The water baby

The fact that American swimmer Michael Phelps has managed to win 21 gold medals overall in the Olympics makes him one of the greatest Olympians in history (“Catch me if you can”, August 11). This is a man who was caught for drunken driving, who even thought of committing suicide a couple of years ago. It is indeed remarkable that he has overcome his personal troubles and has returned to the pool, only to be a champion again. This is a fairy tale and it is not over. There’s so much to learn from him in terms of focus, dedication, grit and training — not just in swimming but in life.

Devadas. V.,

Kannur