Persistance?

I just read an article on coaching that made the following statement:

"Persistance is the number one intelligent behaviour."

Specifically the article was discussing teaching mental toughness relative to young athletes. My thoughts are:

• Persistance is definately an important mental attribute.
• However, I know many athletes who are less talented and skilled than others but are unbelievably persistant. At the end of the day though they still lose the game.
• So should it be the #1 intelligent behaviour? I certainly do not think so!

Thoughts?