For the Gold

US Olympic Foundation

An intimate gathering at the Southport home of Lisa and Dan Zelson, U.S. Olympic Foundation Trustees, celebrated the success of American athletes at the 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. The Zelsons spoke of the power of the Olympics to unite the nation. “The athletes that are here tonight are examples of phenomenal citizens and inspirational people,” Dan said, referring to the three medalists Cullen Jones, Evan Lysacek, and Bradley Snyder, who were in attendance.

The athletes shared their stories, including  Evan Lysacek, who spoke of his unforgettable moment after accepting his gold medal at the 2010 Winter Olympics. “Seeing the flag go up and seeing all the eyes turn away from me and look at the flag, I realized what that moment is about. It’s not about me,” he said. The moment was not about his name going in the history book. It was a moment to inspire a whole nation. With the support of generous individuals, American athletes will continue to honor the nation for generations to come.