One-legged ASU wrestler Anthony Robles will be honored in Los Angeles on July 13, when he will be awarded with the Jimmy V Perseverance Award at the 2011 ESPYs.
↵Robles captured the hearts and imaginations of America during his memorable run to win the 125-pound NCAA title, capping off an undefeated 36-0 season with a victory over Iowa's Matt McDonough.
↵The ESPYs certainly noticed his amazing story:
↵↵↵On June 2, Maura Mandt, executive producer of the ESPYs, called Robles and his mother to tell them he'd been chosen by ESPN to receive the fifth annual Jimmy V award. "That's one of the best things I will ever get to do in my life in my job," says Mandt. She says Robles' mom wept with joy. "It was hard not to cry myself," says Mandt.
↵The award is dedicated to the spirit of Valvano, former basketball coach at North Carolina State. According to ESPN's website, the award is give to a "member of the sporting world who has overcome great obstacles through physical perseverance and determination."
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This award is well-deserved for Robles, who was born without a right leg and has had to overcome so many obstacles to reach the heights he achieved. It's another feather in the cap of a gentleman that has made the world a better place. Congratulations, Anthony.