And so when a silver medal is won at the Olympic Games there are many of us who focus on missing out on the gold, rather than the tremendous achievement that comes with being named the second best in the world.

For the likes of Olympic equestrian and Berry resident Shane Rose, just getting to the Olympic Games has been a major achievement and the crowning glory of years of dedication and devotion to his sport.

Watching the Olympics and the performances of elite athletes it is easy to lose perspective, but sometimes we need to stop and think about what an achievement it is to become the best in a region, the best in a state, the best in a nation.

Just minor achievements would satisfy most of us, but there are a select few who are driven to go harder, faster, higher and better than anyone else in the world.

These are the people we have been watching since the spectacular opening ceremony, who have left us spellbound by their efforts and achievement.

Among those Shane Rose left many awe-struck as he and his horse outshone the best in the world to be fastest during the cross-country.

While it may not have been enough to secure gold, it was enough to secure the admiration and respect of all those involved in the equestrian world.