Dramatic action-packed profiles of a dozen of the twentieth-century's greatest and most courageous athletes show how they overcame serious challenges to make a lasting impact not only on their sport but also on society.Veteran author and journalist Ken Rappoport showcases a dozen of the twentieth century's greatest and most courageous athletes-from Jackie Robinson, the first African-American to play in the Major Leagues, to race car pioneer Janet Guthrie, the first woman to qualify for the Indy 500, to cyclist Lance Armstrong, who fought back from cancer to become a six-time winner of the Tour de France.Each dramatic, action-packed profile shows how these talented athletes overcame serious challenges--racism, sexism, serious illness, and congenital problems--to make a lasting impact not only on their sport but also on society. Young readers will find in each of these inspiring men and women the bravery, perseverance, and dedication that made them outstanding athletes during their own times and strong role models for today.