Monday, September 1, 2008

Be The Lezak

We were on the way to the pool for one of the last times we will swim at our community pool before it is closed for the season. All three boys are now swimmers and will be swimming on a club team this Fall.

"I want to watch my future Olympians swim!" I tell my boys. To which my youngest son answers back,
"I'm gonna be THE LEZAK!"

I looked at my husband and we both smiled. At that moment I was bursting with pride for my clever 7 year old son.

For those of you who did not keep up with the Olympics, The Lezak, is Jason Lezak. A teammate of Michael Phelps. Not just any teammate. The heroic efforts of this young man made it possible for Mr. Phelps to be the most decorated Olympian of all time. The Lezak swam the last leg of the 4x100m Free Relay. THE greatest anchor leg in swimming history.
The fastest split of all time. 46.06!

When The Lezak started his world record final leg, the U.S. Team was trailing the French leader by a full body length. Jason Lezak was facing the world's best 100 meter freestyle swimmer, Alain Bernard, with no hope of catching him. With a burst of energy and team spirit, Jason gave it his all. He touched a mere .08 of a second in front of Bernard.

While Michael Phelps traveled home first class to a hero's welcome, Jason Lezak rode humbly home in coach. Michael has set a fine example for young swimmers everywhere and deserves all the accolades he has received. But it takes a special person to want to be "The Lezak". A self-less hero that embodies team spirit. The ultimate team player!




8 comments:

Putting the FUN in DysFUNctional said...

How cool is that!

Cheffie-Mom said...

What a smart little guy! And what you wrote---"But it takes a special person to want to be "The Lezak". A self-less hero that embodies team spirit. The ultimate team player!" --- I agree --- so well written.

Anonymous said...

The Lezak is awesome! Of course, I didn't even remember that was his name until I read your post, but I remember shouting and screaming in our family room while watching that amazing event! Your son is a very perceptive kid!

Tara R. said...

How cool is that? I love that he thought to emulate Lezak, recognizing his incredible contribution to a US victories.

WeaselMomma said...

He sounds like a great kid. Also, it's impressive that at 7 he has such a quick wit and understanding of current events and vernacular speech...Go Little Lezak!

Little GrumpyAngel said...

Your little guy is smart beyond his years to recognize the real hero! He is a future Lezak not just in the pool. Good job, Mom! You are raising a wonderful son. I hope I can be a Lezak one way or another.

Jenny said...

Oh that's sweet! That would make me proud, too.
AND...I think it's awful that Phelps was in first class while Lezak was in coach. WTH?

4funboys said...

what a great story... didn't keep up with the olympics so I'm glad you posted it.

even better... what a great son you have! Those are the moments you know you are doing something right!!!

you get the gold for that one