Representing Team USA.

As many of you dedicated bloggers already know, one of my dearest friends from high school participated in this years Beijing Paralympic Games (Past posts: Golden. & Award Winning.). We're BIG Melissa fans at the Robertson household.  Here's an update on how our girl did in each of her 3 races.

Event #1 - 100 Butterfly

Previous PR: 1:17.94

Previous World Ranking: 17th

Prelims Time: 1:22.09

Prelims Ranking: 18th

Event #2 - 100 Freestyle

Previous PR: 1:10.03

Previous World Ranking: 22nd

Prelims Time: 1:09.55

Prelims Ranking: 17th

Event #3 - 400 Freestyle

Previous PR: 5:03.08

Previous World Ranking: 8th

Prelims Time: 5:09.89

Prelims Ranking: 11th

Although Mel didn't make it to the finals, we've been told to start saving our money for London 2012! Mel & her husband Dick are looking for a cheering section of 50 next time! This year they had 20 strong supporters in the stands. Here's a great video from the New York Times that sums up Melissa in this years Paralympics. Actually, you have to watch it. It's excellent.  

And now yesterday marked the end of the Beijing Paralympics. Remarkable as this entire experience was to watch from thousands of miles away, we're continued to be blown away by this remarkable woman. We recently found out that Melissa was nominated by her fellow Paralympian Peers to represent Team USA as Flag Bearer for the Closing ceremonies. Wow. As her Dad was quoted, "What a finish for Melissa. [Here's a picture] of her carrying the flag into the closing ceremonies. Her smile says it all."

Congratulations Melissa! You are a true American hero. Great job, you did the U.S. of A. proud.

If you'd like to read more about Mel's experience in Beijing check out her blog documenting the entire experience.