Monday, August 6, 2012

Olympic Thoughts 8/6/2012 - Gymnastics, 400 meters

The usual darlings of Team USA during summer Olympics competition, women's gymnastics, has proved a bit unlikable at the 2012 London Games.

Except for Gabby Douglas, the US women's gymnastics team has come across as dour, pouty, distant and (excuse the language) bitchy little divas. Of course I don't know any of them personally, but just what has come across the television has not been flattering.

OK, I realize that the past four years of theirs lives have been geared towards this one moment.  I cannot possibly understand what that is like.  But for the love of  God and country, you're an Olympian.  Act like one.  Yes, you're disappointed.  Yes, you screwed up.  But remember, this is the Olympics.  You are not only representing yourself, but your country.  Show some pride.

More Missy Franklin, less McKayla Maroney.

Now, really.  Not one male from the United States of America is good enough to make the finals of the 400 meters?  In this great country of ours, we don't have one guy who can beat a double amputee?*  Disgraceful.  In an event where the Americans have swept the medals in the past, not to put one person even in the finals is, to quote The Princess Bride, inconceivable.

*Oscar Pistorius, double amputee from South Africa provided the quote of the games so far:  "I grew up not thinking I had a disability.  I grew up thinking I had different shoes."

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