Read the passage. Then answer the question that follows.

Over the past 100 years, the Olympic games have endured. They remain a passion for fans, athletes, and trainers all over the world. While the love for this worldwide event is well-known, many changes have occurred since 1896.

In 1896, the Olympic games had 42 events and 245 competitors. These games were hosted in Athens, Greece. Only 14 nations were represented in those Olympic games. While only a little over one hundred years ago, women were not allowed to participate in the Olympic games. The most successful athlete from the 1896 games was a German wrestler/gymnast named Carl Schumann. Schumann won 4 gold medals.

The 2008 Olympic Games showed just much a century can change things. Over 200 nations were represented in Beijing, China. There were over 10,000 males and females that competed for their chance at gold. A total of over 300 events were completed. Meanwhile, the most successful athlete from the 2008 games was American swimmer Michael Phelps. Phelps earned 8 gold medals in the 2008 Olympics. This was a new record for the most gold medals one during a single Olympic games. The 2008 Olympic games also marked an end for two popular events: baseball and softball.

While a lot has changed about the Olympic games, some things remain the same. The games are still held every four years. Additionally, the International Sports Federation Rules apply to the event. There are gold, silver, and bronze medals given today, just as they were 116 years ago in Athens, Greece.

Which of the following events MOST LIKELY contributed to the grand success of the Olympics as it is today?