Every time Meaghan Benfeito took to the diving platform at the Rio Olympics on Thursday, those who gathered at the Claude Robillard Complex in Montreal couldn’t contain their excitement.
As she prepared to jump, there was cheering, clapping and even hugs.
It’s no surprise; the young divers among the crowd watching have a special connection to the Laval native.
They all belong to the Camo diving club, where Benfeito trained.
“It’s pretty amazing, since we’re training with them sometimes,” said Gabriel Corriveau, an elite diver with the club.
“It’s crazy to see how the good work, the hard work, pays off.”
READ MORE: Rio 2016: Meaghan Benfeito wins bronze medal in 10m platform
For five tense rounds, Montrealers held their breath and cheered on their friend’s amazing accomplishments.
“We knew that she could do some good things but all in one competition, it’s amazing,” Corriveau exclaimed.
Even if she couldn’t hear them, she must have felt the support and energy: Benfeito drove it home.
“I’m so proud, it’s absolutely amazing and I’m so proud. My heart is bursting with joy for her,” said Kayla Freeman, a diving judge and friend of Benfeito.
As Benfeito stepped into the podium to claim her first individual medal – a bronze – it gave young divers at the Claude Robillard Complex some hope that one day the person clutching a medal could be them.
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