[russellsprouts]

Not the original poster, but here's my view:

He has set his mind to do something, and is preparing for it, but he has set his mind on competing in the Olympics any way he can. Most athletes have a goal of being the best they can in a sport, so that they can compete in the Olympics. I think there is a subtle difference between those, that could very well be called disrespectful to the Olympics.

[auctiontheory]

Most athletes have a goal of being the best they can in a sport

I'm sure he's trying to be the best he can. Why do you think otherwise?

You didn't say "the best in the world," which would be out of reach even for the vast majority of athletes who do make it to the Olympics.

[adamdavis]

Are you sure he's trying to be the best he can? To me, it seems like he's just looking for the path of least resistance to participate in the Olympics and it has nothing to do with pushing his limits or excelling at something he cares about.

[auctiontheory]

Did you watch the video? He appears to have dropped everything to train for the event. What more could he possibly do?

In case you are 22, let me tell you that at 35 he can't say "I'll train for five or ten years" - that training would be offset by his natural physical decline, and an increase in injuries.

[adamdavis]

I did watch the video, and no, I am not 22. I certainly would be more prone to agree that he's trying his best to make a documentary film. Simply 'dropping everything' to work on something doesn't automatically imply you're doing your best or even attempting to do so.