Finding Victory in Defeat: Lessons from the Last Place Finishers

​As I write this article, the Paris Olympics are about to begin, marking another grand chapter in the history of sports. In a symbolic gesture, the Mayor of Paris has taken a swim in the Seine, opening the river to public bathing for the first time in a century, signalling a fresh start and new opportunities.
 
Reflecting on past Olympic Games, one can recall the disappointment faced by athletes like Zharnel Hughes and Daryll Neita during the Tokyo Olympics. Zharnel was disqualified due to a false start, resulting in a last-place finish, while Daryll came last in both the men's and women's 100 metres. The question arises: how does it feel to come last, and how did they handle this setback?
 
To be sure, the initial feeling of coming last must have been one of disappointment and frustration. However, with time and reflection, both athletes would have recognised the significant achievement of simply reaching the Olympic finals. Out of countless competitors, they were among the top eight sprinters in the world at that moment, competing against the very best and pushing them to their limits.
 
But the journey didn't end there for Zharnel and Daryll. They transformed their setbacks into stepping stones for future success. Over the next three years, Daryll Neita emerged as a consistent performer, securing a series of bronze medals at the European and Commonwealth levels and becoming a formidable rival to the UK's top sprinter, Dina Asher-Smith. Her resilience and determination propelled her to new heights.
 
Zharnel Hughes’ journey was even more dramatic. He broke both UK national sprint records in the 100 and 200 metres, becoming the fastest British athlete ever. He also clinched a bronze medal at the World Championships. Zharnel attributes his success to learning to relax and not placing undue pressure on himself, demonstrating a remarkable shift in mindset.
 
So, what lessons can we draw from Zharnel and Daryll’s experiences? These lessons aren't just for the great achievers among us but for everyone, especially those accustomed to coming last or not making the top ranks.
 
Appreciate Your Little Victories 
Often, our small achievements might seem insignificant to others, but they are milestones for us. Whether it's someone listening to our idea in a lesson, achieving our highest score in a test, or making the substitute bench for a match, these are victories worth celebrating. Take pride in these moments and let them be a source of personal joy and motivation.
 
Use Setbacks as Motivation 
Let these little victories inspire you to aim higher. Don't rest on your laurels; instead, let each achievement propel you towards greater goals. Use setbacks as stepping stones, learning experiences that drive you to improve and excel.
 
Support and Celebrate Others 
Be mindful of those around you who may feel downhearted or see themselves as failures. Point out their victories and celebrate their successes with them. Encouragement can make a world of difference, helping others to see their worth and potential.
 
In life, as in sports, coming last is not the end but a part of the journey. It teaches resilience, determination, and the importance of celebrating every step forward. Just as Zharnel and Daryll turned their setbacks into triumphs, we too can find victory in our defeats and inspire those around us to do the same.