Michael Phelps is the Olympian who is on pace to break the gold medal record set by Mark Spitz. Everyone remember Mark in his red, white, and blue Speedo?

Michael's face is everywhere. He is the poster boy for the Olympics this year. This time last year I mentioned him in the forums and only the locals knew him. I know that's changed because I've seen him on national televion and commercials advertising the Olympics. He's sponsored by Speedo and Visa among many other smaller companies. He was on Leno the other night and was awesome! I was so happy to see him smiling and carrying on. He also met Cindy Crawford and was filmed for the ESPY's this week.

Michael is from my home town. My oldest son went to elementary and middle school with him. Many years ago he played in our house.

I'm praying he breaks the record.

Please tell me you know who he is now!

Yes, Dotsie, we've heard of him here in Arizona! There was a front page spread on him in the sports section just a week or so ago. I read recently, however, that he is rethinking entering all the events. True?

He's withdrawn from one event. He is still entered in eight!

Dotsie,

Not familiar with the name but wish him the best! To be in the Olympics is a major event and to have known someone makes it much more exciting!

Dots,
You'll be pleased to know that my oldest and his crew all got together w/ Michael just before he left for California. He is the same down to earth wonderful kid he's always been. Please remember to keep Michael and all of our athletes in our prayers. I worry about their safety in Athens.
Kath

Kath, thanks for the update. My son called me last night while he was watching the ESPY awards because Michael was in the audience and up for one of the awards.

Can you imagine? He's living the dreams of all the young athletes and I think it's awesome. He deserves it!

Keep us posted as you hear more. I remember that your son went to high school with him.

Dotsie: I've seen him in commercials.

I ran into a friend at the food store the other day and her son and Michael are best friends. How cool is that?

She is thrilled for him. We were talking about his accomplishments and safety at the Olympics with goose bumps on our arms.

She's in these forums. I'm waiting for her to speak up.

Here I am - yes I read the forum all the time just don't post as much as I like - I read your note on Michael Phelps - yes he is one of my son's best friends and Michael actually calls me "MOM" which brings tears to my eyes. He has a special place in my heart and is such a down to earth "normal" kid. We are all praying for him he has alot of pressure with the 7 medals - My son talks to him almost daily and he seems to be doing fine just alot of hard training!!!! Please keep our special "son" in your prayers during this special time in his life. I will keep you posted to any new news - He was in People last week WOW!!!!!!!!!

...and ESPN this week. My son showed me last night.

Please keep us up to date. Thanks Ellie!