I'm sure most of you have seen protests surrounding the Olympic Torch Run (More like walk, I've only seen them run once.) The protesters are upset about China's treatment of the people of Tibet. I sympathize with the protesters. China has a horrible record on human rights and I believe it was a mistake for the International Olympic Committee to ever allow China to host the games.
I have been disturbed at some of the protests also, I think they have been more violent than what they should be. Especially since Tibet is know for promoting peace and non-violence. I think the protesters are right to protest, but I think they should seek more peaceful means to protest.
Some are calling for a boycott of the Olympic Games. Personally, I think that only hurt the athletes. These athletes have worked hard for years to have this chance. For many of them, this will be the only chance they have to compete in the Olympics.
A few athletes are calling for a boycott. If an individual athlete does not want to compete in the Olympics because they disagree with China's treatment of Tibet, that is fine, let them. However, that should not mean that all athletes should be forced to do that because of the decision of a few.
Again, I think China has been guilty of wrong doing. I think the I. O. C. was wrong in their selection of China as a host city. (Besides the social/political problems, the air pollution is terrible there.) I support anyone who peacefully protests China and their treatment of Tibet.
Note: The Women's Olympic Marathon Trials are the Day before Boston. Good Luck Ladies!!
Comments (8)
Boycott the Olympic Opening Session? Only the Dems would think of that....Pres Carter boycotted the Olympics and ruined the lifelong ambition of alot of athletes....don't want to see that repeated!
Mike
Thanks Mike, I forgot that one. Boycott the opening session, don't know who thought of it, but that is dumb, it is meaningless!!
Let the athletes compete, let the leaders lead!! Thanks for your comments!
Mike
I agree with the principles, just not the platform the people are choosing to go about this! I echo your thoughts -- let the athletes have their games and find another medium to resolve the world issues!
RYC: thanks for your support & comments, they are always welcome and appreciated! After your mini you should try a spin class, you might just get hooked too! I like it because it's such a high effort, it builds muscle and burns fat, my knees don't hurt, and I'm probably more toned than I was when running all those miles. And it doesn't take nearly much time to do.
How much longer do you have before the big race?
Thanks for clearing it all up! I have seen tidbits on the news, but didn't have enough time to pay attention this morning! I didn't know either that China is hosting the olympics... you probably think I live in a cave. I agree that people should have the right to protest, in fact I might even be one of them if I could. But never in violence. What does violence accomplish... makes their protest seem a bit ubserd since they're protesting violence. I agree with all you said in your post!
I'm torn in the same way about China hosting the Olympics. It just seems contradictory with everything the Olympics represent. But I agree...don't punish the Athletes. What we need to do is have all the free contries go in and just DOMINATE. That would be the best representation of our strength.
Important thoughts well stated.
ryc: Coincidentally, I've got to get over to Garmin this week, for the first time, to get an extra cradle so I've got a charger both at the office and at home. My local running store where I bought my Garmin doesn't sell the accessories and I guess Garmin now has a store. If you were serious, let me know if you need me to check on or take care of something while I'm there.I agree. Regardless of the political situation, it is not fair to the athletes to prevent them from participating in the Olympics.