Today, I'm going back to my roots just a bit. I'm going to be writing about sports. With the Olympics kicking off tonight, today makes a perfect day to write about an Olympic athlete.
(Maybe you should listen to this (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EbHw8DBCXQ8) as you read the blog.)
I've got the Olympic spirit, especially after finding out that somebody I know will be representing the USA in the 2012 London Olympics. Lauren Perdue (you can find her on Twitter @Loperdue) will be swimming for the U.S. team.
I sent her a quick text message this morning congratulating her on her impressive achievement. Even though she's preparing for the Games, Lauren was sweet enough to reply.
Lauren will be competing in the 800 M free relay event on Aug. 1, with the hopes of qualifying for the finals that are scheduled for that evening.
After an impressive high school career at J.H. Rose High School in Greenville, N.C., Lauren has gone on to have a spectacular career at the University of Virginia. She was named the ACC Swimmer of the Year after her freshman and sophomore seasons, and is a three-time ACC champion.
What's really impressive is that Lauren had back surgery in February, but overcame that to make the U.S. swim team. It doesn't surprise me. Lauren has always had a passion for swimming, a zest for life and an unquenchable thirst to make it to the Olympics.
Here's a story I did on Lauren four years ago, when she talked about her dreams of making the Olympics (http://www.wdnweb.com/2008/07/20/perdue-looking-to-make-big-waves/).
Sure, Lauren is a talented swimmer. But she's so much more. She is beautiful and smart and caring and funny. I'm so thrilled for her that she was able to attain her goal. When Lauren puts on her suit and represents the U.S., she will do so with pride. And I will watch her with pride, because of the kind of person she is -- a great role model and a proud American.
Good luck, Lauren! Have fun!! You earned it!!
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