The Olympics

Victoria Pendleton, David Weir and the original Blade Runner - Marlon Shirley Sep 17, 2012

A glorious summer of sport has finally drawn to a close, leaving much of the country feeling inspired. BBC 5 Live caught up with David Weir at the Athletes' Parade to speak about his extraordinary quadruple gold medal haul. Mo Farah and his former P.E. teacher speak about his initial steps into running. Northern Irish sprinters Jason Smyth and Michael McKillop tell BBC Ulster about their success at the Paralympics. Victoria Pendleton has had incredible success but she spoke about her difficulties dealing with the intense pressure of elite sport in a very frank interview with Victoria Derbyshire. US athlete Marlon Shirley had an exceptionally hard childhood; raised in an orphanage after being abandoned by his prostitute mother, he told BBC World Service how he overcame this to become the first Paralympian to break the 11 second mark in the 100 metres. Nearly everyone found themselves getting inspired by the London 2012 Games, including Sandi Toksvig on Radio 4's, The News Quiz.

David Smith, the Athletes’ Parade and Paralympic jokes Sep 11, 2012

As the London 2012 Games drew to a close, thousands lined the streets of London to cheer on the Athletes' Parade, including a very excited BBC reporter - Stephen Chittenden. Also present were triathlon superstars, the Brownlee Brothers, who told 5 Live about the impact of public support. David Smith revealed to Sportsweek how rowing saved his life. On Radio 2, Linda Roberts told Chris Evans how she couldn’t wish for any more for her son, gold medallist Jonnie Peacock. Despite topping the Olympic Games league table with 46 gold medals, United States slipped to sixth place in the Paralympics; Ruth Alexander investigated the issue for BBC World Service’s “More or Less”. What jokes can you make about the Paralympics? Robin Lustig debated where the line was drawn with Channel 4 presenter Alex Brooker and comedian Adams Hills for The World Tonight. Finally, 5 Live’s Shelagh Fogarty hears from some of the extraordinary Games Makers about their experiences at the London Games.

Oscar Pistorius’ outburst, Aled Davies and Philip Craven Sep 04, 2012

Ellie Simmonds stormed to victory after winning two titles and setting two world records. Among her supporters was Steve Simmons, her father who told BBC WM that her victories were not guaranteed. A delighted Aled Davies speaks to Chris Evans the morning after taking gold in the discus. Oscar Pistorius has been the poster boy for London 2012 but after losing the 200m final, he suggested that Brazilian Alan Oliveira had benefited from using longer blades. IPC Medical Director Peter Van de Vliet refuted these assertions on Radio 4. Pistorius issued an apology for the timing of his comments but on the Jeremy Vine Show, the debate raged as to whether his comments were a legitimate complaint or simply sour grapes. Silver medallist Aileen McGlynn speaks about her first forays into cycling in “The Paralympians”. IPC President Philip Craven reveals his delight in the media coverage of this year’s Paralympics. Finally, sailors Niki Birrell and Alexandra Rickham discuss their medal hopes.

John Harris, Stefanie Reid and “boosting” at the Paralympics Aug 28, 2012

The London Paralympic Games are looking set to be the greatest in the history of the movement but it was a very different story at the first Paralympic Games in Rome in 1960, as Britain's first-ever gold medal winner Margaret Maughan told Peter White in "No Triumph, No Tragedy". In the pursuit of Paralympic gold, some athletes with spinal injuries have resorted to using an illegal technique called “boosting” during which they cause themselves pain, creating an adrenalin rush to enhance performance. BBC World Service looked at this secretive issue in "Inside the Paralympics". Sprinter and long jumper Stefanie Reid justifies switching her allegiance from Canada to Great Britain. Sainsbury Chief Executive Justin King explains why the Paralympics are big business for sponsors. Finally BBC Wales looks at the career of the legendary athlete John Harris who competed in five Paralympic Games and won a gold medal for discus in 1984.

The Paralympians touch down...and the secrets of the running blades. Aug 24, 2012

Over 2,000 athletes landed in the UK this week for the Paralympic Games including the Canadian wheelchair rugby player David Willsie and New Zealand sailor Jan Apel. In BBC Radio 1's "Against All Odds", Vernon Kay charts the journeys of soldiers injured in Afghanistan and Iraq who are now going for Gold at the Paralympics, including Sam Bowen who had difficulties coping with post-traumatic stress and Major Martin Colclough who coaches ex-Forces Paralympians. BBC World Service "Inside the Paralympics" investigates the science behind carbon fibre running blades made famous by Oscar Pistorius. As a record number of Welsh athletes get ready to compete at the Games, BBC Wales speaks to table tennis players Sara Head and Rob Davis. Wheelchair tennis player Lucy Shuker looks forward to the Paralympics. Finally this week, as the flames of the Paralympic torch were lit on top of the UK's four highest mountains, BBC Ulster's Mark Simpson tries to justify his role in the base camp making tea!

The Father of the Paralympics, Greg Rutherford and Usain Bolt jealousy. Aug 21, 2012

A week before the biggest Paralympic Games ever, Eva Loeffler speaks to Radio 4 about her father Dr Ludwig Guttmann, a German Jewish refugee who started the Paralympic movement. Sprinter Libby Clegg on performing in front of a home crowd and running with a guide during the Games. Are the complex classification categories for disabilities holding the Paralympics back? Para-dressage rider Nicola Naylor and Baroness Tanni Gray-Thompson discuss their frustrations, and the use of blindfolds during competitions. BBC World Service’s “Inside the Paralympics” investigates the inclusion of athletes with intellectual disabilities for the first time since a Spanish team cheated at the Sydney Games. As we gear up for the Paralympics, what’s next for the Olympians? Long jump gold medallist Greg Rutherford reveals how he is dealing with his new hectic life and his plans for Rio 2016. Comedian Rhod Gilbert takes exception to Usain Bolt’s declaration that he is “a living legend".

Olympic Homecomings, Gemma Gibbons, and David Roberts Aug 17, 2012

Judo Olympians, silver medallist Gemma Gibbons and her partner Euan Burton, tell Victoria Derbyshire about the public reaction to their victory and losses at the Games. As part of the BBC Scotland series “The Paralympians”, judoka Samuel Ingram speaks about taking bronze in Beijing and competing with his brother at the London Games. Swimmer David Roberts holds 11 Paralympic gold medals, just one less than Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson but he is unlikely to break that record after failing to qualify for the Paralympics. He reveals his disappointment and his thoughts on swimming for Sweden instead. Richard Dobell’s extensive volleyball career eventually took its toll, he speaks about switching to Sitting Volleyball after damaging his knee. As crowds in Northern Ireland turned out to welcome home Team GB rowers and brothers - Richard and Peter Chambers, and Alan Campbell, BBC Ulster caught up with three medallists and their proud supporters.

The Olympic Aftermath : Katherine Grainger, Oscar Pistorius and Lee Pearson Aug 15, 2012

As London 2012 draws to a close, has the Olympic experience changed the United Kingdom? Kaiser Chiefs’ Ricky Wilson tells Richard Bacon about the last minute preparations for the Closing Ceremony. Olympians Katherine Grainger, Kat Copeland and Kate Walsh relive their first 24 hours after the Games. South African Oscar Pistorius may have broken new ground just by competing in the Olympics Games but he returns to defend his 100m, 200m and 400m titles at the Paralympic Games. He reveals what it is like to be the face of the Paralympic movement. Can Lee Pearson break Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson record of 11 gold medals when he rides for the British Para-Dressage team? Irish boxer Katie Taylor on the historic nature of these Games for female athletes and has this been the Women’s Games? Gold medallist Anna Watkins joins Woman’s Hour to discuss. Finally, if you are struggling post-Olympics, Radio 4’s The Now Show is on hand to help the nation come to terms with its grief.

Nicola Adams, the Brownlee brothers and making sense of the medal table. Aug 10, 2012

Nicola Adams describes the sacrifices she made to make history and win the first Olympic gold medal in women’s boxing. Alistair and Jonny Brownlee talk about their gruelling training schedule and the trials of living together. Colin Paterson from Radio 5 Live visits the Bingley Harriers triathlon club, where the Brownlee brothers have been training, to meet some of their biggest fans. Radio 4’s More or Less team examine the hidden statistics in the medal table. Shanaze Reade talks about her hopes for a BMX gold in London and importance of the home advantage. And Kirsty Lang asks Mike Kelt, CEO of special effects company Artem, what is in store for the closing ceremony.

Mo Farah, Andy Murray and Jessica Ennis Aug 07, 2012

Team GB’s Mo Farah, gold medallist in the 10,000m, receives a surprise phone call from his school PE teacher on Victoria Derbyshire’s 5 Live show and we hear from Andy Murray prior to the Olympics, who told a live audience how he was hoping to put his poor performance in Beijing behind him. Steve Punt and Hugh Dennis take an alternative look at women’s boxing on Radio 4’s The Now Show and 100m champion Usain Bolt’s fellow Jamaican and on the track rival Yohan Blake gives an insight into the dynamics between the two men off the track. Jennie Price, Chief Executive of Sport England discusses Olympic morals with Melanie Phillips and Michael Buerk for BBC Radio 4’s Moral Maze and BBC Ulster’s Stephen Nolan reflects on a triumphant weekend for Team GB with Kriss Akabusi, Joel Taggart and Stephen Martin. Finally, Golden girl Jessica Ennis who claimed gold in the Olympic heptathlon catches up with Chris Moyles and Comedy Dave on the Radio One Breakfast Show.

Sir Chris Hoy, Bradley Wiggins and Topping the Medal Table Aug 03, 2012

Rowing pair Heather Stanning and Helen Glover end Great Britain’s five-day wait for Olympic gold while BBC Radio 2’s Simon Mayo gets carried away cheering on Team GB’s cycling sprint team. Sir Chris Hoy speaks about the unique design of the London Velodrome where he achieved his fifth Olympic gold medal. Seven-time Olympic medallist Bradley Wiggins speaks to Colin Murray about coping with the pressures of winning. After Chinese swimming star Ye Shiwen’s world record win at women's 400m individual medley, Radio 4's statistics programme “More or Less” asks if it really that extraordinary? World Service’s “The World Tonight” investigates the rivalry between China and USA at the London Olympic Games. Finally as millions tune in to watch the fastest 100 metres race in history, “The Now Show” speaks to the man who will fire the starting pistol.

Opening Ceremony, Rebecca Adlington and Olympic sex tests. Aug 01, 2012

Comedians Rhod Gilbert and Lloyd Langford reflect on the Opening Ceremony of the London Games while singer Alex Trimble speaks about performing during the lighting of the cauldron. Ahead of Rebecca Adlingtonâ€™s attempt to defend her Olympic 800m freestyle title, she reveals her thoughts on setting world record in Beijing and BBC Radio Nottingham speak to her fans in Mansfield. South African Caster Semenya returns to the Olympics after having her gender questioned at the World Athletic Championships in Berlin three years ago, BBC Radio 4's "Woman's Hour" investigates if the IOC's policy on testing for female hyperandrogenism is fair? In "Learning to Lose - An Olympic Confessional", slam poet Marshall Soulful Jones brings together the confessions of North American Olympic competitors who discuss the shame and agony of their losses. Finally as menâ€™s gymnastics team celebrate Britainâ€™s first Olympic team medal in over a century, BBC WM speaks to Kristian Thomas' supporters.

Michael Johnson, Shanaze Reade and David Quantick and...the Games begin! Jul 27, 2012

Can David Rudisha dominate the 800 metres and finally achieve Olympic gold after missing out on Beijing through injury. Richard Bacon is joined by Olympian Michael Johnson and guests to discuss what may become the most competitive Olympic 100 meters race ever if Usain Bolt, Yohan Blake and Tyson Gay all run. As the rift between the BOA and triple jumper Phillips Idowu grows, UK Athletics head coach Charles van Commenee reveals why he will not be apologising. In a final London Calling, Eleanor Oldroyd speaks to rowing legends Martin Cross, Fred Scarlett and Kieran West about Greg Searle’s Olympic comeback. Can BMX rider Shanaze Reade put her bad luck behind her and secure a gold medal in London? David Quantick returns to Radio 2 to give the 2012 Games the full Blagger's Guide treatment.

Emma Pooley, Jeremy Hunt and fasting during the Olympics. Jul 24, 2012

After Bradley Wiggins’ historic win of the Tour de France, Team GB cyclist Emma Pooley speaks about going for gold. BBC World Service investigates how top Muslim athletes are coping with the rigours of training and fasting as Ramadan falls over the Olympic fortnight. Tickets for wheelchair rugby or ‘murderball’ as it was originally known sold out in record time but can Team GB capitalise on the home advantage? After six years of planning and in the face of a strike by border agency staff, Minister for Culture, Media and Sport Jeremy Hunt speaks about an exciting and nerve wracking final week for the organisers. Millions of people worldwide will expecting to see records broken at the Olympics but can we really expect athletes to improve forever? Triple Jumper world record holder Jonathan Edwards, explores if or when we'll reach the limits of human physical achievement. Finally, how to convince the Boss to allow you to watch the Games at work.

USA Dream Team, Steve Backley and Olympic Village life Jul 20, 2012

The Olympic Village will be home to 16,000 athletes and officials during the course of the Games but is it all work and no play? Eleanor Oldroyd finds out about the more steamy side of life in the Village. Judo star Ashley McKenzie reveals how his bad behavior nearly saw him miss the Olympics. Six-time Olympian archer Alison Williamson returns to her old primary school in Shropshire, while four-time Olympian Steve Backley tells BBC Radio Kent about his predictions for the Team GB medal haul. Will Ethiopian swimmer Yanet Seyoum be the next 'Eric the Eel'? Hundreds of millions of us will watch the Olympics on television but what about those sports fans who are blind or partially sighted? Radio 4’s Mani Djazmi learned about the trained “describers” who will provide audio description during the Games. After Los Angeles Lakers star Kobe Bryant claimed this year's London 2012 USA team could beat the 1992 USA Olympic Team, 5 Live looks back at the original Dream Team.

Olympic security, Zara Phillips and 95 medals for Team GB? Jul 17, 2012

Lord Seb Coe, London 2012 chairman tells BBC 5 Live that Olympic security will not be compromised despite the contractor G4S’s failure to provide sufficient staff. As Britain’s Team Sky lead at the Tour de France, will they be able to recover in just five days to compete at the Olympics? Can Zara Phillips overcome her previous bad luck and make her Olympic eventing debut on her new horse High Kingdom? Radio 4 satirical “The Now Show” helps the young people digest all the latest news about the London Games. Team GB’s most capped hockey player Crista Cullen speaks about her recovery from recent injury and badminton singles player Rajiv Ouseph reveals his desire to inspire more young British Asians to become elite athletes. And can Team GB win 95 medals? It may be a pipe dream but that’s precisely what a panel of experts convened by BBC Radio 5 live's “Virtual Medal Table” predicted; Russell Fuller hears from the boxing experts and gold hopeful boxer Tom Stalker.

Olympic superstars are in town : Michael Johnson, Sally Pearson & Liu Xiang Jul 13, 2012

Among the host of international athletes making their final preparations at the Aviva London Grand Prix is one of the hottest favourites for Olympic gold - Australian 100m hurdler Sally Pearson. How will the international superstars cope with ‘traditional’ British summer weather? Team USA sprinter Carmelia Jeter, world triple jump champion Christian Taylor and former world 5000m champion Bernard Lagat join Eleanor Oldroyd to give their views. Chinese hurdler Liu Xiang reveals the weight of expectation on him this year. Concerns over security, funding, transport and ticket sales – sound familiar? Clive James paints a picture of the Sydney Games in “Even As We Speak”. The Olympic motto is ‘faster, higher, stronger’, 5 Live and BBC World Service investigate how much this pinnacle of physical prowess has been enhanced by modern technology? Ivory Coast sprinter Murielle Ahoure speaks about her return to form and the legendary Michael Johnson carries the torch at Stonehenge.

Jonty Clarke, Jordanne Whiley and missiles in the East End. Jul 10, 2012

Andy Murray and Jonathan Marray weren’t the only British finalists at Wimbledon, Jordanne Whiley also made history as part of the first all-British wheelchair tennis pair to make the final. Team GB hockey star Jonty Clarke explains why he values the public pressure and expectation attached to a home Games. After Luol Deng of the Chicago Bulls was named in the British men's basketball squad for the Olympics, BBC Leicester’s John Sinclair speaks to Team GB captain Andrew Sullivan and head coach Chris Finch. BBC 5 Live Breakfast debates if surface-to-air missiles should be placed on the roof of East London flats during the London Games. Radio 2 travels back to the 1948 Austerity Games for The Ballads of the Games. Finally with less than three weeks until the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, the iconic Jet Pack Man of the 1984 Los Angeles Games carries the torch through Leicester.

Olympic heroes : Radmilovic, Bannister and Bolt Jul 06, 2012

After the announcement of the Team GB Athletics squad, 18-year old sprinter Adam Gemili spoke his joy and surprise at his inclusion; 800m runner Lynsey Sharp on her controversial selection despite recording only a B qualifying time this season, and hurdler Andy Turner expresses relief after being named in the squad. Breaking records and gaining glory is the aim of every Olympian but who will make history this year? Usain Bolt was the icon of the 2008 games but after being beaten by his training partner Yohan Blake at the Jamaican national trials and withdrawing from this month’s Diamond League meet in Monaco, can the legendary sprinter return to Olympic glory? Eleanor Oldroyd speaks to Sir Roger Bannister about becoming the first man to run a mile in under four minutes in 1954. Finally, BBC Wales looks at the career of Wales' most successful Olympian, the Cardiff-born swimmer and water polo player Paulo Radmilovic.

Stuart Pearce on the England football squad, Christian Malcolm and the Olympic gardens Jul 03, 2012

Spain maybe European Champions but Britain is looking forward to securing an Olympic gold in the football at the London Games. Team GB manager Stuart Pearce justifies his decision not to pick David Beckham for the squad but not everyone agrees, as former England manager Sven-Goran Eriksson tells 5 Live’s Garry Richardson. After the men’s 4x100m relay failed to pass the baton at the European Athletics Championships, Olympian Derek Redmond reflects poor British technique, and Christian Malcolm speaks about team-mates Adam Gemili and Dwaine Chambers. Gardeners Question Time reviews the gardens of the Olympic Stratford site. In advance of British indoor volleyball debut this summer, Londoners Peter Bakare and Elizabeth Reed reveal their excitement in participating in a home Olympics. Without a doubt the biggest catering job this year is London 2012 and BBC Radio 4’s “The Food Programme” looks into branding of food products sold on the site.

Michael Phelps, Rachel Brown and the Cultural Olympiad Jun 29, 2012

As the US Olympic swimming trials get underway, the legendary Michael Phelps speaks about his comeback and rivalry with fellow American Ryan Lochte. Eleanor Oldroyd, former tennis player Mark Woodford and hurdler Jack Green discuss if athletes should take part in Olympic opening ceremony. Everton goalkeeper Rachel Brown and Colin Murray discuss how pregnancy impacts on sporting careers. An emotional BBC Sheffield witnesses the most severely injured solider ever, former paratrooper Ben Parkinson, walk with the torch. With less than 30 days until the Games, the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad picks up pace; BBC Scotland has a live performance of the world-class Simon Bolivar Symphony Orchestra with children from Raploch in Stirling; Simon Armitage tells Front Row about The Poetry Parnassus and after the spectacular BBC Radio 1 Hackney Weekend, DJ Trevor Nelson reflects on the importance of Olympic investment in the area.

Mo Farah, Jessica Ennis & Martine Wright Jun 26, 2012

After years of training, last weekend the UK Olympic trials for track and field took place in Birmingham. BBC 5 Live's Sonja McLaughlan was trackside to speak to a delighted Shara Proctor about her new British record, a disappointed Jessica Ennis who had five no-jumps out of six attempts at the long jump and high jumper Robbie Grabarz. Mo Farah explains to 5 Live's Victoria Derbyshire why he pulled out of the 1,500 metres at the UK trails. In total, a staggering 175,000 sports kits will be handed out to the members of the Team GB squad, BBC Radio Leicester caught up with sculls doubles champions Anna Watkins and Katherine Grainger about receiving their Olympic kit. Martine Wright who lost 75 percent of her blood and both her legs in the 7/7 bombings reveals her journey to participate in the first ever British women's sitting volleyball team at a Paralympics. And the Olympic torch travels through Manchester, Lancashire and Yorkshire... with BBC Olympic Correspondent Gordon Farquhar.

Sir Chris Hoy, Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Miles Jupp Jun 22, 2012

After four years of intensive training, this weekend’s Aviva 2012 athletic trials will decide which track and field athletes will make Team GB. The competition is expected to be fierce as Olympic gold medallist Jason Gardener told BBC London. European Champion hurdler Andy Turner and British long jump record holder Chris Tomlinson joined “London Calling” to reveal what its like to room with other athletes in the Olympic village. BBC 5 Live’s “Colin Murray’s Gold Run” learns how Sir Chris Hoy gained inspiration from his indomitable great-uncle Andy Coogan. Comedians Charlie Brooker, Miles Jupp and Susan Calman suggest some new Olympic sports. Radio 4’s “Making History” explores the archaeology of the Stratford site and future of its extraordinary finds. Olympian and World Champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce tells BBC World Service why she is happy to stay out of the limelight.

Greg Searle, David Florence and Olympic motivation Jun 19, 2012

Great Britain's rowers enjoyed mixed fortunes in the last competition before the Olympics, winning three golds but seeing two leading hopes beaten. Jonathan Legard speaks to a disappointed Greg Searle after the men’s eight only managed to secure a bronze medal. After the Canoe Slalom World Cup, David Florence tells BBC World Service how it felt to make history by becoming the first man to win two gold medals across two classes. Team GB’s Alex Stott speaks about her career in football. BBC Radio 4’s “All in the Mind” investigates if watching big sporting events like the Olympics encourages people to take up sport. British gymnast Beth Tweddle tells BBC 5 about her overcoming her knee injury. Mark Houlton was one a Britain’s best hurdlers, he competed in the 1980 Moscow Olympics and the 1984 LA Games. He rarely mentions his former life as a sportsman but Mark recounts this world to his daughter Sophie for Radio 4’s “Listening Project”.

Dai Greene, Aaron Cook and the torch in Scotland Jun 15, 2012

As the Olympic torch tours the beautiful cities, highlands and islands of Scotland, Bryan Burnett marvels at the joyous atmosphere surrounding the torch relay while Fred MacAuley speaks to some of the Scottish torch bearers. World Taekwando number one Aaron Cook reveals how he feels “cheated and robbed” by BOA’s decision to ratify his exclusion from Team GB. Paralympian Georgina Bullen speaks to BBC Three Counties’ Gail Emms and Luke Ashmead about goalball, a sport which takes place in total silence. World 400 meters hurdles champion Dai Greene discusses his recent poor form and his use of music to enhance his performance with BBC 5 Live’s Steve Parry. The BBC Radio 4 documentary “Pump Up the Volume” explores the relationship between music and performance to reveal why a pop music playlist is a good scientific choice for a physical work out.

Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, Daley Thompson and Tom Daley Jun 12, 2012

Team GB diver and European Champion Tom Daley speaks to Radio 2’s Steve Wright about his physical and mental preparation going into the London Games. Young British rower Moe Sbihi discusses joining the highly competitive men’s eight boat, and balancing his faith with Olympic training. BBC Radio Lancashire’s documentary “Olympic God Special” investigates how athletes juggle the logistics of harsh training regimes, blood testing and dietary requirements with their religious beliefs. Colin Murray has dinner with a former British decathlete and one of greatest track and field athletes of all time...Daley Thompson. 11 time gold medal Paralympian, Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson and double Olympian Sarah Webb reveal the impact of elite sport on their personal lives in Women’s Hour on Radio 4. All that, and the Olympic Torch has begins its tour around Scotland.

Sir Steve Redgrave, Venus Williams and Olympic Flame in Northern Ireland Jun 08, 2012

This week, additional tickets to London 2012 went on sale amidst slow ticket sales, Paul Deighton Chief Executive of LOCOG spoke to 5 Live Breakfast to defend the ticketing process. Sir Steve Redgrave on Team GB's rowing hopes as the final squad is announced and tennis star Venus Williams speaks about her desire for another Olympic medal. 5 Live's Olympic Question Time brings together a panel of special guests in Hackney to debate the major issues surrounding the Games. Six months ago Adam Gemili was playing right-back for Thurrock FC but this week the 18-year-old Londoner ran the second fastest time by a European athlete this year, will he be the next Usain Bolt? Double Olympian and 400 metres hurdle great Edwin Moses reveals how athletics became commercialised in The Olympic All Star Show. All that and the Olympic Torch takes a trip to Ireland!

Christine Ohuruogu, Jessica Ennis and Olympic Flame in Wales Jun 01, 2012

This week, showjumper Tim Stockdale speaks about his amazing recovery just seven months after he broke his neck in a riding accident. Team GB Taekwondo Performance Director Gary Hall defends the decision to omit European Champion Aaron Cook from the Team GB squad in favour of Lutalo Muhammad. Defending Olympic champion Christine Ohuruguo on her preparations to defend her 400 metres title this summer, Jessica Ennis celebrates her new British heptathlon record and swimmer Liam Tancock speaks about hot weather training in Florida. As part of the London 2012 Cultural Olympiad, Radio 3 will broadcast 20 outstanding new works, each lasting 12 minutes. These works include Joe Culter’s “Ping” which brought together four members of the Fusion Table Tennis Club and the Coull String Quartet, and finally BBC Wales reflects on the flames historic five day visit to the country.

The Olympic cauldron is lit, Liam Phillips, Oscar Pistorius, Hollie Avil and Tom Daley May 25, 2012

In a week where Olympic excitement finally arrived in Great Britain, we hear from a gripped BBC Devon as the Olympic cauldron is lit for the first time in Plymouth. BMX champion Liam Phillips speaks about his return to the sport on the eve of the World BMX Championships in Birmingham. South African double amputee Oscar Pistorius tells 5 Live’s Shelagh Fogarty about his extraordinary efforts to qualify for both the Paralympic and the Olympics. BBC Ulster’s science programme “What Next?” looks at mental preparation for the Games while former British champion, Hollie Avil, reveals how an eating disorder has prompted her to retire from elite sport. Diver Tom Daley sends a message to his Chinese rival Qu Bo after winning European Gold. And American John Carlos recalls his black power salute at the 1968 Olympics which sent shockwaves around the world.

Princess Anne, Jessica Ennis and Anish Kapoor May 18, 2012

This week, the Olympic flame began its 70-day relay around the UK. BBC Sports Editor David Bond discussed the build-up to the Games with former Olympian Princess Anne at the official ceremony in Athens. Team GB heptathlete Jessica Ennis speaks about balancing her preparations for the Olympics with her public profile. Leicester Riders director Kevin Routledge speaks to BBC Radio Leicester about the fate of British basketball; paralympian Danny Nobbs tells BBC Radio Norfolk about the logistics of competing in London and, UK Sport reveals the British technological advances that give Team GB a winning edge. And as Anish Kapoor’s controversial Orbit structure is unveiled at the Olympic Park, Radio 4's “Front Row” reviews the latest addition to the London skyline.

Olympians on the new Olympic venues, Alex Partridge, Mhairi Spence and Jonny Brownlee May 11, 2012

This week, the Triathlon World Series gets underway in San Diego, 5 Live’s Alistair Bruce-Ball spoke to Jonny Brownlee about his preparations and competing against his brother Alistair for Olympic glory. Pentathletes Mhairi Spence and Freyja Prentice speak about the battle for a Team GB place on the eve of the World Championships in Rome. BBC Berkshire catches up with some Team GB members for their thoughts on Dorney Lake, the Olympic rowing venue while Alex Partridge speaks about opting out of selection for the Team GB 4-men boat. BBC Radio 2 debates the Argentinean television ad that dragged London 2012 into a diplomatic fray. Team GB captain Fran Leighton gives her verdict on the new Olympic waterpolo venue and Chris Moyles and Fearne Cotton provide a unique commentary on the Olympic flame ceremony.

Nathan Robertson, Amanda McGrory and Liam Tancock May 04, 2012

This week, the final round of test events have been taking place at the Olympic Park in Stratford. At the Riverside Arena, the Great Britain men and women’s hockey teams have been in action, in a tournament which will determine the final Team GB squads. 5 Live’s Richard Bacon spoke to Olympic hopeful Rob Moore at the event. Olympian Gail Emms speaks to her former mixed doubles partner Nathan Robertson who looks set to miss out on his bid for London 2012. Radio 4’s Peter White follows the success and failures of the teenagers who helped secure London’s bid in 2005. Team GB swimmer and double world champion Liam Tancock tells BBC Leicester about why good coaches are vital to success. US wheelchair racer and 5,000 metres world champion Amanda McGrory on going for gold in the London Paralympics. While comedian Patrick Kielty and former Olympian rower James Cracknell discussed how their plans to run with the Olympic torch are shaping up.

Victor Conte, Natalie Perdue and Gary Lineker Apr 27, 2012

Next week, the British Olympic Association finds out if the World Anti-Doping Agency has succeeded in lifting the lifetime Olympic ban for British drug cheats. Victor Conte, the controversial sports nutritionist behind the Balco doping scandal, tells 5 Live why he thinks athletes such as Dwain Chambers deserve a second chance. BBC Sports Personality of the Year, Mark Cavendish speaks about the challenges of the Olympic cycle route and how his attitude towards winning has changed since becoming a father. Olympic Javelin thrower Steve Backley tells BBC Three Counties Radio why he won’t miss competing at this year’s Games and 5 Live Breakfast reporter Rebekah Erlam joins Olympic hopeful and full-time bin lady Natasha Perdue on her route in Leeds. Plus, Gary Lineker reveals what we can expect from Team GB’s football performance at London 2012 and inspiring words by the iconic British poet Lord Alfred Tennyson on display in the Olympic Village are revealed.

Sir Chris Hoy, Andy Hunt and Charles van Commenee Apr 20, 2012

A look ahead to London 2012 with a selection of Olympic stories from across BBC local, national and World Service Radio. With the London Olympics less than 100 days away, BBC Sports Editor David Bond travels to hosts of the 1992 Olympic Games Barcelona, to explore their Olympic legacy. BBC World Service reporter Ade Adedoyin visits one of the more unusual London Olympic venues. BOA Chief Executive Andy Hunt reveals some well-known footballers who have been selected for the Team GB short list. Sir Chris Hoy speaks about the ticketing arrangements which have resulted in many athletes and their families being only able to purchase limited tickets to their own events. Boxer Anthony Ogogo speaks about attempting to overcome injury and secure a place at London 2012, and UK Athletics head coach Charles van Commenee speaks about Team GB’s ambitions and hits back at critics who have called members of his squad "plastic Brits".

Darren Campbell, James Cracknell, Laura Trott and Richard Kruse Apr 13, 2012

In this edition, Olympic gold medallists Darren Campbell and James Cracknell discuss the role of food supplements in athlete's training regimes and the benefits and the risks they offer. Teenage cycling sensation Laura Trott reflects on the two gold medals she brought back from the recent World Track Cycling Championships in Melbourne and looks ahead to this summer's Games in London. Baroness Tanni Grey-Thompson, journalist and former Olympian Matthew Syed and author Helen Jefferson Lenskyj discuss the ancient Games with Ernie Rea on Radio 4â€™s Beyond Belief and we catch up with fencer Richard Kruse who is set to compete in his third Olympic Games, having just secured his place on team GB for London 2012. Plus the first broadcast interview with talented young sprinter Delano Williams from the Turks and Caicos Islands, a British Overseas Territory. Four months ago the 18 year old didn't have a British passport but could be pulling on a GB vest for the London Olympics this summer.

Peter Keen, David Millar and Danny Baker Apr 06, 2012

In this edition, Director of Performance at UK Sport Peter Keen discusses Mission 2012, the traffic light system by which all Olympic sports are judged on their progress. 5 Live’s Jonathan Ledgard gives an update on the British Mens and Women’s Rowing squads for the World Cup which were announced this week and are traditionally a strong indicator of who will be in which boats come London 2012. Scottish cyclist David Millar, who has a lifetime Olympic ban after admitting doping, speaks candidly about the prospect of competing at this summer’s Olympics in advance of the forthcoming ruling on lifetime bans by the Court of Arbitration for Sport. We also find out about the atmosphere in the build up to the 1948 ‘Austerity Games’, the last Olympics to be held in London, and as the finishing touches are being made to the new Olympic Stadium in Stratford, we find out about the Builder’s Olympics from an anonymous caller to the Danny Baker Show.

Luol Deng, Shanaze Reade and Andrew Willis Mar 30, 2012

A look ahead to London 2012 with a selection of Olympic stories from across BBC local, national and World Service Radio. In this edition, British professional basketball player Luol Deng gives his thoughts on taking part in London 2012 and the British team’s prospects of getting on to the podium and we hear from sprint kayaker Rachel Cawthorn as she trains on the River Thames at the Olympic Course at Dorney Lake. BMX cyclist Shanaze Reade, who was favourite to win Gold at the Beijing Games but ended up crashing at the final turn, talks about how she’s using that experience in her preparation for the London Olympics and she also gives her views on the new Team GB kit. Plus there’s interviews with Olympic hopeful Joseph Hylton who is currently training hard to achieve his goal of a place on Team GB in the 110m hurdles and the fastest 200m breast stroke swimmer in the world at the moment, Andrew Willis, who has already secured his place.

Stella McCartney, Kriss Akabusi & Colin Jackson, Aimee Willmott Mar 23, 2012

A look ahead to London 2012 with a selection of Olympic stories from across BBC local, national and World Service Radio. In this edition, former track stars Kriss Akabusi & Colin Jackson explain why itâ€™s so important that the British public get behind the London Olympics, and in particular the British competitors and following the announcement of the route for the 2012 Olympic Torch Relay, we find out what it means to the residents of Somerset. Athletics coach Conrad Milton â€“ who has coached Mo Farrah and Hayley Yelling amongst others â€“ shares his views on what makes a good athlete and we catch up with swimmer Aimee Willmott, whose dream of becoming an Olympian is now a reality having recently secured her place on the GB Olympic swimming team with a silver at the British Championships. Plus we hear Stella McCartney discussing her role in designing the new Team GB kit that was unveiled at a special event at The Tower of London.

Matthew Pinsent, Danny Crates and Nicola Adams Mar 15, 2012

A look ahead to London 2012 with a selection of Olympic stories from across BBC local, national and World Service Radio. In this edition, we hear from teenage boxer Sadaf Rahimi whose dream is to represent Afghanistan at the London Olympics and Britain's most decorated female boxer and current European champion Nicola Adams gives her views on the perceptions of female boxing, overcoming injuries and what first inspired her to take up the sport. There's an interview with Alan Bell, Chief Starter for London 2012 - the eyes of the world will be upon him as the athletes line up for the men's 100 metres final this summer. Plus, four time Olympic gold medallist in rowing Matthew Pinsent travels to the host city for the 2016 Games, Rio de Janeiro, to find out a bit more about the increasing popularity of Rugby and Paralympic Champion Danny Crates looks back at the defining moments of his life and career in his new autobiography 'Danny Boy'.

Steve Cram, Judo star Kate Walker and Phillips Idowu Mar 08, 2012

A look ahead to London 2012 with a selection of Olympic stories from across BBC local, national and World Service Radio. In this edition, we hear from Judo star Kate Walker and her German coach Juergen Klinger as they train at the GB judo training camp at the University of Bath and Steve Cram gives us his view on the chances of Team GB’s athletes getting onto the podium at London 2012. We hear how British swimmers push their bodies to the limit in the hunt for Olympic glory and there’s an excerpt from Clare Balding’s Radio 4 series ‘Sport and the British’ which looked at how women’s sport in Britain came of age with the Golden Girls of the 1960s. Plus an interview with charismatic triple-jumper, Phillips Idowu, who is dreaming of Gold Medals in London 2012 and in Rio 2016.

Jessica Ennis, Tim Stockdale and Tom Daley Mar 02, 2012

Eleanor Oldroyd counts down to London 2012 with a selection of Olympic stories from across BBC local, national and World Service Radio. In this edition, we follow Show Jumper Tim Stockdale as he attempts to recover from a broken neck in time to compete at the Games, Heptathlete Jessica Ennis speaks to Chris Moyles on the Radio 1 Breakfast Show and we hear about a Sitting Volleyball team that features a number of survivors from the Rwandan genocide, and how it is preparing itself for the 2012 Paralympics. Three-time Olympic medallist Steve Backley gives a no holds barred interview to BBC Radio London with his views on drug takers and how they should be dealt with, and young diver Tom Daley speaks to 5 Live from the Diving World Cup at the Olympic Aquatics Centre in Stratford, East London.

Mo Farah, Paula Radcliffe and Haile Gebrselassie Feb 07, 2012

Uncovering the secrets of Kenya's long-distance running success - Mike Costello reports from the High Altitude Training Centre in Iten, Kenya, and speaks to Mo Farah and Paula Radcliffe; Marathon champion, Haile Gebrselassie, on concerns for Ethiopia's future in long-distance running; English Heptathlete, Louise Hazel, drumming up local support in the West Midlands; plus Sir Chris Hoy's parents embarrass their son at a 6 Nations preview from Edinburgh.

Boxer Mary Kom, Diving Champ Peter Waterfield & F1 Driver Alex Zanardi Jan 31, 2012

Female boxer Mary Kom is joined by reporter, Emma Jane Kirby, at a training session in her village in north-east India; 1500m runner Hanner English with her local hero, Roger Bannister; diving champion, and family man, Peter Waterfield at the Aquatic Centre; paralympian and former Formula 1 driver, Alex Zanardi, plus Jacques Rogge, the President of the International Olympic Committee.

Muhammad Ali at 70, Dai Greene meets Ed Moses and gymnast Beth Tweddle Jan 24, 2012

John Carlos speaks to Eleanor Oldroyd about Muhammad Ali’s achievements both in and out of the ring, hurdling star, Ed Moses, joins GB champ Dai Greene to offer him the benefit of his experience and BBC London’s Emma Jones speaks to two of Great Britain’s most promising swimmers, Jenna Randall and Olivia Allison.

Moscow Memories, Jessica Ennis and Tatiana Chernova Jan 18, 2012

Rivals special with Sebastian Coe revisiting the Moscow Olympics stadium and memories of the 1980 big contest by Steve Ovett's close friend and training partner, Matt Paterson, plus heptathlete rivals, Jessica Ennis and Tatiana Chernova; equestrian audio diaries from Ruth Edge in Cumbria and Piggy French in Leicestershire; South African swimmer in Paralympics and Olympic games, Natalie du Toit; the Belgian relay team train on Icelandic glaciers, and British table tennis champ, Darius Knight, tells us about the loyal support of his Mum, Dionne.

Matthew Pinsent, James Degale and Sarah Stevenson Dec 15, 2011

World Olympic dreams with Matthew Pinsent and tales from Kenya; heart-wrenching story of triumph and tragedy from Sarah Stevenson, Great British taekwondo world champion; report on court from the GB handball team created from scratch for the Olympics; news from paralympians, sitting volley ball member, Netra Rana and sailor from Sunderland, John Robertson, plus boxing champ, James Degale gives his Top Ten Tracks

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