Reminscing: Cathy Freeman Does It Big

Don't get it wrong. Cathy Freeman is one of the greatest sports performers this generation will ever witness.

Beijing failed to deliver a Cathy Freeman moment. She lit the cauldron and then set the track on fire during the 400-meters at the Sydney Games carrying the combined weight of her Australia and her Aboriginal heritage. Freeman put down a 49.11 in the clutch.

Things were crazy. You may recall the mysterious move by competitor Maria Jose-Perec of France fleeing the country in the days leading up the final. Coming down the stretch, Freeman put her finishing touches on her Olympic championship, slamming the door on her competitors.

Jay Hicks for Prerace Jitters.