August 3rd, 2016 - Photographer and Chelsea director Erik Madigan Heck focuses his lens on some of the world's most famous athletes for the Olympics Issue of the New York Times Magazine. The issue opens with his cover story, which captures swimmer Katie Ledecky - deemed 'the most dominant swimmer in the pool this summer' by cover story journalist Michael Sokolove.

'By Portraying Katie Ledecky from behind, we aimed to create an image that, in its graphic simplicity, could represent all Olympians,' says NYT Magazine Photo Editor Kathy Ryan who worked closely with Erik and his team to create the spread.

The issue also features a photo story shot by Erik, featuring some of the most promising Rio Olympians side-by-side with their personal heroes. Diver David Boudia is featured with role model and Gold Medalist Apollo Ohno, while beach volleyballer Kerri Walsh Jennings is pictured opposite soccer star Mia Hamm.

'It was really incredible to be surrounded by Gold Medal Olympians, and yet to experience them as normal people- to see their insecurities, and flaws. But then to ask them to perform for my lens and watch them transform into something super-human. It was one of the most memorable jobs I’ve had yet,' says Erik. To view the full story visit The New York Times Magazine.