It’s almost here, the time for us to watch the world come together to compete. The 2024 Summer Olympics are kicking off in Paris this Friday, and will run until Sunday August 11th. While there is much to celebrate about the Olympics, we’ve rounded up 10 fun facts about this year’s olympics that are truly helping pave the way for the future. 

1. In 1900, women only represented 2.2% of Olympic athletes. In 2024, women will represent 50% of Olympic athletes. This is a HUGE step towards equality in women’s sports. 

2. For the first time ever, the Olympics will provide a nursery for the children of athletes competing. Allyson Felix championed this project.  

3. Jasmine Moore will be the first US woman to compete in the Olympics in both the long jump and triple jump events. 

4. USA Gymnastics has invested new resources to the mental health needs of their athletes, including the introduction of 15 new therapy dogs at the Olympic trials. The lead dog, Beacon, was a huge hit and they are now looking for a way to get him to Paris for the 2024 Olympics.  

5. This year will feature the introduction of 3 new sports/events for both men and women: breaking (also known as breakdancing), kiteboarding and kayak cross. Breaking will feature solo athletes going head to head in a dance off. We are all looking forward to seeing some dance battles make their debut! 

6. In 1964, Ireland had only one woman representing them at the Olympics. This year, Ireland will have 66 women representing their country in Paris. 

7. Simone Biles is continuing to make history, but in a new way! She will be the oldest female gymnast to compete at the Olympics in 72 years at the age of 27. It’s a true testament to her longevity in the sport. 

8. Sunday, June 30th’s Olympic Trials were the most watched U.S. Olympic Trials in 8 years with a whopping 8.2 million watching USA Gymnastics trials 

9. All 3 women representing the USA in the 100 meter hurdle in Paris are first-time Olympians, making their debut together. Masai Russell, a member of the team, broke a 24 year record in the Trials with a time of 12.25 seconds, becoming one of 10 women in history to have broken a 12.30 second 100 meter hurdle.

10. For the first time in Olympic history, the women’s marathon will conclude the Paris Olympics. The final event has historically been the men’s marathon, having them close out the competition. This year the script will be flipped, highlighting the women as the close of ceremonies. 

Make sure you tune in to the Olympic Games Paris from July 26th through August 11th!