Olympics Wrap-Up

The Olympics are done, and China definitely put on a great show to close out the games, but there are a few things that we will always remember about these games.

Michael Phelps

Who’s going to forget the ADD-riddled kid from  Baltimore who took solace in the pool, only to find glory? WInning 8 gold medals, and setting 7 world records along the way, Phelps had a great run. Two great races, the first, the 4×100, where Jason Lezak kept Phelps mania going by improbably coming from behind and winning by .08 seconds. That didn’t top Phelps’ .01 second victory over Milorad Cavic.

Phelps really reitalized the sport of swimming. Well, for the week that it was relevant anyway.

That was until…

Usain Bolt came along, and took the world by storm. He wrecked the world record in the 100 M, barely breaking a sweat, and took down a world record that people thought would stand the test of time. The final line for Bolt?

3 gold medal, 3 World Records, 2 individual world records (100 M, 9.69 seconds, 200 M, 19.30 seconds)

I think this is hilarious:

Another unforgettable athlete: Dara Torres.

The 41 year old mother won 3 silver medals and was .01 seconds away from a gold medal. The fact that she’s even competing at such a high level at the age she’s at is remarkable. And even in the age of doping and enhancers, Torres is someone who pushes for more testing. Big props to her.

Team USA Basketball, coined the Redeem Team, restored respect to US Basketball, playing with class, and poise all the way to gold.

And finally, China lead the Olympics in gold medals won. This is the first time a country besides USA and the Soviet Union has lead the Olympics in golds. And what a show China put on. Say what you want about their actions socially and politically, but to the public, they put on a great show.

Of course we also won’t forget the controversy of the underage Chinese gymnasts. I know the IOC did an “investigation” but the whole thing is still really shady.

Peace and love

-SB