The thunderous roars of cheering fans filled the Olympic stadiums and household living rooms. This past summer, a few Spartans got the opportunity to attend the 2016 Rio Summer Olympic Games, in addition to countless Spartans watching from the comfort of his or her own home.

WS alumni, Ginny Thrasher, took home the first gold medal of the Games with her performance in the 10 Meter Air Rifle. WS alumni Matthew Miller also earned the opportunity to represent the US in rowing. Many students say that the highlights leading up to and surrounding the 2016 Rio Olympic Games made it one to remember.

Prior to the first Olympic Games held in South America, many fears were expressed concerning the Zika Virus and crime rates in Rio. But, Constanza Hasselmann, a WS attendee of the Games, was asked about the presence of Zika in Rio.

“People were apprehensive about it, but I don’t think it was a problem,” said senior Constanza Hasselmann.

As it was wintertime in Brazil, the number of mosquitos present was much lower than visitors expected. The weather was sunny most days, allowing athletes, spectators, and volunteers to explore Rio and enjoy its famous beaches.

“I did not see a single mosquito during my time in Brazil,” said Triahna Harris, our very own WS English teacher and Olympics volunteer.

Thus, many of the public’s fears were not actually a reality.

Another worldwide headline was the US swimmer scandal. Ryan Lochte, a 12-time Olympic medalist, initially claimed that he was robbed at gunpoint. After much controversy, it turns out his story was not reliable as he and his teammates were intoxicated during the ordeal.

When discussing her experience from home regarding the ordeal, sophomore Star Peterson said “I think it really put a negative image for the US considering that he was one of our top swimmers.”

As a result of his exaggerated story, Lochte lost his sponsorships with Ralph Lauren, Speedo, and others. He was also banned from competing for ten months by both USA Swimming and the United States Olympic Committee.

This year many more Spartans reported to having enjoyed their viewing experience when compared to previous years. Both sophomore Sydney Smith and Peterson said their favorite event to watch was gymnastics.

Peterson said that she liked watching it more than previous years,“because I love seeing all the diversity that was going on.”

Simone Manuel was the first black woman to win a gold medal in swimming. Simone Biles also inspired the US with her five medal worthy performances.

Peterson also said that she paid closer attention to the Games because

“I was more active on social media this year, and everybody was hyping it up, so I was like oh, I might as well watch it, too.”

Along with Peterson, other Spartans have reported a positive Olympic experience.

“They did a really great job organizing,” said Hasselmann.