InventHelp’s Invention Girl was glued to the TV this past week, unable to turn away from the amazing lure of U.S. Olympic swimming team and star Michael Phelps. In case you’ve been hiding under a rock, Phelps is the fastest swimmer in the world and the most decorated Olympic athlete in history. And I feel like patting myself on the back when I work out on the Wii for a half hour!

If you’re a fan of Olympic swimming, then this year’s competition couldn’t have been more exciting. More than 20 Olympic swimming records have been shattered this year. While incredible determination, supreme coaching and refined techniques on the part of the athletes deserve most of the credit, a few inventions helped along the way.

Rumor has it that Beijing has invented the perfect pool. The Water Cube at the Beijing Olympics is being called a “swimmer’s temple,” boasting a unique combination of temperature and chemicals levels designed to help swimmers propel through the water. (We like to think we have our own “inventor’s temple” here at InventHelp headquarters!)

Super high-tech swim suits certainly don’t hurt, either. Speedo’s much-hyped, full-body LZR Racer has taken sleekness to a new level. Since its introduction in February, swimmers wearing the LZR Racer have claimed close to 50 world records. “When I hit the water [in the LZR Racer], I feel like a rocket,” claims Michael Phelps.

“Like a rocket” is putting it mildly. By his last race on Saturday, Phelps destroyed world records and took home a nearly unbelievable eight gold medals. InventHelp and Invention Girl say “congratulations” to Michael Phelps, the grandest of champions, and all athletes completing in the Olympics. Go U.S.A.!