One of the great things about the Olympics is the national pride that is evident throughout the Games. Back home, I'm hearing that the American public has gotten into the Michael Phelps phenomenon and his chase for eight gold medals. It's one of those times where team ties don't split the public. Rather, there's one rooting interest: Back the Stars and Stripes.

In Beijing today, it was cool to see China go crazy over a gold-silver finish in the women's 200 butterfly by Liu Zige and Jiao Liuyang. Both women went under the former world record and the pool was hopping with excitement. The Chinese were on their feet, overjoyed to see their countrywomen bring pride to the host nation. The fans were even better during the medals ceremony.

There's more to the Olympics than the competition. That much was clear today.