Mothers of Olympic Champions

Parenting an athlete is challenging. Many times, they are the ones to bring the child up after defeat. Even though both parents stand behind the child, it's usually the mother that is honored more, especially when the mother has raised the athlete as a single parent.

There are so many athletes indebted to their mothers, that Johnson and Johnson started “Thanks Mom,” which is found online. It shows the personal relationship between athlete and mother. Shalane Flanagan's mom was always waiting at the finish line, arms stretched, ready to hug her. Shalane remembers her mother taught her always to smile, win or lose.

Peanut butter and banana sandwiches, made by her mom, are what Sarah Haskins said helped her through her 4:30 workouts. Cullen Johnson, known by mom as “her water baby,” said she was always his "number one cheerleader,” and always yells the loudest.

Richard Lambourre's mom has always been there, win or lose. Without her steadfast support, he couldn't have reached his dream. He has said that he wishes the next time the crowd is honoring him, the spotlight should be on his mom.

The most touching picture at the Olympics was when Michael Phelps gave his mother the flowers that were given to him for winning a race. She has raised him and his two sisters from the time Michael was nine. Dealing with his ADHD, she never overly criticized him and was always there. In fact, when she was told by his teacher that he'd never be able to concentrate on anything; Debbie said, “maybe he's bored.” Since most of us don't have Olympic-bound kids, one thing is universal; all moms are there for their kids no matter who they are.