The awards for Maarten van der Weijden continue to come. Tonight, he was selected at the Dutch Sportsman of the Year. During his acceptance speach, he uncharacteristically acted nervously. He graciously thanked his family and his sister (open water swimmer Etta van der Weijden) and all the people who helped him during his carear with special attention for his coach Marcel Wouda. He also thanked the people that helped him recover from his illness. He stated he wanted to show the world what was possible after cancer. The shocking and unexpected news was that he announced his retirement and will work for his favorite charity, the national cancer fund.
Photo by Pei Qingsheng at the Beijing Olympics.
Copyright © 2009 by World Open Water Swimming Association
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