Birute Statkeviciene

No Lithuanian swimmer has won more of awards that Birut?. She is proud of her European and world titles, and she has been Lithuania's national champion no fewer than 33 times. As a young woman, Birut? saw the Olympic torch relay in Moscow, and she was inspired to help other people to witness the same Olympic celebration. Today Birut? uses her experience to work with Paralympics athletes, teaching as many of them as possible to swim despite their disabilities. Once, in 2000, Birut? swam across a lake with her hands and feet tied so as to demonstrate that physical disabilities are no obstacle against swimming. One of her trainees, K?stutis Sku?as, proved this by winning a silver medal at the Paralympics in Athens. By sharing her knowledge and professional experience along with a truly selfless spirit, Birut? shows people all around her that diligence, resistance and love for what you do are the straightest path to success.