Calgary's 1988 games are remembered for the appearance of novice Olympians, Eddie "The Eagle" Edwards, and Jamaica's bobsleigh team (as dramatised in the film 'Cool Runnings').

Despite being heavily outmatched by their competitors, these try-hards won the hearts of the spectators and the world's media, much to the annoyance of many superior athletes.

Venues for the downhill events included Nakiska, which was built especially for the games and remains a popular ski resort to this day.