Book excerpt: "If we can only stay on our feet, we'll medal!" These are the words of Minnesota speedskating silver medalist, Randy Bartz. Minnesotans, in the heart of the Midwest, have long been known for their humble nature and work ethic and have long taken great pride in their athletics. Minnesota Gold celebrates the perseverance and triumphs of fifty-seven diverse homegrown athletes from 1948¬-2014 as they pursued their dreams to compete in the greatest international competitions. In this book of inspiring biographies, authors Patrick "Packy" Mader shares the memorable conversations he had with these remarkable men and women who honored their sport, their state, and their country on the world stage over the last seven decades. Discover true Minnesota gold!