North Texan Michelle Carter is hoping to make her second U.S. Olympic team this week. The 26 year-old from Red Oak is one of the best shot put athletes in the country.
After finishing 15th at the Beijing Games, Carter says she is ready for a medal.
"I finally started to realize the talent that I do have and what I am able to do," Carter said.
Carter is coached by her father, Michael Carter.
"She's capable of a great throw," he said. Michelle’s personal best is more than 65 feet.
Michael Carter knows what he’s taking about. He still holds the U.S. high school record in shot put, and he is a silver medalist from the 1984 Olympics in Los Angeles. Carter is also a former NFL star, having won three Super Bowls with the San Francisco 49ers.
Michelle Carter jokes about being coached by her father.
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"Sometimes he used to tell me growing up 'just look at me as your coach.' And I'm like 'OK, Coach Daddy. What am I supposed to call you?'"
Michael Carter acknowledges it can be tricky sometimes.
"I just have to be able to walk the line and make sure everything's OK by the end of the day," he said.
Both Carters believe Beijing was just a warm-up for what's to come.
"Of course, I was a nervous wreck when I got to the competition," Michelle said.
Michelle has steadily improved since then, finishing third at this year’s indoor world championship.
"Now it's time to go in there and take care of business," said Michael.
If she makes Team USA, Carter will go through her usual good luck routine in London.
"I've gotta get my nails painted and my toes done and my hair done. Going into a major competition, that always has to be done!" she said. "If you look good, you feel good, and you perform well."
After years of training and sacrifice, Michelle Carter is ready for her closeup on the medal stand.
"They put the medal around your neck, and they start playing the national anthem. And the camera is on you, and the camera is on the flag. It has to be a great feeling. I don't think there’s anything better than that," she said.
More: Michelle Carter on Twitter @ShotDiva and on Facebook Facebook/ShotPutDiva
