Exclusive articles
Success at the Games isn't just about 'lighting up' on the day. It's
about long-term preparation and psychology, about team cohesion, coping
with pressure, and more. Our articles page profiles the organisation that went into
the Games, and delivers some unique insights from a range of athletes as
well as those who supported them in Beijing.
Three years ago, Paula Tesoriero was a recreational biker who got a buzz from spinning classes. Now she's a world record holder an amputee cyclist.
Back in 1996, New Zealand's Duane Kale won four gold medals at the Atlanta Paralympic Games. Twelve years on, he's the Beijing 2008 New Zealand Paralympics team Chef de Mission.
There's one thing harder than winning a gold medal on the world stage: defending it. But the Wheel Blacks are determined to do exactly that.
We asked Sarah Ulmer what it will be like in her new role as an athlete supporter. She reckons it'll be cracker to be able to support the Olympic class of 2008.
Athletes aren't the only ones going full-bore at the Games. NZPA's Kevin Norquay heads the New Zealand Press Association team in Beijing.
With a world ranking of 13, javelin thrower Stuart Farquhar isn't a medal favourite. But if everything comes together, he's capable of "the big throw".
Kayakers Steven Ferguson and Mike Walker recently switched positions in their K2 – and found new speed.
New Zealand's track and field athletes arrive in Beijing after the Games have begun. Team manager and coach Raylene Bates talks through the strategies of the final days.
From the moment Valerie Vili starts a throw to the moment the 4kg shot leaves her fingers takes less than one second.
No medals are awarded for Olympic team logistics – but maybe they should be.
The power of the Olympic movement goes beyond the Games themselves, explains NZOC Secretary General Barry Maister.
From carbon fibre bike wheels to carbon filter pollution masks, there's plenty of science and technology backing the New Zealand Olympic team.
The New Zealand athlete you're supporting probably chalked up over 10,000 hours of training since they first dreamed of gold.
Doctors, physiotherapists, massage therapists, a surgeon, a chiropractor and a psychologist are a team within the team going to the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games.
New Zealand's Paralympics team is smaller than in 2004. But if the targets are achieved – they'll win more medals.
When Hamish Carter and Sarah Ulmer won gold in 2004, the rest of the team welcomed them back to the village with a spontaneous haka.
As a double-Olympian, SPARC CEO Peter Miskimmin understands what makes Olympic Games success so special.
Updated | 31 Oct 2008.
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