The Greatest Moments in the Olympics: Celebrating Excellence and Inspiration

The Olympic Games have consistently stood as a grand platform for unparalleled displays of athleticism and unforgettable moments that have captivated and inspired millions across the globe. Over the years, the Olympics have showcased historic triumphs and profound acts of unity, encapsulating the epitome of human physical and mental prowess. An estimated 1 billion people across the globe are expected to watch the upcoming games in Paris; so let’s look back at some of the greatest moments in Olympics history!

Paris 1900: The First Female Athletes Participate

The 1900 Olympics represented a landmark for women as the first female athletes were allowed to participate. Female athletes weren’t allowed to compete in the Olympics until the Paris Games, when their participation in lawn tennis and golf events secured a position for women in the future. Helene de Pourtales not only became the first-ever female athlete to participate in the Olympic games, but she also became the first female to win a medal at the Games, as she was part of the Swiss crew that won the first of two 1-2 ton class regattas.

Jesse Owens’ Triumph in Berlin (1936)

In the face of racial discrimination and the hostile atmosphere of Nazi Germany, African-American athlete Jesse Owens shattered the myth of Aryan supremacy by winning four gold medals. Owens’ victories in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4x100 meter relay made a powerful statement about equality and human potential, transcending sports to become a symbol of courage and excellence.

In the latter event, Owens was given advice by German athlete Carl Ludwig Long, who would go on to finish in second place. After the event, Long was the first to congratulate Owens, and the two walked arm-in-arm to collect their medals. Owens later said: “It took a lot of courage for him to befriend me in front of Hitler … You can melt down all the medals and cups I have, and they wouldn't be a plating on the twenty-four karat friendship that I felt for Luz Long at that moment”.

Mexico City 1968: Civil Rights Protest

During the peak of the civil rights movement in the United States, there were calls for African American athletes to boycott the Olympics. Instead of a boycott, African American sprinters Tommie Smith and John Carlos chose to make a peaceful protest by raising their fists in a Black Power salute during the national anthem at their medal ceremony. For their peaceful protest, Smith and Carlos were suspended from the U.S. Olympic team and forced out of the Olympic Village. Nevertheless, their quiet protest brought international attention to the civil rights struggle in America.

Michael Phelps’ Record-Breaking Performance (2008)

In Beijing, American swimmer Michael Phelps achieved an unprecedented feat by winning eight gold medals in a single Olympic Games, surpassing Mark Spitz's 1972 record of seven. Upon achieving this incredible feat, Phelps humbly addressed his audience, stating, "Records are made to be broken, whatever they may be." Phelps added a further 4 Olympic gold medals in 2012 and 5 gold medals in 2016 to take his total to 23 gold medals across his career, making him the most decorated Olympian of all time. 

Usain Bolt’s Triple-Triple (2008, 2012, 2016)

We were accustomed to seeing Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt running away from the rest of the field as he motored on to win races and even break records. However, his debut in Beijing 2008  electrified the world, winning gold in the 100 meters, 200 meters, and 4x100 meter relay whilst also breaking the world record in all three events. He repeated his gold medal feats in 2012 and 2016, earning him an unprecedented “Triple-Triple.” Bolt's dominance and showmanship on the track made him an icon and brought unprecedented attention to athletics.

These iconic moments serve as poignant reminders that the Olympics transcend mere athletic competition; they epitomise a global celebration of human spirit, resilience, and camaraderie. As we anticipate the upcoming Olympic Games, these enduring moments stand as powerful testaments to the unifying force of sports. They not only inspire athletes and spectators alike but also create legacies that resonate across generations!