Monday, May 7, 2012

Toastworthy Teens: James Konopka and Nick Mead


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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2 comments:

  1. 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?

    Great choice! :-)

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  2. 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. :)

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