Michael Phelps Wins Eighth Gold Medal at the 2008 Beijing Olympics
2008 · Beijing, China
Michael Phelps wins his eighth gold medal at the Beijing Olympics, breaking the record for the most gold medals won by an individual in a single Olympic Games.
Usain Bolt’s World Record in the Men’s 100 Meters - August 16, 2008
On August 16, 2008, during the Beijing Olympics, Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt set a new world record in the men’s 100 meters, completing the race in an astonishing 9.69 seconds. This performance not only secured him the gold medal but also marked a significant moment in the history of athletics.
Context and Build-Up
- Usain Bolt’s Rise: Prior to the 2008 Olympics, Usain Bolt had already made a name for himself as a formidable sprinter. He had broken the 100 meters world record earlier that year in May, clocking in at 9.72 seconds at a meet in New York City.
- Olympic Expectations: Heading into the Beijing Olympics, Bolt was considered a favorite, but the level of competition was intense, with several other athletes also in contention for the title of “world’s fastest man.”
The Race
- Event Details: The men’s 100 meters final took place at the Beijing National Stadium, also known as the “Bird’s Nest.”
- Bolt’s Performance: Bolt’s performance was remarkable not only for the record time but also for the manner in which he achieved it. He famously began celebrating before crossing the finish line, slowing down in the final meters, which led many to speculate how much faster he could have run.
- Race Conditions: The race was run under legal wind conditions, ensuring the record’s validity.
Aftermath and Significance
- Global Recognition: Bolt’s victory and record-setting performance catapulted him to international fame, solidifying his status as a global sports icon.
- Impact on Athletics: This race was a pivotal moment in sprinting history, showcasing Bolt’s unique combination of speed, charisma, and showmanship. It also set the stage for his continued dominance in sprinting events over the following years.
- Legacy: Bolt went on to break his own record the following year at the World Championships in Berlin, setting a new benchmark of 9.58 seconds, which still stands as of 2023.
Usain Bolt’s achievement on August 16, 2008, remains one of the most memorable moments in Olympic history, symbolizing the pinnacle of human speed and athletic excellence.