What makes for an inspiring Olympic moment? Is it the years of hard work and sacrifice that culminate in a gold medal? Is it competing because you love your sport, even though it's unlikely you'll ever win? Is it suffering an injury but finishing the race? Is it overcoming a stereotype and proving something to the world? All these factors and more play a part in the great moments of Olympic history.

As we await the starting trumpet at the 2010 Winter Olympics in Vancouver, Beliefnet looks back at the most inspiring Olympic moments ever. Some names you'll know, some will jog your memory, and some may even surprise you.

Text by Dilshad D. Ali and Lilit Marcus

#15 Most Inspirational Olympic Moment: Jamaican Bobsled Team