At the 2000 Summer Olympic Games, a determined Wyoming farm boy
defeated the greatest Olympic wrestler of all time in "The Miracle on
the Mat." Four years later, after a near fatal accident in the frozen
Wyoming wilderness, a tearful Rulon Gardner touched the hearts of
sports fans everywhere when he left his shoes on the mat, symbolizing
his retirement after winning an Olympic Bronze.
A modern-day Paul Bunyan, Rulon Gardner grew up on his Mormon family's
dairy farm, where unceasing chores helped him develop tremendous
strength and stamina at an early age. He struggled in school due to
learning disabilities and was often the butt of his classmates' jokes.
Yet Gardner found success in wrestling, which allowed him to pursue his
college degree and instilled him with the confidence and drive that
took him to the center of world sport. Behind one of the greatest
upsets in Olympic history is Gardner's moving tale of obstacles
overcome by his indefatigable will to succeed.
Garth Brooks said, "Rulon Gardner is simply one of us who became one of
those we dream of becoming. This man will get you out of bed every
morning and make you appreciate the challenges that lie ahead of you."
This past summer, several of the Aitkin wrestlers and coaches had the
opportunity to meet, listen to and learn from Rulon. Their impression
was so positive and motivating that the Aitkin Wrestling Club has
invited this all American hero to speak to the student body in the
afternoon at the Aitkin High School on November 20. At 7:30 p.m., the
public is invited to listen to his very interesting and motivating
presentation, free of charge. He will attend a taco dinner sponsored by
the Wrestling Club from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m. in the school cafeteria.
Tickets for this dinner can be purchased from any Wrestling Club member
or at the door for a donation of $5 for adults and $3 under the age of
12.
Local organizers say: "The public is invited and encouraged to take
advantage of this free once-in-a-lifetime chance to meet this very
motivated and determined Olympic gold and bronze medalist on Nov. 20.
Questions regarding the event can be directed to Dan Stifter at 218-927-4235 or Jayne or Bob Mlynar at 218-927-4804.