Eric the Eeel went on to cut his time in half in time for the 2004 Olympics (but didn't make it because of a Visa bungle.)
Would he have gotten the coaching, equipment, access to training facilities, and put in the effort to cut his time in half if he hadn't competed the first time in 2000? Can't say for sure, but probably not.
A disgrace? No.
A triumph for a man and a nation? Yes.
Eric the Eeel went on to cut his time in half in time for the 2004 Olympics (but didn't make it because of a Visa bungle.)
Would he have gotten the coaching, equipment, access to training facilities, and put in the effort to cut his time in half if he hadn't competed the first time in 2000? Can't say for sure, but probably not.
A disgrace? No.
A triumph for a man and a nation? Yes.
