Istanbul - Tokyo - Madrid: The Three Finalsts - One to host 2020 Summer Olympics

The three historic cities of Istanbul (Turkey), Tokyo (Japan) and Madrid (Spain) have filed their claims to host the 2020 Summer Olmpic games - the biggest venue of athletes ever and a prestige point for the country hosting the Olympics.

It has been reported by Bloomberg that Heads of the delegations handed in their bid books for the International Olympic Committee to evaluate before members tour proposed venues and make a final decision in Buenos Aires in September.

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Istanbul, which has failed in four bids, stressed a growing economy and a young, sports-loving population as part of its $22 billion plan to bring the event to Turkey for the first time.

Madrid said it would use mainly existing facilities and spend $1.9 billion as Spain tries to recover from an economic battering. Tokyo, host of the 1964 Olympics, promised innovation and safety as pillars of a bid with $4.5 billion in place to complete building projects.

Read more about it at: Bloomberg
Graphic credit: 30 K Feet

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IOC bans Indian Olympic Association

The International Olympic Committee (IOC) has banned the Indian Olympic Association over elections that could result in a tainted official taking over as the only candidate for secretary-general, a source close to the IOC told Reuters on Tuesday.

 The ban means an effective end to funding from the IOC to the national Olympic committee (IOA), no Indian officials attending Olympic meetings and Indian athletes banned from competing at the Olympics under their country's flag.

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The IOC's Executive Board, which is meeting in Lausanne, is expected to officially announce its decisions later on Tuesday.

"We had offered the IOA and IOC to sit and talk on these issues," Jitendra Singh, the country's sports minister, told reporters.

Read more about it at: Business Recorder

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London Olympics 2012 Remembered

The London Olympics 2012 was a massive event of the present times. The most heavily guarded and defended Olympic arena witnessed one of the best organized sports event of this magnitude. Though it had glitches, traffic jams and spectators' discomfort and organizer's worries about about empty stands, the show went on as planned and ended without any mishap.

The torch lighting ceremony took place in Greece as per the centuries old traditions and were carried by many a celebrities and war veterans

The proceeding and the live coverage of the opening ceremony of the London Olympics commenced with an artfully orchestrated Her Majesty and James Bond drama, n which the Queen of England herself participated to express her involvement in the games.

Queen's parachuted entry into the arena was though fabricated, but many took it for real and admired Queen's bravery and courage for having jumped with a parachute.

The London Bridge was decorated with five Olympic rings visible from miles and the bridge remained lit with colourful lights for the duration of the games.

 The march past of the athletes of the participating countries ushered in the opening of the London Olympics and athletes and officials dressed in traditional native dresses marched past

A female athlete from Pakistan contingent dressed in traditional shalwar kameez with head scarf waving Pakistan flag to the spectators.

Below are snap shots from various events, showing smiles, jubilation, concentration and sportsman spirit that won them applause and medals.

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British no.1 Andy Murray won a gold medal in the men's singles event of the Olympics tennis, beating world no.1 Roger Federer. His win ended the 74 years long British drought in the title winning tennis championships of such international repute. Britain last won a world level tennis title in 1936. 

An impressive and massive fireworks brought the London Olympics 2012 to an end. Those who participated, those who bagged medals and even those who witnessed the proceedings of the Olympics will cherish the memories for a long time to come. 

The above photos have been taken from various sources on internet and are not mine. These have been shared for the remembrance of the event and no copy right infringement is intended.

Olympics 2016: Olympic flag arrives in Rio de Janeiro

While the euphoria starts to die in London after the London Olympics came to an end this Sunday, the official Olympic flag flies to Rio de Janeiro, the host of the 2016 Summer Games.

The landing of the Olympic flag was hailed by the Rio Mayor, Eduardo Paes who said:

"It is a unique opportunity to spark change - This is a very special moment for our country, for our city. To be able to take care of this box, of this flag, which, at the moment I cannot touch without gloves, it’s an enormous pleasure, an enormous honour.”

With Brazil also due to host the next football World Cup in 2014, officials insist everything will be ready at least a year before the games begin.

via Euronews

World returns to 'Normal' after London Olympics

The world returns to "normal' after the London Olympics come to an end after a colourful  closing ceremony that was held Sunday night last night.

Photo Courtesy: London2012

While the participating athletes danced and showed off their medals, a number of British singers, including the Spice Girls, The Queen and Jessica J performed in a almost three hours long ceremony. The ceremony ended in a huge fireworks display, bringing to an end to the third Olympics held at London. 

As for the medals, USA topped Olympic medal tabe with 46 golds, 29 silvers and 29 bronze (total 104), followed by China with 38 golds, 27 silvers and 22 bronze (total 87), and Britain with 29 golds, 17 silvers and 19 bronze (total 65). Russian Federeatyion was on the British heels with 24 golds, 25 silvers and 33 bronze (total 82) and ended up at fourh position.

Now the sports world which was only confined to Olympics returns to normal and this Thursday Britain plays its third cricket test against visiting South Africans at Lord's on 14 August.

As for the football fans, the Barclay's Premier League commences 18th August with full fanfare, in which top 20 football teams will be participating. Thus sports fixations shift back to all oer the world from being fixed on London for the past two weeks.

Watch Live the Grand finale to bid farewell to Olympics Sunday night - 12 August

Since mid July, London has been host to some 10,000 athletes and officials from 205 countries participating in the London Olympics - the third honour for London since its earlier two Olympics. And what an honour for the Queen to inaugurate the Olympics 2012, while the last London Olympics were inaugurated by her late father King George VI in 1948.

King George VI at the opening ceremony of London Olympics 1948

The grand opening this year was a memorable occasion which fascinated billions of viewers around the globe. The Queen 'parachuted' along with James Bond into the arena to announce the opening of the London Olympics.

The British Queen at the opening ceremony of London Olympics 2012

The Hey Jude sung by Sir Paul McCartney at the end of the opening ceremony added mush colours and nostalgia to the ceremony as the entire arena sang with Paul.

Now the Grand Finale is nearing as almost all event so the London Olympics are over. America tops the medal table with 45 gold, while China follows closely behind with 38 golds. Great Britain bagged 29 golds - its best Olympic performance in last 104 years. The London Olympics witnessed 44 new world records, while 117 previous Olympic records werer broken.

Usain Bolt created history for bagging tow medals in successive two two Olympics and made a world record in 4x100M men's relay race. Andy Murray won a final on the Wimbledon's Centre Court - the first British to do so in last 73 years.

Now all eyes are set for the closing ceremony or the grand finale which is to be held on 12th August Sunday evening.  The finale will feature about 4,000 performers alongside artists such as George Michael and the Spice Girls, who are getting together for this very special ceremony in the history of London.

The Closing Ceremony of the London Olympics will commence on Sunday, 12 August 2012 at 20:00 GMT

If you are one of the fans located at different destination and miss the chance to visit the stadium to watch your favorite team, You can now watch the match live on your laptop or desktop computer, FREE, provided you have an internet connection, from the links given below:

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USA leaves China way behind in Olympics Medals Race

As of 11th August today, USA is far ahead of China and has left it behind in the medal race - a gap that China is unlikely to bridge in the few days that remain of Olympics now.

USA has added three gold since yesterday, while China has added only one. The parity seems unbridgeable now and USA has overcome Chinese dominance of Olympics as was seen in Beijing Olympics. 

China's main reason of losing is lack of participation in men's athletic events, in which USA excelled and bagged a number of golds. China will have to 'import black men' from abroad as countries have in their athletic teams to win bagful of gold for them in next Olympics.

GB has also added three golds since yesterday, while Russia has added six gold - a quantum jump for the Russians. But can they overtake GB?

Table courtesy: London2012

Azerbaijan has pushed Turkey down with its two gold. Its win in the wrestling last night was amazing. Indian victory in wrestling and winning of bronze against PRK was also worth watching - specially the last 10 seconds of the match. Iran has also done well with its four golds.

For complete medal position, follow updates at: London2012

Germany defends Olympic hockey gold - beat Holland 2-1

Germany successfully defended their Olympic hockey title when they beat Holland 2-1 in  a thrilling and exciting Olympic men's field hockey final Staurday night.

Both goals were scored by Jan Philipp Rabente, who thus denied the Dutch their dream of becoming the first nation to win both hockey golds at the same Games.

It may be added that Holland had a smooth sailing in the group matches and even beat Germany and they were hoping to snatch the gold from defending chmapions Germany this time.

The defeat thus equalises the Dutch's earlier edge over the Germans and let the Germans ge away with their second successive Olympic gold.

Evgeniya Kanaeva defends her Rhythmic gymnastics Olympic title

Evgeniya Kanaeva has become the first woman to win two Olympic rhythmic gymnastics all-around gold medals after she defended her title at London 2012.

Photo: BBC Sport Olympics

The Russian's score of 116.900 saw her finish ahead of silver medal winning compatriot Daria Dmitrieva and Liubou Charkashnya of Belarus who took bronze.

The 22-year-old performed several breathtaking routines in the Wembley Arena to finish clear of the field.

Read more: BBC Sport Olympics

Mexico humiliate Brazil to win Olympic Football Gold

Mexico humiliated hot favourites Brazil to win the men's Olympic football tournament for the first time at Wembley, London.

Mexico outscored champions of the champions Brazil 2-1, when the Brazilians were just thinking that they would just brush aside the Mexicans to win the gold. But they were really stunned to settle for the silver.

Although it was the first time for Brazil too to win the Olympic gold, but they were simply outclassed as the Mexicans edged over the Brazilians to win their first gold in Olympic football. Both goals were scored by Oribe Peralta.

Watch a slide show of the highlights of the match:

Slide show video courtesy: YouTube / Syamihere

Top Iconic Moments of London Olympics

London Olympics that started with a huge and impressive opening ceremony is coming to its logical end a few days from now. During this almost two weeks of hyper activity, there was laughter and jubilation by those who won and broke records - there were tears and disappointments too for those who tried but could lay hands on the Olympic medals.

We saw many ups and downs, Usain Bolt bagging two golds in 100 and 200M athletic events and proclaiming himself to  be a legend. We also saw Andy Murray winning a final tennis event at the Centre Court of the Wimbledon after 73 years, and winning a gold for himself and for his country - and saw 7 times Wimbledon champion Roger Federer walking away after losing the final from the same court where he defeated Murray a few weeks back in Wimbledon final. We also saw gymnasts slipping from bars and stepping out of the arena and losing points.

We also saw a hide and seek between China and USA for the table top position for a number of days.  We say Sweden's kings shouting at the top of his voice that even those sitting beside him had to cover their ears - we also saw american first lady hugging her basketball players and many moments that would be cherished till next Olympics or even beyond. 

Business Insider has compiled a slide show of 21 such iconic moments London Olympics which will be remembered and cherished. Watch these at Business Insider

Olympics hockey final: Germany vs Netherlands | Watch Free Live Streaming - 11 August 2012

The final of Olympics hockey between German and Netherlands gets played Saturday evening today at the Riverbank arena, London.

Germany, the defending champions, is the hot favourite and are all set to defend their 2008 Beijing title. Germany advanced to the finals after beating Australia 4-2.

On the other hand, Netherlands are no less prepared to meet or perhaps beat the defending champions. Team Netherlands humiliated England 9-2 in the semi fianls. Netherlands have not dropped a single point since the group matches and  seem determined to clinch the title from the Germans.

It may be added that Netherlands beat Germany 3-1 in the group matches - which is a plus point with them, despite the Germans being the favourites for the gold.

The Olympics Hockey Gold Medal match match is scheduled for Saturday, 11 August 2012 at 19:00 GMT at the Riverbank Arena, London

If you are one of the fans located at different destination and miss the chance to visit the stadium to watch your favorite team, You can now watch the match live on your laptop or desktop computer, FREE, provided you have an internet connection, from the links given below:

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South Korea Beat Japan to win their First Ever Olympic Football Medal

South Korea claimed their first-ever Olympic football medal as they saw off Japan to secure bronze at the Millennium Stadium.

Job done! South Korea secured their first ever Olympic medal in football after they beat Japan 2-0 [Photo AP/Daily Mail]

Arsenal's Park Chu-Young set them on their way with a superb solo effort in the 38th minute before skipper Koo Ja-Cheol sealed the win 11 minutes into the second half.

Japan enjoyed plenty of possession but, like Great Britain before them, found it tough to break down a well-organised Korean rearguard.

Read more: Daily Mail

Team USA W beat 1985 record of 4x100 M Relay Race

The United States shattered a 27-year-old world record to win gold in the women's 4x100m relay at London 2012.

Team USA that beat 27 years old record and won gold for America [Photo: BBC Sport]

The team of Tianna Madison, Allyson Felix, Bianca Knight and Carmelita Jeter blazed round the track in 40.82 seconds, beating East Germany's record of 41.37, which had stood since 1985.

It may be added that The USA team had failed to reach the final at the Beijing Olympics. But after qualifying fastest for the 2012 final, they led from the start on a balmy night in east London.

Jamaica were second in a national record time of 41.41, with Ukraine third in 42.04 and Nigeria fourth.

Read more: BBC Sport

China seems to be losing the medal race at Olympics

China seem to be losing the medal race to USA as USA has taken quite a comfortable lead over China in the last couple of days.

With 41 medals, USA is now well ahead of China with 37 golds - a gap unlikely to be bridged as China's complete absence from athletics events and USA's domination in the same has given USA a winning edge over the Chinese.

Britain is also comfortably perched at no.3 position with no fears from Russian Federation which is at no.4

 Table courtesy: London2012

Uzbekistan has left the group of countries with medal and has moved far above with three bronze medals leaving behind now eight countries with one medal - with Tajikistan with one bronze at the end of the medal table.

For complete medal position, follow updates at: London2012

Bolt proclaims himself to be a legend

Usain Bolt became the first man to ever repeat as gold medalist in the 100m and 200m at the Olympics today.

Usain Bolt  says he is the greatest athlete to live [Photo: NYT]

The victory puts him in the discussion for the greatest Olympian ever. But in Bolt's mind, the debate is already over.

Here's what he told the NYT:

“It’s what I came here to do. I’m now a legend. I’m also the greatest athlete to live.”

Bolt rubs some people the wrong way with his general cockiness and showmanship. And for those people, this quote will surely come off arrogant.

But for the rest of us, these quotes will just add to the myth of Bolt — one of the most joyful, self-confident athletes you'll ever see.

Shared via Business Insider

Watch Live Japan and South Korea playing for Olympic Football Bronze | 10 August 2012

Japan and South Korea come face to face Friday evening at London Olympics 2012 to win over each other to bag the Olympics Bronze.

It may be added for information that Barazil and Mexico have already qualified for the Olympics football final, being played Saturday, 11 August 2012.

Japan has already owon the Olympic bronze once - but that was way back in 1968. South Korea has yet to bag any medal in Olympics football. This measn that both teams are already new in the bronze medal queue as 1968 is almost history now for Japan.

Japan's football team has a higher ranking than their rival Friday in FIFA and their strong defence did not let them have a goal scored against them till the semis. So it would be worth watching who outscore the other to win over the Olympic bronze Friday evening at London Olympics.

But wait - there is one more hidden prize for the South Korean footballers: if they win the bronze, they will be exempted from the compulsory military service that each South Korean must do til the age of 29. So I do not have to say which team will be putting in their extra power and enter the field Friday evening with full turbo booster charges on.

The match is scheduled for Friday 10 August 2012 at 18:40 GMT

If you are one of the fans located at different destination and miss the chance to visit the stadium to watch your favorite team, You can now watch the match live on your laptop or desktop computer, FREE, provided you have an internet connection, from the links given below:

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USA overtakes China on Olympics Medal Table

The hide and seek between China and USA takes a new turn with USA overtaking China once again with 39 golds, leaving behind China with 37 golds at no.2 slot. China's absence in the athletics seems to be hurting it on the overall medal count as well as no of golds, in which now all other nations are making quite a good headway.

Russia has also pushed down South Korea to no four position and taken the third slot. GB is maintaining a comfortable lead over all others below no.3 position and is like to maintain its position from now on, though threatening no.2 position will be a far cry for GB.

Table courtesy: London2012

The table above shows top positions up to Switzerland ranking 30th. 

For complete medal position, follow updates at: London2012

Olympics Medal Table Update - 9 August 2012

On 8th of August, USA bagged Gold medals in athletics - a field where China was found missing. Despite that, China continues to rein the Olympics medal table - but USA is not far behind.

Herein under is the list of first 30 countries on the medal table as of 9 August:

Table courtesy: London2012

As for the tail end, there are 11 countries with one bronze - the lucky 11s if I may say so to go back home with at least one Olympic medal.

The table above shows top positions up to Czech Republic ranking 30th. For complete medal position, follow updates at: London2012

Olympics Football (Women): Canada - France play for Bronze | Free Streaming - 9 August

Canadians and French women play their Olympics Football event for the third place today at the Ricoh Area, Thursday, 9 August.

In the previous matches, out of nine matches that Canadian women played, they won three matches, had one drawn and five lost.

As for France, of the last eight matches, Fraench women have won six matches, and lost two. This makes them have en edge over the Canadians for today's bronze medal match.

The Canada vs France Bronze Medal match is scheduled for Thursday, 9 August 2012 at 12:00 GMT at Ricoh Area.

If you are one of the fans located at different destination and miss the chance to visit the stadium to watch your favorite team, You can now watch the match live on your laptop or desktop computer, FREE, provided you have an internet connection, from the links given below:

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