The 2016 Olympics are coming up quickly, beginning on August 5th and ending on August 21st. Everyone is already excited to watch the different events and can’t wait to see what medals will be brought home from Team USA. Before the 2016 Olympics, let’s take a look back on the some of the best moments in the U.S. Olympic history.

1.Gabby Douglas­ – Gymnastics (2012 Olympics) 
At only 16 years old, Gabby Douglas was the first african ­american woman to become to the individual all­-around champion. Gabby will be returning to this year’s Olympics so keep an eye out for her.

2. Bruce Jenner­ Track and Field (1976 Olympics)
Before Keeping up with the Kardashians, Bruce Jenner was breaking records as an athlete. Although he placed second behind West Germany in the decathlon, Jenner took home a gold medal with a world record score.

3. Michael Phelps ­Swimming (2008 Olympics)
Over the years Phelps has earned himself a total of 22 medals from three different Olympics. In the 2008 Beijing Olympics Phelps made the record for the most first place finishes at any Olympic games.

4. Kerri Strug­ Gymnastics (1996 Olympics)
Despite injuring her ankle on the vault, Strug still needed to score well to get the gold medal and she did just that and earned a gold medal for the USA.

5.Billy Mills ­Track and Field (1964 Olympics)
Billy Mills was the underdog in the 1964 Olympics but that didn’t stop him from coming out on top. In the 10,000m, he made his personal best time and is still the only American to ever win gold in 10K.

About the Author

My name is Shelbi and I am currently a student at Georgia State University. I am a lover of traveling, music, and Harry Styles.