You’ve got to have a dream | Editorial

It was great news this week when Marti Malloy confirmed to the Whidbey News-Times that she does plan to participate in the Oct. 18 Oak Harbor High School Homecoming Parade.

Most of us have seen the OHHS alumnus only on TV since she won the Bronze Medal in Judo at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.

It was the greatest individual achievement of any athlete in Whidbey Island history, and it didn’t come out of nowhere.

Malloy’s successes in judo has been highlighted in the pages of the Whidbey News-Times on many occasions over the years. Nearly 11 years ago, when she was only 15, the young judo expert told the News-Times that her goal was to compete in the Olympics and win a medal.

Without the power of foresight, her goal seemed unattainable to the average islander. How many kids have expressed the desire to play in the Big Leagues, Women’s National Basketball Association, the National Football League or National Basketball Association? Not a single native islander has ever achieved the highest level in these or other sports, such as hockey, golf, tennis or even horse shoes.

Only Marti Malloy had what it takes to reach the world stage and come out of it as one of the top three judo players, an honor that came with a coveted Olympic medal. Whidbey Island’s three high schools have graduated a lot of outstanding athletes over the years, but none ever came close to matching Malloy’s achievement.

Malloy’s Olympic dream goes back to her childhood when she was raised by a family in which seemingly everyone was into judo. She always aimed at the top, whether it was beating one of her brothers,  finishing third in the Grand Slam Paris this year or, finally, earning an Olympic medal.

Malloy’s dream marches on as she prepares for the World Championships next year, with the 2016 Olympics always in the back of her mind. Naturally, she’s thinking gold medal this time around.

Malloy has set an outstanding example for Whidbey Island children. Pursue your dream, be patient, practice, work harder than anyone, and your dream, too, can come true. Having Marti Malloy home in October to deliver her message will a delight to the entire community.

Not everyone can win an Olympic medal, but everyone can work hard while chasing a dream. Thanks, Marti, for showing our kids that hard work pays off.

 

 

 

 

 

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