We already knew that Games-level athletes make tremendous sacrifices to get where they are. It takes countless hours in the gym, grueling workouts, flawless nutrition, and serious wear and tear on the body. But there’s one more thing we don’t often talk about: the financial cost.

Make no mistake about it: Many athletes are forking over major cash to get to Madison, especially considering we’ve got people coming from all over the globe this year.

For instance, Morning Chalk-Up spoke to Emma McQuaid, coming from Ireland. McQuaid confirmed that flights, accommodation, and a car alone will add up to nearly $5,000. That doesn’t even include her food.

And for Hong Kong’s fittest man, Ant Hayes? That number is closer to $10,000.

For some athletes, like McQuaid and Hayes, sponsors do step in to help. And that can certainly be said for big names like Tia-Clair Toomey and Mat Fraser. Ironically, these are the same athletes who currently have the best chance of walking away with a podium finish — and a big check.

https://www.instagram.com/p/BwxvSKzhm05/

Don’t think that’s stopped the rest of them from paying up, though. These inspiring athletes have given everything to secure their spot in Madison, and not even the hefty price tag is going to get in the way. Carmen Bosmans, who’s the national champion of Belgium, told MCU, “If I’m out on day one — after party starts early.”

We continue to be in awe of these remarkable competitors and can’t wait to see what happens in Madison.

Main image: Mat Fraser/Instagram