Steven Bradbury won an Olympic gold medal 24 years ago in the 1000 meters short track event during the 2002 Salt Lake City Olympics, becoming a symbol of the ultimate underdog victory, as he clinched the medal after all his competitors fell and disqualified themselves. His remarkable achievement has transformed into the phrase 'Doing a Bradbury', signifying success when others falter. Despite the narrative suggesting he was a surprise winner, Bradbury was in fact a world-class athlete who consistently competed at high levels, including reaching semifinals at various world championships.

Martin Johansson, a three-time Olympic athlete who often raced against Bradbury, emphasizes that the story of Bradbury as an underdog is misleading. He shares insights from their competitions, revealing that while Johansson's best Olympic result was a seventh place, Bradbury was always a top contender and rarely lost to him in races. Johansson argues that though their athletic journeys were similar, Bradbury's higher peaks in performance contributed to his legendary status, delivering a narrative that glosses over the fact that he was indeed elite in the short track racing scene.

As Johansson reflects on their rivalry and the ongoing legacy of Bradbury, it's evident that the story has grown beyond just a memory of a singular race; it represents the broader theme of triumph in the face of adversity. The conversation surrounding 'Doing a Bradbury' continues to resonate in sports and beyond, where the idea of achieving success when others fail inspires athletes and enthusiasts alike.