IOC Unveils New Website

On Monday, the International Olympic Committee (IOC) unveiled a dramatically improved web site, with new interactive games, Flash animation, videos of highlights and other features that make it a one-stop source for information on the Olympic Games.

The enhanced web site, www.olympic.org, is a vital resource for anyone with an interest in the Olympic Games, and an invaluable guide to the upcoming Beijing Games. The site will provide continually updated results from China, as well a behind-the-scenes look at activities in Beijing. Another feature, the “Olympic Express” e-journal, provides information tailored to the pre-teen audience. The Games will run from 8-24 August.

Site users can activate Flash animations explaining Olympic sports, and compete online against contestants from around the world. They can also find training tips and other advice from renowned Olympic athletes.

“Olympic.org is the ultimate resource on the Olympic Games and the Olympic Movement,” IOC President Jacques Rogge said. “The web site is an important part of our effort to keep the Olympic spirit alive for future generations. The Olympic values do not change, but we are always looking for new ways to share them, especially with young people.”

The site offers users a chance to play, learn and explore while experiencing the drama and excitement of the Olympic Games.

Play
- Compete with contestants from around the world in online Olympic events
- Watch dramatic highlights from past Olympic Games
- Activate animations that explain Olympic events
- Create and share photo and video playlists from the Games
- Manipulate 3D views of Olympic torches and medals, and light the torch

Learn
- Track athletic performances over time

- Compare today’s athletes with athletes from the past

- Track the history of Olympic events (BMX is in. The tug-of-war is out).

- Enjoy inspiring profiles, photos and videos of Olympic heroes

- Tour the Olympic Museum online

Explore

- Search the extensive database of sports records and details of past Games

- Discover a section devoted to Olympic medals, posters and other collectibles

- Find out what’s happening behind the scenes in Beijing; hear from volunteers and fans

In related news, ESPN has revamped the Olympic Sports section of their website as well...

You can visit the site by clicking the image above.