Which Olympic event have you surprised yourself by watching?

Writers from around the Tribune Co. will reveal which Olympic event they’ve been watching that they never expected to have an interest in. Check back throughout the day for their responses and feel free to share your favorite offbeat event in the comment section.

Nick Sortal, South Florida Sun-Sentinel

I really don’t care about the perpetual story lines of teenage girls who gave up their whole life for a few moments wearing a sparkly outfit and smiling for millions on TV. But I do care about the athletics.

And that’s why this year I’m addicted to the women’s vault. If it’s not the most athletically challenging Olympic sport, I’ll argue it’s the most underrated.

First is a sprint, then a roundoff onto a springboard, then a headfirst dive onto the horse (my hands would be too sweaty), then twists and flips that rival divers (who start standing still!). And, in an act of athletic overkill, some vaulters, such as McKayla Maroney, hit the horse backward.

Killer stuff even for those who don’t medal. And all we laymen judge is: “Did they take a step? Did they stick the landing?” Folks, that’s the denouement.

I’m hooked.

[Updated at 9:19 a.m.:

Andi Petrini, Newport News Daily Press

Confession: I’m an Olympic junkie. I can’t get enough of the Games -- or, for some strange reason, Bob Costas. Sure, there are the usual summer suspects that capture my attention: swimming, basketball, gymnastics. And the events I like to watch in an Olympic year: water polo, soccer, volleyball (indoor and beach).

But for every high-profile event, there’s badminton, table tennis and archery. Until Sunday, I didn’t think I’d ever find myself watching -- or being fascinated by -- archery, even at the Olympics. Then I set my remote down and watched for a while. Have you seen the size of the bows the archers use? They’re practically as tall as the athletes holding them. They look bulky, difficult to lift and to keep steady.

And yet, even with all the crazy-looking attachments, a bull’s-eye isn’t guaranteed. That’s what makes the Games (and sports in general) great -- witnessing the truly spectacular, mixed with the fun and unexpected.]

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