In deze podcastserie, 'Derde Ronde van Los Angeles van 1932 tot 2028', verken ik samen met Boudewijn van Eijck de rijke geschiedenis van de Olympische Spelen, met een bijzondere focus op de edities van 1932 en 1984 in Los Angeles, alsook de aanstaande spelen van 2028. Wij zijn beiden fervente sportliefhebbers en delen onze passie door te reflecteren op memorabele momenten en verborgen verhalen uit het verleden, terwijl wij ook vooruitkijken naar de toekomst van de Olympische evenementen. In deze serie zullen wij niet alleen de sportieve prestaties van legendes zoals Carl Lewis en Michael Jordan bespreken, maar ook de perspectieven van atleten, coaches en verslaggevers die betrokken waren bij deze iconische gebeurtenissen. Wij nodigen u uit om ons te volgen, zodat u geen enkel aspect van deze fascinerende sportgeschiedenis mist. Onze eerste aflevering is gepland voor 25 augustus, en we zullen wekelijks nieuwe inzichten en anekdotes met u delen.

From 1932 to 2028: The Evolution of the Olympic Spirit in Los Angeles

Our podcast series embarks on an ambitious exploration of the Olympic Games, with a particular focus on the historical significance of the 1932 and 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles, as well as the forthcoming 2028 Games. Boudewijn van Eijck and Rik Bouman, two passionate sport enthusiasts, endeavor to provide listeners with an in-depth analysis that goes beyond the surface-level achievements of athletes, delving into the rich narratives and anecdotes that have shaped the Olympic legacy. This journey will not only celebrate past glories but also set the stage for future aspirations, creating a dialogue that bridges generations of sports history.

In each episode, we will engage with a variety of voices from the world of sports, including athletes who competed in the earlier games, coaches who shaped their journeys, and journalists who chronicled these historic events. By weaving together these diverse perspectives, we aim to paint a comprehensive portrait of the Olympic experience, shedding light on the triumphs, struggles, and cultural significance of these games. The podcast promises to uncover hidden stories that have been obscured by time but remain integral to understanding the essence of the Olympics.

As we anticipate the excitement of the 2028 Games, listeners are invited to reflect on the evolution of Olympic sports and the values they represent, such as resilience, determination, and international unity. By following our series, audiences will gain a deeper appreciation for the Olympics as a celebration of human achievement and a testament to the enduring spirit of competition that continues to inspire athletes and fans alike.

Takeaways:

• This podcast series titled 'Derde Ronde van LA' will explore the Olympic Games from 1932 to 2028.
• Boudewijn van Eyck and Rik Bouwman, both passionate sports enthusiasts, host this podcast.
• Listeners will be treated to historical anecdotes and insights about past Olympic events in Los Angeles.
• The series aims to provide a comprehensive perspective on the upcoming 2028 Olympic Games.
• Each episode will feature discussions with athletes, coaches, and journalists to enrich the narrative.
• The inaugural episode will air on August 25, providing a unique look into Olympic history.

Olivier Hortensius has been awarded the prestigious title of Sportman of the Year in Vlaardingen, a recognition that encapsulates both his dedication to the sport and his notable achievements. Despite expressing surprise at receiving this accolade, Olivier reflects on a year that was not particularly exceptional in terms of personal milestones, yet acknowledges the significance of his selection for the Dutch national hockey team. This episode delves into the emotional and physical challenges he faced after sustaining an injury just prior to his anticipated debut in Australia, an event that marked a profound moment in his athletic journey. We explore Olivier's formative years in hockey, his transition from local clubs to professional teams, and the mentorship he received from esteemed coaches and players. The conversation also illuminates his aspirations for future competitions, including the upcoming World Cup and the Olympics, underscoring his commitment to excellence in the sport.

The recent announcement of the Vlaardingen Sports Awards heralded a momentous occasion, particularly with the recognition of Olivier Hortensius as the esteemed Sportman of the Year. This accolade, bestowed upon him amidst a backdrop of modest achievements, elicited surprise from Hortensius himself, who recounted a year marked by neither exceptional triumphs nor groundbreaking milestones. Despite the inherent unpredictability of such honors, he expressed his astonishment at receiving the award, underscoring the significance of this recognition as he prepares for an upcoming pivotal moment in his athletic career: his selection for the Dutch national hockey team for the first time in 2024.

The conversation unfolded to reveal the profound honor associated with representing one's nation on an international stage, specifically during an imminent tour to Australia, where he was slated to compete against formidable opponents such as Australia and Spain. However, a twist of fate intervened; following an intensive training regimen, Hortensius sustained a hamstring injury that thwarted his debut, plunging him into a challenging emotional landscape. He candidly shared the psychological toll of this setback, accentuating the dreamlike anticipation that transformed into a distressing reality. Yet, amid adversity, Hortensius demonstrated resilience, choosing to focus on personal growth and rehabilitation, buoyed by the support of his teammates and medical staff.

In a reflective turn, Hortensius traced his journey back to his roots, recounting his early days at Pollux in Vlaardingen, where his passion for hockey ignited at a tender age. He reminisced about the unyielding enthusiasm that characterized his childhood, illustrating how such fervor laid the foundation for his current trajectory. As the dialogue progressed, he delineated his evolution as a player, emphasizing his offensive prowess and technical aptitude, qualities that propelled him from grassroots hockey to the professional realm. The discourse culminated in a hopeful outlook towards future competitions, particularly the forthcoming World Cup in the Netherlands and Belgium, as well as the Olympic Games in Los Angeles, which loom on the horizon as ultimate aspirations for any athlete.

Through this narrative, the episode encapsulates not only the journey of an athlete grappling with the duality of triumph and tribulation but also the broader themes of persistence, ambition, and the intrinsic love for the sport that fuels one’s aspirations. It serves as a poignant reminder of the unpredictable nature of athletic endeavors, where dreams are often intertwined with challenges, and the path to success is rarely linear, yet profoundly impactful.

Olivier Hortensius’s journey is emblematic of the struggles and aspirations that define the life of a dedicated athlete. His recent accolade as Sportman of the Year at the Vlaardingen Sports Awards is a testament to his unwavering

Het youth team from the Broekpolder Golf Club emerged victorious at the Vlaardingen Sports Awards 2025, an accolade they received in recognition of their exceptional performance during the previous year, culminating in a national title. Our discussion delves into the significance of their achievement, reflecting not only on the honor of being nominated but also on the challenges they faced at the onset of the 2024 season. They recount their experiences and the rigorous competition that tested their resolve, highlighting the transformation from initial setbacks to eventual triumph. Furthermore, we explore the dynamics of teamwork within golf, a sport often perceived as solitary, yet enriched by a collective spirit among players. Through this episode, we aim to inspire young athletes to persist in their pursuits, emphasizing the intrinsic value of sport in fostering resilience and camaraderie.

Takeaways:

• The winners of the Vlaardingen sportteam Award were recognized for their achievements in 2024.
• They shared their experiences and challenges faced during the competitive season.
• The importance of teamwork in golf was emphasized, highlighting mutual support among players.
• The podcast discussed the need to inspire more youth to engage in golf as a sport.