The reality of fulfilling a childhood dream to compete at the Olympic Games won’t sink in for Joel Milburn until he walks into the main stadium for his first race on world sport’s biggest stage.
Faulconbridge 400m runner Milburn is currently in Europe completing final preparations before the Beijing Games begin on August 8.
What he described as a small hamstring problem is currently proving a nuisance as he tries to improve his race fitness on the European circuit.
The injury has caused him to pull up early in two recent events to prevent any further complications.
Despite the setback, Milburn is confident he will be able to overcome the problem.
The atmosphere walking into Beijing’s brand new stadium, known as the ‘Bird’s Nest’ for its unique design, is a feeling Milburn can not wait to experience.
“I went to the Olympic games as a spectator during Sydney 2000 so I can only imagine what it’s going to be like as an athlete,” he said. “Truly breathtaking I’m sure.”
Supporting the 22-year-old from the stands in Beijing will be his parents, Tom and Joanne.
“It has cost them an arm and a leg, but I’m sure in 20 years they will not regret the money they have spent on a once in a lifetime experience,” he said.
As one of the up and coming stars of Australian athletics, Milburn has had to deal with the added attention of being an Olympian.
“The attention is a new thing for me, I’m certainly learning as I go. It’s not why I started this sport and it’s not something I enjoy, but it is part of what I do now so I’m slowly learning as I go,” he said.
With no intention of simply making up the numbers, he has set himself the goal of making the final in his individual event.
Milburn is also a member of Australia’s promising 4x400m relay squad — one he believes is capable of mixing it with the world's best.