Michael Johnson set a world record in the 200 meters. Mike Powell/Getty Images

ATLANTA 1996

Atlanta had won the right to stage the centenary Games ahead of Athens. The Olympic movement was shaken when two people died after a bomb explosion in a city centre park and organisational chaos developed into a recurring nightmare for athletes and spectators alike.

Against a background of raw southern rock 'n' roll and soul music throbbing throughout the hot nights, the Games prospered after a poignant opening ceremony when Muhammad Ali, trembling with the effects of Parkinson's syndrome, lit the Olympic flame.

Michael Johnson completed the 200-400 double, emitting a roar of delight and relief after setting a world record 19.32 seconds in the 200.

Donovan Bailey won the 100 metres in a world record 9.84 seconds then anchored the Canadian 4x100 team to an immensely satisfying victory over the United States.

Lewis, competing in his final Games, won his ninth gold medal with a fourth consecutive long jump title and Russian Alexander Popov retained the 100 metres freestyle title.