On your mark, get set, GO – It’s time for the 2024 Summer Olympics!
We have come quite a long way since the first recorded Ancient Olympic Games held in 776 BC in Olympia, Greece, but the love for sport and competition remains the same! The slate of events continues to change over the years, and the games have fortunately become more inclusive, allowing extraordinary athletes from around the world to test their skills alongside other top contenders for the gold. This year’s games will kick off on July 26th in Paris, France, and take place until August 11th, offering the world 19 days of amazing athleticism and standing as the largest event ever organized in France.
I have always been a lover of the outdoors and endurance sports, which is why you will definitely find me tuned in to the Paris 2024 Olympics. If my competitive nature and awe of what these athletes can achieve wasn’t reason enough, I also have a more personal reason to watch – to cheer on Team USA long-distance runner Emily Sisson! Emily and I are both alumnae of Parkway Central High School in Chesterfield, Missouri (although I was in the class of 1977). I am proud that my hometown has such an incredible person to represent our state and great nation. Fiona O’Keeffe and Dakotah Lindwurm will also represent Team USA, and I will be rooting for them all!
This is the third time Paris has hosted the Summer Olympics, marking the 100th anniversary since it last hosted the Games in 1924, and there are several new and exciting developments and events. Breakdancing, skateboarding, rock climbing, and surfing are making their Olympic debut this year, and, for the first time in Olympic history, the opening ceremony will be held outside a stadium, taking place along the Seine River in the heart of Paris instead.
As the world travels and gathers to support the Games that reflect the state of the world, the global reach of sports, and athletic diversity, it’s crucial that we also ensure we are minimizing the negative impacts on the surrounding environment. The good news is that Paris 2024 aims to be the most sustainable Olympic Games yet and has committed to reducing carbon emissions and using existing or temporary venues wherever possible. While everyone is going for gold, it’s important for us to be going GREEN as a planet!
I cannot wait to watch these remarkable games and cheer on America as our top athletes and achievers give their all to their craft. GO TEAM USA!
