The first American woman to win five Olympic gold medals, speed skater Bonnie "The Blur" Blair (1964-) attributed her success to "dedication, balance, risk, and love." The athlete was born on this day in Cornwall, New York, the youngest of six.

She said, "I don't remember the first time I skated on ice, I was too young. I do remember falling in love with that wind-in-my-face feeling while speed skating."

During the 1986-1987 season, Blair broke the world record by skating 500 meters in 39.43 seconds. Grabbing her first gold medal in Calgary (1988) for the 500-meter race, she went on to win four more in the 500- and 1,000-meter races in the Albertville (1992) and Lillehammer (1994) Games.

She said, "It doesn't matter what anybody thinks of what I do. The clock doesn't lie."

With perpetual smile and upbeat personality, she described herself as "always happy" and has been called one of the world's best technician in the sprint distance. Sports Illustrated named her Sportswoman of the Year in 1994.

"I don't think winning means anything in particular. It's the satisfaction you get from knowing you did your best," she said.

"Be willing to risk your pride and remember to keep a balance in your life, with the help of faith, friends, and family. When you do these things, you will have a winning edge."

Go for it--EVERY time.