I covered Ryan Lochte's appearance at Spinnaker Beach Resort on Saturday and boy did I hear the warnings.
"Talk slowly," some said. "He's not too bright," others said. "He's kind of a jerk," even more stated.
These were the tame things I heard about Lochte, who by his own admission wasn't done any favors with his ill-fated reality show on E!. Reality television, as you know, has as much to do with reality as a work of fiction. In other words, it's usually scripted and editors go out of their way to find the best stuff, even if it makes the person look a certain way.
Lochte was in town for a fundraiser for the Mac Crutchfield Foundation. For those who don't know, Crutchfield dies years ago in a drowning accident. He loved swimming, but more importantly, according to those who knew him, loved life even more.
Lochte joined up with the foundation six years ago. Now 30, he's one of the most decorated Olympic swimmers of all time. He's recently relocated to Charlotte, N.C., leaving the "college life" of North Florida.
If the fears were true, I would have been in for an interesting interview. I've had my share of bad interviews in my 14 years in this business, believe me. This, despite the warnings, wasn't one of those.
Lochte was charming, answered each question well and with passion. You could tell he had a place in his heart for this foundation. You could also tell the love and support he gave to it when he interacted with Maggie Crutchfield with hugs, pecks on the cheek, happy tears and "I love yous."
You see, Lochte has become part of the Crutchfield family. He's a big brother to Savannah. He's available whenever they need him and is never more than a text away.
This was in stark contrast to the "dumb, self-centered, selfish and pompous jerk" I was warned I'd encounter. Yes, Lochte is media savvy, as being a top athlete will train you in those regards. But you can't fake being genuine about a cause and I gathered none of that from him on that hot Saturday.
Say what you want about Ryan Lochte. Sure, maybe he likes to have fun, but who doesn't? Sure, maybe he's enjoyed living in the spotlight, but who wouldn't?.
But on that day I could tell Lochte felt at home. He was enjoying the day and giving back, which isn't something all famous folks do these days. And besides, there are worse athletes to have as role models. Look no further than Ray Rice in that category.