The US Olympic team by-passed the likes of Tour de France winner Lance Armstrong and their various Track and Field stars when they yesterday named sprint kayaker Cliff Meidl, a former plumber's apprentice, as their captain.

The decision caps a remarkable turn-around for a man who almost had to have his legs amputated 14 years ago when he was injured in a construction site accident. Meidl started using the kayak to help his rehabilitation. Though he is unable to run, he can now walk and paddle.