1984 Los Angeles Olympics
The 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXIII Olympiad, were held in Los Angeles, California,…
The 1984 Los Angeles Olympics, officially known as the Games of the XXIII Olympiad, were held in Los Angeles, California, USA, from July 28 to August 12, 1984. These Games are notable for several reasons, including their financial success, the Soviet-led boycott, and memorable athletic performances.
Financial Success
Commercial Model: The 1984 Los Angeles Olympics were the first Games to be primarily funded by private sponsorships and television rights, setting a new standard for future Olympics. The organizing committee, led by Peter Ueberroth, managed the Games with a focus on profitability, resulting in a surplus of $223 million.
Use of Existing Facilities: To keep costs down, Los Angeles utilized existing sports facilities rather than building new ones. The Memorial Coliseum, originally constructed for the 1932 Olympics, served as the main stadium.
Soviet-Led Boycott
Boycott: In response to the U.S.-led boycott of the 1980 Moscow Olympics, the Soviet Union and 13 other Eastern Bloc countries boycotted the 1984 Games. The absence of these strong competitors had a significant impact on the competition, especially in sports where the Soviet Union typically excelled.
Participants: Despite the boycott, a record 140 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) participated, and the Games featured over 6,800 athletes.
Memorable Athletic Performances
Carl Lewis: American track and field star Carl Lewis matched Jesse Owens’ 1936 feat by winning four gold medals in the 100 meters, 200 meters, long jump, and 4×100 meter relay.
Mary Lou Retton: American gymnast Mary Lou Retton became the first American woman to win the all-around gold medal in gymnastics, captivating audiences with her performances.
Zola Budd and Mary Decker: The women’s 3000 meters race gained attention due to the collision between South African-born Zola Budd, running for Great Britain, and American favorite Mary Decker, resulting in Decker’s fall and elimination from the race.
Innovations and Legacy
Technology and Media: The 1984 Games were notable for the extensive use of technology and media coverage. They were the first Olympics to generate significant revenue from television rights, with ABC paying $225 million for the U.S. broadcast rights.
Security: The Games had a strong focus on security, with measures implemented to prevent any incidents similar to the Munich 1972 attacks. This included the use of advanced technology and cooperation between various law enforcement agencies.
Long-term Impact: The financial success of the 1984 Olympics demonstrated that the Games could be profitable, influencing the approach to organizing future Olympics. The surplus funds were used to establish the LA84 Foundation, which continues to support youth sports programs.
Advertisement:
- Designed by the creative minds of Ripple Junction
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
- Designed in California
- disabled artist-owned small business
- 8.5 oz, Classic fit, Twill-taped neck
- Designed in California
- disabled artist-owned small business
- Lightweight, Classic fit, Double-needle sleeve and bottom hem
- 【Review 1984 Amazing Journey】 Take a look back in 1984, This black gold 40 birthday banner makes a great conversation starter! The Back to 1984 themed...
- 【Large Size】 Happy 40th birthday banner backup decorations. The banner is 180 x 110 cm/ 70.8 x43.3 inches. big enough to decorate your 40th birthday theme...
- 【Wide application】 Back in 1984 background can be applied as a photo background for 40th birthday party, wall decor, curtain, cake table decoration, photo...
- Amazon Prime Video (Video on Demand)
- Tom Wopat (Actor)
- Steve Seidman (Director) - Steve Sabol (Producer)
We get commissions for purchases made through links on this website. As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.
Comments