1 . Few people have achieved fame for coming in last place. That is why Michael Edwards, or “Eddie the Eagle”, became a rather unexpected hero. Unlike most athletes, Eddie did not come to the 1988 Calgary Olympic Winter Games for a medal. He came simply to compete. In doing so, he realized his dream.

At first, Eddie tried to make the British national ski team but failed. Then he chose the riskiest event, ski jumping. No British skier had ever competed in that sport, but having no competitors meant that Eddie had a better chance of qualifying (取得资格) for the 1988 Olympic Games. It also meant there was no support for him. Eddie had no coach, equipment, or financial support, but what he had was determination. Not afraid of what he lacked, Eddie set out to learn his chosen sport, training himself for nearly 2 years. And he managed to meet the qualification for Olympic ski jumping, and landed himself in the 1988 Olympic Games. Eddie was determined to compete, and while he came in last, he did manage to land his jumps, and he still holds the British record in that sport. Coming in last place actually made him the star of the Olympics and the true embodiment (化身) of the Olympic spirit.

Many of us may have experienced similar limitations during our own youth that prevented us from following our dreams. Eddie’s rejection (拒绝) from the British national ski team is a story that many of us can relate to. Rejection can be devastating, but we can struggle to find the courage to put ourselves back out there, or the creativity to find another way.

1. What was Eddie’s dream?

A．To become a hero.	B．To join the national ski team.
C．To take part in the Olympics	D．To develop his ski jumping skills.

2. Why did Eddie choose ski jumping as his event?

A．It was popular among British skiers.

B．It meant a better chance to win a medal.

C．He would get the support he needed in this event.

D．He would be more likely to be included in the Olympics.

3. What made Eddie the star of the Olympics?

A．His caring little for fame.	B．His professional performance.
C．His breaking the British record.	D．His determination to follow his dream.

4. What does the underlined word “devastating” mean in the last paragraph?

A．Unforgettable.

B．Disastrous.

C．Sudden.

D．Confusing.

5. Which is the best title for the article?

A．Bravery.	B．1998 Olympic Games.
C．An unexpected hero.	D．ski jumping.