Let's face it: Michael Phelps owned this year's Olympics. Completely shattering seven world records en route to winning an unreal eight gold medals, the champion swimmer captured America's heart and became the triumphant U.S. representative at Beijing. But with Phelps back in the States posing for Corn Flakes boxes and Sports Illustrated covers, many Americans have lost the incentive to watch the remainder of the games.
Listed below are some of the top reasons to keep tuning in.
1. The "Redeem Team"
After an embarrassing Bronze medal finish in the Athens Olympics, the U.S. Men's Basketball team received a lot of criticism for its lackluster and carefree performance. Regarded as the "divas" of the 2004 games, the squad seemed more interested in taking a vacation than seriously competing.
This year is completely different. Led by an assortment of NBA powerhouses including Hornets star Chris Paul, the U.S. Olympic Team is living up to the hype. Currently 6-0 in competition, the Redeem Team has demolished all of its opponents so far and looks to capture the Gold, as well as the respect lost in Athens.
2. Track and Field
Track and Field events are notoriously exciting to watch. World record race times are constantly tested, and it seems as though each runner has a touching personal story of achievement. It's hard not to root for everyone.
Spectators at this year's Olympics have already witnessed Jamaica's Usain "Lightning" Bolt capture two gold medals in 100 and 200 meter races, both with world-record times. They have seen Cuban world-record holder Dayron Robles triumph in the 110m hurdles and Jamaica's Veronica Campbell-Brown defend her Women's 200m title.
With just a few days left in Athletics events, viewers still have the opportunity to watch two of the Games' most exciting races: the Men's and Women's 4x400m relay finals on Aug. 23.
3. The Paralympic Games
Spanning from Sept. 6-17, the Paralympics features some of the most inspiring stories of athletes who know no physical limitations. Featuring amazingly intense sports including Wheelchair Fencing and Rugby, Judo and Volleyball sitting, the Paralympic Games are sure to keep the torch of the Beijing Olympics burning bright.
4. World Records
Beijing has definitely been a hotbed for world and Olympic record-breaking. In this year's Olympics, 36 world records have been shattered so far. In addition, 74 Olympic records have been broken. As the games draw to a close, viewers should be on the lookout for more record-breaking statistics.
5. Upsets
The Olympics are known for fostering stories of underdogs rising to the occasion and defeating the heavy favorite in the best event of their lives. The Beijing Olympics is of no exception. This year's eye-opener came from the Japanese Softball team, which stunned the previously undefeated United States in the 3-1 gold medal game.
2008 Woodie Awards
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