It's the end of an Olympic era as an emotional Michelle Kwan has pulled out of the 2006 Winter Olympics because of injury. Kwan's withdrawal means that Long Island native (and sister of 2002 Gold Medal winner Sarah Hughes) Emily Hughes, will be heading to Italy as the alternate for the team. Doubting her ability to compete at 100%, Kwan said, "I respect the Olympics too much to compete and I don't feel I can be at my best.'' While some may question whether Kwan should have been there in the first place, Gothamist feels that withdrawing like this is a classy act by the two-time Olympic medalist. more ›

Last night, the 2006 Olympic Games of Torino began with IOC President Jacques Rogge delivering a message for "peace, tolerance and brotherhood." The ceremony included disco music and a song from Luciano Pavarotti. The Olympic flame was lit by Stefania Belmondo, a two-time gold medal winner in cross-country, while the torch was carried into the stadium by legendary Italian skier Alberto Tomba. more ›