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By Elizabeth Faletti, BASOC Volunteer
Olympian Katrina Radke brings her extensive experience and training in working with people to the position of BASOC's Director of Olympian Relations. As the liaison between Northern California Olympians, BASOC, and events, Katrina connects our Olympic role models with Bay Area youths, communities, and service organizations.
When did swimming become a part of your life?
I started swimming when I was about 7 years old in Morris, MN. I started swimming mainly because my two older brothers were going to the swimming pool. I loved the water! I first competed in local meets where our town would compete with other local towns.
Who has been the most influential person in your swimming and non-swimming life and why?
There are many people who have influenced my life, not only people I have met but people I have read about. My parents and coaches have always had a great impact on who I am and in supporting me in swimming. School teachers also had an impact on me. I believe that we gain a lot from people in our lives if we let them teach us and inspire us. Ultimately, I am most influenced when I am internally motivated and am willing to allow my own self to speak to me, to trust my own guidance.
What is your most memorable Olympic moment?
I have many. One of my most memorable Olympic moments is being able to meet many people from different countries before the opening ceremonies and getting pictures taken with them. I was reminded of what the Olympic Games represent: all people coming together with a common bond, being able to transcend our human limitations as we pursue our dreams of reaching our peak potential.
Another moment I will never forget is walking through the tunnel into the stadium for the opening ceremonies and hearing the roar of the people cheering us on and the amount of flags and colors throughout the stadium. My heart was singing! This moment represents a culmination of years of training, fun times, and learning as I was in the process of reaching the place to be able to participate in the Olympic Games.
What are you doing professionally today?
I am a trained marriage and family therapist, am pursuing acting, and have been an executive in the healthcare industry. I am also currently working on the bid to bring the Olympic Games to the San Francisco Bay Area in 2012!
Are you still involved in swimming?
I still get in the water. I love being in the water-it is soothing and fun! I feel at peace and in the moment while in the water. I hold private lessons with kids and stay current on what is going on for the future of the sport of swimming.
Why do you feel the Olympic Games should come to San Francisco in 2012?
San Francisco has so many things to offer the world. As an athlete, it is the best place in terms of weather. Internationally, this is the top place to travel. People can enjoy the City as well as the ocean and mountains. We have it all here! And, of course, friendly, fun loving people who enjoy life!
Lastly, the people who are involved in this bid effort bring their expertisefrom all industries to create the best possible Olympic Games conditions. Our bid is unique, also, because it is headed by an Olympian, Anne Cribbs. This is a testimony to the fact that Olympians want to make a difference in the future of sport, and also have the experiential knowledge to make a difference in making San Francisco THE place to host a spectacular Olympic Games!
Thanks Katrina and good luck any future endeavors as BASOC's Director of Olympian Relations. If you are an Olympian and would like to get involved with BASOC, please contact Katrina at katrina@basoc2012.org or 650.856.2234!
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