The Winter Olympics started in 1924 as there own event.  The Winter Olympics gave competitors the chance to show their stuff in winter games.  At the first Winter Olympics 16 nations competed for a total of 258 athletes, including 13 women.  For preparation for the games a 27,000 square meter ice stadium was built. 

    Over the years many places have held the Winter Olympics.  The first Winter Olympics here held in Chamonix.  Some of the many places were the Winter Olympics were held are Lack Plaid, Atlanta, Calgary, Sarajevo, and Grenoble.

 The International Olympic Committee selects the host of the Winter Olympics.  They decided seven years in advance.  The host city had to prove to the IOC that they have athletic facilities for the events and housing for the athletes, coaches, officials, and traveling spectators.  The host city must have transportation, food, and cultural activities.  The host city is chosen by the majority vote from the IOC.

    Two people stand out when you think about speed skating, Eric Heiden and Bonnie Blain.  These two are the two USA Olympians with the most medals.  Eric Heiden with five and Bonnie Blair with six.

    Even though the United States doesn't have the most medals, they are still up there on the charts.  The United States is third with 193 medals for figure staking and hockey.  Norway leads the pack with 263 medals.  The United States have sixty-nine gold, Seventy-two silver, and fifty-two bronze.

    Athletes make there country's team by finishing high or winning competitions called selection trials.  Athletes are invited to the trails based on their performance in national and international competitions.  Athletes representing a country must be a citizen in that country.