Michael Phelps YOG ambassador
It’s exciting to know that world-renowned swimmer Michael Phelps will be one of the ambassadors of Youth Olympic Games which will be held here in Singapore in August this year. I think you’ll all agree with me that this 16-time gold medalist is very much qualified to promote the event as well as provide inspiration and hope for aspiring athletes.
According to the Channel News Asia, the Youth Olympic Games aims to inspire the youth all over the world to engage in sports and live according to the core values of Olympics. And we can be sure that this is exactly what the YOG will do. But what really interests me is Michael Phelps’ story.
Those who are familiar with Phelps’ life story are aware that he did not rise to fame and glory easily. He had to overcome a lot of obstacles and experience many hardships before he won his first gold medal. But he did not do it all alone, his mother was right beside him the whole time. It was his mother who encouraged him to pursue swimming after she discovered that he was having a hard time learning in school.
This world-class athlete went through a lot, but so did his mother. He clearly wouldn’t have been able to make it big in the world of sports hadn’t it been for his mother. She gave her all just to see her son succeed. Now, everyone is saying that Michael Phelps is a hero but I say it’s his mother who is the real hero. Michael Phelps’ story will be an inspiration not just for the youth but for parents as well. His life tells us that before any real success comes hard work, perseverance, and a loving support standing right by our side the whole time.
