Why an extra day makes leap years special

Grahm Staib, Writer

There is a certain aura around leap years where magnificent things seem to always happen. In the past few leap years alone there have been memorable sports (including the Olympics) moments, music, and presidential elections. If 2020 follows the luck that has happened in previous leap years, it could be a great and unforgettable year.

According to Scott Johnson in an article from The Odyssey, “It is safe to say that 2016 is the greatest year in the history of sports” 2016 (previous leap year) produced one of the most memorable years in sports history. Including the Chicago Cubs winning the World Series, LeBron and the Cleveland Cavaliers upsetting the 73-9 Warriors in the National Basketball Association finals, and Villanova’s buzzer-beater in the national championship. With many powerhouses such as the Golden State Warriors and the New England Patriots falling apart, there is the potential that many new superstars are set to emerge and create memorable moments in 2020. 

Outside of sports, leap years have consistently provided music that many people still listen to today. 2008 gave Lil Wayne’s Tha Carter III; 2012 saw the emergence of a young rapper from Compton by the name of Kendrick Lamar, who released a critically acclaimed album: Good Kid, M.a.a.d City, as well as Frank Ocean’s solo debut Channel Orange. 2016 was a year where albums such as Drake’s Views, Rihanna’s Anti, Frank Ocean’s’ Blonde, and Beyonce’s Lemonade were released. There are many albums that are set to release in 2020, only leading to more hope for a special year of music.

Leap Years also play host to the presidential elections. These elections usually bring about much-needed debates on improving as a nation. After hearing the opposing viewpoints from the two major political parties, the majority of the electoral college decides which direction the country will be taken. According to Real Clear Politics, there are a plethora of candidates that are contending against incumbent President Donald Trump. These Candidates include former Vice President Joe Biden, Senators Bernie Sanders, Elizabeth Warren and Amy Klobuchar, former South Bend Mayor Pete Buttigieg, former New York City Mayor Mike Bloomberg, as well as Businessmen Tom Steyer and Andrew Yang.

2020 has the potential to be a great year in music, sports, and politics alike. Every country will come together to celebrate the Olympic games, the world will come together and enjoy music dropped by beloved artists, and America will come together to decide its future in this lucky year.