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We all just witnessed one of the greatest Olympic moments of all time: the come-from-behind win by the men’s 4x100m freestyle relay.

I was at home doing laundry with the TV on in the background when I heard the announcer talking about the French relay team and how it was expected to take the gold.  Now, having studied abroad in , I have a special place in my heart for the French.  But my competitive side came out last night when I heard that Alain Bernard (world record holder) had promised to “smash” the Americans.  The team responded with silence, which is sometimes more powerful.

I quickly sat down to watch the event unfold.  When Jason Lezak dove into the pool, it looked like the would be lucky to take second.  Then the announcer said something I will never forget as they turned for the final 50m.  “It looks like the will hold on to second… wait, is it possible?”  Lezak was making a run against the man with the fastest 100m time in the world.  I couldn’t contain my emotions.  I found myself yelling at the TV, “Go! Go! You can do it!  Go!”  Talk about adrenaline.  And I wasn’t even competing!

The look on his face and his teammates when came up with the gold was priceless.  I could watch the clip over and over.  What an awesome moment not only for a swimmer who has had to face harsh critics in the past, but also for our entire country.  It proved the impossible is possible.  That it’s never too late to start believing in yourself.  That dreams can come true.

That’s what the Olympics are all about.  And that’s why I will continue to watch.  What about you?  Have you been sucked in yet?  What is your favorite moment of the Beijing games?

As the French would say, “Bon chance!”

A bientot…