While most Buckeyes are recognized and remembered for their performances while at The Ohio State University, many go on to perform and compete at the ultimate level and on the biggest stage against the world’s best athletes at the Olympics. The Olympics kicked off earlier today in Beijing, but television coverage starts later tonight with the opening ceremony airing on NBC. (8 o’clock on the 8th day of the 8th month) The Ohio State University seems to be well represented in China with as many as 19 athletes, coaches, and announcers representing 7 different countries and competing in an array of sports from Fencing to Rowing to Swimming.

2008 Ohio State Olympians

Name Country     Sport/Event
Miles Avery (Coach) United States     Gymnastics
Raj Bhavsar United States     Gymnastics
Siobhan Byrne Ireland     Sabre Fencing
Itai Chammah Israel     Swimming
Kristi DeVries Netherlands     Softball
Gulsah Gunenc Turkey     Swimming
Morgan Hamm (Injured) United States     Gymnastics
Paul Hamm (Injured) United States     Gymnastics
Kate Hooven United States     Synchronized Swimming
Becky Kim United States     Synchronized Swimming
Devin Mullings Bahamas     Tennis
Michael Redd United States     Basketball
Jason Rogers United States     Sabre Fencing
Niksa Roki Croatia     Swimming  
Margot Shumway United States     Rowing
Katie Smith United States     Basketball
Hannah Thompson United States     Foil Fencing
Bryan Volpenhein United States     Rowing
Lori Walker (Announcer) NBC Television     Soccer

Michael ReddThe most prominent names on the United States Olympic Team seem to be Michael Redd, Katie Smith, and the Hamm brothers. (both recently withdrew due to injuries) I can’t say I really recognize most of these names or follow their obscure less publicized sports or even their medal chances, but being the best in their sports and competing on the Olympic level is quite an achievement. We wish all the Buckeyes luck as they not only represent OSU, but our country as well. Good luck and bring home the gold.

Anybody have a take on the Buckeye USA Team members and their chances at medaling in each sport?