We’ve loved watching every second of the Olympic Games so far – and the Great Britain track team have been busy proving their excellence with a slew of Gold and Silver medals, World Records and PBs. 

However, it must be hard within the Olympic village for those who have already competed, to contain themselves and respect the needs of those still to compete.

Photo Series: Laura Trott’s Mum Demonstrates all our Race Watching Expressions (Multiplied)

Evidently, though – just like when we were sleeping in halls of residences’ at uni – a ‘little note’ goes a long way.

We love this one, written by Elinor Barker, on behalf of the GB women. Taking pen to paper (we assume) the night before she won her Olympic Gold medal in the Team Pursuit alongside Archibald, Trott and Rowsell Shand, it’s clear that Barker knows how to use her linguistic devices to effect, too.

Analysis of Barker’s Letter

Beginning with a heartfelt ‘Congratulations!’, our writer gets the boys on side before imploring them not to rowdily break into the room that evening.

In a strong opening paragraph, she states: “We’re guessing you’re probably ganna be drunk by the time you read this” – the truth in this comment is later corroborated by Owain Doull. Already softened by the congratulatory sentiments early on in the text, there’s little doubt this comment would have had the boys nodding their heads.

Adding supporting evidence from events that have clearly already taken place, Barker notes: “a few of you have already come into our room accidentally”. The adjective “accidentally”, placed at the end of the clause and after the verb, hovers in the air with a knowing smile.

Containing any upset over these past events, Barker keeps it “friendly” before unleashing with the use of the overlord of all known linguistic devices: CAPITAL LETTERS (just ask Caitlin Moran). 

The readers (slightly tipsy cycling Olympians) will no doubt have felt the wrath of each enlarged ‘big letter’ as they read the words: ‘THIS IS NOT YOUR ROOM.’ Plain and simple, direct statement that cannot be argued with.

Finally, to maintain good relations, Barker finishes with a flourish – a helpful <– diagram, just in case all the beer may have confused the boys’ sense of direction. Hey, at least it’s slightly to the left…

Hats off to the girls they know us too well ???????????? pic.twitter.com/N9xgcXzN1M

— Owain Doull (@owaindoull) August 13, 2016

Nice one.