Four intriguing Olympic storylines

Four Olympic storylines I’m most interested to follow:

* Phelps-Lochte duel — Michael Phelps is coming off an All-Universe 2008 Beijing Olympics in which he won eight gold medals, but Ryan Lochte has come on strong and actually beat Phelps in the 400 individual medley Saturday.

In interviews leading up to the London Olympics, Phelps didn’t come off especially likeable — complaining in a way about how much he’s tired of swimming.

It will be interesting to see what the final medal count is for Lochte and Phelps (who has 16 career medals) — and how Phelps’ demeanor is after the games.

* Track and field — All the track and field events usually capture my attention, especially the 100-meter dash and mile runs. Those are two classic races I’ve always enjoyed following and with Jamaica’s Usain Bolt in the 100 it will be as exciting as ever.

* Ohioans in the Olympics — There are 17 Ohioans on the U.S. Olypic team, ranging from some of the most famous in the world — LeBron James — to not-so-well-known, like synchronized diver  Abby Johnston from Columbus, whose dad went to Triway.

I’m exited to see wrestler Justin (Harry) Lester, who I covered when he was in high school at CVCA, compete as well, while 340-pound weightlifer Holley Mangold, sister of NY Jets center Nick Mangold, is a unique Olympian.

And, of course, don’t forget Great Britain basketball player Nate Reinking, who I featured in last week’s Daily Record. The Galion and Kent State product, who lived in Wooster this past spring and has lots of family and friends in Wayne County, is the oldest men’s basketball player in the  London Olympics at age 38.

* New stars — Another fun aspect of the games is to watch new stars emerge. Swimmer Missy Franklin and gymnast Jordyn Wieber, both 17, could have quite a summer trip for girls who are still in high school.

Which Olympic events are you most looking forward to and why?

Tags: Olympics

Category: Olympics