The Games of the XXIII Olympiad, Los Angeles 1984, reimagined the
Olympic Games and reinvigorated a troubled Olympic movement. Its
innovations included the following: a nationwide torch relay that
yielded millions for children's charities; an arts festival that
surpassed any prior efforts; the first Opening Ceremony featuring a
professional theatrical extravaganza; new sports disciplines, such as
distance races for women, windsurfing, synchronized swimming,
heptathlon, and rhythmic gymnastics; an army of volunteers; vast
increases in sponsorship and television revenue while avoiding
commercialization and keeping expenses low using existing facilities;
and a financial surplus of over $232 million, which has endowed sports
for youngsters in the Los Angeles area to this day--all through a
privately financed organizing committee without government
contributions.