Friday at the Games

Stars

Greek windsurfing champion Nikolaos Kaklamanakis lit the Olympic cauldron to open the Games. He is a three-time world champion who won a gold medal at the 1996 Atlanta Olympics and carried the Greek flag in Sydney four years later.

Athletes from Afghanistan and Iraq received huge cheers during the opening ceremony's parade of nations. Houston Rockets center Yao Ming of China and Swiss tennis star Roger Federer carried the flags of their respective countries.

Marching On

The parade of nations featured 10,500 athletes marching under 202 flags, the largest procession in Olympic history. The Greek flag, because of links to the ancient games, entered first as usual. As the host nation, Greek athletes also entered last.

Thumbs Down

The entrance of the U.S. team — led by basketball guard Dawn Staley — drew cheers. Some people also stood and put their thumbs down in an apparent show of displeasure for the war in Iraq. Moments later, the Iraqis entered to a roaring ovation.

Coming Up

Competition begins today in 21 sports, with medals being awarded in road cycling, diving, fencing, judo, shooting, swimming and weightlifting. The women's 10-meter air rifle winner will be awarded the first gold medal of the Games.

Weather

The forecast for the first full day of competition is for clear skies, sunshine and 96 degrees.

Looking Ahead

The U.S. men's basketball team opens against Puerto Rico on Sunday at 11 a.m. on Ch. 5

Local TV

KSL-TV Ch. 5 will provide Olympic coverage during the following hours:

11 a.m.-5 p.m., 7-11 p.m. , 11:30 p.m.-1 a.m. , 1-5 a.m.

Quote Of The Day

The Olympic Games: Welcome back to Greece! — Olympic stadium announcer as the opening ceremony began.