About the Winter Olympics
The Winter Olympic Games is a major international multi-sport event held once every four years for sports practiced on snow and ice. The first Winter Olympics was held in Chamonix, France in 1924, and the Games have grown to become one of the most prestigious sporting events in the world, featuring athletes from over 90 nations competing in 15 different sports.
Fascinating Facts
First Winter Olympics
The first Winter Olympics were held in Chamonix, France in 1924, featuring just 16 events and 258 athletes from 16 nations. Norway dominated with 17 medals total!
Snowboarding's Late Entry
Snowboarding didn't become an Olympic sport until 1998 in Nagano, Japan. Now it's one of the most popular and exciting events, featuring halfpipe, slopestyle, and cross competitions.
Most Decorated Athlete
Norwegian cross-country skier Marit Bjørgen holds the record for most Winter Olympic medals with 15 total (8 gold, 4 silver, 3 bronze) across five Olympic Games.
Figure Skating Legend
Sonja Henie of Norway won three consecutive Olympic gold medals (1928, 1932, 1936) in figure skating and revolutionized the sport with her balletic style and short skirts.
Curling's Ancient Roots
Curling dates back to 16th century Scotland and was first included in the Olympics in 1924. It was then dropped and didn't return as an official medal sport until 1998!
Miracle on Ice
The 1980 "Miracle on Ice" saw the USA men's hockey team, made up of amateur and collegiate players, defeat the heavily favored Soviet Union 4-3 and go on to win gold.
Biathlon's Military Origins
Biathlon combines cross-country skiing and rifle shooting. It originated as a military training exercise in Norway and became an Olympic sport for men in 1960 and women in 1992.
Warmest Winter Olympics
The 2014 Sochi Winter Olympics in Russia were the warmest on record, with temperatures reaching 16°C (61°F). Snow had to be stockpiled from the previous year!
Eddie the Eagle
Michael "Eddie the Eagle" Edwards became famous at the 1988 Calgary Olympics as the first British ski jumper to compete since 1929, despite finishing last. His determination won hearts worldwide!