
The same goes for what next occurred.
The eight other runners pulled up on their heels
The ones who had trained for so long to compete
One by one they all turned around and went back to help him
And brought the young boy to his feet.
Then all the nine runners joined hands and continued
The hundred-yard dash now reduced to a walk
And a banner above that said (Special Olympics)
Could not have been more on the mark.
That’s how the race ended, with nine gold medals
They came to the finish line holding hands still
And a standing ovation and nine beaming faces
Said more than these words ever will.
The poem begins by portraying a gathering of athletes from all corners of the world participating in the Special Olympics, aiming to win gold, silver, and bronze medals. The stanza highlights their extensive training, dedicated for months, to compete in these prestigious events.
In the following verse, the poem describes the enthusiastic audience cheering for the participants throughout the day, especially during the eagerly anticipated hundred-meter race. Nine athletes, eager to win, prepare behind the starting line, awaiting the sound of the gun.
At the race's commencement, an unforeseen incident occurs – the shortest athlete stumbles and falls, shattering his dreams and hard work. He expresses frustration and pain, feeling his aspirations crumble before him.
However, the poem takes a heartwarming turn as the other athletes, witnessing the fallen competitor, display exceptional sportsmanship. They pause, return to assist him, and together, hand in hand, walk towards the finish line, foregoing the competitive nature of the race.
In a beautiful display of compassion and teamwork, the athletes win nine gold medals collectively, and the Special Olympics banner unites them under the spirit of camaraderie. The sight of these smiling athletes profoundly touches the audience, delivering a powerful message about human kindness and empathy.
In conclusion, the poem's essence lies in celebrating the true meaning of the Special Olympics, where sportsmanship, compassion, and unity shine brightly. The heartfelt experience depicted in the poem transcends its mere words, leaving a lasting impression on its readers.
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