Brave Hearts

Author(s): Kumarpal Desai
Publisher: Eye Care Foundation

Page 65

The Brave Hearts
Olympics. He would rather die than surrender. He was like the Rana Sang, the Rajput warrior who had many wounds on his body. When he actually entered the ring for the event, not many people could gauge his inner strength. He was one who had entered the final round by overcoming the performances of the best competitors from all around the world.
When the last attempts of the throw were measured by the officials, the world record holder Denarrek was leading, followed by David Will of the U.S. Oerter was ranked third then. Only the last two attempts now remained for the participants.
When Oerter entered the ring for the fifth attempt, his rivals were concerned more about this majestic competitor than anyone else. Oerter stood in the ring with full determination. He said to himself that this was an opportunity which one should not throw away and that he should gather all the strength at his command to throw the disc - a chance he may not get again in this life.
Oerter moved his hand with full strength and threw the discus which landed at a distance of 200 feet and 12 inches. In doing so he had established a new world record for which he received tremendous applause from the spectators.
After the event, Oerter said he alone knew the pain and the agony through which he had suffered to set the new world record. His two rivals, Ludwig Darrek and David Will saluted Oerter for this magnificent achievement. They could not throw the disc beyond 200 feet in their sixth and last attempt.
When he was called upon for the final throw, Oerter only stood by the side of the officials and waved his hand signifying his victory. He now wanted to rest his body which was full of pain and agony.