On February 17th, 1996, the torch relay for the 1996 Summer Olympics officially began in ancient Olympia, Greece. The torch journeyed through Greece before arriving in Atlanta, Georgia, marking a significant lead-up to the games.

A notable highlight of the relay was the involvement of various athletes and public figures, including the initial torchbearers, who carried the flame as a symbol of peace and unity.

The Olympic torch relay captures global attention and brings communities together, showcasing the spirit of the Olympic Games. It has become a tradition that many look forward to during each Olympic cycle.

The relay spanned nearly 16,000 kilometers and featured about 11,500 torchbearers, making it one of the longest torch relays in history. The event drew widespread media coverage and excitement.

The 1996 games were notable for being the first Olympics held in the southeastern United States, bringing major attention to Atlanta and its ability to host large-scale international events.

What does the Olympic Games mean to you, and do you have any favorite Olympic memories?