Sunday, April 5, 2009

Oh, Those T-Shirts...

Recently we were in Orlando, Florida at the Junior National Championships. We saw the following on the back of a T-shirt.

"If you even dream of beating me you'd better wake up and apologize"... Mohammed Ali

This man and his body of work bear studying. Along with Michael Jordan and Tiger Woods he is today, some 40 years later, recognized as one of the most influential athletes ever. The statement above would seem arrogant coming from almost anyone other than Ali. He was an athlete of exceptional skill; a person of extraordinary principle. He went to jail, foregoing several years of his career - at his prime - rather than serve in Vietnam, because he didn't believe in killing people.

He is the same man who is quoted as saying, "The fight is won far from the witnesses." (It is what you do in the moments in training which no one else sees, that makes the difference when you compete). As we continue to perfect our craft, let us remember these ideas.

Study and surround yourself with successful people, no matter the field of endeavor. You will learn enormous amounts of precious and valuable qualities which will serve you well all the years of your life.

Have a great week. Let us know how we can help!

1 comment:

R.W. said...

Hi Don & Ken,
Great quote - definitely agree with you on the influence of Ali and the ideals he lived as an athlete. Check out my blog at swimtelligence.blogspot.com. I have a list of some of my favorite t-shirt slogans from Jr Nationals as well! Take care. -Ryan Woodruff