The Olympic Games, a contest held once every four years, has a history of great feats, amazing achievements and glorious finishes. Starting in Athens and now held worldwide, the Olympics feature big-name sponsors, high stakes and exciting athletes.
This summer, the games are being held in Paris, a city known for its flourishing culture and central role in European history. From July 26 to August 11, there will be over 10,500 athletes competing in more than 30 different sports, all seeking the chance to win the coveted gold medal. What might not be visible on the surface, however, is the work, effort and planning happening behind the scenes to successfully pull off this year’s games.
To be an Olympic participant, athletes must dedicate themselves and their lives to their sport. Michael Phelps, a former Olympic swimmer for Team USA and a 23-time gold medalist, trained non-stop. Usain Bolt, a retired track star with record-breaking times and multiple medals, followed a strict routine of eating, sleeping and running. Simone Biles, one of the greatest gymnasts on the floor, bars and vault, sacrificed her teenage years to train. These athletes are just a few examples of the dedication needed to participate in the Olympics.
Boston Latin School Athletic Director Mr. Jack Owens shares the challenges that Olympians overcome: “To be an Olympian, in most cases, athletes need to put personal lives on hold for little-to-no money for a chance just to qualify, let alone make it to the Olympics and then a medal. But many are competing for national pride.” Olympic athletes can come from all backgrounds, but they all have one common goal—to win.
Athletes and spectators will stay in Paris for a long time. Paris has taken many steps to include their culture and monuments into the games and create space for everyone. Events will be held around the city at places such as the Place de la Concorde (a public square), Champ de Mars (a public garden) and Trocadero (an area in front of the Eiffel Tower). This will allow spectators to fully immerse themselves in the history and beauty of Paris. The French government hopes that by using existing structures, they can celebrate the breathtaking architecture while cutting out the cost of building new areas, making this year’s games one of the least expensive in years.
One of the more recently added sports, surfing, will be held on the island of Tahiti in French Polynesia. As technology has advanced, the games can be streamed live and audience members can enjoy the excitement from their homes.
The streaming of the Olympic Games has attracted more viewers and inspired athletes. Khaya Dryden-Peterson (II), a member of the girls’ varsity crew team, says, “The Olympics are a beautiful thing because they allow individuals and teams to push their bodies to the absolute limit and be celebrated for it. The Olympic athletes have inspired me as a high school athlete to just see the dedication and the execution of unbelievable feats.”
Another important part of the Olympic Games is the sponsorships, brands and businesses, which the athletes represent. In order for brands to partner with athletes, there are strict rules that they must follow to ensure that the athletes are the focus.
To put the athletes first, the Olympics have developed a similar branch called the Paralympics. Also held in Paris this summer, these games showcase the talents of athletes with disabilities. Girls’ lacrosse team member Adebola Adetoye (IV) comments, “I like the inclusion of various sports and different kinds of athletes.”
The Olympic Games are an epic representation of skill and talent from incredible athletes around the world. This year, in Paris, dedicated athletes will show their talent worldwide in historical locations, creating a unique environment and a once-in-a-lifetime experience.
