2012 Olympics

I have been trying to follow the 2012 Olympic Games, but have felt a little overwhelmed.  As opposed to the World Championships or National Trials, the Olympic Games are 12 days of non-stop action.  There are also a plethora of media outlets.  20 years ago the outlets included news and sports broadcasting and newspapers.  Now there are live feeds, social media, live broadcasting and tape delayed broadcasting. 

Of the 26 sports and 39 disciplines, I am only truly interested in swimming, athletics and weightlifting.  I would probably watch any sport that was televised with the exception of basketball, equestrian and football.

I have been very impressed by the representation at the 2012 Games.  India sent 83 athletes and has already earned a bronze medal in 10m air rifle.  Overall 49 countries have claimed 226 medals awarded.  While China and United States are currently leading the medal count the parity among nations is very impressive.  Gone are the days of the Soviet-USA domination of the games.  Today athletes around the world have better access to training venues, equipment, coaching and national support.

“The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph, but the struggle.  The essential thing is not to have conquered, but to have fought well.”