An international summer of sports continues this month with the long-awaited return of the Olympic Games. Paris, France, took the baton from Tokyo, but the previous games fell victim to the coronavirus pandemic, which resulted in lockdowns. Tokyo 2020 was postponed for 12 months due to restrictions and eventually went ahead in the summer of 2021 with only a limited number of spectators in attendance. Critics feared the games would struggle to bounce back following the crippling effects of COVID-19, but Paris is here to show the Olympics are stronger than ever.
France is the host nation, and traders working at the top Georgia sports betting apps expect the locals to enjoy a decent medal haul. Will Les Bleus collect more medals than any other nation at the games? It's certainly possible, but they'll face a tough challenge from the likes of Team USA, China, and Great Britain. You can predict the results of individual events in Paris or look ahead and select the country you believe will finish on the top step, gathering more gold, silver, and bronze than any other in attendance.
The Olympic Games is an opportunity to see some of the most famous athletes at their best in popular events, including track and field, soccer, and tennis. It also allows sports fans to catch a glimpse of the best of the emerging talent in popular sports. Champions in Paris could go on to rule their chosen sport at a professional level in the near future. Sugar Ray Leonard is just one boxer who used his success at the Olympic Games to catapult themselves to glory as a prize fighter.
Stars of the past
The Olympic Games take over from the Euro 2024 championships in Germany. The best soccer-playing nations arrived eager to win the prize, with the likes of Germany and England the early favorites. But it was Spain that enjoyed glory, sweeping past England in a tense final. The Three Lions have now lost the last two finals after going down to Italy at Euro 2020 on penalties.
It has been a remarkable year for sport, with the Olympics and Euro 2024 supported by the Super Bowl, Wimbledon, and other favorites. The summer festival of sport got our content team thinking of the best sportspeople to emerge from Boise over the years. The area has given the world some supremely talented athletes, although some are better remembered than others. As we await the arrival of the next big thing from Boise, we reflect on the champions of the past.
Keep reading as we list the most memorable names from Boise who made an impact on global sports while clearing the way for the next generation to chase glory.
Kellen Moore
Kellen Moore's name is synonymous with Boise State football. Born in Prosser, Washington, Moore became a legendary figure in Boise during his college career from 2008 to 2011. Under his leadership, the Boise State Broncos achieved an unprecedented level of success, including a 50-3 record, which made him the winningest quarterback in NCAA Division I FBS history at the time.
Moore's career at Boise State was marked by significant milestones, including leading the team to multiple conference championships and memorable victories, such as the 2010 Fiesta Bowl win over TCU. He was known for his football I.Q., precision passing, and calm demeanor under pressure. Moore finished his college career with 142 touchdown passes and over 14,000 passing yards, earning him a spot as a Heisman Trophy finalist and multiple All-American honors.
After his college career, Moore played in the NFL for the Detroit Lions and the Dallas Cowboys. Following his playing career, Moore transitioned into coaching and quickly made a name for himself.
Doug Martin
Doug Martin, nicknamed the "Muscle Hamster," played college football at Boise State University before making a significant impact in the NFL. Born in Oakland, California, Martin moved to Stockton, California, but his football journey took a defining turn when he joined the Boise State Broncos.
At Boise State, Martin was a standout running back known for his explosive speed, agility, and strength. His college career peaked in the 2011 season when he led the Broncos to a victory in the MAACO Bowl Las Vegas, earning MVP honors. Martin's performance at Boise State garnered attention from NFL scouts, leading to his selection by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in the first round of the 2012 NFL Draft.
Martin's rookie season in the NFL was spectacular. He rushed for 1,454 yards and scored 11 touchdowns, earning him a Pro Bowl selection and a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team. Over his career, Martin had multiple seasons with over 1,000 rushing yards and was selected to the Pro Bowl twice. His dedication to the game and his relentless playing style made him a fan favorite in Tampa Bay.
Kristin Armstrong
Kristin Armstrong is one of the most decorated female cyclists in U.S. history and has strong ties to Boise, Idaho. Born in Memphis, Tennessee, Armstrong moved to Boise, where she became a prominent figure in the local and national cycling communities.
Armstrong's cycling career is remarkable for her achievements in the women's individual time trial, where she won three Olympic gold medals in 2008, 2012, and 2016. This feat made her the first female cyclist to win the same event in three consecutive Olympic Games. Armstrong's dominance in time trials also extended to the UCI Road World Championships, where she won two gold medals.
In addition to her Olympic success, Armstrong has won numerous national championships and World Cup victories. Her dedication to the sport and rigorous training regimen set her apart as one of the best in her field. Beyond her athletic achievements, Armstrong has been an advocate for healthy living and active lifestyles, contributing to the Boise community through various initiatives and events.
Troy Merritt
Troy Merritt, a professional golfer with a strong connection to Boise, has made significant strides on the PGA Tour. Born in Osage, Iowa, Merritt attended Boise State University, where he played college golf and honed his skills.
Merritt turned professional in 2008 and quickly made a name for himself on the PGA Tour. His first PGA Tour victory came at the 2015 Quicken Loans National, where he set a tournament record with a score of 266 (-18). This victory was a milestone in his career, showcasing his talent and determination. Merritt followed this up with another win at the 2018 Barbasol Championship.