With so many of the expected U.S. headliners going down in flames, Cheek could be one who winds up cashing in, along with the snowboarders. Not only did he actually win gold, he came across as very likeable. He was the voice of reason in all the hoopla involving his speedskating "teammates." And who doesn't like that bit about giving his prize money to charity?

Canadian athletes must get endorsement deals, don't they? That's where the real money is.


>But let's not forget Joey Cheek and Clara Hughes. Cheek donated his entire $40,000 prize money from the U.S. olympic committee for his medals to 'Right to Play'. Clara Hughes, Canada's 5000 metre Gold Medal speed skater, inspired by Cheeks, donated $10,000.
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>But bear in mind that Canadian athletes get nothing, zilch, zero, nada for winning medals. This was her own savings.
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>Not to mention that she skated an astonishing race. Her final lap was something to behold.
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>Talk about 'amazing'.
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>>She was absolutely amazing.
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>>>Cindy Klassen of Canada has won 5 medals in the Winter Olympics, which is the most for any Canadian Olympian summer or winter. She is also the first Canadian to hold 6 career Olympic medals. She played on national youth hockey team, but when she wasn't selected for the 1998 Olympics she switched to speed skating. http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cindy_Klassen