finished watching Josh Hamilton’s 2008 HR derby performance on ESPN.

I remember the first half of that season pretty vividly (and the entirety of his tremendous season, for that matter), and I remember how great a comeback story it was. And I remember watching him in that HR derby, and the feelings that emanated from his performance. From watching a guy who had been through so much, who had fought his way back, to not only capture the American Dream, but to garner the adoration of everyone who ever called themselves a sports fan. To have 57,000 fans at one of the greatest venues in all of sports chanting his name. As I was re-watching it tonight, I was pleasantly surprised to have those same feelings resurface.

Disregard the fact that nothing had really changed in terms of how impressive it was. It is and forever will be one of the best exhibitions of the combination of strength and skill, exhibition or when it counts, that most sports fans will ever see. Though, to have those same feelings of being so happy for him, even 3 years after the event; that was remarkable. I actually felt like standing up and clapping for him. 

But here’s the best part: I didn’t remember that he didn’t win, because it doesn’t matter, and I’d be willing to bet I’m not the only one who forgot that little tidbit.