Ivies in China Feature: Joey Cheek
Photo credit: Guideposts Magazine
Yesterday we ran a story about Right to Play.
Continuing that theme, today we are going to highlight one of the prominent fixtures of that particular organization.
Perhaps you already know about the story: former in-line skater becomes speed skater and competes at Olympic Games. Said speed skater wins medals of every color at Games and — in one fell swoop — becomes one of the greatest humanitarian athletes of our generation. Simply by announcing that he would donate the $25,000 gold medal bonus of his 500 meter triumph to the international humanitarian organization — Right to Play — run by former Olympic champion Johann Olav Koss.
Said speed skater also donates an additional $15,000 to the athlete-driven organization after the 1,000 meter race and then encourages others to make similar pledges.
You may even remember the speed skater’s name: Joey Cheek.
What you may not remember was that in Turin, Cheek was elected by his teammates to carry the United States flag during the closing ceremonies. Such an honor is bestowed on the athlete that the contingent feels most personifies the Olympic ideal. For his steadfast beliefs and unrivaled generosity, Cheek was chosen.
But as the book of Torino 2006 closed, the legend of Joey Cheek grew. In the new day of athletes that convey a “me-first” mentality, Cheek’s actions were a welcomed change; a breath of fresh air. He became a phenomenon to television talk shows; a champion to news mediums around the globe. A hero.
He also became a Princeton student (’11).
For more about Joey Cheek, head here.
