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Why Tulsans should take a chance with the 2020 Summer Olympics.
First off, let me just say that I am not against taking chances, even ones that seem impossible.
That being said, I was shocked to hear that certain Tulsans are pushing for us to host the 2020 Summer Olympics. Honestly, I thought it was a joke at first. My initial reaction was one of confusion and a bit of frustration.
Why was I frustrated? Well, because while it would be completely amazing to host the Olympics, I just don't see that as a priority.
Or maybe I should say, I didn't see it as a priority now that this idea has been rattling around in my head over the holidays. I am starting to see the whole situation in a new light.
A few years ago, when the BOK Center was still in the planning stages, there was a large vocal chunk of the community opposed to the entire idea. Their way of thinking was similar to the way I was thinking a couple of weeks ago. Why, they thought, should we build this giant arena when there are potholes that need to be filled and schools that need renovation? And they didn't know that it would go on to be one of the most successful venues in the nation. And to be fair, neither did the supporters. It was a gamble.
But we took it and it has paid off more than we could have ever imagined.
In the wake of this recent winter storm, which have left the roads worse than ever, and in a time when the city and state are struggling with budget concerns, I would totally understand someone's opposition to the Olympics.
Sometimes we need to take a chance. And after much thought, and a 180 degree turn, I feel that we should give this a shot. Not for the economic boost, which would be amazing. Not for the spotlight. Not even for the bragging rights. We need to do this because we need the kind of confidence and esteem to believe that we are a city that can do this. The more we strive for something great, the less likely our citizens will be to settle for the status quo.
Go for it!
