1998 Goodwill Games
The 1998 Goodwill Games was the fourth edition of the international sports competition the Goodwill Games, which were created by Ted Turner in reaction to the political troubles surrounding the Olympic Games of the 1980s. The competition was held in and around New York City in the United States from July 19 to August 2, 1998. Approximately 1,500 athletes from more of 60 countries participated, competing in 15 sports. The United States won the games with 41 gold medals and 132 medals in total. In second place was Russia, with 35 gold medals and 94 medals in  total. Cuba finished in third place, with 8 gold medals and 17 medals in total. Athletes who won gold medals at the 1998 Goodwill Games include Michelle Kwan, Dominique Moceanu, Michael Johnson, Jackie Joyner-Kersee, Dan O'Brien, Félix Savón, Jenny Thompson and Alexander Popov. Approximately 1,500 athletes from more of 60 countries participated, competing in 15 sports. Two world records were broken at these Games, one by the American relay in the 4×400 meters in athletics, and the other by South African swimmer Penny Heyns in the 50 meters breaststroke. The event is also notable for a training accident involving  Chinese gymnast Sang Lan, which injured her spinal cord and left her partially paralyzed. Venues. Some events were held in New York City, while many were held in nearby suburbs in Long Island, including Uniondale. Participating Nations. The following nations were invited to the games: