The London 2012 Olympic Games left spectators in awe: it had been a successful time for British competitors, and an exceptional medium to demonstrate our culture and society in addition to our sporting skills. During the closing ceremony, while many were disappointed to see the long awaited Games come to an end, there was excitement in the air as we passed over to Rio. Their eclectic display of colour and dancing entertained us as it invaded our TV screens, and made us long for 2016 to hurry up and arrive so we could cheer with joy, cry with sorrow, and enjoy the odd bet or two. Now that wait is nearly over, with the Olympics opening ceremony only months away, on August 5th.

Although there is still time to count down, plenty of news is already flooding in as hopefuls and gold medalists competing to maintain their victory start to reveal their hopes for the Rio Games. One of these hopefuls is 22 year old table tennis player, Liam Pitchford. Having enjoyed several successes at the Commonwealth Games, as well as having been part of the London 2012 British table tennis team, the young star has Rio firmly in his sights. In a recent interview, Pitchford commented on how he is strictly focused on qualifying, and is hoping to at least make it to the quarterfinals during the Games. As modest as he is determined, the young player remarked on how he thought it was a longshot for him to secure a medal place, but that anything is possible in table tennis.

Whether the 22 year old is worth having a punt on is hard to say this early on, but what is certain is that many viewers will want to experience the highs and lows of olympians on their journey. Sir Bradley Wiggins is also in the news, and has a lot of interest surrounding his potential odds, after his admission that the Rio 2016 Games would likely be his last. Despite securing a gold with fellow cyclist Mark Cavendish at the World Madison Championships, the well known athlete doesn’t believe he can top his latest performance. That being said, it appears doubtful that the punting anticipated to go on at Betway.com before, during, and after the games will disregard the gold medalist and his obvious potential. Known for their thorough dedication to delivering exceptional sporting news, the big brand will likely add Wiggins’ name to a list of many as the Olympic Games hype begins to grip the globe.

Of course there will be plenty of speculation, and indeed anticipation, surrounding whether Britain can equal or even surpass their tally of Golds at the London Games, yet again adding to the intricacies of the betting and overall culture of arguably one of the largest sporting events of the year. Regardless of how you choose to experience the Rio 2016 Olympics for yourself, it is sure to ignite passion amongst all involved, be that at home or on site.