Fireworks went off over the Maracana as Rio said farewell to the Games-BBC News Photo
On Sunday, the 2016 Rio Olympics closes with a farewell party as the games transition towards the 2020 Summer Olympics in Japan.
It draws to a close one of the most intriguing (at times bizarre) international sports competition events in recent history.
The 16-day spectacle was marred with doping issues (Russia), health concerns (Zika and water), athletes misbehaving (Ryan Lochte and some boxers), bad judging (boxing judges), facilities safety standards (broken here and there; pool color change), poverty highlights (several of Rio, poverty highlights ‘s areas and population are in hardship) and numerous security risks (muggings and robberies).
There were several memorable stories of athletic conquest, new athletes emerging and legends retiring at their peak (Michael Phelps and Usain Bolt). Also there were moments of admiration and respect being earned and defeats being too bitter to take.
Overall, Rio gave the world a glimpse of what humans need to work on – social inequality, communication, health safety, dealing with security threats (internationally and locally), governing bodies etc.
It’s not just all about the sports events, it’s also about how we can improve our society for the future generations.
Goodbye 2016 Rio Olympics.
Thanks for the memories (bitter and sweet)!- See more at: http://awinaway.com/2016/08/22/rio-olympics-showed/#sthash.3HbRuxE2.dpuf
I enjoyed watching these games, it wasn't really about the venues or the weather or doping ( which in one way or another I guess all athletes use enhancements of some kind, I don't care, I can use all the enhancements available and I wouldn't even come close to what these guys do) or all the negativity before the games, in the end it was about people who excel at their chosen sports and we who enjoy seeing them do it. Phelps and Bolt were great but the ones who didn't win were also great. I am from Honduras, we have never ever won a single medal, yet this time we got as far as 4th place in football, we didn't quite make it, but at least we know our players did the best they could, which is the most you can ask of them. So all in all I am completely satisfied with these games.
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Yes, dedication to their chosen craft was in full display. The thrill of victory and the agony of defeat.
Thanks for the comment.
Nice post @jgraci78. Never really had the chance to watch the O-games. Just a glimpse here and there. But it showed the strength of the athletes not only physically but also emotionally and mentally. They are an inspiration to all.