Politics

Since the 1936 Summer Olympics in Berlin, politics have played a major role at games. Although the games were awarded to Germany before the Nazi party came to power, Adolf Hitler saw the opportunity as a chance to show the world Germany's dominance as a new nation and ran with it. Since then, many countries have boycotted the Olympic games over the years for numerous reasons, most notably the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. Genocide in Darfur, human rights in China and the independent campaign of Tibet remain hot topics in Beijing.

I am pleased that no countries are boycotting this year. And, as always, is the discussion regarding the athletes and their personal political views. Should they speak out? Some scrutinize athletes for running their mouths, while others applaud their efforts. On the other hand, an athlete can be chastised for not speaking out against social and political injustices when they decide to keep quiet. I believe that every athlete has the right to discuss any issue they desire, but at the same time, they are athletes, not politicians, and cannot be expected to speak for a nation of people. If Kobe Bryant feels the need to, more power to him. I just pray that he did his homework.

Obscure Sports

I've grown up with a simple philosophy for defining what a sport is. There needs to be a ball, a race, a test of strength or a fight involved. If it doesn't, then it's not a sport, but rather an athletic activity. Case and point? Trampoline. The IOC is ditching baseball and softball but keep this?

Seriously, though, the Olympics do provide its viewers with sports that they would rarely see on television. My favorite to watch is table tennis. It amazes me that anyone can stand at a table with your opponent at the opposite side nine feet away, hitting a ping-pong ball as hard as possible, and that you can actually return the ball cleanly. Doubles is just insanity!

If you're not interested in politics, enjoy the next three weeks for what it is at its core - 10,000 athletes from 205 counties competing in 34 sports for the love of their country and the spirit of competition.