The pressure and expectations after the Atlanta games led to several tough years for Amanda. Her body matured and her times slowed. She had been all but written off for the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney, winning just two national titles and dropping from second in World Ranking (1996) to as low as 67th by 1998. Yet Amanda kept working hard and went on to the University of Arizona in 1999 to begin improving for the Sydney Games. At the Games, she exceeded expectations by winning the bronze medal in the 200m Breaststroke.

In the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens, Beard claimed supremacy in the pool, winning her first individual gold medal in the 200m Breaststroke as well as silver in the 200 Individual Medley and the 4x100 Medley Relay. Today, Beard is a World Record holder in the 200m Breaststroke and an American Record holder in the 200m Individual Medley.

Turning professional in 2001, Amanda gave up her remaining two years of college eligibility in order to pursue swimming professionally. Amanda's beautiful figure, face and brilliant eyes, make her one of the most sought after models in the Olympic movement. Since the summer of 2003, she has combined photo shoots for high-profile men's and lifestyle magazines with her training schedule.

Amanda has been featured in the Sports Illustrated swimsuit edition and was named ESPN.com's "hottest female athlete." Following her professional swimming career, Beard would like to consider modeling full-time. She currently attends the University of Arizona studying Retail and Consumer sciences. She spends much of her free time working with non-profit organizations to protect endangered species and working with young swimmers around the country to help them overcome obstacles and set high goals.

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