I Heart The Olympics

I am completely geeking out for the 2008 Olympics! This is nothing new for me. Every four summers I gear up for the best competition on the planet. I have to admit I don't get as excited for the winter Olympics as I do for the summer. I think it all has to do with growing up in Florida and not learning any winter sports ever. Anyhow, I get swept up in the whole thing. All of it! There isn't anything I don't like about it. Here is my list of

4 Things I Love About The Olympics

1) The Spectacle- This year's opening ceremony was jaw-dropping. I have never seen anything like what they did. There is always a lot of pomp and circumstance in a fun way at the Olympics.

2) The Culture- I learn a little something about the host country every time. The networks do a fair job of giving a bit of cultural and historical background . I am not saying you could watch the stuff on China this year and get a Masters in Chinese history but it does leave you a bit more informed than when you started.

3) The Heros- I live for those amazing personal stories. The stories of athletes overcoming all odds just to get to the Olympics to do what they love. My personal favorite of this year is the story of Lopez Lamong, the flag bearer in the opening ceremonies and who is competing in the 1500 meter race for track and field. His story is unreal and inspiring.

4) The Drama- the close relay race finishes, the agonizing falls, the underdog taking the win- nowhere is the drama of sport more obvious than at the Olympics. It is such a big part of what makes the Olympics great.