At the recent U.S. Gymnastics Olympic trials in Minneapolis, a special four-year-old golden retriever named Beacon was on hand to support athletes and staff. Beacon, USA Gymnastics' first therapy dog, even received his credentials for the event, where gymnasts competed for spots on Team USA for the Paris Olympics.
Beacon, dubbed the "Goodest Boy" by the USAG team, attended the trials with his handler, Tracey Callahan Molnar. Initially, Callahan Molnar's service animal, Beacon, was later certified as a therapy dog through Pet Partners. According to ESPN, his presence helps lower blood pressure, reduce anxiety, and increase feel-good hormones.
"Everyone loves seeing Beacon," Callahan Molnar said. "One gymnast even suggested he should be the Chief Happiness Officer."
While the men's and women's teams for the Paris Olympics were decided, it's uncertain if Beacon will join them in France. USAG is exploring the possibility, but logistics are complex.
Callahan Molnar expressed her pride in Beacon and gratitude for USAG's embrace of pet therapy, noting the positive impact on gymnasts and coaches.
For ongoing Olympics coverage, visit TeamUSA.com and watch the games starting July 26 on NBC and Peacock.