True, but I was trying to answer the original question.
In brief, emulate the hard work, good character (of those athletes who have it,) persistence, etc., of great athletes, but not their gift. We can get (or increase) a good work ethic, better character, persistence, by their example, BUT WE WILL NEVER GET THEIR GIFT, by emulating theirs.
oh, I completely agree. They are gifted but are able to take that gift to the next level because of their efforts. We should indeed emulate these qualities of hard work and persistence.