SPORTS WATCH : Adios, Barcelona

The 1992 Olympic Games brought the world together if only for 16 days and nights. The XXV Olympiad concluded smoothly in Barcelona, unmarred by political boycotts or violence. It was the Olympic debut for nations newly created by the end of the Cold War. For U.S. athletes there were many special moments.

Americans brought home 108 Olympic medals, four short of the number earned by the No. 1 team, the Unified Team of the former Soviet Union. The U.S. track and field team was especially dazzling, snapping up 30 medals.

Oscar De La Hoya, the 19-year-old boxer who promised his mother two years ago on her deathbed that he would win a medal in Barcelona, is bringing back the gold to his home in East Los Angeles.

And, of course, there was the “Dream Team,” the U.S. basketball crew made up of the best pros in the sport. There was little doubt that they would win the gold, but they nevertheless captivated opponents and fans alike.

Olympic medals may have eluded other U.S. athletes, but they all scored big in dedication, drive, sacrifice and sportsmanship. Gail Devers, who not long ago almost had to have her feet amputated because of Graves’ disease, won a gold medal in the 100-meter race. Her chance at another medal, in the 100-meter hurdles, vanished when she tripped over the last hurdle, ending up fifth.

For Devers and other members of the U.S. Olympic team, the games were not just about winning medals. They were about achieving one’s best. To all, especially the people of Barcelona and all of Spain, bravo on a job well done.