This summer, everyone tuned in to watch Team USA swimmers Ryan Lochte and Michael Phelps compete head-to-head in the 200-meter individual medley. Both competitors and teammates were anticipated to swim a tight race; Lochte, two-time American Swimmer of the Year, and Phelps, who had won eight gold medals in the previous Beijing games. This may be one of the best swimming rivalries of all time. It was a close, nail biter in which Phelps came out of the pool as victor. That race he earned his 16th gold medal. By the end of the 2012 London Olympic Games, Michael Phelps became the most decorated Olympian with a total of 22 medals!
Who would have guessed that the man known as the greatest olympian of all time is from right here in Towson! He even has a street named after him! Phelps grew up in Rodgers Forge, a neighborhood just north of Baltimore. His mother attended Towson University and was a sister of the Phi Mu sorority. Michael was reppin’ the USA before he even graduated from Towson High in 2003. When he was just 15 years old, Phelps competed in the 2000 Olympics as the youngest American swimmer ever since 1932. No wonder he unanimously won “Most Athletic” as his senior superlative!
Have you ever wondered what Michael is listening to when you see him sporting headphones before his race? For all of you YMCMB fans, you’ll be glad to know that Michael Phelps listens to hip-hop/rap artists such as Lil’ Wayne to pump up before he races. Phelps has a pre-race routine that he follows religiously. Michael has to fuel his 6’4”, 200 pound body with over 12,000 calories a day! That’s six times the average recommended diet! Sadly, he doesn’t eat Wheaties (he’s been on the cover of the box…twice!) His early race day meal consists of eggs, oatmeal, and several energy shakes. He does the same stretches and warm-up laps every time. Michael’s champion routine seems to be working in his favor.
Much to our dismay, the 2012 games will be his last. Now retired, Michael can enjoy the rest of his life outside of swimming. With so much free time, Phelps plans on perfecting his golf stroke, travelling with his girlfriend, and getting some well-deserved relaxation! He still likes to explore his beloved Charm City and walk around Towson Town Center. Recently, Phelps was honored at the Baltimore Ravens game. Fans, regardless of whatever team they supported, gave the Olympian a standing ovation as he ran out of the tunnel bearing the American flag. Despite the fame and fortune, Phelps is still the down-to-earth, Towson boy he was raised to be. Michael Phelps has made Towson, Baltimore County, Maryland, and the United States of America extremely proud.
Image courtesy of MDGovPics/Flickr