By Lucas Camacho
It’s been over a week since the Summer Olympics came to an end in Paris. However, a new clock has started that is exciting people all around Hollywood, Los Angeles, and all of California: the countdown to the 2028 Summer Games to be hosted in Los Angeles. With all the excitement building for the games in four years, it’s worth taking a look back at the last time the games came to the City of Angels.
Los Angeles last hosted the Olympic Games in 1984, a landmark event that not only showcased athletic prowess but also marked a significant turning point in the history of the Olympics. This edition of the Summer Games was notable for its organizational innovations, financial success, and lasting impact on the city and the Olympic movement.
The 1984 Olympics were held from July 28 to August 12 and were officially known as the Games of the XXIII Olympiad. This event came at a time when the Olympics were facing challenges, particularly due to the political climate of the Cold War. The 1980 Moscow Olympics were boycotted by the United States and several other countries in protest of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan. In response, the Soviet Union and its allies boycotted the 1984 Los Angeles Games. Despite this setback, the Games were a resounding success, marked by the participation of 140 nations and over 7,000 athletes.
One of the most remarkable aspects of the 1984 Olympics was its financial success. The organizing committee, led by Peter Ueberroth, implemented a self-financing model that relied heavily on corporate sponsorship and ticket sales. This approach was innovative for its time and set a new standard for future Olympic Games. The event generated a profit of approximately $250 million, a stark contrast to the financial losses experienced in previous Games. This success allowed for the establishment of the Los Angeles Olympic Organizing Committee’s legacy, which contributed to various community projects and sports programs in the region.
The 1984 Olympics also introduced several iconic moments and athletes that have become part of Olympic lore. American gymnast Mary Lou Retton captured the hearts of millions with her extraordinary performances, winning the gold medal in the individual all-around gymnastics event. Track and field star Carl Lewis emerged as a dominant force, winning four gold medals, echoing the legendary Jesse Owens’ achievements in 1936. These athletes not only showcased their talents but also inspired a generation of young athletes to pursue their dreams.
In addition to the athletic achievements, the 1984 Olympics left a lasting legacy on the city of Los Angeles. The Games spurred significant infrastructure improvements, including the renovation of existing sports venues and the development of new facilities that continue to serve the community today. The success of the Games also reinforced Los Angeles’s reputation as a premier destination for international events, paving the way for future opportunities, such as the selection of the city to host the 2028 Summer Olympics.
Overall, the 1984 Los Angeles Olympic Games were a remarkable event that showcased not only athletic excellence but also innovative organizational strategies that transformed the Olympic model. The Games left a lasting impact on both the city of Los Angeles and the Olympic movement, proving that even in the face of adversity, a well-planned event could achieve great success. As Los Angeles prepares to host the Olympics again in 2028, the legacy of 1984 continues to resonate, reminding us of the power of sport to unite and inspire. If you’re not excited about the 2028 games yet, you should read this article about 15 or 20 more times (wink wink).
