Yugoslavia year 2004 stamps – Athens Olympic Games

Yugoslavia year 2004 stamps – Athens Olympic Games

The Athens Olympic Games, officially known as the Games of the XXVIII Olympiad, were held in Athens, Greece, from August 13 to August 29, 2004. These Olympic Games marked the return of the Olympics to Greece, the birthplace of the ancient Olympic Games, after a 108-year hiatus.

The Athens Olympics featured a total of 28 sports, with 301 events held across 37 venues. Over 10,500 athletes from 201 National Olympic Committees participated, making it one of the largest and most diverse Olympic Games in history up to that point. The opening ceremony, held at the Panathenaic Stadium, showcased Greece’s rich history and culture, while the closing ceremony celebrated the spirit of the Games and featured performances by Greek artists.

Some notable highlights of the Athens Olympics include:

1. Michael Phelps: The American swimmer won a total of six gold medals and two bronze medals, making him one of the most successful athletes of the Games.
2. Usain Bolt: The Jamaican sprinter made his Olympic debut in Athens, competing in the 200 meters but didn’t win a medal. However, he would go on to become one of the most iconic athletes in Olympic history in later Games.
3. Fani Halkia: The Greek athlete won gold in the women’s 400 meters hurdles, becoming one of the hometown heroes of the Games.
4. Women’s Marathon: The women’s marathon made its Olympic debut in Athens, with Mizuki Noguchi of Japan winning the gold medal.
5. Athens Medal Tally: The United States topped the medal table with 36 gold medals, followed by China with 32 gold medals and Russia with 27 gold medals.

Overall, the Athens Olympic Games were considered a success, with Greece showcasing its ability to host a modern Olympic Games and celebrating the spirit of international competition in the birthplace of the ancient Olympics.