By: Mike Allen

President Bush telephoned U.S. swimming phenom Michael Phelps, who recently became the most prolific Olympic champion by winning an eighth gold medal at the Beijing Olympics.

Bush made the call from his ranch at 6:20 a.m. in Texas, 7:20 p.m. in China.

An aide said the president told Phelps: "Laura and I are proud of you. Our family is proud of you, but most importantly, America is proud of you. We’re excited for you. You handled yourself with humility. Give your mom a big hug for me. 41 and I were honored to get a picture with her. If you can handle eight gold medals, you can handle anything."

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