I loved the feeling of freedom in running, the fresh air, the feeling that the only person I'm competing with is me.

No matter what great things you accomplish, somebody helps you.

By the time I was 12 I was challenging every boy in our neighborhood at running, jumping, everything.

The feeling of accomplishment welled up inside of me, three Olympic gold medals. I knew that was something nobody could ever take away from me, ever.

The triumph can't be had without the struggle. And I know what struggle is. I have spent a lifetime trying to share what it has meant to be a woman first in the world of sports so that other young women have a chance to reach their dreams.

I would be disappointed if I were remembered as a runner because I feelthat my contribution to the youth of America has far exceeded the woman who was the Olympic champion.

I believe in me more than anything in this world.