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Matchup: United States' Tim Burke vs. Norway's Ole Einar Bjørndalen
Event: Biathlon - Men's 10km sprint
Tale of the tape: In Vancouver, Burke will attempt to win the first Olympic biathlon medal in U.S. history. If his production during the 2009-10 World Cup season is any indication, he has a decent shot. In December, Burke became the first-ever U.S. biathlete to lead the overall World Cup standings, and he's recorded three podium finishes so far this season -- including a pair of U.S. record-tying second-place finishes. Burke's efforts have already made him the most decorated U.S. biathlete ever, but in Vancouver he'll face a tough challenge in Norway's Bjoerndalen.
Bjoerndalen is the reigning king of biathlon. The veteran Norwegian has won six individual gold medals at the
three world championships since 2006, was twice overall World
Cup champion and has three gold medals on this season's World Cup
circuit. But after winning four individual golds at the 2002 Salt Lake City Games, Bjoerndalen settled for two silvers and a bronze in Torino, proving that he's not invincible after all. Like Burke, Bjoerndalen will be eying history in Vancouver. With four more medals, the 36-year-old will become the most decorated Winter Olympian of all time.
Kim Yu-na and Mao Asada have been rivals since the figure skaters were juniors. Although Kim has dominated this season while Asada has struggled, there’s little doubt the two will be at the center of the spotlight at the Vancouver Olympics.
After struggling on the Grand Prix circuit, Japan's Mao Asada has regrouped to win her fourth consecutive national championship. Perhaps more importantly, as the Winter Games near, she tamed a few of her demons by landing a triple Axel in both programs. But is it enough to keep pace with rival Kim Yu-Na?
