There were 17 summer days that may standout in the minds of most Americans; however for a few elite athletes it could be the greatest moments of their lives. London hosted the Games of XXX Olympiad, its second time during the modern games. As expected, the United States led with the highest overall medal counts. Some of the contributors to that tally didn’t go unnoticed by public.
Gabby Douglas, virtually an unknown to most spectators rose to stardom as she helped the so-called Fab Five, the U.S. Women’s Gymnastics Team win a gold in team and individual competitions. Since the games, Douglas who has sometimes been referred to in the media as Golden Gabby has been featured on magazine covers, cereal boxes, interviewed at her home by Oprah and she recently made an appearance on one of her favorite TV shows; “The Vampire Diaries”.
Before the London Games, the word “Jeah” wasn’t a blip on anyone’s radar. After U.S. swimmer Ryan Lochte surprised the world and beat defending champion Michael Phelps; “Jeah” seemed to be here to stay. Lochte’s victory over Phelps caused everyone to scratch their heads and wonder if Phelps might not be in shape and ready to compete. However, Phelps who has said that 2012 would be his last Olympics didn’t disappoint leaving the games as one the most decorated athletes.
Other Athletes at the 2012 Games became household names. We will probably not forget Oscar Pistorius, a South African runner who is also a double below-the-knee amputee. He became the first amputee to be allowed to use a prosthetic in a competition.
Other standout Athletes include Misty May Trainer, Lolo Jones, Allison Schmitt, Allyson Felix and Carmelita Jeter just to name a few. The United States won a total of 104 medals which includes 46 gold.
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