Olympic spirit shines through torch bearer

By Erin Chambers

It is ironic that a man remembered for his enormous courage and spirit was nicknamed Shrimp Louie. With the 2002 Olympic Games approaching, his story is one that reminds us of the nature of a true athlete.

Diagnosed with a form of Leukemia, doctors informed 37-year-old Louie Bonpua last week that he had only four days to live. Regardless of his weakened state, Bonpua vowed to fulfill his dream of participating in the Olympic torch relay through San Francisco, an event he had been planning on for months.

Three days later, he was transported by ambulance to the relay site. He stood up from his wheelchair and held the flame for two-tenths of a mile, his share of the relay, and proudly passed it on in front of his family and friends.

Bonpua returned to his hospital bed that evening, slipped into a coma and never awoke.

The Olympic Games represent sports and athleticism in their most ultimate and pure form. As exemplified by Bonpua's story, the true valor, the true victory in any athletic arena comes from the drive and dedication of the athlete.

Bonpua had Leukemia for more than a year before his death. Determined not to let the cancer beat him, he found sanction in the Team in Training program sponsored by the Leukemia and Lymphoma Society. He gained his strength, and just five days after receiving treatment, finished his first Ironman Triathlon in 16 hours 56 minutes and 30 seconds, just three and-a-half minutes before the event's 17-hour time limit.

Such accomplishments are truly of Olympic proportion, not because they are the fastest time, most winning team or most decorated player. The ultimate competitor is one who trains and sweats and strives for goals that seem impossible.

There was nothing small about Shrimp Louie, for he never gave up. He lived and died a true athlete. During these next weeks of the 2002 Olympic Games, that ambition and determination is transformed into the pride of nations.

This year more than most, Americans have their own torch to bear. We all need to tap into that fire, that spirit, as we cheer on the red, white and blue.

My picks are the women's ski team and men's snowboarding. Go Team U.S.A.!