It's been years since I've been even moderately excited about watching the Olympics. Although I am in awe of the athletic prowess of these young competitors, I am also suspicious that some of the amazing feats they perform may be aided by some form of banned substances (i.e. performance-enhancing drugs). However, I still enjoy watching the gymnastics, even though the networks manage to ruin the continuity by cutting back and forth between unrelated events, therefore extending the amount of time I have to spend in front of the TV.
Although the men's gymnastic team did not get the results they wanted, the women's team has done phenomenally well. Kudos to Virginia's own Gabrielle Douglas, who is an amazing powerhouse of strength, athleticism and beauty. And at only 16 years old! She has a bright career ahead.
I really miss the "old" Olympics, though, when the judges held up scorecards and the announcers would boom the numbers over the venue loudspeaker. It was less complicated and a more "pure" event. Today's scoring system needs the analytical mind of a mathematician to understand all the subtle nuances.
Regardless of the medal count, none of the legitimate athletes that perform in good faith are losers. They should be proud to be part of the elite representing their countries. I just wish the news media would realize that, too, and stop calling anything less than a gold medal a "disgrace." Their commentary is a disgrace -- NOT the loss of a first place prize.
No comments:
Post a Comment