China

Qingdao, China - Over the last two weeks, the 2008 Beijing Paralympic games have been under way, and in the waters of Qingdao, the Paralympic sailors took to their boats and sailed like the world-class athletes they are.  Like any other Olympian, these competitors have trained and sacrificed and made their way to this competition through blood, sweat, sheer will and the help of family, friends and supporters.  Though they may face a few more challenges than others, their ability to overcome them is both the mark of a true champion, and to these folks, just part of the game.

Qingdao, China - The 2008 Olympic sailing is now behind us. The medals have been awarded, the fireworks have been fired, the sails have been furled, and the party's over. Qingdao will be hosting the 2008 Paralympic Sailing shortly, but love 'em or hate 'em, the 2008 Olympics are done. In what has been called the worst Olympic sailing venue ever, the races were run - successfully for the most part - and despite all of the difficulties with the conditions and the host country, the Olympic sailing was just that: successful if not ideal.

Qingdao, China - The Olympic Gold was largely up for grabs in the medal race for the Star Class, and that fact showed through in the racing. With a decent breeze and big seas, it was time for the heavyweights to show off a bit, and show off they did. Great Britain, Brazil and Sweden all had a shot at the top of the podium, and it was through persistence and unrelenting drive that Britain's Iain Percy and Andrew Simpson took the Gold.

Qingdao, China - Is it fitting that the last Olympic race the Tornado Class may ever see was also the fastest, most exciting sailing of the 2008 Olympics? Yes it is. After watching the various one-design sailboats bob around in almost no wind for most of the Beijing Olympics, the Tornado Class got one last chance to show the spectators why this became an Olympic class in the first place - speed, skill and action. With race speeds reaching 18 knots, it became clear to everyone why this boat is the thoroughbred of the Olympic fleet, and now it is gone.

Qingdao, China - Most if not all of the US sailing team rushed out to the breakwater at the 2008 Olympic sailing venue in Qingdao today, to see their teammate Anna Tunnicliffe of Plantation, Florida compete in the Laser Radials for a gold medal. The Olympic crowds were treated to an incredible show as Tunnicliffe first looked out of the running for the medal, then in a dramatic comeback, fought to claim the 2008 Laser Radial (Women's One Person Dinghy) Gold Medal for the USA.