Local Runner Looks to Defend Gold Medal; Four-Time Sitting Volleyball Medalist Returns for Fifth Games; America’s First Female Taekwondo Athlete Ready to Make History.

Local Runner Looks to Defend Gold Medal; Four-Time Sitting Volleyball Medalist Returns for Fifth Games; America’s First Female Taekwondo Athlete Ready to Make History.
When U.S. runner Sydney McLaughlin crossed the finish line to win the gold in the 400-meter hurdles on Aug. 3 in Tokyo, she had the cheers of fans supporting her from the New Jersey Catholic high school where she graduated four years ago.
When Simone Biles, described as the world’s greatest gymnast, announced July 27 she would not be competing in a team event with the U.S. women’s Olympics gymnastics team and the next day withdrew from the all-around final, many people were shocked, but many supported her decision to prioritize her mental health.
As thousands of athletes gathered for the Summer Olympic Games in Tokyo, Pope Francis gave them his blessing and extended it to those organizing and supporting the events.
The Olympics are a “once in a lifetime experience” for Bushwick native Juan Carlos “J.C.” Obregón Jr., who is soaking in every minute of his journey to Japan.
Despite holding the world record in the high jump, Javier Sotomayor kept his feet on the ground and didn’t try to clear the waist-high wooden barricade between him and Pope Francis.
Matt Gilroy, a 33-year-old defenseman, recently suited up as an assistant captain for Team U.S.A.’s men’s ice hockey team at the 2018 Winter Olympics in Pyeongchang, South Korea. This crowning achievement of his hockey career was even more special, since he wore his brother’s No. 97 on his back.
For the first time, the International Olympic Committee has invited a Vatican delegation not only to take part in the opening ceremony of the Winter Games, but also to attend its general meeting as an official observer.
Phyllis Francis, a 2010 graduate of the now-closed Catherine McAuley H.S., East Flatbush, recently captured a gold medal in the women’s 4×400-meter relay at the 2016 Rio de Janeiro Summer Olympic Games.
Catholics from the U.S. had a strong showing at the 2016 Olympics in Rio de Janeiro.