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A New WorldAs soon as Rio 2016’s spectacular Opening Ceremony brought the Games of the XXXI Olympiad to life with a pulsating mix of bossa nova beats and samba sounds, it was clear that the first Olympic Games to be held in South America were going to be unique. And so it proved over 16 magnificent days in the ‘Marvellous City’, as Rio de Janeiro played host to a seemingly endless array of iconic sporting performances, all set against the inimitable carnival atmosphere that was created by cariocas and Olympic fans from around the world.Time and again, these passionate crowds were thrilled by the feats of inspirational Olympians such as Michael Phelps, who cemented his position as the most decorated Olympic athlete of all time by adding five more gold medals and one silver to his collection, and Usain Bolt, who secured his own place in Olympic folklore by winning an unprecedented three sprint golds for a third successive Games.Other athletes to light up Rio’s glittering arenas included Japanese wrestler Kaori Icho, who etched her name into the history books by becoming the first woman to win an individual gold medal in four straight Olympic Games in any sport, and US shooter Kim Rhode, who made it six medals in six Games with a bronze in the skeet. “These were marvellous Olympic Games in the Marvellous City.” Thomas Bach, IOC President“I am proud of my country, my city and my people. Rio has delivered history.” Carlos Nuzman, President, Rio 2016 Organising Committee206 Athletes from 206 NOCs competed in Rio1 Rio 2016 featured the first ever Refugee Olympic TeamMore than 11,000 athletes, 45% of athletes were womenA NEW WORLD013