Connecticut Athletes Ready to Shine at Paris 2024 Summer Olympics
Over 25 athletes with ties to Connecticut are gearing up to compete in the 2024 summer Olympic games in Paris, with the opening ceremony set to kick off this Friday. Among these athletes are eleven Olympians and Paralympians who were born or raised in the state, as well as fourteen athletes who attended college in Connecticut. These athletes will be showcasing their talents in various sports, setting off a display of skill and talent representing the state.
According to data analyzed by The Connecticut Mirror from the United States Olympic and Paralympic Committee, 1.2% of the 8,211 athletes in the database have connections to Connecticut, with some having competed in past Olympics dating back to the 1920 games. Thirteen of the athletes participating in Paris this summer have previous Olympic or Paralympic experience, while twelve are newcomers to the international sporting event.
Rowing emerges as the most popular sport among Connecticut athletes at the Paris 2024 Olympics, with a total of seven Olympians and two Paralympians from the state partaking in rowing events. Additionally, athletes will be competing in sports such as basketball, field hockey, and sailing in upcoming weeks.
Connecticut athletes have collectively brought home 40 gold medals, 14 silver medals, and 14 bronze medals over the years, with basketball players leading the pack with a total of 21 gold medals. Notable Connecticut athlete Don Schollander boasts seven gold and one silver medal from the 1964 and 1968 Olympic games, while Eddie Eagan stands out as the only American athlete to have medaled in both the summer and winter Olympic games.
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Photo credit ctmirror.org