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Keep an eye out for Michigan Olympians in Rio de Janiero tonight

Thatcher Cook
/
http://j.mp/1SPGCl0
Flint Olympian Claressa Shields

When the 2016 summer Olympics kick off in Brazil tonight, there will be plenty of opportunities to root for Michigan.

Ten athletes who call the state their home will go for the gold in volleyball, track and field, rowing and other events.

In the boxing ring, you'll see Claressa Shields from Flint. In the 2012 Olympics, Shields became the first U.S. woman to win a gold medal in the sport.

In the pool, look for Allison Schmitt of Canton. She won five medals in 2012, including three gold. This year, she's back as a team captain.

On the road, watch for Brent Bookwalter. The Rockford High graduate is making his Olympic debut after wrapping up his fourth Tour de France.

Other Michigan athletes include Draymond Green, Alisha Glass, Grace Latz, Ellen Tomek, Grace Luczak, Bora Gulari and Andrew Evans.

Dozens of others with ties to the state will compete, including several Michigan State University alumni and two dozen athletes from the University of Michigan.

Earlier today, Governor Rick Snyder wished the state's Olympians good luck:

"On behalf of all Michiganders, I congratulate all of our Olympians competing in this year’s summer games. This is an incredible achievement and opportunity to represent Michigan and the United States and they should all be proud of what they have accomplished so far. Sue and I join the athletes’ families and friends in wishing them the best of luck as they compete to bring home the gold."

Rebecca Kruth is the host of All Things Considered at Michigan Public. She also co-hosts Michigan Public's weekly language podcast That’s What They Say with English professor Anne Curzan.
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