Witnessing "The Boys in The Boat" Live at the 2024 Paris Olympics
Last January, I sat in a movie theater wiping away tears at the end of the newly released film, "The Boys in the Boat." I never imagined that eight months later I’d be witnessing a real-life version of that epic story unfold right before me at the Paris Olympics.
The atmosphere at the Vaires-sur-Marne Nautical Stadium was electric and buzzing with anticipation. It was like a scene straight out of the movie. Michael Grady stood on the podium, his gold medal gleaming against his chest. With tears in his eyes and his hand firmly over his heart, the American national anthem played, marking a momentous victory for Team USA.
For the first time in 64 years, the USA clinched gold in the Olympic men's four rowing event. Grady, along with his own “boys in the boat” – Nick Mead, Justin Best, and Liam Corrigan – powered through a grueling 2,000-meter race, finishing in 5:49.03. Just behind them, New Zealand clocked in at 5:49.88, while Great Britain, the 2023 World Champions, took bronze with a time of 5:52.42. Grady’s emotions were palpable as he soaked in the win.
"A few tears almost came out. I can say I held them back – not toxic masculinity or anything – but it's really an emotional moment to be able to represent the USA on the highest stage and walk away in the most successful position. Not a lot of people can say that," he shared with USA TODAY.
The scene was pure magic. Flags from various nations fluttered in the breeze, and fans armed with noisemakers cheered loudly, banging them against their legs in support. The smell of freshly baked pastries and drinks from the concession stands filled the air, while spectators from around the globe gathered to witness the historic race.
The intense heat added an extra layer of challenge, but a friendly French woman roamed the crowd with fans that doubled as Team France posters, offering much-needed relief. "You must cheer for France if I give you this," she said, winning over hundreds of new supporters.
With Mead at the bow and Corrigan at the stroke, USA claimed an early lead, holding strong through each 500-meter checkpoint. This victory marks a huge comeback, considering it had been Team USA’s first gold in the men’s fours since the Rome Games in 1960.
The race was a nail-biter, with the crowd matching its intensity. As Team USA neared the finish line, chants of "USA! USA!" erupted from the stands.
"It's incredible to actually be here and see our team win," an enthusiastic fan decked out in the American flag exclaimed. "We've waited a long time for this, and it feels amazing to witness history."
Nearby, Canadian fans joined in the celebration, having traveled from North America to soak in the Olympic atmosphere. Their camaraderie with American fans added to the international spirit of the event.
While waiting in line at a bakery, a board member for Team Great Britain shared his excitement.
"Working for Team Great Britain has been an amazing journey, and Paris has brought a new level of excitement. I’ve been to the last three games, but this is my first time at a rowing event, and the atmosphere is beyond what I could have imagined," he said.
As the Paris Games continue, the triumph of Grady, Mead, Best, and Corrigan will be remembered, marking the return of American excellence in Olympic rowing. The supportive crowd, the colorful international presence, and the shared joy of the event truly captured the essence of the Olympic spirit. It was a perfect tribute to "The Boys in the Boat," proving once again that when it comes to rowing, Team USA can still row their way to glory.