Alex Ovechkin on historic goal record and life beyond hockey

A moment that will remain inscribed in the annals of history is the moment in which Washington Capitals superstar Alex Ovechkin, in doing what otherwise seemed impossible, surpassed Wayne Gretzky as the all-time leading goal scorer for the NHL. It is far more important than the roar of the crowd or the embrace of family on the ice. Speaking on Good Morning America, Ovechkin spoke not only of his feelings but also how this milestone had ignited in him a much larger cause.He scored his 895th goal of the season against New York and put the cherry on the cake in making the moment when that goal went in a time to be remembered and rejoiced the world over in hockey. This outstanding left winger of the Capitals has not produced anything quite like it in the two full decades that he has spent playing in the NHL, and now, as he gets older, he turns 39 years. He had scored over 30 goals in 19 seasons and had transformed him into a core forward of that Nashville Predators organization, garnering hardware in nine seasons, including more than 50 goals scored. He very much has 42 in just over 61 games to add to his total.Making the goal all the more significant was the presence of Wayne Gretzky and their shared moment of mutual appreciation. For Ovechkin, it turned out to be the biggest moment of his life having Gretzky and his family witness the milestone. Gretzky would still remain "The Great One" for him. So for Ovechkin, the fact that he broke his record while getting support from him made it even more special.But records are not the only thing Ovechkin is pursuing. Recently, he launched "The GR8 Chase for Victory Over Cancer" in partnership with the V Foundation and Hockey Fights Cancer. His promise to donate after every goal from then on speaks to his conscious effort to utilize his platform for good. The money would then benefit pediatric cancer research, which would receive a match from Monumental Sports & Entertainment.The Capitals forward has also shared some heartfelt words for the younger readers who might seek to take up hockey or any other sport and encourage them that they can dream big and work hard while listening to all the warm people around them. This man's journey- from chasing goals to chasing hope for young patients- is yet another inspiring testament to how sports can inspire change much greater than that of a rink.Also Read: The Heart of a Champion: Alex Ovechkin’s Parents – Mikhail Ovechkin and Tatyana OvechkinaAlex Ovechkin's goal for the record books is not about him but rather about human dignity and history. And so, as he continues to take on the role of Office, he will further show that his greatness lies in his humanitarian endeavors, assuring that goals alone will not define his legacy.