With the 2010 Winter Olympics just around the corner this month, other than having lots of talent, I thought a little info on what it takes to make it to the Olympics might be interesting.
According to Forbes.com the investment into an athlete is staggering.
*First off there is the investment of dedication. Most Olympic contenders are still young and in high school or college. Educations are often interrupted or sacrificed with the kids either dropping out of school or barely attending, and completion of college is almost unheard of.
*Then there is the financial investment. So much money goes into equipment, training, gym time, travel, and dues. Depending on the sport and what is involved to get to an elite level determines how much you spend. A speed skater can spend $13,500 a year. Downhill skiers spend from $6000-$30,000 a year. Figure skating can cost the most with the private ice time, lessons, costumes, and equipment you're looking to spend over $100,000!
*Are there "bargin" Olympic sports? On the lower end of the spending range is cross country skiing and curling, lower equipment costs and more financial backing helps keep the costs low.
