. . . Because every picture has a story to tell.
Thank you for visiting. I think you will find my blog posts as varied as my photographic and personal interests--a few of which I hope also appeal you. - Tammy Russell-Rice CPP



Monday, August 8, 2016

Las Vegas Son Cody Miller Mines Bronze in Rio De Janeiro!

World Class Breaststroke Swimmer and Nice Guy Cody Miller
Last night, Cody Miller realized a life-long dream, he is now an Olympic Medalist! Swimming the 100-Meter Breastroke in Rio De Janeiro as a member of Team USA, Cody dug deep and pulled out a Bronze at the games of the 2016 Summer Olympiad. No small feat considering his competition included Britain's Adam Peaty who was favored to win, and his own teammate Kevin Cordes who also was favored to metal--leaving Cody as a bit of an underdog going into the Finals. In fact, Peaty would take the Gold setting a new World Record in the process (57.13). Although, it would be Miller (58.87) who solely represented Team USA on the podium.



Prior to heading to Rio, Cody's mother, Debbie Miller, summed up his talent best: "I think you are born a breaststroker." However, that's not to say that Cody's road to Rio was an easy one. He also was born with Pectus Excavatum a condition that causes the ribs and sternum to grow abnormally resulting in a diminished lung capacity and consequences for the heart. His doctors suggested that swimming might help counteract the progression of the disorder. Regardless, his mom wanted Cody to learn to swim as she saw it as a life skill--one she did not possess growing up.

Working in his favor on all fronts, Cody was always comfortable in the water. He started competitive swimming at the age of eight. Shortly thereafter, Debbie Miller moved Cody and his little sister Catie (also an accomplished swimmer) to Las Vegas. It was here that with hard work he excelled as a member of the Sandpipers of Nevada until he graduated high school. He would go on to swim for Indiana University becoming an 8-Time All-American, hold eight Big Ten titles, and set several records in the Big Ten Conference. Today, Cody is a member of the US National Team and holds the American record for the fastest times in both 100M and 200M Breaststroke.

To say that Cody is the very model of a Champion who has overcome great odds is an understatement. He is a nice guy too. And, I, for one, love to see the underdog finish on top!

Congratulations to Team Miller!

- Tammy