Abstract

The article discusses the results of Lithuanian athletes, who participated in the Games of the XXX Olympiad in London, the reasons of successful performances and unused possibilities are also indicated. Preparing suggestions for the next Olympic Games are being presented as well. 62 athletes represented Lithuania in London Olympic Games and competed in 13 sport disciplines: badminton, boxing, sailing, cycling (track, road, and BMX), judo, wrestling (Greco-Roman), rowing, canoeing, kayaking, athletics, swimming, shooting, modern pentathlon, and basketball competitions. These were the most successful Olympic Games since Lithuania has gained its independence. Five medals had been won: two gold medals, one silver, and two bronze medals. Additionally 11 athletes won 4th-8th places and men basketball team took the 8th place. 33 members of Lithuanian Olympic team came back with medals (five) or as prize winners! Among 79 NOCs, who won medals, Lithuanian National Olympic Committee (LNOC) was awarded with 34th place (Latvia – 49th place, Estonia – 63rd place). In the opinion of the article author, such high results of athletes in the Games were determined by concentrated and consistent work of all Lithuanian sport organizations – LNOC, DPES, sport federations, Olympic Sports Center, sport departments of municipalities – when dealing with the urgent problems of athletes, coaches, medics, and other operating personnel. In preparation process for the next Olympic Games work that had been started few years ago has to be continued via the implementation of the new program “Rio 2016”. It is necessary to improve Olympic team training model: planning sport disciplines of priority and selecting athletes who could compete for medals. The financing model of coaches, medics and other operating personnel of Lithuanian Olympic team candidates has to be improved as well as more attention to those teams of sport games (women beach volleyball, for example) that attract many spectators has to be paid. It is necessary to put all endeavors toward encouraging the participation of Lithuanian sport federations in the activity of International federations, to send referees to the key sport events (world and European championships) and, certainly, to the Olympic Games. This is not easily attained but after planning concrete programs to reach a goal, it is eventual. And only when carrying authority on international arena – even better results can be attained. London Olympic Games confirmed that knowledge and information about new sport techniques as well as athlete’s innate talent, and coaches’ experience are essential to athletes’ success and will serve talented, devoted for elite sport, and having high goals athletes in realizing their potentials in the future Olympic Games. Verf.-Referat