To run a gold medal-winning 100m sprint, almost everything has to go right: the start, the maximum acceleration, and the push to the finish.

When he executes properly, Usain Bolt, the fastest man alive, has one of the best starts in the sport.

On some train rides, the entire train oooos and ahhhhs and passengers nod their heads at each other as if to say, “Isn’t this just lovely?” The energy and excitement is palpable. On others, the change of scenery is simply noticed and it feels just like another journey.

During a four-hour layover in Manaus on my way to Rio to work at the Summer Olympic Games, I met an American guy. Let's call him Adam.

Have you ever seen a child trying to take their first step?

Everyone around them is cheering them on and urging them to get up and try again if (when) they fall. The effort alone is applauded and the successful first step is celebrated and talked about and remembered fondly.