Wednesday, December 19, 2012

Olympic Star Ryan Lochte Gives His Gold Medal to A Young Turkish Boy



Something positive is always out there... waiting to be told. But we hear much more about the ghastly horrors of this world constantly... However, all of us here at UPBEAT Entertainment News Syndicate believe that there are so many more tales of generosity and compassion that perhaps we need to hear something that inspires us... and proves to us that hope and love DO exist. That humanity IS present in this world. So we plan on sharing with you some stories that might make you smile and reflect a bit... and perhaps you might also feel compelled touch the lives of those who silently, patiently wait for the good to shine upon them. 

Ryan Lochte made quite a splash at the World Shortcourse Swimming Championships last week— both in and out of the pool. According to the BBC, the 28-year-old swimming heartthrob, who holds 11 Olympic medals and four world records, wowed the crowds gathered during the five-day event held in Istanbul, Turkey, by snagging eight medals, including five golds. He also shattered two world records, in the 100m and 200m individual medley events. Lochte's victories in the water were not his only big wins, however. The American swimmer also won many hearts with his generosity.

On Friday, having won the 200m individual medley, Lochte reportedly "stunned" spectators when he went into the stands and handed his newly-acquired gold medal to a young fan— a Turkish boy named Arda. According to Australia's Herald Sun, Arda had been "patiently waiting for the American's autograph." He really didn't expect anything more, just to be able to go home having met his idol.



"One of the main reasons for racing is because of my fans, so I always want to give something back," the swimmer told BBC. "If I took the medal, it would end up in a sock drawer. If I give it to a fan, they're going to treasure it." Lochte said that a childhood incident has shaped the way he approaches his relationships with his supporters. "I remember when as a kid I looked up to an Olympian superstar," the swimmer said. "I won't mention his name [but] I asked for an autograph and he said 'no'. I told my parents that if I ever get in the same position, I'll do it." 


Lochte later took a picture with the thrilled young boy and posted in on his Official Twitter Page:
  
https://twitter.com/i/#!/ryanlochte/media/slideshow?url=pic.twitter.com%2Fn5ZcSB7w 

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