The opening ceremony is next week and all the world will be watching the greatest athletes compete for the Gold.

In 1912, Jim Thorpe won the gold medal in the decathlon. He also won the gold medal in the Classic Pentathlon, which was discontinued after the 1924 Games.

Because of the discontinuation, he is the only Olympian to have ever won both events.

In Native American Son, Kate Buford traces the pivotal moments of Thorpe’s incomparable career, while recounting the difficulties he faced as a Native American.

The 2012 Decathlon, which is a two day event, will start on August 8 and the current champion is American, Brian Clay. Will the U.S. win again?

Click here for the official Web site of the 2012 London Games.