There is nothing quite like an Olympic Games to stir up conversation, whether it be of a philosophical nature, controversy or just the simple chatter of fans predicting the outcome of their favourite sports.
While it’s understandable that the flourish and extravagance that has become the hallmark of the Olympics has become its greatest detractor, especially when held in countries with large populations of impoverished, it is not reason to call for the end of the ancient event.
We would never discourage people from protesting the inequities the Games have come to embody, but instead of calling or their end, we might want to think about calling for their repair.
Ironically, on the outside of the flurry of debate surrounding costs, politics, terrorism, religion and the array of differences the Olympics are supposed to transcend are the athletes – the people that should be the event’s focus.
These men and women train their whole lives for the opportunity to represent their nations, communities and sport on the global stage for what is the pinnacle of their athletic careers. For some it will be their one and only shot at an Olympic medal.
These athletes don’t compete for money. They don’t spend countless hours becoming the best they can be for an hourly wage. They do it for the pure passion and love of the sport, and the chance to stand on the podium in front of the world.
On the ice, track or snow, politics, religion and ethnicity do not matter. What matters is athletes giving it their all in fair competition. The erosion of fairness, as nations and athletes use drugs to enhance athletes, is the truest assault on the games.
As the Olympic Committee tries to get doping under control, protests and politicking should be put on hold during the Games themselves. There are two-year intervals between the summer and winter events that people can push for improvements to this important global event.
In the meantime, take the time to cheer on your country’s team. Those new to Canada might have two teams to root for.
Also, take into consideration that for all its flaws, the Olympics is still an event that can have leaders from North Korea and the United States share the same space in relative peace.
We here in Cochrane are extra fortunate. Not only do we get to cheer on our national team, when we watch the men’s hockey or the men’s luge team compete, we also have the chance to support hometown athletes Mason Raymond and Tristan Walker. Both men have excellent chances at medals.
At the last Olympics Walker and his luge team placed fourth in all their events, putting him in contention for a podium spot. Raymond is part of a Team Canada hockey dynasty that has only missed the podium seven times in 21 games and boast nine gold medals, four silver medals and two bronze medals.
Good luck Raymond and Walker, you have done this community proud.
