Purpose & History

Novice sporting's crucible of excellence.

Purpose:

The events of Our Olympics are meant to be as similar as possible to events that are considered part of the Olympic Games. Gustave Sexauer has been hosting these generally novice level events since 2010 and everyone has been welcome to join. When proper equipment is out of reach and the rules are beyond our capacity, we may substitute and improvise. The goal of these games is primarily to hold an amateur competition in every Olympic event, and through these congregations foster the Olympic Spirit, learn new activities, and make and maintain friendships.

History:

During the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, Gustave Sexauer was inspired by the Games and made it a life goal to compete in all of the events, even if held at the grass roots level. In June of 2010 the first event was held, a table tennis tournament, with the help of soon-to-be regulars: Caleb Manske, Karen Hill, Greg Nigon, and Alex Siemers. That summer 22 events were held, mostly consisting of La Crosse Central High School graduates. Summers following that saw between one and ten events, with some dry spells making it seem like the flame was burning out. Summer of 2014 saw a revival, and due to that, Gustave became determined to keep the events alive no matter where they happen or how. Even in times of pandemic, events have been held online and live.

In February 2013 most of the competitors of Our Games picked out flags to be their representative logo and the name "Our Olympics" was officially chosen as the title of these previously untitled meet-ups. The "Commissioner" made the website live in April 2015 to post results, involve others in the process of selecting, organizing, and hosting future events, and to stay visible while many of the competitors relocate around the USA and the world. After further floundering, the events found a new home in 2018 in Arizona thanks to sustained interest by good friends.

I hope that you will join me in friendly competition by being a part of Our Olympics!

-Gustave Sexauer

Commissioner of Our Olympics