Strive to Achieve Success – Eight Olympian Life-Changing Secrets

key to success

As the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London have ended, there were so many incredible stories of success and overcoming adversity to become the best athlete in the world.

Much like the long hours of training and drive to be number one, there is much overlap between what drives an Olympic athlete to success and what we face every day in our lives at work or home.

Shawn Anderson is a best-selling author, national speaker and motivational corporate trainer. He has a philosophy to “go the extra mile” to produce winning results at whatever he does. His goal is help motivate people to be success-driven.

So it doesn’t matter if you’re an underdog or leading contender in life, strive for what you want and keep you rend goal in sight. The key to success is within you, you just have to dig deep and make it happen!

Anderson says “Watching others succeed in the Olympics is fun…no doubt. But when we get only one life, why not try achieving our own Olympic-like success?”

But according to Shawn Anderson, there is so much more to be garnered and applied to our own lives from watching these success-driven athletes.

“An Olympic performance is an amazing example of what can happen when one stays dedicated to a mission,” Anderson says. “In fact, the Games are a perfect time to learn a few life-changing lessons that can catapult us to more success in our own lives.”

Michael Phelps - Olympic gold medal swimmer
Michael Phelps

Below are eight secrets to success that Olympians such as Olympic swimmer Michael Phelps possess that you can embrace in order to achieve your own personal goals:

1. Olympians have an unstoppable purpose. They know what they want, and they are passionate in their pursuit of going after it. Injury might sideline them occasionally, but they have a fire within them that pushes them forward. Nothing hijacks the mission. Three-time Gold medal winner Florence Griffith Joyner: “When anyone tells me I can’t do anything, I’m just not listening any more.”

2. Olympians make every day count. They recognize that time is limited, and they are disciplined in working as hard as they can each day. Olympians understand that today’s preparation and effort determines the level of tomorrow’s success. Many athletes plan out their training schedule up to four years in advance to make sure they reach specific performance goals.

3. Olympians don’t make excuses. They focus on reasons why they can do something, not why they can’t. Swedish shooter Oscar Swahn didn’t let the excuse of age stop him from winning Olympic gold at the age of 60. Even at 72, Oscar competed in the 1920 Olympics.

4. Olympians link up with others. They connect with the best coaches so that they can learn and fully develop their  talents. At age 14, 2012 gold medal winner Gabby Douglas left the security of home for two years to train with one of the best gymnastic coaches in the world. If you want to be the best, hang with the best.

5. Olympians grow “good” from “bad.” They know that they have a choice in how to respond to every event or occurrence.  They do not surrender to negative emotions for long. South Africa’s Oscar Pistorius didn’t let being a double amputee stop him from running the 400 meters in the 2012 Games.

6. Olympians try harder. Directing all their efforts toward success, Olympians give their goal everything they have. Swimming world record holder Janet Evans swam 10 miles per day, six days a week, in order to return to the Olympics.  That’s 330 lengths of an Olympic size-pool.

7. Olympians believe “better” always exists. They believe they can jump higher, run faster and get stronger. Olympians  always push for the “more” that is inside of them. American Skeet shooter Kimberly Rhode had medaled in four previous Olympics. In 2012, she won again … this time setting an Olympic record by hitting 99 out of 100 targets.

8. Olympians don’t quit on themselves. They recognize defeat as a necessary obstacle to overcome in order to find  eventual victory. Failure is short term and Olympians never let a defeat define them. Dan Jansen was favored to win  skating Gold in 1988, but on race day, Dan’s sister died. He later fell on the ice missing out on a medal. Never quitting, Jansen came back two Olympics later and won his Gold.




London 2012 Olympic Games Closing Ceremony

2012 London Summer Olympics closing ceremony

The London 2012 Olympic Games now comes to a memorable close. The Olympic Games Closing Ceremony celebrates the amazing sporting feats of all of the world’s greatest athletes who have taken part in these 2012 London Games.

The USA was once again the overall medal count by finishing with 104 total medal. Like in 2008 when it hosted the Summer Olympic Games in Beijing, China again finished in second place with 87 total medals. Russia came in third place with 82 medals. The United States won the most gold medals with 46.

In addition to celebrating the achievements of athletes at the London 2012 Olympic Games, the Closing Ceremony also includes the official handover from London as the host city to the next – Rio de Janeiro, Brazil in 2016.

After a successful Opening Ceremony, many people were looking forward to see how London would finish these successful and safe Summer Olympic games.

Prior to the event, Closing Ceremony Director Kim Gavin was quoted, “We want it to be the best after-show party there has ever been.”  He continues, “It is about British creativity in the arts. There is a hell of a lot of talent and music and a hell of a lot of show in the show.”

london 2012 olympic games closing ceremony flag bearers
AP photo

The London 2012 Olympic Games Closing Ceremony was a fun, colorful and festive party enjoyed by many millions of people both inside Olympic Stadium as well as on TV.

The Closing Ceremony featured greater than 4,100 performers, including 3,500 adult volunteers in addition to 380 schoolchildren from the six east London Host Boroughs.

It was a grand event that showcased the great creative talent of the UK.  The spectacular show opened with pop bands Madness, Pet Shop Boys and One Direction playing their hit songs.

An incredible parade of monochrome replicas covered in newsprint of London’s most popular landmarks including Big Ben’s clocktower, Tower Bridge and the towering London Eye ferris wheel. Once unveiled, the results was the British flag rolled across the massive Olympic Stadium floor.

Once again, the next generation of British royalty was in the audience to enjoy the Closing Ceremony. Prince William’s wife, Kate, and Prince Harry were seated next to Jacques Rogge, who is the current president of the International Olympic Committee. They all sang along to the song “God Save the Queen.”

Always a highlight is parade of athletes. The stadium crowd wildly cheered and took pictures of their favorite athlete heroes. The athletes too enjoyed this amazing experience, especially after the grueling competition comes to an end.

The host country had Ben Ainslie, who is the most successful Olympic sailor ever carry the flag for Britain.

Olympic Games tradition continues as the men’s Marathon Victory Ceremony took place.

As with the historic Opening Ceremony, the main focus of this event was the rich history of music in British culture. It was a treat to see a musical retrospective of British music across the ages.

A moving image ex-Beatles John Lennon appeared on the big screen, followed by Bono with Freedom. Dressed in leather was singer George Michaels.

A parade of famous British supermodels thrilled the crowd – Naomi Campbell, Kate Moss, Stella Tennant and Georgia May Tennant.

London 2012 Olympics closing ceremony

Many top musical acts performed including Annie Lennox and the Spice Girls. Queen played as images of deceased Freddy Mercury singing on the various large screens.

A moving moment was the singing of the Olympic Anthem. The Brazilian delegation received the presentation for the upcoming Rio 2016 Olympic Games.

The skies above London lit up with an unbelievable fireworks display.

British rock band legend “The Who”performed a medley of their most popular songs after the Olympic flame was extinguished. The show closed. All of Britain should be proud for hosting such a special Olympic Games show.




Michael Phelps Ends Record Breaking Olympic Career with Another Gold Medal

Michael Phelps - London Olympics gold medal swimmer
REUTERS/Jorge Silva

As the career of the greatest swimmer of all-time ends, it is incredible to see what Michael Phelps has accomplished in his stellar swim career.

Earlier today, Michael Phelps swam as part of the U.S. 400-Meter Medley Relay team that brought home another gold medal. This was 18th Olympic gold that Michael Phelps has won over 3 Summer Olympic Games.

Phelp’s last medal gives him a total of 22 career Olympic medals. Along with long-time swim coach Bob Bowman, the two have brought swimming to another level in world popularity. They have traveled to hundreds of swim meets and went to thousands of pre-dawn practices with the ultimate goal of being the best swimmer in the world.

In his last Olympic race, Michael Phelps swam the third leg (butterfly) of the race and teamed with fellow American swimmers, backstroker Matt Grevers, breaststroker Brendan Hansen and freestyler Nathan Adrian.

Michael Phelps - 400 Meter Medley relay swim race
AP Photo

The U.S. won the Gold medal a fast time of 3:29.35. Japan won the silver medal with a time of 3:31.26 and Australia took bronze at 3:31.58.

At the 2012 London Olympic Games, Michael Phelps swam in 7 races, compared to the 8 we swam in Bejing back in 2008. Phelps won four gold medals and two silver medals to become the most decorated swimmer in the London Games.

When asked about is amazing career accomplishment, Phelps replied, “I could probably sum it up in a couple of words and just say, ‘I did it.'”

Michael Phelps was proud to break the all-time medal record of 18 that was held by female Soviet gymnastics legend Larysa Latynina between 1956 – 1964.

The American 400 IM relay swim race victory also keeps a streak alive as the U.S. has never lost an Olympic 400 medley relay race.

It took almost 50 years for Michael Phelps to break the  all-time Olympic medal record.  It’s hard to believe anyone can do it ever again. Michael Phelps, you are the best!




London 2012 Summer Olympic Games – Historical Opening Ceremony

London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening ceremony Olympic rings
Getty Images – AP Photo

As the 30th Olympiad is finally here, London, England is the host country for third time in history – a record (1908, 1948 and now in 2012).

It would be almost impossible to surpass the impressive Opening Ceremony 4 years ago in Beijing, China, but London made its statement.

The London 2012 Olympic Games opening ceremony was themed around the theme of the “Isle of Wonders.” The phrase reference from Caliban’s speech in the William Shakespeare classic play “The Tempest.”

The opening ceremony began with an uplifting flyover of roaring fighter jets leaving behind a trail of red, white and blue smoke. The sold-out Olympic stadium of 80,000 people loudly applauded.

This colorful Olympic ceremony was created and directed by Danny Boyle, who is widely known as director of the hit movie Slumdog Millionaire. Boyle’s vision was to share with the world a glimpse of Britain’s history.

As the opening ceremony began, groups of children positioned around the stadium floor popped balloons with each number, counting down from 10 to 1.

Popular local Bradley Wiggins, who just won the 2012 Tour de France bicycle race was shown, waving to the massive audience.

The U.K.’s pastoral landscape of grass, hedgerows and farm made way to an impressive transition to the Industrial Revolution. The 18th and 19th centuries were a defining time in Britain’s history and basis for the its powerful empire.

London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening ceremony Industrial Revolution
Getty Images – AP Photo

The stadium turned into an impress array of towering smoke stacks that rose from the ground, machinery and hundreds of workers, representing the backbone of their labor engine.

Boyle next changed the direction of the show by adding a blend of pop culture with pomp and circumstance. Queen Elizabeth and James Bond, played by Daniel Craig boarded a helicopter and flew over London’s popular sites and monuments, such as Big Ben and Houses of Parliament. The crowed roared as it was depicted that both the Queen and James Bond 007 jumped from high above the stadium and parachuted in.

London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening ceremony pop culture
Getty Images – AP Photo

Next was a tribute to British pop culture and its rich history of music. A series of video clips and songs from Britain’s most famous band and singers were heard including The Who, Rolling Stones, Beatles and Queen.

The colorful parade of nations next took center stage beginning with Greece, the birthplace of the Olympics. 204 countries will be representing during the 2012 Summer Olympic Games in London, featuring over 10,000 Olympic athletes with the single goal of winning a medal.

What everybody waits for is the arrival of the Olympic flame. Who else but local, East London world soccer star David Beckham could ignite the crowd. The flame was delivered from a speedboat driven by David Beckham. The flame was passed on to Steve Redgrave who is one of Britain’s greatest Olympians of all time.

London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening Ceremony cauldron flame
Getty Images – AP Photo

The torch was then handed over to seven sports legends of the Games and then passed to seven young athletes, signifying a passing of the torch. The flames then simultaneously lit up 200 miniature torches that rose together to create a stunning cauldron in the middle of the Olympic stadium.

London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening Ceremony fireworks
Getty Images – AP Photo

An incredible fireworks display lit up the skies above London. Singing legend Sir Paul McCartney led the audience with rocking performance of Beatles hit song “Hey Jude,” as the audience sang along in unison, ending the memorable ceremony. Thank you Danny Boyle.

London 2012 Summer Olympics - Opening Ceremony Paul McCartney concert
Getty Images – AP Photo

Now … Let the London 2012 Olympic Games begin!




Enjoy The London Summer Olympics in Luxury Style – The Lanesborough Suite

The Lanesborough Suite - London luxury hotel
The Lanesborough Suite

To fully enjoy the upcoming Summer Olympics in London, stay in a luxurious London hotel suite.

London’s preeminent luxury hotel is well known to be The Lanesborough. Finding the best accommodations will be a challenge during this busy time while the Summer Olympics are underway.

We wanted to share with you one of the largest and most luxurious suites available anywhere in London – The Lanesborough Suite.

The Lanesborough Suite was designed by world-renowned interior designer Alberto Pinto. This ultra-luxury hotel suite features the ideal blend of 19th century elegance along with contemporary sophistication.

Greater than 4,000 square feet in size, this elegant hotel suite at The Lanesborough features four bedrooms, five and a half bathrooms, two living rooms, a kitchen plus a dining room.

Lanesborough Suite suites can enjoy a whole package of luxury amenities including: tea and coffee upon arrival and with wake-up calls, a complimentary chauffeur driven Rolls Royce Phantom, 24-hour Butler Service, change of clothing pressed on arrival, plus numerous other luxury services.

The Lanesborough - London luxury hotel
The Lanesborough

Pricing for The Lanesborough Suite is £14,000, (approximately $21,716) per night plus VAT.

Make a stay at The Lanesborough hotel your perfect way to enjoy all that London has to offer and the Summer Olympic Games.




Private Ice Skating Lesson at Waldorf Astoria Park City in Park City, Utah

Waldorf Astoria Park City in Park City, Utah
Waldorf Astoria Park City

The luxurious Waldorf Astoria Park City in Park City, Utah is honoring the upcoming London Olympics by offering a private ice-skating lesson with a member of the U.S. National Speedskating Team and Olympic hopeful.

Utah was proud to host the 2002 Winter Olympics and the Waldorf Astoria Park City wanted to continue the Olympic tradition with an exciting new package.

Waldorf Astoria Park City is located at the base of Canyons Resort in Park City, Utah and offers 175 luxury residences appointed with custom furnishings, suites with gourmet kitchens. The property also offers incredible views of the nearby Wasatch Mountains.

This is your chance to receive a private ice skating lesson and learn how to speed skate with an Olympic hopeful. Park City is a training ground for U.S. Olympians.

Additional luxury amenities include – outdoor patios with fire pits and a heated pool with whirlpools that offer guests areas of relaxation year-round.

The exclusive ice-skating experience is part of the Waldorf Astoria Park City’s Majordomo Package and is available now until September 12, 2012. Prices begin at $299 per night, plus $120 per adult for two hour lesson.

To make a reservation, please visit: http://parkcitywaldorfastoria.com or call (866) 584.4476




Top Athletes to Watch at 27th Summer Olympic Games in London

swimmer Michael Phelps - athens
Michael Phelps – AP

The 27th Summer Olympic Games is almost here. Beginning this Friday, London, England will host the 30th Olympiad and there are many top athletes from around the world to watch.

Rich in culture and history, London will now become the only city to host three official Olympic Games. London first hosted in 1908, then in 1948 after World War II and now in 2012.

As today’s athletes get bigger and faster, these Summer Olympics are the ideal showcase to the display the world their talents. According to NBColympics.com, the U.S. is the all-time leader in medals at the Summer Games with 2,302, more than twice Soviet Union which won 1,122.

Good luck to all the athletes in London. These Summer Olympics Games are destined to be the best ever. It’s estimated that a staggering 4 billion people worldwide, will watch the Games on their TV.

Here is a sample of some of the great athletes to keep a close watch on:

Michael Phelps
Michael Phelps – AP

Michael Phelps
Likely the biggest athlete to watch will be U.S. swimmer Michael Phelps. This will be Phelps’ third Olympic Games as he tries to break the all-time medal record of 18 (1956 – 1964) held by female Soviet gymnastics legend Larysa Latynina. Michael Phelps already holds the record for most gold medals, with 14 won in 2004 and 2008. What is amazing is Phelps has earned 14 gold of his 16 total medals, and 2 bronze.

track race star Usain Bolt
Usain Bolt – Dylan Martinez/Reuters

Usain Bolt
The speed demon of the 2008 Summer Games in Beijing China will be a favorite once again in London. Usain Bolt won three track and field gold medals in Beijing – 100 meters, 200 meters and 400 meter relay race for Jamaica. He also set world records in all three of this track races. Bolt is currently the world champion in the 200 meters.

Kohei Uchimura
This gifted Japanese gymnast is the reigning three-time world champion. Uchimura has the honor of being the only gymnast to have won the world title three times in a row. Kohei Uchimura won a silver medal in Beijing in the all-around but hasn’t lost a competition since.

Missy Franklin - U.S. Olympic swimmer
Missy Franklin – Al Bello/Getty Images

Missy Franklin
She’s just 17 years old but American swimmer Missy Franklin will become a household name after these Lond Summer Games are over. her nickname is “Missy the Missle” and she’s lightning fast in the water. During last year’s world championships, the young swimmer won five medals, including three golds.

Carmelita Jeter
Speed is her game the Olympics will be her center stage. Jeter won the 100 meter meter world title in 2011, plus took a silver medal in the 200 meters. She was part of the strong 400 meter U.S. relay team that held off Jamaica to win a gold medal. Last year Carmelita Jeter has the world’s fastest time in the 200 meters at just 10.7 seconds.




Pure Four Hundred. Pure Ski. Pure Luxury

U.S. Ski and Snowboard team

You may not have heard of Pure Four Hundred, TOAST, or Bookem Danno Productions, but you’re certainly familiar with their work.  They are the teams behind Superbowl’s celebrity-filled Maxim Magazine red carpet events.

Their most recent project is once again a star-studded TEAM experience, exclusive to the country’s top VIPs, trendsetters, and adventurers.  The TEAM features an “all access” experience to participate and preview one of the finest Olympic training facilities in the world — with the finest Olympic athletes in the world.

The goal of the Pure Four Hundred TEAM is to raise much needed funds for the continued training and development of the US Ski and Snowboard teams.  Unlike other major countries, the US Ski and Snowboard teams actually do not receive government support to train their athletes to compete in the Winter Olympics.  Each company sponsorship will help contribute to the USSA team and place their brand before an elite and esteemed group.

The upcoming 2012 Pure Four Hundred TEAM will be held from Wednesday July 18 through July 21, with some of the top Olympic athletes in the world.  The eventful four days include grand receptions, tours of the USSA National training facilities, meet-and-greets with the athletes, gourmet dinners, luxury wine and whiskey tours and tastings.  Of course, they wouldn’t leave out what the Pure Four Hundred is about, the sport.  The sponsorship also includes bobsled runs, golf, hot air balloon tours, and aerial ski shows.

Sponsorships come in two different packages, a 4-day TEAM package for $7,500 and a 2-day TEAM package for $5,500.  The 4-day package includes for exclusive events and perks.  Both packages include entrance to the Pure Four Hundred White Party.  More information on both packages can be found here.

Rapidly becoming the hardest and hottest ticket to get for the event will be the Pure Four Hundred White Party.  The White Party will be an unprecedented outdoor white carpet event (all-white attire suggested), and the toast event of a Park City summer.  Numerous athletes, musicians, and celebrities will host this extravagant event.  Limited to 400 guests and VIPS, it will include costumed models, custom-designed venues, sophisticated décor, an intimate dance floor, the hottest DJs and musical performers.  Additionally, there will be a unique and intimate private VIP area overlooking the entire event.

The White Party will be held on Friday, July 20, third day of the extravaganza.  Aside from being “the place to see and be seen,” the Pure Four Hundred White Party will also benefit the USSA, that is also based in Park City at The Center of Excellence.  Cost to just attend the party is $400 for the VIP ticket and $250 for a general admission ticket.  If you’re a winter sports enthusiasts, a thrill-seeker, a fan wanting to meet the athletes, or simply just want to contribute to the great Olympic athletes, this is the ideal event for you.




From the Beginning – England’s Olympic History

2012 London Summer Olympics

The upcoming Summer Olympic Games in London, England is expected to be one of the best ever.

As the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games nears, VisitEngland has put together a summary of England’s Olympic history.

A look at England’s Olympic history showcases its humble beginnings in a rural Shropshire Market Town to the Bright Lights and Award-Winning Architecture of London in 2012.

1850 – Once Upon a Time, in Shropshire
So everyone knows that the Olympic Games were first conceived in Greece, right? Well, in fact, the modern International Games have their roots not in Athens, but rather in the small market town of Much Wenlock in Shropshire. In 1850 the town’s local doctor, philanthropist William Penny Brooks, established the Wenlock Olympian Games to ‘promote the moral, physical and intellectual improvement of the inhabitants of the town and neighbourhood of Wenlock by encouragement of outdoor recreation.’

Now, more than 150 years later, one of the London2012 mascots has been named Wenlock in Brookes’ memory, cementing in history the crucial role he played as the forefather of the modern Olympic Games.

1865 – The Games Go National
After several successful years of Much Wenlock Olympian Games, Brookes was responsible for creating the National Olympian Games in 1865. The premiere in Crystal Palace, London attracted 10,000 spectators, and the Games were held annually in different English towns and cities in the following years.

1908 – First Opening Ceremony and Going the Full Distance
Having originally been awarded to Rome, the fourth International Olympic Games instead came to London after the 1906 eruption of Mount Vesuvius skewed plans. The stadium at White City had been built at short notice for the Games (the first purpose-built Olympic venue), and was considered a marvel of its day, holding 68,000 spectators.

That year, the Olympic marathon started in front of the royal apartments at Windsor Castle and ended on the track at White City stadium in front of the royal box. At the time the actual race distance wasn’t fixed – it was just a very long road race; around 25 miles. Moving the starting point from Queen Victoria’s statue to East Terrace so that spectators wouldn’t hinder the athletes added 700 hundred yards to the typical distance.

The 1908 Games were the first to be launched by an Opening Ceremony, during which the competing nations marched into the stadium following their respective national flags.

It was during a speech for Olympic champions by Bishop Ethelbert Talbot in 1908 that the Olympic Creed derides. The Olympic Creed, still used to this day, reads: “The most important thing in the Olympic Games is not to win but to take part, just as the most important thing in life is not the triumph but the struggle. The essential thing is not to have conquered but to have fought well.”

When the Games closed in October, Great Britain topped the medal table with a total of 145 medals. Despite the short notice, the Games were widely declared a success and lay the foundations for London’s legacy as a host Olympic city.

1924 – England Sets Marathon Standard – 26 Miles 385 Yards (naturally)
In 1924, the length of the 1908 Olympic marathon – which turned out to be 26 miles 385 yards – was internationally accepted as the official length of a marathon.

1943 – Stoke Mandeville Develops Sport for Rehabilitation
This August, the Buckinghamshire village of Stoke Mandeville will play host to the Paralympic Torch Relay; apt, as this was in fact the birthplace of the Paralympics. Pioneering German neurologist Professor Sir Ludwig Guttmann became head of the National Spine Injury Centre (NSIC) at the Ministry of Pensions Hospital in Stoke Mandeville towards the end of WWII and came up with the revolutionary idea of using sport for rehabilitation. Sir Ludwig’s patients were encouraged to try activities such as wheelchair polo, basketball and archery.

1948 – War is Over: National Morale Boosted by First Televised Games
Despite a shortage of time and resources, London rose to the challenge to host the first Games after World War II and a 12-year hiatus. This time the Games centred around Wembley stadium and were the first televised Olympic Games, though at that stage few people owned their own television set.

In 1948, the historic coastal town of Dover provided the welcome point for the Olympic Torch. It was a first for both Dover and England because the 1908 London Games took place before the torch relay tradition began. The flame, setting out from Olympia in Greece, travelled in 1,531 stages totalling 720 miles (1,160km), and 1,720 weatherproof torches – including spares – were manufactured to carry it on its way. Brought from Calais to Dover aboard HMS Bicester, a destroyer of the Nore Command, the flame then continued its relay via the Kent towns of Canterbury, Charing, Maidstone and Westerham, through Surrey and Berkshire and on to Wembley.

In 1948, due to post-war rationing, many teams who attended the Olympic Games had to bring their own food with them.

1948 – London’s Second Olympic Games Bring Paralympics to the Fore
In 1948, Sir Ludwig Guttmann organised a competition for 16 paralysed servicemen – the Stoke Mandeville Games for wheelchair athletes – which coincided with the opening ceremony of the London 1948 Olympic Games. Prior to 1948, athletes with disabilities had competed in the same sporting events. The first official Paralympic Games, open not only to war veterans, took place 12 years later, in Rome.

Sir Ludwig went on to found the British Sports Association for the Disabled, and was knighted by the Queen when he retired in 1966, having already been awarded an OBE and CBE. The NSIC continues its rehabilitation programme using sports and exercise to this day, and has expanded from just 26 beds to 190 in the main hospital.

2005 – “The International Olympic Committee has the honour of announcing the Games of the 30th Olympiad in 2012 are awarded to the city of… LONDON”

A spine-tingling announcement was made to thousands of gatherers in Trafalgar Square in central London on 6th July 2005. The city staved off stiff competition from Moscow, New York, Madrid and finally Paris after an impressive presentation by ex-Olympian Lord Coe, who chaired the bid. Prime Minister Tony Blair called it a ‘momentous day’ for the country, saying of London: “many reckon it is the greatest capital city in the world and the Olympics will help keep it that way”.

2012 – London Hosts 30th Olympic and Paralympic Games
This year, London becomes the first city to have hosted the Olympic Games three times. The Games will take place across the country – many outside of the purpose-built 500 acre Olympic Park in Stratford. Football matches will place in Coventry, Manchester and Newcastle; sailing events in Weymouth; cycling in Surrey; rowing in Eton Dorney; mountain biking in Essex and canoe slalom in the Lee Valley.

The 2012 Games will coincide with the culmination of a four-year cultural programme, the Cultural Olympiad, which includes 500 events held over four years. The finale, the London2012 Festival, is the biggest festival the UK has ever seen.

The 2012 Olympic Torch Relay departs from Land’s End, Cornwall on May 19th and will make a 70-day journey – carried by 8,000 torchbearers – around the UK, travelling within 10 miles of 95% of the population. On August 24th, a Paralympic flame will be lit in London, and will meet flames from Belfast, Edinburgh and Cardiff in Stoke Mandeville – the birthplace of the Paralympics – before returning to the Olympic Stadium.

For more information and inspiration visit www.visitengland.com.




Charitybuzz Auction – 2012 Olympic Games in London

2012 London Summer Olympics

The 2012 Olympic Games will be held in London this summer. Would you like the chance to attend the Summer Olympics as a VIP?

Charitybuzz is offering an exciting auction and the winner gets the opportunity to go to London, in addition to help raise funds for the U.S. Olympic Committee.

The whole world united every four years and the 2012 Olympic Games in London is expected to be possibly the best ever. Now get the chance to see the best of the games in luxury style.

Charitybuzz is the leading charity auction site and in partnership with the U.S. Olympic Committee, is offering an incredible $50,000 Olympics package that features inside access and luxury accommodations to the 2012 Summer Olympics.

The auction’s winning bidder plus a guest has the opportunity to design their own unique Olympic adventure. Be front and center for all the gold-medal action with an all-expense trip to London, including event tickets, special access and more!

Auction package details:
Accommodations at the four-star Hilton London Metropole, conveniently located near the Olympic Games site
• Pre-selected tickets to a variety of popular sporting events that include swimming, basketball, track, beach volleyball and more
• Personal concierge service from a U.S. Olympic Committee staff member
• 2 five-day passes to USA House, the U.S. Olympic Committee’s official business and hospitality center
• Two passes to the exclusive CoSport hospitality center
• Access to a special reception with Olympians and Paralympians
• Commemorative Olympics merchandise

Proceeds benefit the U.S. Olympic Committee, supporting U.S. Olympic and Paralympic athletes in achieving sustained competitive excellence.

Bidding is open now through Thursday, January 19th, at http://www.charitybuzz.com/catalog_items/291955




2010 Winter Games – U.S. Ski Team Accomplishments

From all accounts, the 2010 Winter Games held in Vancouver – British Columbia, Canada was a huge success.

The United States athletes had a record-breaking and history-making journey at these Olympics. Luxury car-maker Audi, has produced another exclusive, behind-the-scenes video.

View the unprecedented accomplishments of the U.S. Ski Team, along with segments from the original Audi film plus special footage and interviews shot in Whistler.

As part of its continued support of the U.S. Ski Team, Audi of America recently commissioned the original documentary film titled, Truth in Motion: The U.S. Ski Team’s Road to Vancouver.

The video tells the unique stories of several elite American skiers during their preparation for the 2010 Winter Games.

The film was directed by Brett Morgan and premiered on NBC back in January. The film also aired on the USA Network and the Universal Sports Network.

You can now download it for free on the iTunes store.

Audi’s video includes exclusive, behind-the-scenes video that incorporates a variety of interviews from athletes, fans and families, captured from daily webisodes that were shot at the U.S. Ski Team House in Whistler.

TJ Lanning and Resi Stiegler, U.S. Ski Team members recovering from injury, hosted the streaming show titled Live at the Lodge. The finale video pays tribute to the U.S. Ski Team’s unprecedented performance at the 2010 Winter Games.