What makes for an inspiring Olympic moment? Is it the years of hard work and sacrifice that culminate in a gold medal? Is it competing because you love your sport, even though it’s unlikely you’ll ever win? Is it suffering an injury but finishing the race? Is it overcoming a stereotype and proving something to the world? All these factors and more play a part in the great moments of Olympic history.
As we stand at the threshold of the 2008 Summer Olympics in Beijing, what will be the inspiring moments to come? Perhaps it will be Dana Torres, the oldest competitive female swimmer in history, who is vying for a comeback. Or China’s Liu Xiang, who hopes to bring a gold medal in hurdles to honor his home country.
As we await the starting trumpet, Beliefnet looks back at the most inspiring Olympic moments ever. Some names you’ll know, some will jog your memory, and some may even surprise you.
My favorite father and son Olympic moment comes in at #5.
I choke up almost every time.
I choked up, again, just reading it. Oh, and all anyone has to do is say the words “Do you believe in miracles…” and I’m 8 years old again, staring at the tv in awe…
The Olympics brings out the best of the best! These athletes inspire us for years to come.