Congratulations to Jacquelyn Hart,
the winner of our Athlete
Gold Medal Mom™ Contest
View Jacquelyn’s original nomination,
submitted by her daughter, Bethany.
Jacquelyn stood out from all nominations received as an inspirational woman whose sincere love and dedication has helped her children achieve their dreams.
Bethany, a U.S. Olympic hopeful in Track and Field, nominated her mom Jacquelyn. Bethany states, “I have far surpassed any expectations I had for myself as an athlete, and it is because of the support and encouragement my mother showed me throughout my life. She has helped me persevere to achieve my goals and dreams, and I cannot thank her enough.”
Being a mom can be tough, and being the mom of an Olympic hopeful can be even tougher. We asked Jacquelyn if she has any favorite tips to pass on to other moms of athletes. Jacquelyn responded, “The passion for and commitment to the sport has to be the athlete’s, not yours. Even a mundane chore like driving your athlete to and from practices and competitions can be rewarding. In today’s hectic-paced life, it is important to take the time to talk and connect. My daughters and I have had some great conversations while in the car. In addition, a hug is an invaluable tool. No matter if things go well or not so well, after a competition a hug always says, “I love you and I am proud of your effort.”
Many life lessons learned are often passed down through generations. We asked Jacquelyn, if there was one thing learned from her mother that she is passing down to her children. “My mother has always made herself available to me as a sounding board. When facing decisions or problems, she listened without imposing her thoughts, ideas and solutions, and together we always came to a resolution. I have tried to raise my five daughters the same way. When they went off to college, I felt my job as a parent was done. I was always there to listen, support, encourage and offer advice, when asked, but the ultimate decisions and choices they made, good or bad, were theirs. I hope they will decide to parent in the same way.”
There are times when mothers see themselves in their children. We asked Jacquelyn if her children had ever used a piece of wisdom she once taught them, on her. Jacquelyn stated, “I’m not really crazy about being in the water, but several years ago I decided to try waterskiing. Suddenly the tables were turned, and those daughters I had so lovingly supported in all their athletic endeavors were now returning the favor with their patience and their words of encouragement. And after many, many, many tries, I did finally get up on those skis!”
Jacquelyn is a pillar of support for her family. With her everlasting encouragement and perseverance, she has helped her children achieve their dreams. We are proud to say Jacquelyn is our Gold Medal Athlete Mom.
Grand Prize Includes:
- Fly round-trip coach air transportation to Beijing, China
- Four (4) nights standard double-occupancy hotel accommodations
- Two (2) tickets to each of four (4) 2008 Olympic Games events
- Breakfast daily for four days, two lunches and two dinners
- $6,000 check for spending money
- Ground Transportation to and from events
- Onsite Program Manager and bilingual host to accompany guests
