What it’s like to cover the Olympic games, Pittsburgh athletes

PITTSBURGH — It’s the biggest event in the world, and it’s going to be oh so different this year!

There’s really nothing like being at the Olympics. There’s just so much excitement and energy that fills every venue in every host city, watching the best in the world do what they do best. And being there in person as a fan, you feel like you’re sharing in their spotlight and success.

I’m eager to see how the athletes work through what will be very challenging games this year in Tokyo under strict Covid-19 rules.

PHOTOS: Channel 11 Morning News anchor Gordon Loesch shares experience covering past Olympic games

The athletes I’ve met over the years have told me how they thrive on not only the cheers from fans but the support of their families and friends who often travel at great expense to celebrate with them.

This year, they won’t have any of that. Families are not allowed — not even local spectators.

ExpandAutoplay

Image 1 of 8

WPXI Gordon at Olympics Channel 11 Morning News anchor Gordon Loesch has covered the Olympics three times. (Gordon Loesch/Gordon Loesch)

As a journalist, I had the honor of covering the PyeongChang 2018, Rio 2016 and Vancouver 2010 Olympics Games with some talented professionals from WPXI.

And we quickly realized that the diversity of the fans from all over the world helps to make it all so special.

But in the end, it’s always been about the athletes, their dreams, their stories and their ability to overcome all obstacles that make us so proud. And I can’t wait to see how they rise up to face these new challenges.

Concerns about Covid-19 remain high ahead of Tokyo Olympics