The Olympic games are a time to celebrate some of the most determined athletes in the world. Every four years, the global phenomenon is not only the highlight of the summer, but also an inspiration for individuals to carry the same tenacity and commitment in their own lives. Listen to stories exemplifying how sports have changed the lives of trailblazing and everyday athletes alike.
The mother of women’s judo
In 1988, women’s judo made its way into the Olympics, thanks to martial arts champion Rusty Kanokogi, who threatened to sue the International Olympic Committee for discrimination. This bold move earned her the nickname “the mother of women’s judo.” She coached the first U.S. women’s judo team, which included her student Eve Aronoff Trivella, at the 1988 games. Eve came to StoryCorps with Rusty’s daughter, Jean Kanokogi, to remember the toughest person they ever knew. Read the full transcript.
From Army Boots to the Podium
Melvin Pender didn’t start running until he was 25, while serving in the 82nd Airborne Division of the U.S. Army. By the time he was called to compete in the 1968 Mexico City Olympics, Pender was 31 and a platoon leader in Vietnam. Although many records were shattered at the games, it was Tommie Smith and John Carlos’s Black Power salute that captured headlines. Pender, who was Carlos’s roommate, later shared his Olympic experiences with his friend Keith Sims at StoryCorps. Read the full transcript.
Generations of Support
C.J. Maestas has been training as a gymnast since he was a toddler, supported by his grandfathers Frank Barela and Frank Maestas. They watched him join the U.S. Men’s National Gymnastics Team in 2007 and supported him through his near miss for the 2012 Olympic team. At StoryCorps, they discussed C.J.’s gymnastics career and its impact on their family. C.J. plans to keep competing and hopes to make the 2016 Olympic team. Read the full transcript.
From Player to Coach
As a teenager, José Rodriguez was kicked out of public school and diagnosed with a learning disability, leading him to a school for students with special needs and qualifying him for the New Jersey Special Olympics. At StoryCorps, José shared with his former coach, Charles Zelinsky, what life was like before discovering the games. Now, José is a Special Olympics basketball coach and will be coaching in the 2012 New Jersey Summer Games. Read the full transcript.
Racing Through the Ages
At nearly 70, Kittie Weston-Knauer is the oldest female BMX racer in the U.S. She began competing in the late 1980s, often as the only woman on the track, after her son Max Knauer, a championship BMX rider, introduced her to the sport. Though Max, now 40, has retired, Kittie has no plans to stop and eagerly anticipates watching her grandchildren race, hoping Max will join them on the track again. Read the full transcript.
Father and Daughter in the Ring
Seventeen-year-old boxing champion Seniesa Estrada discusses her journey with her father and coach, Joe Estrada. She recalls her early fascination with boxing, her persistent push to start training, and the raw enthusiasm she displayed in the ring. Joe reflects on her natural fighting spirit and the emotional experience of watching her fight. Read the full transcript.
Dancing with a purpose
At 6’3″, Rob Maiden was the tallest member of his family. His father — a huge football enthusiast — couldn’t wait to watch Rob play football, not realizing what his true calling was. At StoryCorps, Rob sits down with a friend to remember how he found his way to what he was “born to do.” Read the full transcript.