I was skeptical of Ryan Lochte’s success in London because of Michael Phelps.
Sure Lochte provided Phelps with a large amount of competition at the Olympic trials. Their rivalry was talk of the US leading up to the Olympics. Lochte did put up a convincing performance, but I still wasn’t sure that success would follow him to London.
Not only was he successful in London, but the success came in his very first event. No only did he qualify well, but he went out and won the gold in the 400 IM. This was the first showdown between Phelps and Lochte at the Olympics. Phelps didn’t qualify well and didn’t medal for the first time since 2000 at the Sydney Olympics.
In Lochte’s signature style he was photographed with a patriotic grill covering his teeth after he received his medal (pictured above). An Olympic official told Lochte he wasn’t allowed to wear on the grill on the podium. If he did he would not receive the medal. Lochte received his gold and got to the wear the grill – just for photos after the medal ceremony.
Congratulations Ryan on getting America’s first gold medal. In one event you eliminated my skepticism and you became the swimmer I rooted for during the London Olympics.