May 4th, 2008 · You've probably never heard of Shawn Johnson, especially if you live outside of Iowa. But the 16-year-old gymnast from West Des Moines is the reigning World All-Around champion and is considered one of the favorites to win gold at the Summer Olympics in Beijing.
Apr 1st, 2008 · Superdelegates shouldn't decide the Democratic presidential nomination if it means overturning "the votes of the people," House Speaker Nancy Pelosi says. Separately, she says a boycott of the opening ceremonies of the Summer Olympics should be considered in protest of China's crackdown on Tibet.
Mar 6th, 2008 · China is now the largest emitter of greenhouse gases. Michele Norris, who is in Beijing, talks to Melissa Block about what the country is doing to combat climate change. Deborah Seligsohn of the World Resources Institute discusses the measures China is taking to clean up the air before the Summer Olympics.
May 12th, 2006 · Olympic champion Justin Gatlin has set a new top world record for the 100-meter sprint, with a time of 9.76 seconds. Running at the Qatar Grand Prix in Doha, the American Gatlin broke Jamaican Asafa Powell's mark of 9.77, which he set at the Summer Olympics in Greece.
Aug 14th, 2004 · David Wallachinsky, author of The Complete Book of the Summer Olympics, serves up facts and figures about past Olympic Games. NPR's Jennifer Ludden plays along.
Jul 28th, 2004 · The Summer Olympics in Greece begin in just over two weeks, and despite dire predictions to the contrary, it appears all the sports facilities will be ready. But officials worry the bad publicity and security fears will keep tourists away and ticket sales down. Hear NPR's Sylvia Poggioli.
Jul 22nd, 2004 · With the start of the Summer Olympics in Athens less than a month away, security details are still being worked out and sports facilities are yet to be completed. Security costs alone are approaching $1.5 billion, as the price of hosting the Games escalates for Greece. Hear NPR's Renee Montagne and NPR's Sylvia Poggioli.
Jul 21st, 2004 · Now that the U.S. track and field trials are over, American athletes are getting ready for the Summer Olympics in Athens. But Commentator Frank Deford says interest in the competition on the field is being overshadowed by continuing publicity about drug use.