Three Olympic events you need to watch

The 2016 Rio Olympics are underway! It may be the most controversial games in history. But let’s forget that for a moment and focus on the actual events and athletes taking part. Of course, there are some events that are must-watch television. However, instead of rattling off some obvious ones (like the 100m final), here’s three spectacles that you just can’t miss.

 Mens 200m Butterfly

It was tough for me to choose just one swimming event, but I feel like this one could be the most exciting, due to its competitiveness. There are a number of swimmers that have the ability to win gold, none less than Michael Phelps, a two-time winner of the event. The 31-year-old is competing in his final Olympics, and of his four events, this will be his toughest. His competition includes South African Chad Le Clos, whose long fingers denied Phelps of a third consecutive gold in the event in 2012; and long-time rival Lazlo Cseh of Hungary. It wouldn’t surprise me if the medal placings were decided by a matter of milliseconds. Let me put it this way. I’ve watched all of the swimming at the Olympics for twelve years, and this will probably be the closest race since the 200m freestyle in 2004, which was dubbed the ‘Race of the Century’.

Handball

No I’m not talking about that game you played in year four on the hard courts. This version is far more intense and extreme. Having seen the game briefly a few times, I liken it to futsal but with your hands. It’s fast, chaotic, skilful, and at times, pretty amusing. This is because you get to watch people doing 360 spins, behind the back throws, and seemingly never-ending chains of alleyoops that finally end in a goal. Also, countries like Qatar are good at it (who knew?). Honestly, I couldn’t tell you the rules, because like the rest of you, I have no idea what is going on. But I do know that France are the two-time defending champions, so they must be alright. It looks like a hell of a good time and something that we Kiwis could play if we really put our mind to it. If you like a whole combination of crazy shit, this sport is for you.

4x100m Relay (Men and Women)

The relays are always a good watch, however, the London Games took things to the next level. The world record was not just broken, but demolished in both the male and female events. One should expect much of the same this time as Jamaica and the USA battle it out for the gold medal once again. Both of the male teams are virtually the same as last time, featuring superstars Usain Bolt and Yohan Blake (Jamaica), and Justin Gatlin and Tyson Gay (USA). However, the women feature some new faces. Only Tianna Bartoletta remains from the USA team that broke the 27-year-old record in London, while the Jamaicans feature just two - the experienced Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce and Veronica Campbell-Brown - from the same event four years ago. Of course, never rule out an upset, especially when the baton change is involved. Both races will be amazing, as will the atmosphere inside the stadium. Don’t miss the experience.