Jacques Rogge, the International Olympic Committee president, criticized Jamaican sprinter Usain Bolt Thursday for showing a lack of respect to other competitors after his record-breaking gold medal performances in the 100 and 200 meters. After both events, Bolt celebrated effusively following his world-record runs.
I didn't see much wrong with Bolt's celebration. Rogge did.
The IOC head said about Bolt in an interview with three international news agency reporters: "I have no problem with him doing a show. I think he should show more respect for his competitors and shake hands, give a tap on the shoulder to the other ones immediately after the finish and not make gestures like the one he made in the 100 meters.... He still has to mature.... That's not the way we perceive being a champion. But he will learn in time. He should shake hands with his competitors and not ignore them. He'll learn that sooner or later."
Local sprinter Shawn Crawford, who ended up winning the silver medal in the 200, said he enjoyed Bolt's histrionics. Said Crawford following the 200: "There are mixed feelings from athletes about him. Some are a little disappointed with the way he acts. But to me, I don’t feel like it’s disrespectful.… He deserves to dance. Dance and laugh and have a good time because you put in the work. I don’t think it’s disrespectful. It doesn’t bother me. I love it."
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9 years ago
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This is what Rogge worries about when the IOC awarded the Olympics to a totalitarian government with no religious freedom and no freedom of speech. This is what he worries about when the integrity of the games is being threatened by a Chinese sports regime that has turned cheating into an art form. What a joke?
Rogge is stating what may be unpopular, but true. It needs to be said. The repression of a country's people is sad. Sadder still is the lack of humanity so visible in our world today. Bolt failed to show either compassion, or respect for his fellow athletes, who are desrving of both, following such an event. I can understand his joy and celebration. I cannot excuse his disregard for his competitors, without whom he would have no celebrity. Bolt is a great athlete. He is not a great role model.
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