Iowans find Olympic spotlight in City of Light

From track to wrestling to rowing, TVs are tuning in

My Facebook feed is finding posts filled with podium moments.

From Snoop Dogg to Simone Biles, badminton to breakdancing, it’s obvious Americans have caught Olympic fever.

There’s a love affair with fans and gymnast Stephen Nedoroscik, who led many to discover the pommel horse. I’ve seen posts about women’s rugby, fencing and an Italian gymnast posing with giant wheels of cheese.

Iowans have had a notable role in the Paris games. And there’s more to come.

Former Iowa wrestler Spencer Lee will compete in freestyle wrestling. (Photo courtesy UI Athletics.)

One of Iowa’s most significant historical connections to the Olympics is in wrestling. Since 1920, every Olympiad has featured at least one Iowa native or collegiate athlete.

Former Iowa three-time NCAA champ Spencer Lee will wrestle at 57kg in men’s freestyle competition.

Lee is one of the most exciting wrestlers to come out of Iowa in recent years.

But wait… there’s more.

Kennedy Blades will represent Team USA in women’s wrestling at 76kg. The Chicago native recently announced she’s planning to join the Hawkeye program.

Suddenly, our state added another Olympian.

To me, that’s thrilling to see an Iowa woman in the games, but also to watch the growth of the sport.

To watch (according to NBC):

Dates: Aug. 5-11.

TV: USA Network

Streaming: Peacock, NBCOlympics.com, NBC.com, NBC app, NBC Olympics app.