2 versions of US anthem @ Olympics?

Question

Has anyone noticed they are playing 2 versions of the Star Spangled Banner at the Olympics? The version they are playing in the Water Cube sucks, sounds like its skipping and is a more "sensitive and airy" composition. The version played at our gymnastics win today is the version we all know and love, full of power and excitement!

So, what gives? Why the 2 versions? Does the loud version echo too much in the pool?

Answer 1

I noticed that too. Actually, I heard three versions. During the first gold ceremony for Phelps they played a horrible version of it which repeated the first part and didn't even finish right. I was embarrassed for him. The next time they played it for him, it was that old wimpier version that I know I've heard before in a previous Olympics.  I remember being disappointed in it then, too. I was glad to hear the better version tonight being played for the gymnastics win, too.

I don't know who is in charge of deciding on the recordings of national anthems, whether it's the host country or the winning country.  

Answer 2

i justed watched what your talking about. it's 11pm here  in san diego,ca. michael phelps starts in 15 mins. they played 2 versions of the u.s. anthem and was wondering why they played 2 differant kinds

Answer 3

I thnk you're on to something about the echo in the pool.