Like fine wine you age,

As you march toward the sunset

of your career.

You enjoy the twilight

Of a career well spent.

We all watched you grow up;

We were all your proud parents.

From an awkward child

taking baby steps

To a man,

a champion.

Our hearts swelled with pride

When you climbed that mountain thrice,

like you were one of our own.

You are one of our own,

the adopted member of our extended family.

Our golden boy,

Our champion.

We watched you from the rising of your career,

and we dread the coming of the inevitable sunset.

We are not ready to give you up.

11/20/03 9:03 PM