After four long years, the Olympics have finally returned, and this year they are goin’ down across the pond in London.
There are some athletes who are new to the Olympics and there are some returning favorites.
We at GlobalGrind realize that you might not have the time to watch every sport or catch every competition. (However, we are sure that you can catch almost all the highlights on Twitter or Facebook!)
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Therefore, we’ve broken down a list of some 2012 Olympic highlights – athletes and events that you do not want to miss!
Among the most exciting events to watch are the Opening and Closing ceremonies. There are always cool performances and really unique spectacles. This year, there were some rumors that Muhammad Ali and Paul McCartney would show up to the Opening ceremony. The Spice Girls have confirmed a performance at the Closing ceremony, which should be interesting since they haven’t been seen all together since….how long ago?
Who doesn’t like to watch a nitty gritty fight, especially when people are breaking world records! Usain Bolt, aka the “World’s Fastest Man,” is someone you should look out for during the games. He broke three world records in 2008 and is racing in the 100m and 200m this year, hoping to remain in the top spot!
Another athlete that you should keep an eye on is Missy Franklin. 17-year-old Franklin has the potential to become the first American woman to swim seven events at this year’s games. What’s even more remarkable is that she is from Colorado and goes to high school in Aurora, where there were just shootings at a movie theater last week. Despite the incident being so close to home, we hope Missy pulls through in Londontown!
One of the most inspirational athletes by far is Oscar Pistorius. You might not know his name, but you will want to hear his story. Pistorius is a double amputee runner from South Africa who will be competing in this year’s games. He is the first amputee track athlete to participate in any of the Olympic games! Go get ’em, Oscar!
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Michael Phelps is also an athlete who many people will be watching intensely this year. He is trying to beat the record of holding the most total number of medals ever, but first he has to beat his competitor, Ryan Lochte. Mike, don’t stress it, you got this in the bag!
This is a very special Olympics, not only because of the people and events mentioned above, but also because this is the first time every nation competing will have a woman on their team! Even Saudi Arabia, which has strict rules regarding women and sports is allowing women to participate in the games. We love it – Girl Power!
The 2012 London Olympics kick off today and will end on August 12th. We wish all the competitors good luck, but of course, USA better bring home the gold!
Check out the gallery to see some more great athletes who you can follow at the Olympics!
