Games of the XXX Olympiad: London 2012 Olympics

       

         Hey everyone! Most of you have heard of the London Summer Olympics coming up and have wondered what events they have, who is competing, and who will win... right? Well so am I. I am really excited about watching the Games and I thought you might want to know a little more about them.
         Originally, the Olympics started in ancient Greece around 776 BCE and was a competition between men from different city-states and was held in honor of Zeus. Today, we replicate these ancient games into what we have now, the Olympics. Although it has been changed throughout history, including the many sports (like chariot racing), some of it is still the same.
         In London, there are 26 sports and about 200 different countries are participating with about 10,500 athletes. In the U.S. alone, there are 530 athletes competing. Their motto is to "Inspire a Generation" and the two mascots are Wenlock and Mandeville. The Opening Ceremony is on July 27 even though there are a few events that take place a day before.
         The Opening Ceremony this year, marks the beginning of the 30th Olympic Games. Even though the real Opening Ceremony schedule might be out there, this is what I think should happen. In the beginning, it would be entertaining if soldiers marched in and did a few stunts. Then maybe a few dancers and actors could somehow act out the British conquest all over the world and the King and Queen could walk in. Although, it would be truly incredible if the cast of Harry Potter flew in and acted out a scene. After all, the books do take place in London.
          During the actual Olympic Games, my favorite sport to watch is gymnastics. As many of you know, I used to do competitive gymnastics and I still really enjoy watching the sport. The many flips, turns, jumps, and twists thrill me. It's an incredible sport to watch. Also, swimming is a delightful sport which can be very tense when swimmers are really close to the finish line and are side-by-side. This year, I think the U.S. has a great team of swimmers and gymnast. The women's gymnastic team has five great gymnasts who all aced the championships. Even with some questionable injuries, both men and women U.S.A. gymnastic teams are strong and determined to win the gold. This year, the U.S. swim team, also has some fierce swimmers. Everyone knows Michael Phelps, the man who has won the most Olympic gold medals in the world. Also on the team are some veterans, like Natalie Coughlin, Brendan Hansen, Matt Grevers, and Ryan Lochte, but there are many newbies as well. Make sure you tune into your t.v. to watch these incredible athletes perform.
           As you can see, the Olympics are a worldwide tournament where the best of each sport in every country compete against each other for the honor to win. Over 4 billion people are expected to watch this spectacular event and hopefully you will be one of them. GO TEAM U.S.A.!!!

~Rajee