Janet Evans, a middle distance swimmer who dominated in the late 80s and early 90s, is returning to the Olympic Trials this year in the 400 and 800 meter races. She STILL has a college record (I forget in what event), and I see her name on the board of National records every time I swim at the UW pool.

My favorite part of this article is a quotation from Evans:

“I never really appreciated the fact I was a great athlete. I just really took it for granted. I get it now. It’s fun for me to come home and tell Billy this is what I did at workout today and this is crazy that I’m able to do this.”

One interested strand of remarks in the comment section of the article notes that the tone of the piece is to try to show how Janet Evans is still being a good mom.  Instead of celebrating her achievements for what they are, the reporter frames them as achievements in the context of mommy-hood.  Would there be such a focus on parenting if this article was about a man?  Probably not.  Just something to think about!

-Erica

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