Excitement is growing for the LA 2028 Summer Olympics and Paralympic, as the Games are set to make a comeback to Los Angeles area after a 44-year break, and upon final approval the equestrian events for both the Olympics and and Paralympic are coming to the beautiful valley of Temecula, CA wine country at the Galway Downs. Discover in addition to the olympic games many things to do in Los Angeles and the Temecula valley wine country.
It's remarkable to think about my early 20s during that time in 1984 and now, many years later, how sports have the power to unite people and politics still continues to have the power to divide. I'll take sports any day of the week. The 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games have a sentimental significance for me. I have vivid memories of watching iconic athletes such as Carl Lewis and Mary Lou Redden compete on TV in my living room, with my late mother beside me. Her delight during the Olympics continues to fuel my love for the sport, leading to cherished family moments that stand out amidst the world's chaos. During my time participating in track from elementary school through college, I developed a strong passion for the sport. My husband is well aware that during the Olympics, I am glued to the TV not only for track and field but also for basketball, gymnastics, swimming, volleyball, water polo, equestrian events and more, unless I have prior commitments. In addition, the prime time events aired by NBC were a part of my favorites, allowing me to catch up on all the day's events each night.
As with today's world there was chaos around the country, numerous communist nations, such as the Soviet Union, East Germany, and Cuba, responded to the U.S.-led boycott of the 1980 Moscow Games by skipping the 1984 Games due to worries about their athletes' safety in what they perceived as a hostile and strongly anticommunist setting. Notably, China made its first appearance in the Summer Games since 1952. Overall, almost 6,800 athletes from 140 countries convened in Los Angeles, (Statistics from Britannica, M. Johnston). Time will tell where our nation stands by 2028 and which if any countries boycott the olympic games. In 2024, several countries including Russia and Belarus were banned from the Olympics due to war, doping and political stances and violation of IOC rules.
Over the years, we have witnessed the growth of commercialism in the olympic sports, enabling athletes to benefit from endorsements, cash prizes, and branded gear. It's only fair that they receive a share of the rewards they have rightfully earned. Thanks to entrepreneurs like Peter Ueberroth who made it possible.
During the 1984 Olympics, under the leadership of American entrepreneur Peter Ueberroth, commercialism emerged as a significant factor in organizing the Games. U.S.-based multinational corporations were permitted to use Olympic symbols on their products, branding them as the official Olympic merchandise. Notably, a torch relay team spot was sold for $3,000 per kilometer. This Olympics marked the first profit since 1932, totaling $225 million. Despite concerns over increased corporate participation and the impact of the communist boycott on competition, the event's financial success and high global TV ratings sparked optimism for the Olympic movement after a long period, (stats, from Britannica, M. Johnston). According to a NBCUniversal (NBCU), Paris Olympics delivered 30.6 million viewers across NBCU, Peacock and Key NBCU Platforms – up 82% from Tokyo ratings in 2021.
I found the 2024 Summer Olympics to be enjoyable, despite the controversy surrounding the decision to strip Jordan Chiles of her bronze medal, which seemed unfair. In my view, once a decision is made and all the rules are followed, it should stand. It's concerning when rules are altered to benefit certain individuals. Despite such incidents, my love for the Olympics remains, although such decisions may drive fans away from the sport. I continue to support the athletes who invest significant effort in preparing and participating in the Games, as their dedication should be respected and honored.
As with the growth of the viewership of olympics, proud to see that women athletes are on the rise and taking their rightful place in the olympics. Much kudos to all the olympians around the world as you prepare for LA 2028.
