They run, they jump, they fly, they flip -- after two weeks of watching the world's greatest athletes compete at the London Olympics, the Games are coming to an end. The J-14 Magazine staff picks the athletes who made the greatest impact on each of us.
"Ryan Lochte: Not only is he an amazing swimmer (and super cute!) but you have to appreciate his sense of humor. I mean, wearing a diamond grill mouth piece on the Olympic podium -- it's definitely original!" -- Editorial Associate Katie Amey
"I love 17-year-old, 4-time gold medal-winning swimmer Missy Franklin! She's awesome in the pool and in the U.S. swim team's 'Call Me Maybe' viral video (Click here to watch)!" -- Photo Editor Danielle Kepler
"When it comes to the U.S. women's gymnastics team (or the 'Fierce Five' -- love that McKayla Maroney and Jordyn Wieber came up with that name for the 'Fab Five') I can't seem to choose a favorite! As a team they seem very supportive of each other and they work so well together. Just seeing the looks on their faces when they found out they were taking home the team gold medal made me so proud to be an American!" -- Assistant Editor Laura Knipping
"So many amazing athletes and so many inspiring stories! Of course, I was wowed by Gabby Douglas' solid performance at the women's gymnastics all-around, but my favorite gymnast was Team USA's Kyla Ross. She may have been the underdog of the five, but boy did she do her job! And she was such a dedicated team cheerleader. Also loved watching 16-year-old American Ariel Hsing beat some of the the world's best in table tennis. She's got mad skills -- it's no wonder she's pals with Bill Gates who she calls 'Uncle Bill.' He even trekked all the way to London to cheer her on! And I was totally blown away by Tiki Gelana of Ethopia winning the women's marathon gold. Some medalists earn their medals in a quick dive or dash -- but she ran 26.2 miles for more than two hours to secure her spot on the top of the medal stand!" -- Editor-in-chief Rachel Chang
"My favorite London Olympians are Kerri Walsh Jennings and Misty May-Treanor. I loved watching them win their third gold medal (in a row!) in beach volleyball. It was their last match together and listening to their interview after they won made me tear up -- their friendship and teamwork over so many years is inspiring!" -- Designer Tanya Swartz
Who are your favorite London Olympic athletes?