Michelle Kwan

Michelle Kwan (http://www.csmonitor.com/2002/0219/p01s01-ussc.html Taken By: DARRON CUMMINGS)

Michelle Wingshan Kwan is an American figure skater. She was born in Torrance, California on July 7, 1980, so she is 28 right now. She has 2 older siblings, Ron and Karen. She can speak Cantonese, Mandarin, and English. Michelle Kwan began skating at the age of 5 when she first saw her brother Ron play hockey. She started to compete when she was 7. When Michelle was just 12, she competed in her first nationals.

Michelle Kwan has won numerous awards throughout her career as a figure skater. They include the USOC Female Figure Skating Athlete of the Year, 72nd Annual James E. Sullivan Award, and the Dial Award. Michelle Kwan inspires kids and adults to be just like her. She is successful and demonstrates good character traits.

Michelle Kwan is my hero because she has inspired so many people. I remember a time when I was little and my parents were watching the Olympics. Michelle Kwan was skating, and I remember trying to act just like her. To me, she seemed so elegant and beautiful. Not only did she have respect for others, but she demonstrated kindness and responsibility. She is a true role model!