For athletes, the Olympics are the ultimate test of their worth.

As much time as you put into it, that's what your achievements are going to be when you come out of it.

For six years, I kept my five Olympic medals wrapped in a plastic bread bag beneath my bed.

What is the fire that burns in your heart? If you are lucky enough to discover it, than by all means fan the flames and let the fire be the guiding light for a life worth living.

Be cocky. Walk into the Georgia Dome like you own it.

You've got to believe in yourself first. Take risks and don't be afraid to fall.

Working hard becomes a habit, a serious kind of fun. You get self-satisfaction from pushing your self to the limit, knowing that all the effort is going to pay off.