How can someone finish in last place and win the gold medal? That’s what Olympic Decathlete Bryan Clay did in his final event–the 1,500 meter race. He finished in 23rd place, a full 30 seconds behind the best time.

Clay was the point leader through the entire event. He placed first in three events, second in two events, third in two events, along with a tenth and eleventh place to go along with his last place run. But he had amassed enough points through the earlier events that basically, he just had to finish the final race to win the overall and be declared the Greatest Athlete in the World.

Bryan Clay knows something about perseverance. Whether you win or lose, do your best and finish the race.

There is one more detail that makes Bryan Clay a true hero–he has a solid Christian testimony. You can read about it here and on his blog.