MEET BEACON THE THERAPY DOG: TEAM USA’S UNEXPECTED MVP AT THE 2024 OLYMPIC TRIALS
Source: Hindustan Times (Extract)
Posted: August 04, 2024
It was a four-legged friend who stole the spotlight at the 2024 Olympic Trials. Meet Beacon, the therapy dog who is an invaluable member of Team USA.
As the Paris Olympics 2024 unfolds, a variety of MVPs are emerging. While Most Valuable Players are typically recognized for their skill and prowess in sports, the latest addition to Team USA’s Most Valuable lineup isn’t known for athletic achievements at all!
Meet Beacon, the therapy dog who has unexpectedly become a hero and a source of comfort for the USA Gymnastics team. This 4-year-old golden retriever has been making a significant impact off the field, offering emotional support and uplifting team morale in ways that no one anticipated.
Together with his handler, Tracey Callahan Molnar—a Pasadena resident with 40 years of experience in USA Rhythmic Gymnastics—Beacon has been offering comfort to athletes and coaches at various competitions and training camps since May 2023.
Before becoming the beloved therapy dog for the USA Gymnastics team, Beacon served at a hospital, where he helped reduce stress for patients in outpatient rehab, the emergency department, pediatric ward, and wherever he was needed.
What’s he doing now?
Beacon’s latest role was providing comfort to athletes leading up to the 2024 Olympic Trials. The night before the trials began, he focused on easing the nerves of the women’s national gymnastics team, especially during a challenging time when two top prospects were injured, leaving the team deeply affected.
Shilese Jones, a two-time world champion, injured her knee during vault warmup, while Kayla DiCello, a rising star, had to withdraw due to an Achilles injury. The emotional strain was palpable, with athletes like Olympic medalist Suni Lee visibly struggling to hold back tears. In the midst of the turmoil, Beacon stepped in to offer support.
He and his owner, Tracey, spent 40 minutes comforting the gymnasts and coaches. Beacon’s soft fur and soothing presence provided much-needed relief, as he readily accepted back rubs and belly scratches, helping the team navigate a difficult night.
“He can instantly sense stress and will immediately move toward that person,” Tracey told ESPN. Beacon’s role as a therapy dog goes beyond merely comforting athletes; he has become an essential part of Team USA’s emotional support system. Who could resist this furry bundle of joy?