There are so many things that being a short track fan, er, enthusiast, has given me. First and foremost to me, it's given me a chance to meet people from all over the US. Some I'm just aquaintences with, some, I'm friends with, and some I would consider best friends. I guess I'll just list out my thank you's, because I don't know how else to put it.

To all the fans that I've gotten to meet, gotten to chat with, and gotten to know. Thank you so much for being so passionate about the sport. I have had so much fun with you guys in chat rooms and in postings on the OZ or on rs.com. We may have our disagreements at times, but like it or not, we've grown into a family of richly diverse people, coming from all walks of life, having all sorts of opinions. That's what so awesome about us. One thing has brought all these different people together. A love for guys in skinsuits! Long live BT!

To all the people I've become close to in the ST world, and you should know who you are. Thank you so much for being my support, for listening to me rant and rave about the thousands of injustices that I make up in my life. Thanks for all the talks about nothing and the talks about everything. Thanks for asking me for my opinion like it means something. Thanks for letting me share the special moments in your life. Thanks for letting me share the special moments that I know that I would get shot for if they were shared publicly. Also, thanks for keeping me sane, I know it's not an easy job. I will always be there for you, my friends! You are near and dear to my heart.

To Rod, and I know you're screaming like a little girl to be mentioned several times during this marathon. Thanks for including me into your world. It's been tough lately, I know, but we're still friends, and that's what counts. Everything else can be rebuilt to what it was before. You have been such a terrific friend, and I miss the talks that we used to have. Remember, if it wasn't for ST, we would never had known each other. Yes, since the secret is out, you're my internet best friend, for better or for worse. Keep yourself in line, buddy, and we'll do ok. Love you - in a strictly platonic sense. *evil grin*

To the skaters I've met, you are all awesome. You all deserve to be stars. I had so much fun interviewing you all in my travels. I really hope that the sport takes off and becomes as popular as it should be. Believe me, I'm trying everything in my power to help you guys out. You all have such great personalities, and I can only hope that our team becomes better and more dominant. I'll be cheering you all on, all the way!

To Rusty and the rest of rustysmith.com, thank you for letting a crazed fan be part of the 'inside'. Last year I would have NEVER thought I would be where I am today, a webmaster for your site, and more. You all have given me opportunities that I would never have had, and I thank you for that, and more so for the friendship you have given me. You've never failed to make me laugh and we always have a great time when we get together. I'm so happy to be part of the crew.

To Apolo, dude, I know you checked me out twice at Oakbrook Mall. I have witnesses! But really, it's all because of you that I've lived this rollercoaster ride over the last year. Thank you for standing out at the Olympics. Thank you for not going to Milwaukee, so I got to meet Rusty, Shani and Dan instead. Thank you for just being a regular 21 year old guy, who people think they know, but they don't. And thanks for making incredible eye contact with me during interviews. I was melting inside. And dude, I think Rod was checking you out.

Thanks for everything, short track, it's been a ball. Can't wait to see what next season holds.

Posted by Yano at July 27, 2003 06:04 AM

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