David Boudia

David Boudia was an American diver who won a gold medal in the 10-meter platform competition at the 2012 London Olympics. Born and raised in the West Texas town of Abilene, Boudia started diving at the age of 10, despite a crippling fear of heights. He quickly overcame his fear, however, and soon began to make a name for himself as one of the best young divers in the state. Boudia's proficiency as a diver soon landed him a spot on the 2005 U.S. Men's National Diving Team. As a member of the men's team Boudia set his sights on one particular goal - to win a gold medal at the Olympics. Three years later he competed in his first Olympics in Beijing. Boudia, however, did not take home any medals during the 2008 games. Undeterred, Boudia returned to Purdue University determined to prove himself to his peers. It didn't take long for the entire collegiate world to take notice. In addition to winning the prestigious NCAA Diver of the Year Award for three consecutive years, Boudia was also voted as the best Diver in the Big Ten each year from 2009 to 2011. Furthermore, in 2011 Boudia also became the Big Ten's Jesse Owens Male Athlete of the Year, thus adding further yet another prestigious award to his trophy case. After graduating from Purdue in 2011, Boudia started training for the Summer Games in London. He easily qualified for the U.S. Men's Team, appearing in his second consecutive Olympics, and took home two medals, including a gold for the 10-meter platform. In taking home gold, Boudia became the first American to win a gold medal in diving since 2000. Over the next four years Boudia continued training hard while racking up medals in various international diving competitions, all in preparation for the 2016 Summer Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.