The Olympic Diaries of a Yorkshireman: Part Two

By Jonathan Wilkinson

As relevant as always, and over two months after the event, here is part two of my Olympic Diary

Day Two: Freebies, underdogs and table tennis

Pendleton vs Meares: The Eternal Question

By Shane Thomas

We've seen some extraordinary things at these Olympics, but in the lead-up, there were few events that I wanted to see more than the culmination of one of the most enthralling sporting rivalries for a generation; Victoria Pendleton versus Anna Meares.

While Pendleton could claim first blood, after taking gold in the keirin, the focus would rightly be on the women's sprint, which took place on the final day of action in the Velodrome.

The Rivalries To Light Up London 2012

By Shane Thomas

While the Olympics is often the setting for breathtaking dominance; Jesse Owens in '36, Mark Spitz in '74, Carl Lewis in '84, Usain Bolt/Michael Phelps in 2008, there's nothing like a great sporting rivalry. Watching one great athlete in action is a treat, but watching them have to compete against an equal makes for compelling sport. Excellence is a special thing. Excellence + Drama = must-see television. For example, Bolt in full-flow is a sight to behold, but knowing that there's a realistic chance he won't win gold adds a delicious frisson to the 100 metres. 

Olympic Stars #8 - Victoria Pendleton

By Shane Thomas

Britain have three gilded queens who are going to the Olympics. Jessica Ennis on the track, Rebecca Adlington in the pool, and Victoria Pendleton in the Velodrome. But unlike Ennis and Adlington, Pendleton brings a magnitude of emotional baggage to go with her crown.

A superb recent BBC documentary exposed what was common knowledge to many sporting observers. Pendleton is one of the most compelling and fascinating athletes of her era - in any sport.