New York: The City That Almost Hosted the Olympics
New York, New York – The City That Never Sleeps... or Hosted the Summer Olympics
So, you’re wondering when the Olympics were in New York, huh? Well, let's dive into this Olympic-sized mystery together. You might be surprised to find out that the Big Apple has a bit of an Olympic complex.
New York: The Eternal Olympic Bridesmaid
Believe it or not, New York City has been this close to hosting the Summer Olympics a few times. It’s like that really attractive friend who always gets asked to the prom but never actually goes.
- The First Time Was a Charm... Not: New York City was a strong contender for the 1964 Olympics, but Tokyo swooped in and stole the show. Imagine the incredible opening ceremony with the Statue of Liberty as the backdrop! We can dream, can't we?
- Close, But No Cigar: Fast forward to 2012. London was the lucky city chosen to host the Games. New York was a finalist, but alas, it was not meant to be. It's like being the runner-up in a hot dog eating contest. You're close, but someone always manages to stuff in one more wiener.
But What About the Winter Olympics?
Okay, so New York City hasn’t hosted the Summer Olympics, but what about the Winter Games? Well, surprise, surprise! Upstate New York has actually hosted the Winter Olympics twice.
- Lake Placid: The Underdog Champion: A small town called Lake Placid in the Adirondacks has managed to pull off a Winter Olympic miracle twice. First in 1932, and then again in 1980. Who would have thought that a place known for its winter sports would actually host the Winter Olympics? Mind blown.
So, while New York City hasn’t had its Olympic moment yet, the state as a whole has definitely stepped up to the plate. Maybe one day, we'll see the Statue of Liberty torch the Olympic flame. Until then, we can always dream.
How to... Olympic Trivia
- How to impress your friends with Olympic knowledge: Drop some facts about Lake Placid hosting the Winter Olympics twice.
- How to plan a New York City Olympic-themed party: Decorate with blue and gold (Olympic colors), serve up hot dogs (like the Olympic athletes), and play Olympic-themed games.
- How to cope with New York not hosting the Olympics: Console yourself with the fact that you don't have to deal with the traffic and crowds.
- How to support future Olympic bids for New York City: Spread the word about the city's Olympic potential and encourage people to vote for New York if it ever bids again.
- How to watch the Olympics: Grab your favorite snacks, comfy couch, and enjoy the world's greatest athletes!