Ernie McCullough, 86, represented Canada at the Olympics in London in 1948. (CBC)

Ernie McCullough still remembers the excitement of the 1948 Olympics — the same excitement he has for the 2012 games.

McCullough was 23-years-old when he travelled to London to participate in the games on Canada's track and field team.

Now, at 86-years-old, he says he still has the same passion for running.

“You still get the feeling when somebody says on your mark, get set," he said. “Your blood rises and it's just drilled into you from years of running."

A poster from the last time London hosted the Olympic games. (CBC)

And he has advice to aspiring athletes — chose a mentor.

"Pick a role model that's really important for your life, not just the athletic part," McCullough said.

After his days as an Olympian, McCullough went on to found the Calgary Olympic Development Association.

As an observer this time around, McCullough hopes something more will come from these games.

“The Olympics and the United Nations are a few international bodies that can communicate desire for peace and love, so I hope that develops from this," McCullough said.

He hopes the players take everything in, not just the competition.

"The emphasis is too much on the medals and not enough on being there," he said. “It's not the winning, it's the taking part."

Perhaps the biggest change this time around is where he’ll be during the games.

“l’ll be watching from home," McCullough said, adding his wife will be by his side.