Jim Wade
Jim is planning to attend graduate school after the 2012 games, either in Operations Research (large scale and network optimization), systems biology or medical school.
United States National Team 2006, 2007, 2009
United States Jr. National Team 2002, 2003
United States National Champion 2009
Current National Ranking: # 2
Current World Ranking: # 48
2009 Canoe World Series German Open: 10th
Highest World Cup finish: 18th Place 2006 World Cup Race # 1 Athens, Greece
Bronze Medal 2003 Jr. Pre-World Championships Lofer, Austria
EDUCATION
Georgia Institute of Technology Atlanta, GA
B.S. in Industrial Engineering Expected May 2010
Specialization in Operations Research
AWARDS
President's Undergraduate Research Award Fall 2009
Bradley-Turner Servant Leadership funds Fall 2008-Present
Senior Design Finalist, World Food Programme Supply Chain Optimization Fall, 2008
Georgia Tech Dean's Scholarship 2004
Georgia Tech President's Scholarship semifinalist 2004
DESCRIBE THE CIRCUMSTANCES OF MAKING YOUR FIRST NATIONAL TEAM
In 2006 I was not, in absolute terms, among the three fastest kayaks in the country. At the 2006 US Team Trial, however, I raced near my potential and some others did not race at theirs. As a result I was third and made the National Team
DESCRIBE THE SIGNIFICANCE OF REPRESENTING YOUR COUNTRY
The United States has institutions for supporting Olympic sports that differ greatly from their counterparts in much of the world; especially Europe, Canada, Russia and China. While athletes in those countries are supported by their national government we are left to find support for ourselves. In many cases this requires US athletes to have a second job to support their training. International success in this system, to me, is a statement of the American mentality; dedication and determination to reach the greatest of goals.
WHAT NON CANOE/KAYAK ATHLETE DO YOU MOST ADMIRE AND WHY?
When I was a kid it was Joe Montana, now days I don't really have a hero. MJ was a great competitor if I had to choose.
WHO DO YOU LOOK UP TO?
Both my parents, but especially my father. He has taught me so much, and there is plenty left. I simply hope that I can do as well for my children as they have done for me. I am lucky.
MOST INTERESTING FACT(S) ABOUT YOU?
I'm a nerd, and an athlete.
IF I WASN'T PADDLING, I WOULD BE...
...doing schoolwork, skiing, playing soccer or sports in general, with friends, reading, watching films.
