Running for My Life: One Lost Boy's Journey From the Killing Fields of Sudan to the Olympic Games (29 page)

My mom with Dominic and me at our high school graduation.

My American mother watches as I speak to my Sudanese mother for the first time.

My dad, mom, and Dominic accompany me when I proudly receive my U.S. citizenship.

By 2004 my parents had five sons—one biological and four adopted. From left to right: Lindsay, Robby, Me, Dominic, Barb, and Robert. In front Peter and Ohure.

Coach Hayes and I in the middle of a tough track session: receiving splits, mentorship, and encouragement as I chase down my dream.

Everywhere I go, running remains a key part of my life. From New York to Arizona to Colorado I continue to train hard for the Olympic Games.

Having fun on a trip to California to visit Brittany and her family.

A dinner with the Air Force Cross Country Team after Brittany and I had just started dating.

Meeting President Bush before carrying the American Flag into the Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremonies.

Meeting the First Lady, Laura Bush, prior to the Opening Ceremonies.

One of my proudest moments—leading the U.S. Olympic team into the Olympic Stadium carrying the American Flag.

Running the Semi-Finals round of the Olympic 1500 meters in Beijing, China.

The American Olympic Team at the Beijing Olympics Opening Ceremonies.