From July 26 to August 11, the Olympics took the internet by storm with their opening performances and memorable athletic showings.

However, with the many controversies during and following this year’s event, contrasting opinions are circulating online as to whether the Olympics were good or not and whether they were worth watching. All things aside, let’s recap this year’s Olympics, students’ opinions, and the general idea of the athletic festival.

What are the Olympics?

The Britannica defines the Olympics as an “athletic festival that originated in ancient Greece.” Since then, the event has become an international event hosted in different countries every four years including over 32 unique sports to view during the 19 days when it is held.

The Olympics of 2024, held in Paris, France from Friday, July 26, 2024 through Sunday, August 11, 2024, featured performances from many infamous artists such as Beyoncé and Celine Dion, as well as notable athletes, such as Lebron James and Coco Gauff, who were flag-bearers during the opening ceremony for the U.S. Team.

The Olympics also popularized athletes such as Simone Biles, Noah Lyles, Sunisa Lee, Steph Curry, and many more.

Student Opinions

“The gun-shooting sport was really cool, and basketball,” said 12th grader Paul when asked about his thoughts on the event. He also mentions how the opening ceremony’s performance, which some critiqued as mocking Leonardo Da Vinci’s The Last Supper bothered him.

The overall student opinion of the event was surprisingly dull. Many claimed to have not watched much of the Olympics, while others claimed to not have watched entirely at all.

In general, the archery, basketball, and track events were considered the most interesting to watch among the Colts. Yet, when asked to name notable athletes in each sport who appeared during the show, many students could not name even one.

Final Thoughts

Ultimately, then, how was the Olympics of 2024? Was the event viewed by 30 million around the world truly worth watching? Or do the students at CSHS need to tune into worldwide events?

All in all, it seems to be up to each person if they want to tune into the next Olympics, whether for the athletes or the opening performances. Even if you tune in just to see your favorites. In the words of Paul, “You know, Simone Biles did her thing.”