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Issue Three | 2012

Roanoke college magazine coverWhat defines a champion? A split-second tap on the swimming pool wall? A victorious lean into the tape? Or is it overcoming odds to pursue a lifelong quest? Or how well one rises after the fall? Dick Emberger '60, Shelley Olds '03, and Peter Tainer '16 are three Maroons who embody "champion." Their stories, featured in this issue of Roanoke magazine, are as different as day and night, sun and moon. But woven throughout is a common thread: an Olympic dream.

Also featured in this issue is Marty Snortum '77, whose fantastical Rocketbuster Boots are worn by the likes of singer-songwriter Taylor Swift; actress, comedian and talk show host Whoopi Goldberg; actor Tom Cruise and country music duo Brooks & Dunn. The boots, which sell for $850 to $5,000, have one thing in common, regardless of price. "They are never boring," Snortum says.