This week, when Knoxville-native Davis Tarwater helped his team win gold in London, his parents were there to cheer him on.
The U.S. men's relay team won the 4-by-200 freestyle, and while he didn't swim in the final race, Tarwater helped his team qualify for the finals.
For his proud parents, Tarwater's achievements mean so much more to them than a gold medal.
"He had a monster split and a great, great swim. And we're so proud of him and so proud that the coaches gave him the opportunity to swim," said Dwight Tarwater.
"The medal itself has a tremendous amount of significance, but I think it's just the journey here has been, that's where the most tears were shed and the most of the joy has been. And the medal is wonderful but we're just so proud of Davis," said Mary Tarwater.
You can watch Kris Budden's entire interview with the Tarwater's by clicking the video link.