They've put in innumerable hours of sweat and tears to get where they are today. They are among the best of the best and are ready to prove their mettle. 529 athletes from 45 states will represent the United States at the 2012 Olympic Games in London.
They are competing in events as diverse as athletics, fencing, rowing, soccer and basketball. For everyone, from swimmer Katie Ledecky, 15, to 54-year-old equestrian jumper Karen O’Connor, these Games represent the culmination of all the hard work and dedication they've put in to win the coveted medal.
It's time to meet the Olympians from Washington - and one from Kirkland!
Here are a few quick facts about your Olympians:
Sex: Female
Competing in Cycling
Event/position/class: Team Pursuit
Age: 34
From: Kirkland
Adrienne Martelli
Sex: Female
Competing in Rowing
Event/position/class: Quadruple Sculls
Age: 24
From: University Place
Hope Solo
Sex: Female
Competing in Soccer
Event/position/class: Goalkeeper
Age : 30
From : Richland
Courtney Thompson
Sex: Female
Competing in Volleyball
Event/position/class: Setter
Age: 27
From: Kent
There are also numerous athletes with at least some ties to the Evergreen State, according to NBC affiliate King 5. Others, such as Renton High Grad Aretha Thurmond, are also getting ready to compete.
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Looking for a way to celebrate the Olympics locally? You can find local events for Olympic Fun Day on July 28 on the Let’s Move website, which has a page about how to set up your own local Olympics.
Also check out our Directory and Events Calendar for listings of places where you can learn and participate in Olympic sports ranging from basketball to karate, gymnastics, swimming and more.
