The USA Women’s Gymnastics Team has won gold at the Paris Olympics. The secret to their success includes lots of practice and mental preparation. A very special member joined the team during training sessions and preliminary competitions. Therapy dog Beacon is a golden retriever who travels with the Olympic gymnastics team.
Beacon, owned by Tracey Callahan Molnar from California, is a four-year-old golden retriever. He became a fan favorite and viral video sensation during the Olympic Trials in Minneapolis. Beacon and several other therapy dogs were present, but Beacon grabbed the spotlight. Fans loved watching him as he was cuddling and playing with the gymnasts on the sidelines.
Beacon’s owner is a former gymnastics coach, so volunteering her time to support the team was a simple choice. The idea of having therapy dogs with the team is one result of Simone Biles making the mental health of athletes a front-page subject. Many Olympic-level competitions are stressful, and several athletes have stated how grateful they are for the golden retriever’s presence.
Tracey Molnar uses her experience as a gymnastic coach and dog handler skills to determine where Beacon’s services are needed. Beacon is also a good judge of being where he needs to be. He responds to his name but can also sense when an athlete needs him.
Due to logistical issues associated with overseas travel, Beacon could not travel to Paris with the team. However, the golden retriever and his owner cheered on the Olympic gymnastics team as they won the gold. Beacon has made his mark on the world of gymnastics. We will probably continue seeing therapy dogs at future competitions.
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