Interview with Hunter Kemper
Hunter Kemper spoke to Atos Origin during his preparation for the Men’s Triathlon event
Beijing - 17 August
What is your strongest memory of the Beijing games?
There are so many! The opening ceremony, the team processing, getting special Nike equipment, the Team USA outfit, the size of the place, the fun of it all, the Olympic Village grocery card, so many things in fact that it’s unique.
This is my third Olympic Games but my first opening ceremony. It was such fun but so warm. It was wonderful to meet the other athletes, especially the NBA basketball guys. We talked and took pictures and even met the former President Bush Sr. The walking in the air to light the Olympic Flame was incredible, I loved every minute of it and have it on video. It was so very special and will always stay with me.
How do think you will perform?
I am feeling very good and believe I can be on the podium. However, I don’t want to create high expectations. Last year I have had lots of injuries and therefore could not perform maximum. I would like to enjoy the moments I have at the Games much more and get out the most every single day.
I know I am capable of winning a medal at the Games, however I have tough competitors. There are about 15 top athletes who have a chance and it all depends on variables of the day and technique. I am excited and feel free to get the most out of myself. I will try and enjoy the race as much as I can because it’s a one time to deal for triathlon and your body needs to be at its peak to be the best. (Hunter was 7th, less than one minute behind the gold medal winner)
In your opinion, what makes the Olympic Games so special?
It’s so unique to represent your country at such a big event, it’s very special being part of the USA team. We have a USA uniform and that only really happens for the military or the Olympic Games! Also being only every four years, you don’t get to take part in many during your career. I can make three which is special. Then there’s the opening ceremony, the 16 days of competition and looking forward to the next games in London.
Which athlete do you admire most from these games and why?
For me it has to be Cobe Bryant, the American basketball player. I talked to him during the Opening Ceremony for about 3-4 minutes and he’s so personal and down to earth. He tried to go and watch some of the men’s soccer matches but being a big NBA star and with the finals coming up it was considered too high a security risk. But he thought it was all a cool experience and wished me good luck in my sport.
If you could chose where the 2016 Olympic Games should be held where would it be and why?
I think that Chicago would host and showcase a great Olympic Games! It’s my home town and I feel a strong link with the Games, and it would be fantastic to have the family nearby for support.
What was living in the Olympic village like?
It was great! It’s so huge with 16,000 athletes and staff, and so many buildings. The suites are really nice, well built, apartments. And it’s amazing to have Mac Donalds in the Olympic Village as a sponsor!!!! It’s open 24 hours and there’s always a big rush. After the events and all the hard work most athletes eat there all together. There were buses around the village and facilities such as a disco club, a laundry, swimming pool, three dining halls, and more like a little city. In fact, it’s the biggest and nicest athletes’ village I’ve been in so far.
What was the biggest difference about being in China?
China is so dramatic. The opening ceremony was so spectacular and it’s also the idea of being part of the most watched Games in history and being able to showcase an event like the triathlon.
How did you use the support you received from Atos Origin?
I’ve known Atos Origin since 2004/5 and they are for me one of the best sponsors. I’ve been involved in speaking at their conferences and meeting clients and employees. I’ve also become involved in kids sports and trying to make it relevant way to kids, schools and universities. Financially, Atos Origin has been great to support me and it’s fun each year to be involved in more creative ways to help and repay Atos Origin through supporting their marketing campaign. In fact I find meeting all those people who are willing to support me a very enjoyable aspect of my work!