Grand finale brings Games to an end

A performer is shot out of a giant cannon at the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium August 12, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

Vivid memories

Many will remember London 2012 for the record-breaking exploits of American swimmer Michael Phelps, who took his life-time medal haul to 22 including 18 golds, making him the most decorated Olympian in history.

His tally helped the United States to the top of the Olympic table with 46 golds to second-placed China's 38, reversing the order of the Beijing Games in 2008.

There was, of course, Bolt, the biggest name in athletics and a charismatic ambassador for sprinting.

After winning the 4x100 he went on to a London nightclub to delight dancing fans with a turn as a DJ, shouting out "I am a legend" to the packed dancefloor.

Britons may recall Andy Murray demolishing world number one Roger Federer at Wimbledon to win the men's singles tennis gold, while Jessica Ennis, the "poster girl" of the Games, won the women's heptathlon on the first "super Saturday".

Despite concerns about the creaky transport system and a shortfall of private security guards, which forced the government to call in thousands of extra troops to help screen visitors, the Games have so far passed by fairly trouble-free.

A furore over empty seats at several Olympic venues blew over, especially once the track and field showcase kicked in and drew capacity crowds for virtually every session.

Even the weather improved as the Games wore on. Bright sunshine has graced the closing weekend of a festival that has helped to lift spirits in Britain.

A general view of the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium August 12, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]

Dream team

On the last day of sporting action, the US basketball team including the likes of LeBron James, Kevin Durant and Kobe Bryant downed Spain in a repeat of the final in Beijing in 2008.

The score of 107-100 reflected a closely fought contest played at breakneck speed in which Durant led the scoring with 30 points.

Earlier on Sunday, Stephen Kiprotich of Uganda broke away from two Kenyan rivals to win the men's marathon near Buckingham Palace before vast crowds, reflecting local enthusiasm for the Games despite doubts about the cost and potential disruption.

After running side by side with world champion Abel Kirui and Wilson Kipsang, the 23-year-old put in a powerful kick to shake off the Kenyans 6 km from the end.

The women's modern pentathlon was the final medal to be decided, and Lithuanian Laura Asadauskaite beat Briton Sam Murray to the gold to round off London's extravaganza of sport.

Giant jigsaw pieces form the face of British singer John Lennon during the closing ceremony of the London 2012 Olympic Games at the Olympic Stadium Aug 12, 2012. [Photo/Agencies]