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100 days to go: 2021 Olympics a pinch-me moment for Abbey Gelmi

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Krystal SandersThe West Australian
Abbey Gelmi will be front and centre as part of Seven’s Olympics coverage alongside Hamish McLachlan when the Games kick off in July.
Camera IconAbbey Gelmi will be front and centre as part of Seven’s Olympics coverage alongside Hamish McLachlan when the Games kick off in July.

Hosting alongside some of the world’s best broadcasting talent for the Tokyo Olympics is a pinch me moment for Abbey Gelmi.

The Perth raised sports presenter will be front and centre as part of Seven’s Olympics coverage alongside the likes of Bruce McAvaney, Hamish McLachlan, Johanna Griggs, Basil Zempilas, Matt Shirvington and Edwina Bartholomew when the Games kick off on July 23.

With just 100 days to go, it’s a prestigious honour for the 31-year-old, Gelmi describing the atmosphere and excitement of the world’s biggest sporting competition as one big “reality TV” show.

Seven’s 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games team.
Camera IconSeven’s 2021 Tokyo Olympic Games team. Credit: 7 Network/7 Network

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“It’s the ultimate reality TV, the Olympics — the highs, lows, big blows — it doesn’t matter who is competing people are competing for their dreams and it’s going to be really exciting to cover,” Gelmi told The West Australian.

Sport has always run thick in Gelmi’s veins, her grandfather Herb Elliot won gold and set a world record at the 1960 Olympics in Rome and she has spent many years re-watching his old tapes.

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“What struck me about Pa was his dedication and his win at all costs approach to running and that’s what I really love about the Olympics,” she said.

“It doesn’t get much more dramatic than people getting one shot in four years or in this case five years, to have a go at their dreams.”

While this year’s Games won’t be without it’s logistical challenges, including potential banning of crowds and cheering, Gelmi says the broadcast will be more important than ever.

“When you speak to athletes, while yes, some of them like to vibe off a crowd they don’t need extra motivation to chase after something they’ve wanted their whole life,” she added.

Abbey Gelmi.
Camera IconAbbey Gelmi. Credit: Instagam

However, a small time difference between Australia and Tokyo, viewers will get to watch the best events in real time.

“I think the beauty of the time slot that means in real time these athletes will know that families in living rooms across the country that they are gathered cheering them on.”

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