Olympic Games Always a Plus
23rd of August 2016
I'm a HUGE fan of the Olympics. Since I have to work, I don't always get to catch the opening ceremonies, but I watch the Olympics whenever I can. The Summer Games are the games I like best, but I still watch the Winter Games. I don't think they come around enough, but I think that's what adds to the excitement of it all. It's a time where all the athletes give it their best and put on some outstanding performances. Every athlete puts every ounce of strength and energy into this one moment that will go down in Olympic history. Some moments are good, and some are bad. We remember them both, but we still lift up the spirits of all who participate.
I have nothing bad to say about the athletes, win or lose. I only have bad things to say about those that cheat or act a damn fool and lie about it (yes, Lockte and not concerned about spelling). The mere fact that they made it to the Olympics is an accomplishment in itself. I know Kerri Walsh Jennings and April Ross were favored to win gold. They won bronze, and I still love them. They took the loss hard, yet gracefully. They kept a positive attitude and got the bronze. I couldn't be more proud of them.
How can I talk about the Olympics and leave Michael Phelps out? I can't. It's just impossible. His name will be said for a long time. That man has set a record that won't be broken for a while. I do think Katie Ledecky could break it, but that will be in another 12 years. She's 19. She's got time. Back to Phelps, he retired and came back. I don't really consider him coming back since I don't think he ever left. I still don't think he left. Like many of the commentators said, he can still get that itch (hoping it's not from the Rio pool water. I had to get one in). I remember reading an article during the 2012 Games that Phelps has feet that are more webbed than a normal human, which is why he's so unstoppable.
Gymnastics is my all-time favorite. Simone Biles is another name that could break Michael Phelps' record. She did have some hard times, but she still has gold to take home. I was very impressed with the Final Five. Gabby Douglas put on some great performances, and I'd venture to say some of her best work. I hated that the American people chastized her for not putting her hand over her heart during the National Anthem. I don't see a majority of people doing that at any other event. I didn't see athletes do it in the past, but now, it's a problem. Leave her alone. She didn't get in a brawl at a gas station and exaggerate what happened. She helped the US Gymnastices team win gold once again.
I didn't get to watch as much water polo this time around because it was on while I was working. The Olympics was my way of keeping peace while I had to work for the news station at the Iowa State Fair. You may have read my thoughts on the ISF already. If not, go back and take a look.
The Olympics is the one sporting event when I actually believe it's all about the game. It's not about the money because everyone who participates just talks about the experience. I'm sure the athletes get paid something, but I would know how much. I don't care. The Olympics brings cultures all around the world together to share experiences with not only competitors, but the millions watching around the world. It's the one event going on that can take my mind off of political campaigns and my life in general. I could survive by watching DVDs of Olympic coverage over and over again.
