JOLLY DAYS

The Olympics: A Miscellany

Miscellaneous observations about the Olympics thus far:

• There should be no sporting event that requires the modifier “synchronized”.
• You can't be the “world's greatest athlete” by winning a heap of swimming medals.
• The camera is focusing in too tight in the awards ceremonies.
• How did volleyball get to be an Olympic event? How about tetherball as well?
• Most sports are boring to watch. Especially water sports.
• On the hot meter, so far, the Chinese female divers are the clear winner. However, in the clips for upcoming events, there may be some contenders in track and field.
• China was able to clear the polluted air, somewhat, by simply shutting down, or severely delimiting, all industry, building, and auto/commuter activity. The tension between “green” and economic growth never more evident. It is interesting they were able to make a dent — the toxic fumes diminished.
• Listing “medals won” is a truly hollow enterprise.
• Gymnastics should have 18 rather than 16 as the entry level age for competition. It should actually be enforced — the way they are finally trying to do with performance enhancing drugs.