We are just over a week into the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio and to say it simply, history has been made. As with every Olympiad, records are broken, dark horses come up with gold, and upsets are common, but this time around, there are even bigger things to talk about, and it’s not even over yet.
1.Ibithaj Muhammad
In Rio team USA has had their first competitor don a hijab, and her name is Ibtihaj Muhammad. She made history just by stepping up for her fencing match with her hijab under her American flag headgear. She is proud to showcase the ever-growing diversity of the USA. She was awarded a bronze medal as a member of the 3rd place team.
2. Michael Phelps
As he always does, Michael Phelps gave viewers plenty to be excited for as he won his 23rd gold medal on Saturday evening in his last race in Rio. As his son Boomer was cradled in his fiancés’ arms Michael competed in six events in Rio and received 5 gold medals and 1 silver medal. To add to the historical Olympiad, his silver medal was part of a three way tie in the 100 meter butterfly, which has never happened previously. He was also the first swimmer to earn four consecutive gold medals in the same event, which occurred on Thursday evening when he defeated the other 7 swimmers, including longtime team mate and rival Ryan Lochte in the 200 meter individual medley. Below Boomer and his dad show their similarities as Phelps stares down Chad Le Clos shortly before a race he went on to win gold. Again.
3. Simone Manuel
She was emotional after her 100 meter freestyle race, and rightfully so. She broke the Olympic record for that race, and became the first African American woman to win an individual event in swimming. She spoke to reporters after her race stating that “this medal is not just for me. It’s for all the people after me who believe they can’t do it.” Right on, Simone, Right on.
4. Penny Oleksiak
Penny Oleksiak of Canada is only 16 years old, but she has become Canada’s youngest gold medalist in Winter or Summer Olympic history. Now I don’t know about you, but I was just trying to master a K-turn when I was 16 while Penny over here doing flip turns and winning gold. Rock on, Penny.
5. Fiji
Fiji is on the board for the first time ever this year in Rio. The men’s rugby team won gold on Thursday evening with a very convincing 43-7 victory. Rugby hasn’t been included in the games for 92 years, so it’s fitting that it makes its way into the history books for the return.
6. Phelps
Once again, back to Michael Phelps, who surpassed an ancient Olympic record held by Leonidas of Rhodes. Leonidas won 12 individual gold medals in his years competing, but Phelps did one better by winning his 13th in Rio. Phelps was the first swimmer to make the Olympic team 5 times, but Leonidas won his titles in 4 Olympics.
7. Simone Biles
Biles stands at a mere 4’8”, but she demands your attention while competing in the gymnastic competitons in Rio. She has also penned her name in the history books, becoming the first African American ever and the first female in 20 years to hold the World Championship and the Olympic all-around titles at the same time.
In just over a week of competition, this is just a snapshot of the notable performances by the athletes chosen to represent their countries. There has been a ton of excitement, a few cringe-worthy moments, and records have been broken and we’re only halfway there. I don’t know about you, but I can’t wait to see what the rest of the games have to offer.
Go Team USA!
