international sport events

International Sport Events

Some of the most recognised sporting events in the world.
1. Summer Olympics
The best international sporting event, hands down. Besides the incredible opening ceremonies that took place during the 2008 Beijing Olympics, the wide variety of events and star power alone makes it must see TV.This past Olympics we had Michael Phelps, Usain Bolt, and the Redeem Team among others. It seems that each Olympics there are better and more skilled athletes setting record after record.There is so much raw emotion that takes place in each match, game and point that you cannot help but become invested in every single thing that happens.
2. Winter Olympics
The Winter Olympics might take a backseat to the Summer Olympics from time to time, but it is still one of the best international sports competitions in the world.It produces the best hockey tournament known to man, curling, which is everyone favorite, and speed skating, which nobody gives due credit.What the winter Olympics gives up in flash, it makes up in speed. People become exposed to sports that they have never played nor seen before, making for an interesting watching experience.
3. Tour De France
In 1903, a few good men had the idea to go on a little bike ride around France. The 2200 mile, three week race pits the best cyclists from around the world in a test of endurance and teamwork. The course wraps around a majority of France, and ends in Paris.Americans know about the race through the accolades of Lance Armstrong, who won the race seven times.The New York Times once printed that the Tour de France is arguably the most physiologically demanding of athletic events. The effort was compared to running a marathon several days a week for nearly three weeks. while the total elevation of the climbs was compared to climbing three Everests.
4. Wimbledon
Certainly the classiest tennis tournament there is, The Championships at Wimbledon has taken place at the All England Club since 1877. This historic major takes place in late June, early July and has produced some of the greatest tennis matches ever played.While some resonate in our minds more clearly (Federer versus Nadal), you do not have to look back too far to find a match that kept you on the edge of your seat.The green grass courts and the concession stands that sell strawberries instead of hot dogs, make this a unique event that everyone should attend at least once in their lives.
5. Running of the Bulls
Take it from someone who has run with bulls before.It is not a smart idea. While I was doing it, I did not for a second think that it was a bad idea. In retrospect, running alongside angry bulls in a confined area was one of the coolest experiences in my life, but also one of the dumbest.I cannot knock tradition, though, and while a lot of people will agree that it does not make much sense, the Spaniards will continue with this encierro as long as people are willing to run.
6. The French Open
The French Open takes place in Paris, France at the Stade Roland Garros. One of the four tennis majors, the French Open provides some of the most unique tennis there is. For some, playing on clay might as well be like playing on gravel some players simply hate it.Others, like Rafael Nadal, feed off of the home court advantage. It is considered the most physically demanding tennis tournament in the world and is also the most watched.I wonder if Nadal can get the clay stains out when he falls to the ground after winning.
7. UEFA Champions League
There is no disputing that the best footballers in the world pay in Europe. Founded in 1955, the UEFA Champions League title is arguably the most prestigious prize outside of the World Cup.Because of the high level of competition, there has been a great deal of parity, though Spanish and Italian teams have had the most success.
8. British Open
This historic golf tournament is traditionally played in England or Scotland, and at times presents players with the most difficult elements a golfer can encounter.It is an age old course in which golfers who win become part of one of the hollowed traditions in all of sports.
9. The Masters
Augusta National Golf Club hosts the most premier golf tournament in the world. The world best ascend upon Augusta, Georgia in order to partake in one of the four major tournaments, and win the most prestigious article of clothing in sports.Casual golfers want to win a few tournaments and ride off into the sunset. The greatest in the world know that the Masters is where legends are born. Golf immortality can be reached once the green jacket is in a golfer possession.
10. Monaco Grand Prix
The Monaco Grand Prix, first held in 1929, is one of the most prestigious races in the world. Formula One drivers navigate through the narrow course carefully yet daringly, trying to avoid hitting the walls on this high speed, high risk track.Rain or shine, this race goes on, and only the most skilled drivers in the world can handle this beast.