The definition of determination: The story of Tyler Hamilton
I don't watch mens cycling and I barely keep up with the Tour de France. Years ago anyone who watched cycling, and even those who didn't, heard the moving story of an American cyclist who beat the odds by overcoming cancer in order to compete, then shocked the world by winning the grueling competition. That same cyclist, Lance Armstrong, is currently winning the 'Tour de France' as I write this.
Although Armstrong is now a living legend and sentimental favorite, the US Team captain is a man by the name of Tyler Hamilton. On Friday afternoon I was listening to NPR when I heard a report called Pedaling Through Pain on the Tour De France (link goes to NPR where you can listen to report of WM or RP). The report focuses on cyclists and the great pain and suffering they endure to avoid giving up on their dream, the Tour de France. Tyler Hamilton is currently in 48th place and working as hard as he can just to compete. He fractured his collarbone in a few places (some of which intersect) on the 1st day of competition. A brake or fracture of this magnitude is one of the most painful injuries possible. Most people probably couldn't walk with this injury and Hamilton is spending all day pedaling through miles and miles of rough terrain. Last year Hamilton had a similar shoulder injury that he raced with. He eventually ground most of his teeth down so low, from wincing in pain, that he had to get almost all of them capped. I have a feeling his dentist is going to be very busy this year.
Very few things move me like this. To have so much passion about anything is very special. But more importantly, the determination on the part of Hamilton should inspire all of us... to push ourselves harder, to remember what it feels like to be so passionate about something.
As to the Tour, I imagine Armstrong will hold onto the lead. And that in itself is amazing. That will make me proud of our team. But deep down inside, what I will really be pulling for, is Hamilton to finish. His fortitude inspires all of us to try harder. posted by Keith at 1:31 PM
I don't watch mens cycling and I barely keep up with the Tour de France. Years ago anyone who watched cycling, and even those who didn't, heard the moving story of an American cyclist who beat the odds by overcoming cancer in order to compete, then shocked the world by winning the grueling competition. That same cyclist, Lance Armstrong, is currently winning the 'Tour de France' as I write this.
