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Everything Else => General Discussion => Topic started by: Jammalot on August 08, 2008, 10:07AM



Title: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jammalot on August 08, 2008, 10:07AM
And the Olympics have begun!!!

I thought a thread like this might come in handy ;) What did y'all think about the opening ceremony?

p.s. Please, no discussion about the politics involved, just the sports! Thank you very much! :)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Cash on August 08, 2008, 01:49PM
Chanting "U-S-A   U-S-A    U-S-A"  :)

Our professional (some would dispute that description) baseball team here, the Pirates, needs pitching. I was hoping they might try to get that Favre guy (I know he isnt a baseball player, but rumor has it that he has a decent arm and can throw a little), but the "J-E-T-S Jets Jets Jets" got him first  :D  ('Jet' Favre? J-E-T-S  Jets-Jets-Jets...F-A-V-R  E-T-D?)

So I am hoping that the Pirates can sign USA ladies softball pitcher Jenny Finch before the Yankees can get her after the Olympic games!  :D  Hey even when she has a bad game, her ERA (earned run average) may go up, but no one can claim its ever ugly.  :D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Life is Great! on August 08, 2008, 04:25PM
Have not seen them yet in the states. NBC plays the opening ceremony tonight at 7:30 pm EST. Can't wait to watch them, all 3500 hours on the many NBC stations! tevo...yes!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 08, 2008, 06:49PM
Now is when I wish I really had cable and was off  for 2 weeks.  I wouldn't be getting much sleep but it'd be fun.

I like how they were using people instead of machines to create the different visuals.  I thought it was also cool how each person was performer was only appearing once, 15,000 people.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 08, 2008, 07:02PM
I'm watching now and it's great!! I've always found China to be such a fascinating country so I'm really enjoying this.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 08, 2008, 07:27PM
Does anyone know how they are doing the Parade of Nations?  I thought normally they went in alphabetical order but they went from T to M.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 08, 2008, 07:38PM
They normally do, but since China has no alphabet, they are doing it by the number of strokes in the Chinese name of the country.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Bookworm on August 08, 2008, 08:27PM
Has Ireland come in yet?


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Maggie on August 08, 2008, 08:47PM
Has Ireland come in yet?

(http://dynimg.rte.ie/0001a5b5190.jpg)

http://www.rte.ie/sport/olympics2008/irishteam.html


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Bookworm on August 08, 2008, 08:49PM
Thanks!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: ccf22p on August 08, 2008, 11:03PM
$350 Million spent on just the opening ceromonies!!   OMG!

London should just keep it simple in 2012 cause they can't compete. 


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CTofer on August 08, 2008, 11:48PM
Has Ireland come in yet?

(http://dynimg.rte.ie/0001a5b5190.jpg)

http://www.rte.ie/sport/olympics2008/irishteam.html

Fantastic, Maggie, way to come through, as always!!!  Any helpful suggestions as to what events Ireland has the best chances for gold at?


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Maggie on August 09, 2008, 03:54AM

Fantastic, Maggie, way to come through, as always!!!  Any helpful suggestions as to what events Ireland has the best chances for gold at?

Anything on horses or on water.

The lady carrying the flag is Ciara Peelo, whose event is sailing.

Check that link I gave, it shows each athlete.




Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Kimberly AJ on August 09, 2008, 04:25AM
I really like the picture you've taken, Maggie.
Oh, and yes, yes and triple yes, I'm very thrilled that Sarah Brightman sang a duet with a guy from China. ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: WhiteWolf121 on August 09, 2008, 07:13AM
Oh, and yes, yes and triple yes, I'm very thrilled that Sarah Brightman sang a duet with a guy from China. ;D

Same here!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Coleen on August 09, 2008, 07:28AM
Yes, Sarah Brightman did a beautiful job.   :)

I was thrilled to bits to see Lopez Lomong carry the USA flag.  He looked like he was having the time of his life.  What an honor for him.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 09, 2008, 12:08PM
I loved the Ralph Lauren outfits the USA team was wearing! Very snazzy!

I have to say that I admire the Chinese for being the kind of people that they are and having respect for all of the nations who walked in. In previous opening ceremonies in previous countries, the USA and other nations have been booed. I find that so childish and disrespectful. I applaud the Chinese for being a proper host country and welcoming them without the booing that has seemed to become so common nowadays.

Also, the announcers said it was about 85 degrees inside that arena without about the same amount of humidity! That's unbelievable! At one point, the camera panned to Nicolas Sarkozy and he was absolutely dripping in sweat. It must have been so hot for everyone walking in and having to stand there.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Bookworm on August 09, 2008, 12:32PM
Quote
Also, the announcers said it was about 85 degrees inside that arena without about the same amount of humidity! That's unbelievable! At one point, the camera panned to Nicolas Sarkozy and he was absolutely dripping in sweat. It must have been so hot for everyone walking in and having to stand there.
President Bush took his jacket off immediately after sitting down.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: willow-jeeves on August 09, 2008, 01:46PM
USA wins Gold, Silver AND Bronze in Women's Saber Fencing! 

BEIJING (AP)—Mariel Zagunis stood proudly atop the podium, the first American to do so at these Olympics.

A former president was in the front row—and three red, white and blue flags were rising to the rafters.

“It was a dream come true,” Zagunis said.

See link to the rest of the article: 

http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/beijing/fencing/news?slug=ap-fen-womenssaber&prov=ap&type=lgns (http://sports.yahoo.com/olympics/beijing/fencing/news?slug=ap-fen-womenssaber&prov=ap&type=lgns)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 09, 2008, 02:55PM
Wow! A sweep! :D Good for them. Go team USA!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Cash on August 09, 2008, 04:24PM
Anything on horses or on water.

Ahhhh...water polo?  :D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Cash on August 09, 2008, 04:31PM
I have to say that I admire the Chinese for being the kind of people that they are and having respect for all of the nations who walked in. In previous opening ceremonies in previous countries, the USA and other nations have been booed. I find that so childish and disrespectful. I applaud the Chinese for being a proper host country and welcoming them without the booing that has seemed to become so common nowadays.
Yes true

But I think we also need to remember how much effort China has put into this, so I would think that tickets werent just sold to anyone, but they probably screened people big time to make sure no trouble makers or looney tunes got anywhere near such an important event.  Plus I would think people would be somewhat afraid and think twice before booing there, again given how much importance the govt big shots have placed on this and the potential consequences if someone's actions caused them any embarrassment.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 09, 2008, 05:05PM
I have to say that I admire the Chinese for being the kind of people that they are and having respect for all of the nations who walked in. In previous opening ceremonies in previous countries, the USA and other nations have been booed. I find that so childish and disrespectful. I applaud the Chinese for being a proper host country and welcoming them without the booing that has seemed to become so common nowadays.
Yes true

But I think we also need to remember how much effort China has put into this, so I would think that tickets werent just sold to anyone, but they probably screened people big time to make sure no trouble makers or looney tunes got anywhere near such an important event.  Plus I would think people would be somewhat afraid and think twice before booing there, again given how much importance the govt big shots have placed on this and the potential consequences if someone's actions caused them any embarrassment.

That's true. I think it has more to do with the fact that the Chinese and other Asian cultures place a high value on respectful and hospitality, and they can also be very conservative. They're not the type to show that kind of childishness, which I appreciated. There was nothing that annoyed me more than to see my country walking in and hearing people boo. I think that was in Athens, if I remember correctly. Might have been the winter olympics. I don't remember.

Either way, I thought everyone behaved appropriately.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 09, 2008, 08:35PM
Well this was the perfect birthday gift for me! I have been waiting 4 years for this to come and here it is! I was so excited and I loved the pyrotechnics (of course!). The whole ceremony was absolutely fantastic and it was the best one I have seen! I couldn't wait till the US and Ireland came marching in. Then when the torch came in and the guy went flying into the air! OMG that was so awesome! Plus, the torch was so cool! This was a birthday I will never forget! Can't wait till the closing ceremony.  ;)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Lisa_Kelly_fan_forever on August 09, 2008, 10:12PM
Phelps got his seventh gold!!!! ;D

MH and Jammers......I cheered for the Netherlands when they walked in! :D  I seem to remember a Dutch win in a swimming event, as well.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 09, 2008, 10:20PM
Yep they did win in the relay swimming!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Metaldud on August 10, 2008, 01:54AM
They won the 4X100 Free relay, beating out the U.S. and Australia.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 10, 2008, 03:06AM
Anyone else see the medal ceremony for the mens 400 individual medley.  They were playing the National Anthem for Phelps and they cut the very end of it off.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Maggie on August 10, 2008, 03:18AM

I have to say that I admire the Chinese for being the kind of people that they are and having respect for all of the nations who walked in.

I didn't watch any of the opening ceremonies and will not watch the Olympics.
OK I gave the link to the Irish team, got it off the internet, but honestly I could not care less who wins what.

Out of respect for Jammalot's request not to mention the politics involved in the Olympics  on this thread, I will put my thoughts elsewhere.

 


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Cash on August 10, 2008, 05:56AM
Anyone else see the medal ceremony for the mens 400 individual medley.  They were playing the National Anthem for Phelps and they cut the very end of it off.
Yes I saw and noted the cut off. But the whole thing sounded a bit off too.

This isnt the first or last foul up with a national anthem. I remember a while back that someone from a small country unexpectedly won and they couldnt find the anthem. But with all the different countries and medal ceremonies, I think a few mistakes are just going to happen.

But I also bet whoever fouled up isnt happy right now. With all the preparation and pride the Chinese leadership have put forth and how truly awesome the opening ceremonies were, you know they arent happy with some foul up like this that can, but shouldnt, happen.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Bookworm on August 10, 2008, 06:18AM
Quote
  Insert Quote
Quote from: 07GRAD-sara on Today at 04:06 AM
Anyone else see the medal ceremony for the mens 400 individual medley.  They were playing the National Anthem for Phelps and they cut the very end of it off.

Yes I saw and noted the cut off. But the whole thing sounded a bit off too.

This isnt the first or last foul up with a national anthem. I remember a while back that someone from a small country unexpectedly won and they couldnt find the anthem. But with all the different countries and medal ceremonies, I think a few mistakes are just going to happen.

But I also bet whoever fouled up isnt happy right now. With all the preparation and pride the Chinese leadership have put forth and how truly awesome the opening ceremonies were, you know they arent happy with some foul up like this that can, but shouldnt, happen.

I did notice that Michael Phelps laughed about it though. So did President Bush.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 10, 2008, 06:24AM
I noticed they laughed about it too.  They should have plenty more times to get it correct as Phelps is going for 8 golds.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Kimberly AJ on August 10, 2008, 06:40AM
So did I. Watching on television, I'm a sports fan of all the American athletes.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jammalot on August 10, 2008, 01:53PM
Late response, but yeah, the Dutch team did win gold, 4x100 ladies ;D I was happy about it, and the opponents were all very good, the USA and Australian team were so close!
I think a Dutch dude was in the same race as Phelps, but I didn't see it, so not sure.... :)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: epicwolf on August 10, 2008, 04:10PM
Anyone else see the medal ceremony for the mens 400 individual medley.  They were playing the National Anthem for Phelps and they cut the very end of it off.


yea I saw it. First they played the first verse like 3 times or something and then they cut it short. My first thought was if it happens to other countries besides the United States, will they laugh it off like we do? Not saying we don't love our country as much as the other countries but we're able to be a little bit more easy minded. Certain countries might want them to replay it again because of the pride for their countries. Im sure China probably fired that dude or female who ran the medal ceremony by not preparing that well. China has this image they want to show the world. Hopefully Phelps can get the next 7 medals.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: epicwolf on August 10, 2008, 04:12PM
I believe this is the best opening ceremony I have ever seen. I'm still in my 20's so I didn't get to see that many opening ceremonyies for the summer olympics but ever since 92 in barcelona my first experienced in watching the oplympics, it is by far the best ever. China did exceeded expectation.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: epicwolf on August 10, 2008, 04:14PM
Since Celtic Woman community has a lot of Irish decent and Irish love, what sports will Ireland win the gold in the olympics? I'm not even sure what sports they will be participating in.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 10, 2008, 06:12PM
Anyone else watching gymnastics? It's my favorite Olympic event. I always watch it.

I have to say, I think I might believe these reports of underage Chinese gymnasts. I mean, typically they are very, very tiny, but some of these girls look like babies.

I feel bad for the Romanians. Their program has just totally disolved in the last few years. Tisk tisk. Sandra Izbasa and Steliana Nistor are really the only leaders on that team.

It looks like it's gonna be a battle royale between USA and China! Go Shawn Johnson!!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: SusanZ on August 10, 2008, 07:16PM
Anyone else watching gymnastics? It's my favorite Olympic event. I always watch it.

I have to say, I think I might believe these reports of underage Chinese gymnasts. I mean, typically they are very, very tiny, but some of these girls look like babies.

I feel bad for the Romanians. Their program has just totally disolved in the last few years. Tisk tisk. Sandra Izbasa and Steliana Nistor are really the only leaders on that team.

It looks like it's gonna be a battle royale between USA and China! Go Shawn Johnson!!!
I love watching gymnastics too ,Emily. It takes not only agility, but a tremendous amount of power and strength. GO USA !


Zee


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 10, 2008, 07:58PM
Man, the USA women were just really struggling there. The falls, the wobbles...just unbelievable. I never thought I'd live to see the day that Nastia would fall on the bars. I felt HORRIBLE for Alicia not qualifying for the floor. That's always been one of her bests. I've been watching her gymnastics for years.

Oh well. I hope the USA can clean it up for the event finals! Go team USA!!!!!!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 10, 2008, 07:59PM
Yeah, I saw them falling and slipping too.  :o  They did real well on the balance beam though.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 10, 2008, 08:51PM
I'm amazed at the German gymnast who is 33.  This is her 5th Olympics, the first women to compete in 5.  It's  unheard of for someone that age to still be in that kind of shape in this physically demandind sport.  She qualified for the finals in the vault and I really hope that she wins a medal.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jeanine on August 10, 2008, 08:54PM
I've only caught parts of the games here and there.  Let's not forget the New Zealand athletes also.  Remember, miss Hayley is a Kiwi. ;)  Has anyone seen them in the games this season yet?


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: timi on August 10, 2008, 09:58PM
Phelps (and his teammates) just won GOLD in the relay!!!! WTG men!!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 10, 2008, 10:32PM
OMG I saw that and Phelps went Crazy! haha that was awesome! I was afraid at first we were falling behind but then we caught up and got first! I screamed lol


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CRRopes on August 11, 2008, 12:06AM
Nastia Liukin got robbed in the balance beam judging! Even the announcers said so! And so did Shawn Johnson. Both of them should have at least gotten 16's. Grrrrr. More judging issues and the Olympics. This is one of the reasons it's been years since I've paid attention to the Olympics. But I'm interested in the women's gymnastics this year. And the soccer too, to a lesser extent.

Chris


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: celtic_ Jen on August 11, 2008, 12:27AM
I was watching the Olympics today.  Phelps seems unstoppable right now!!!  And, Shawn Johnson is absolutely fantastic on the U.S. gymnastics team.  GO TEAM USA!  Although, I have to admit I’m cheering for Ireland in the equestrian sports. 

However, I can’t believe that, after the 2008 Olympic Games, softball will not be an Olympic sport anymore.  I’ve played softball for a long time and it’s my favorite sport.  So, I am definitely disappointed over this decision.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Cash on August 11, 2008, 03:41AM
However, I can’t believe that, after the 2008 Olympic Games, softball will not be an Olympic sport anymore.  I’ve played softball for a long time and it’s my favorite sport.  So, I am definitely disappointed over this decision.
I dont think baseball & softball have caught on in the rest of the world like their popularity in the USA. In fact, American football hasnt either, as the rest of the world loves soccer. I think that there may be 2 reasons.

First, both sports in the USA involve a LOT of statistics. Batting average, earned run average, Home Runs, etc for baseball and Yards, Yards per carry, TDs, sacks, etc for football. With the rest of the world, it seems their are fewer stats. In soccer you have goals, assists, yellow cards, etc but its far fewer. It just seems that they like to just enjoy the game and not get carried away in analysis, and when they do analyze, its focused on the most important stat: goals.

Second, in American football the player is on offense OR defense. In baseball, although many players do have to play both, pitchers are really only concerned with defense. Yes they do have to hit, but thats considered secondary to how they pitch. In soccer, the only position that is completely defensive is the goalie. Even defensemen have to pass well at times, or know when to rush up to keep the ball in the oposing zone and help the offense.

Hockey is popular in other countries, but its a lot like soccer. Goals, assists, the dreaded +/- stat, minutes played, but again less stats, and the stats that exist tend to be focused on goals. 


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: loveCW on August 11, 2008, 06:41AM
Ok, guys... you're looking at a swimmer who missed the first couple days of the olympics due to beign busy. We arne't going to go into what this does to my mental state. Possible need for therapy.

Michael Phelps is obviously rocking out. Big time.

Katie Hoff isn't doing as well as i hoped. But for a 19 year old, she's doing amazing. I think as the distance of her races go up, she'll do better and better.

I'm thrilled for the WR in the Men's 400 FR :) 4 second smash. :D It's amazing!

Anyway... i'm gonna go read more old results.. grr... at least i'll be on top of it now!!!! :D Eyes glued to the computer/ tv. :D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Kira_F on August 11, 2008, 10:48AM
my signature says it all


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: zankoku on August 11, 2008, 01:44PM
The one thing I am glad is that we don't have to be subjected to a certain swimmer this year by the name of Hall.

Jim


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Bookworm on August 11, 2008, 07:35PM
all the girls in the chat right now seem to be falling head over heels for Michael Phelps. LOL


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Lisa_Kelly_fan_forever on August 11, 2008, 07:50PM
 :D :D :D
To tell the truth, I kind of wish I were in there. ;D

Chris.....go soccer!  That's my sport, bro!  But I haven't been able to catch ANY on the TV.  To the web I go, in search of clips!! ;D

Anyone been watching diving?  The Chinese men won earlier today, just as the Chinese women did a little while ago.  The US men were in fifth, but they put up a good fight! :)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 11, 2008, 08:20PM
Michael Phelps just blew everyone else out of the water! Broke the WR by almost a full sec! It was awesome!!!!!!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Lisa_Kelly_fan_forever on August 11, 2008, 08:23PM
Did he?!  And I was up here posting! :-[
Was it a final?  Did he get a gold?
Stupid me, there's a perfectly good TV in this room. :D

No luck finding soccer, but I did get a little funny: Click Heeeere (http://www.nbcolympics.com/video/player.html?assetid=1017770&channelcode=sportfb)  ;)

Scroll down on the list of videos.  The title is 'If Olympians were stuck on an island..." and it's the sixth to last.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 11, 2008, 08:23PM
He got a Gold alright!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Lisa_Kelly_fan_forever on August 11, 2008, 08:26PM
OOOH!  Yeah! ;D

So did Natalie Coughlin, just now! :)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 11, 2008, 08:29PM
I know! GO USA!  ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 11, 2008, 08:34PM
Yes! USA got Gold again!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Life is Great! on August 11, 2008, 09:02PM
these people are somthing else


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jeanine on August 11, 2008, 11:55PM
Has anyone seen the equestrian sports yet?  I haven't been able to catch them, only swimming, diving, and gymnastics.

Go U.S.A. medal winners!!  They've been doing great from what I've seen thus far! ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Kira_F on August 12, 2008, 11:10AM
Phelps made it look so easy when he swam last night and won gold. He was like, a whole body length ahead!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Hannahlmatt on August 12, 2008, 11:16AM
Has anyone seen the equestrian sports yet?  I haven't been able to catch them, only swimming, diving, and gymnastics.

Go U.S.A. medal winners!!  They've been doing great from what I've seen thus far! ;D

My mom watched the cross country yesterday. It was raining really hard and a lot of people took a spill. That's all I know....


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Kira_F on August 12, 2008, 11:18AM
i heard it's supposed to rain in Beijing the whole time the olympics are going on


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: MeganDelia on August 12, 2008, 12:36PM
I can't wait until gymnastics come on tonight. I'm a huge Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin fan.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: kathleen on August 12, 2008, 12:47PM
Well our tv has been on the Olympic events since the start. My boys are enjoying a good bit of it.

The thing that I just love......My son Stewart(age 9) talked about his goal of wanting to become a runner. He has started running with his dad every chance he gets. His 1/4 mile aint bad!

While watching the Olympics....he turned to me and talked about his goal of the Olympics. I wonder how many little children are thinking things like that this week!

Its great to dream....wish....then act!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 12, 2008, 02:58PM
My banner shows who my heart is with ..........next week in the 5000 and 10000 meter runs  ........

Shalane Flanagan ......gotta love her ...... :)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 12, 2008, 08:24PM
Michael Phelps broke the 200M Butterfly for the 7th time! 10 medals! ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: eskimo87 on August 12, 2008, 08:37PM
sweet! go Phelps


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jeanine on August 12, 2008, 10:25PM
Michael Phelps:


11 GOLD MEDALS!!!!! :o ;D


And
FIVE WORLD RECORDS!!! ;D ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 12, 2008, 10:31PM
The relay swim was awesome! The WR line couldn't even keep up with the US team! HAHA!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Bookworm on August 12, 2008, 10:57PM
Yay for Michael Phelps!!!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: edtom on August 13, 2008, 06:08AM
Before coming to this forum this morning, I made the mistake of reading an AOL article about the disappointing Women's Gymnastics Finals, and an even bigger mistake of reading some of the reader comments.
To say they were overly critical of the US Team in general and Alicia Sacramone in particular would be an understatement.
CHOKERS! LOSERS! BUMS!
All from morons who probably can't walk down the street without tripping over their own feet.
Alicia and her teammates can represent me anytime.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: OldFatGuy on August 13, 2008, 06:22AM
Alicia and her teammates can represent me anytime.

(http://www.ropescorner.com/smileys/okay.gif)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Bookworm on August 13, 2008, 06:33AM
well said


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Meow on August 13, 2008, 09:03AM
I agree!  She may have made some mistakes, but they couldn't have gotten as far as they did without her!  And I think she still did beautifully - even with the mistakes!  I felt so bad for her every time they showed her on camera!  Sometimes I wished the cameras would just get out of her face and give her some privacy!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Kira_F on August 13, 2008, 09:06AM
olympic update below ;D ;D ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: zankoku on August 13, 2008, 09:20AM
Quote
Alicia and her teammates can represent me anytime.

Amen. As the father of a daughter who was a competitive gymnaist, I know what it takes for these girls, no ladies, no attain this level.  I have sat on the floor of the gym, camera in hand taking pictures and afterwards realized that my daughter was doing a back walk over with not part of her body on that 4 inch apparatus. Scary.

For those who criticize the women for mistakes I have one thing to say. YOU TRY IT.

I remember doing a duck walk on a beam when I was a freshman in college during PE and it was tough.

Good show ladies, even injured you did good.

I am proud of you. Silver is nothing to sneeze at.

Jim


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: MeganDelia on August 13, 2008, 02:21PM
Anybody who talks about Alicia's mistakes like that has to be a horrible person. I felt so sorry for her last night. She's a great gymnast and people need to realize that. Nobody's perfect.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Coleen on August 13, 2008, 07:10PM
I am so proud of the US women's gymnastics team.  Winning the silver medal is a huge accomplishment.    :)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: SusanZ on August 13, 2008, 07:30PM
The amount of time,effort, and sacrifice that these athletes make in order to just compete in the Olympics is amazing. I congratulate them all for simply qualifying much less winning!! ;D



Zee


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: MeganDelia on August 13, 2008, 07:35PM
You guys are right. I think they all did great last night. I could never do all the stuff that they're doing.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 14, 2008, 07:41AM
US 92 - Greece 69 !!!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 14, 2008, 01:25PM
Ah, gotta catch up with this thread. Law school has gotten me behind on posts.

I didn't get to watch the team competition because I was overloaded with homework, but I did read about it. I feel terrible for Alicia. I've watched her gymnastics for years and I feel sorry for her. I'm kinda not surprised though. I feel like she's the most inconsistent. She's fantastic on vault though. I really hope she medals there on the individual event.

Also, good for the Romanians for getting bronze. With the state of their program, I know they were simply happy to be on the podium this time around.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CRRopes on August 15, 2008, 02:00AM
Nastia, I've been rooting for you all the way and you did it! And Shawn, I was hoping you'd get silver. I'm proud of the way you both represented our country! You did great, with the silver for the team and the gold and silver for individual. You made me proud to be American tonight!

Chris


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: James on August 15, 2008, 02:12AM
Yeah!! Nastia and Shawn were awesome!!!!!

Bela Karolyi's reaction after Nastia's floor exercise was waaaay too funny!!!! I think Bela scared Bob Costas just a tad. Bob's reaction was priceless...he looked like he was going to run out of the studio! HAHAHAHA  :D :D :D That made my day!



Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 15, 2008, 03:42PM
Bob's note ......this may seem like a modest achievement in view of the great performances by our swimmers (Phelps in particular) and the Gymnasts (the two young woman discussed above) ......but, given the sad state of America distance running, I am just so proud of Shalane for pulling this off .......it doesn't hurt that she bleeds tar heel blue, and is bit Irish I suspect ...... ;D

BEIJING (AP)—Tirunesh Dibaba of Ethiopia has won the 10,000 meters in an Olympic record 29 minutes, 54.66 seconds—the second fastest time ever for a woman at that distance.

The two-time 10,000 world champion sat just behind Turkey’s Elvan Abeylegesse until the start of the last lap, then went to the front with 350 meters to go.

She surged ahead down the back stretch and finished almost two seconds clear of Abeylegesse, who took silver in 29:56.34. The pair were only the second and third women to break the 30-minute barrier.

Wang Junxia of China set the world record of 29:31.78 in 1993.

Shalane Flanagan set a U.S. record 30:22.22 to win bronze.



Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 15, 2008, 04:17PM
This is what Shalane looks like when hasn't just finished a grueling 10000 meter run ......

(http://l.yimg.com/a/p/sp/oly/2008/headshots/f8/247217.jpg)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 15, 2008, 09:21PM
OMG Phelps won the 100M Fly and it was so freaking close I was worried but when Phelps name showed up #1! Oh man, my work went crazy! Way to Go PHELPS!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Cash on August 16, 2008, 01:25AM
I was watching ladies beach volleyball the other day and Misty & Kerri won on a point but the other side served. I thought in volleyball you could only score when you served?

I guess I should pay more attention to the game and the rules, rather than on the 'uniforms' worn by the ladies   :D   ::)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 16, 2008, 02:32AM
They use rally scoring, which means that every time the ball is served someone gets a point whether it was you or not.  It makes the games go quicker and you can't take a play off.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jammalot on August 16, 2008, 02:59AM
Wow, the Americans are doing awesome! ;D Wish the Dutch had more talent for winning things ;) Don't get me wrong, I love our athletes, but 'we' tend to lose most of the finales ;)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 16, 2008, 07:02AM
US versus Spain @ 10am (EDST) today !!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 16, 2008, 09:10AM

US 61 - Spain 45 .... @ the half !!!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CRRopes on August 16, 2008, 09:17AM
Wow, the Americans are doing awesome! ;D Wish the Dutch had more talent for winning things ;) Don't get me wrong, I love our athletes, but 'we' tend to lose most of the finales ;)

The Dutch win at being cool and no amount of training can give you that, right Jammers?  ;)

Chris


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CRRopes on August 16, 2008, 09:50AM
Sorry for the double post, but this wouldn't have really fit in with my last one. Heh.

I'm looking forward to the women's gymnastics individual apparatus finals. Nastia is competing in floor exercise, balance beam, and her unbelievable uneven bars. Shawn is competing in floor exercise and balance beam. I think both have the chance to come away with more medals. I'm not sure if we have anyone competing in the final for the vault. For some reason, my mind is saying Alicia will do it but I could be hallucinating. I hope she does it and wins a medal doing it. She deserves it after all she's gone through this Olympics!

Chris


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 16, 2008, 10:13AM

US 119 - Spain 82  !!!



Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: bob c on August 16, 2008, 05:55PM
Woman's Marathon just started.....US has already lost a runner ...... :(

Should end around 10 ...EDST .....


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Emily! on August 16, 2008, 07:26PM
Sorry for the double post, but this wouldn't have really fit in with my last one. Heh.

I'm looking forward to the women's gymnastics individual apparatus finals. Nastia is competing in floor exercise, balance beam, and her unbelievable uneven bars. Shawn is competing in floor exercise and balance beam. I think both have the chance to come away with more medals. I'm not sure if we have anyone competing in the final for the vault. For some reason, my mind is saying Alicia will do it but I could be hallucinating. I hope she does it and wins a medal doing it. She deserves it after all she's gone through this Olympics!

Chris

I know Alicia did qualify for vault, so she'll be doing vault finals I believe. I hope she wins one. I feel like I've been watching Alicia compete for so many years. Vault is clearly her best apparatus and I really hope she medals.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 16, 2008, 09:38PM
MICHAEL PHELPS DID IT! He got 8 Gold medals! Way to GO PHELPS! I am so proud of you! Great job USA!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CTofer on August 16, 2008, 11:17PM
Michael Phelps is amazing. Just. Freakin'. Amazing.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CRRopes on August 17, 2008, 02:09AM
I know Alicia did qualify for vault, so she'll be doing vault finals I believe. I hope she wins one. I feel like I've been watching Alicia compete for so many years. Vault is clearly her best apparatus and I really hope she medals.

Thanks, Emily. I thought she qualified too. I hope she kicks some serious *ahem* and shows everyone what she's capable of and wins a medal! She's got a LOT of talent.

Chris


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 17, 2008, 08:26PM
That was really cool to see the German lady win the silver in women's vault.
Howeved Alicia got ripped off.  Yes she didn't stick her landings but she didn't take a giant step and land on her knee.  The judges need to borrow my glasses.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: SusanZ on August 18, 2008, 12:27PM
I was away for the weekend but tuned in to see Michael Phelps win Gold Medal #8. Way to go, Michael. You did yourself, your family, and the USA proud!!



Zee


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Rigatony60 on August 18, 2008, 12:46PM
That was really cool to see the German lady win the silver in women's vault.
Howeved Alicia got ripped off.  Yes she didn't stick her landings but she didn't take a giant step and land on her knee.  The judges need to borrow my glasses.
That was really ridiculous, how did that 'Fei' girl get a better score than 'Sacramone' when she landed directly on her knees. Alicia landed both vaults????!!!! That was very upsetting. Did you see how mad Bella was?


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 18, 2008, 01:02PM

That was really ridiculous, how did that 'Fei' girl get a better score than 'Sacramone' when she landed directly on her knees. Alicia landed both vaults????!!!! That was very upsetting. Did you see how mad Bella was?
[/quote]

To say that he was a little upset would be an under statement!   >:(


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: OrangeTea on August 19, 2008, 01:06PM
i cant believe that the tie between el chinese gurl and nastia was decided like that!!!  i watched them both twice- nastia did SO much better!!!!

i cant believe they use judges from countries that dont even have gurl competing in the events!!! i mean, yeah no eliminating the bias, but they have NO idea and have prob never judged at the olympic level before!!!  >:( >:(


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 19, 2008, 01:14PM
I know what you mean! Even the commentators said that Nastia did better! Gah. I think their tie breaking system is silly. Anyways hopefully Shawn can do better tonight.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Celtic Lass on August 19, 2008, 02:53PM
;)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: 07-sara on August 19, 2008, 03:41PM
I know what you mean! Even the commentators said that Nastia did better! Gah. I think their tie breaking system is silly. Anyways hopefully Shawn can do better tonight.

I don't think there is going to be a problem tonight!   ;)
Both Shawn and Nastia are competing on Beam.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Rigatony60 on August 19, 2008, 10:27PM
Cheng Fei 'Bronze' Nastia Liukin 'Silver' SHAWN JOHNSON 'GOLD'!!!!
I was a little worried when they gave Cheng Fei such a high score after all those balance checks and a shaky routine, but Shawn Johnson went out there and just blew her up. Nastia was great also, but she already has a gold medal. Good for her!!! U.S.A. ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Angie on August 20, 2008, 03:40PM
I was really thrilled to see Shawn Johnson get the gold on beam - she really did deserve to get a gold finally.  I would have lliked to have seen both Shawn and Nastia get more gold overall, but I think they are both happy with the way things turned out.  I think they were both ripped off though - and poor Alicia Sacramone, I wanted so badly to give her a hug and kiss, my heart broke for her, as it did for several other competitors, but at least everyone knows she did her best, and should have medalled - the fault is with the system unfortunately.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Life is Great! on August 20, 2008, 09:12PM
I was really thrilled to see Shawn Johnson get the gold on beam - she really did deserve to get a gold finally.  I would have lliked to have seen both Shawn and Nastia get more gold overall, but I think they are both happy with the way things turned out.  I think they were both ripped off though - and poor Alicia Sacramone, I wanted so badly to give her a hug and kiss, my heart broke for her, as it did for several other competitors, but at least everyone knows she did her best, and should have medalled - the fault is with the system unfortunately.
I am with you on that. But on the other side think of the lives these people in" not so free countries" live. It seems like so very much rides on weather they win or not. How truly sad for them. As for our team, I am very happy for them. I can't even start to imagine the work they ALL put in. I am happy for them all!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: MeganDelia on August 21, 2008, 10:53AM
I'm so happy that Shawn got gold!!!! I love Nastia too and I am so happy that she got gold the other day.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: kathleen on August 21, 2008, 01:14PM
I have been staying up way to late watching the events! LOL :o ;D

We even bought a badminton set. I have been beaten by everyone in the family! Its set up on the front lawn. I am waiting for the home owners association to tell me to take it down!

Okay...who say Lightning Bolt run? That guy sure is fast!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Angie on August 21, 2008, 09:34PM
o.k. - I am Emillee - my Nana isss  Antggie.  I watttttchhdss tttttttdddddde Olympics with her, I liiked tthe fire-workss.  I am 4.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Angie on August 21, 2008, 09:39PM
You are right about that - of course I don't know for sure - but I really got the feeling that when the Chinese kids didn't fair so well, they looked MORE than just disapointed - maybe a little "scared" - it does make you wonder what the repercussions will be for them ???   Poor things.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 22, 2008, 10:14AM
Both USA Men and Women dropped their batons in track! :o  Ahh that was so devastating to see. 


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jammalot on August 23, 2008, 04:17AM
The USA waterpolo team did good! ;D You guys gave us a really hard time!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: howard on August 24, 2008, 04:26PM
2012 the Olympics will be in London...

Do you think the London Olympic committee will consider to use Hayley for the opening ceremony!!!    ???  :o  ;)

Let's Hope!
Howard


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Cash on August 24, 2008, 05:50PM
2012 the Olympics will be in London...

Do you think the London Olympic committee will consider to use Hayley for the opening ceremony!!!    ???  :o  ;)

Let's Hope!
Howard
I second that motion!

OK onto something different. In Friday's USAToday they had 3 sports sections!  :o  The regular, the college football preview, and the olympic. In the Olympic section there is an interesting thing comparing Phelps and Bolt. entitled "Two Bright Stars". They list a number of things like age, hometown, height, weight, etc. In "on The Menu" for Bolt it says "Chicken McNuggets" for Phelps it says "12,000 calories daily: heavy on pizza, pasta, and energy drinks at dinner"

12,000!   :o  Thats like a whole week for me. I knew swimming could burn calories, BUT swimming must really burn calories. lol wow.

There is also an article about the ladies beach volleyball players. Misty spread some of her Mom's (died of cancer in 2002) ashes on the court. Both Misty and Kerri want to start families and are in their early 30s, so this may be it for them as far as Olympics go.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jason on August 24, 2008, 06:06PM
Article on phelps diet :P

http://www.nypost.com/seven/08132008/news/nationalnews/phelps_pig_secret__hes_boy_gorge_124248.htm


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Trouble on August 24, 2008, 08:25PM
Well the Olympics are over and I must say that this was the best 2 weeks ever! Beijing did an awesome job. 

Congratulations to all the athletes! You all worked hard. 


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Metaldud on August 25, 2008, 10:37PM
Now it's the turn of Vancouver...where I will be in February 2010, all thanks to my uncle and grandmother.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jammalot on August 26, 2008, 11:27AM
And with that, we conclude ;D


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Jim M. on August 06, 2016, 06:50PM
The 2016 Rio Olympics have begun.  I know our friend Kimberly enjoys watching the events on tv and keeping track of the medal count.
Anyone else here a fan of the Olympics?  What are your favorite events?
I like the basketball and some track events.


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CWazyTom on August 06, 2016, 08:08PM
I'm a fan.

I like watching most of the events, but I'm a sucker for Women's Soccer.

;)


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: CWazyTom on August 08, 2016, 09:25PM
Haven't been watching as much of the Olympics as I thought I would. Massive CW news is kind of my priority. Lol.

But congrats to Brazil on your first gold medal of these games!


Title: Re: The Olympic Thread
Post by: Kimberly AJ on February 12, 2022, 03:02PM
Did you know that the Olympics are played in two seasons? I've come to give you an update that officially 146 countries of the world called Earth all have our own medals.