Running for the glory

Photo by Andy Wong/AP

The repressive Chinese Communist regime has persecuted and abused and silenced countless people in the leadup to the Olympics (and long before that). But even they can’t stop the transcendent power of the human spirit.

Sanya Richards envisions 91,000 fans at Beijing National Stadium and millions more on television watching her cross the finish line first in the 400 meters later this month. Immediately afterward, Richards said, she plans to kneel, say a quick prayer and then point skyward in spiritual appreciation.

“It’s important because I want people to know that I’m not the best because I’m Sanya Richards,” the American 400 champion said at last month’s U.S. Olympic trials in Eugene, Ore. “I’m the best because of God. I truly believe we can’t will ourselves to win. I hope people see the same thing I see.”

More will, thanks to her boundless faith and willing witness.