James Konopka and Nick Mead, Great Sports
High school rowers James Konopka and Nick Mead of
Philadelphia began their under-17 doubles race with a medal-contending
start…and then just as easily turned around and gave it up.
Behind them, another duo had capsized and were struggling in
the icy water, which, as Nick noted, “was cold and I’m sure their limbs were
going numb. They were yelling ‘help’ and one of the kids didn’t appear as if he
could swim too well.”
And good samaritanism wasn’t enough for the 16-year-old
great sports; after waiting with the capsized pair (who were surprised
competitors would stop racing to help them) and helping them into a safety
launch, James and Nick then headed back out to complete the race.
Sports and sportsmanship don’t get any better than that. :)
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This is what it's all about. This is how human beings SHOULD act, but sometimes they are so focused on WINNING... what's it really worth?
ReplyDeleteGreat choice! :-)
It's so simple, isn't it? They saw that the other boys needed help, so they helped. And by then finishing the race, they also exemplified perseverance. I hope all of the spectators took home both virtues. :)
ReplyDelete