157 Hungarians compete at the London Olympics

At the previous Olympic Games, Hungarian athletes have won 160 gold, 144 silver and 164 bronze medals and the 157 competitors representing Hungary at the 30th Summer Olympic Games in London hope to increase this medal collection.

The 468 medals mean Hungary is the most successful Olympic nation among those countries who have never hosted the Games. The most successful Olympic sport for Hungary is fencing with 34 gold medals. The most successful Hungarian Olympic athlete is also a fencer: Aladár Gerevich won seven gold medals in saber fencing at six Summer Games between 1932 and 1960.

Despite the glorious past, only four Hungarian fencers qualified for London 2012. In the past, Hungary also did well in swimming (23 gold medals) and the young Hungarian team featuring world and European champions wish to cherish the successful traditions.

Canoeing and wrestling produced 19 gold medals each in Hungarian Olympic history and the kayak and canoe paddlers are favored to increase the medal collection in London, as well. In gymnastics (14 gold medals, so far), Hungary features a hot favorite, world champion Krisztián Berki, to win the pommel horse event.

Regarding the chances for Hungarian medals at the London Olympics, the forecasts are divided. Most people would be happy if Hungarian athletes could surpass their medal collection (3 gold, 5 silver and 2 bronze) won four years ago in Beijing.