Former Olympians also get paid to make appearances. Many of them won their medals in an era when Olympic success didn't go hand-in-hand with financial success.

Optimism is a happiness magnet. If you stay positive, good things and good people will be drawn to you.

I cant justify taking money away from hungry kids and needy schools to pay for the Games when corporations are willing to write the checks.

Getting to know athletes from all over the planet is a big part of the Olympic experience.

I usually don't mind giving autographs, but when hundreds of folks with paper and pen start coming at you, it's time to seek shelter.

I like added pressure. It makes me work harder.

Children possess a remarkable amount of passion. They throw themselves completely, heart and soul, into everything.