The number one reason we love the Olympics?
Because unlike the Tom Bradys and LeBron Jameses of the world, Olympians are real, relatable, sympathize-able people. And never is that more apparent than we watch Olympians fail and cry real, relatable, sympathize-able tears, like French track athlete Wilhem Belocian did last night.
Belocian came to Rio for a shot at a medal in the 110-meter hurdles. And then that shot was heart-wrenchingly taken away from him.
The 21-year-old fell victim to a brutal Olympic rule: one false start and you’re out. Belocian immediately noticed his mistake — and the young athlete didn’t take the news lightly.
He fell to the track with this head in his hands crying in disbelief at his error, which cost him the opportunity to show off everything he’s trained for. But Belocian isn’t the only one T.O.’d at the strict false start rule, and his tears definitely got the world’s attention.
The runners that false start. I want to rend my garments and don sackcloth and ashes. #Rio2016
— JenHatmaker (@JenHatmaker) August 16, 2016
You only get one false start then get sent home and told you wasted four years of your life for nothing? That seems harsh.
— Feitelberg (@FeitsBarstool) August 16, 2016
One false start and you’re out. Multiple failed drug tests and you’re in…ok makes sense!
— Clayton Parros (@Cparros) August 16, 2016
the one false start = DQ rule might be the worst rule in all of sports
— öh yoü beaüty (@natefc) August 16, 2016
This hurdle race just broke my heart. The guy from France didn’t mean to false start. How can the rule be one and out?!?!?! HOWWWWW?
— Akilah Hughes (@AkilahObviously) August 16, 2016
There’s always 2020, Wilhem.
Image via: FRANCK FIFE/AFP/Getty Images
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