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Friday, August 8, 2008
Faster, Higher, Stronger … Hotter?
In Beijing, speed, stamina, and strength will be important. But there’s no denying that every athlete’s looks and style will be scrutinized as well.
Here are the world-class pinups most likely to capture the world’s attention over the next two weeks — according to London’s Independent newspaper.
The two Americans on the short list include:
Dara Torres, 41, USA Swimmer Torres proves that age is no barrier. Despite having shoulder surgery in November 2007, Torres not only qualified for Beijing but beat her 25 year-old competitor Natalie Coughlin in the 100m freestyle qualifying race. She will be the first Olympic swimmer to compete in five Games: 1984, 1988, 1992, 2000 and 2008.
Allyson Felix, 23, USA Felix, already an Olympic silver medal-holding sprinter, lives in Los Angeles and is a committed Christian. Her father is an ordained minister and is professor of New Testament Greek; her mother is a primary school teacher. “My running is an amazing gift from God,” says Felix on her personal Web site.
The other glamour gals include: Alexandra Orlando, 21, a gymnast from Canada; Christine Arron, 35, a runner from France; Shanaze Reade, 20, representing Britain in bicycle motocross; and Margherita Granbassi, 28, a fencing champion from Italy.
