I don't have a link, but there were reports a few days ago that the US Olympic Committee had issued orders to the effect that athletes were to refrain from overly nationalistic celebrations, such as the now common flag waving victory lap. Apparently in the wake of the war and sour world opinion, the Committee fears such celebrations could spark a backlash or ugly incident.
I am going to surprise some of you and say I agree with this suggestion. I have always found the chants of "U-S-A, U-S-A", to be in questionable taste( ok, except for the "Miracle on Ice") and some of the past celebrations smacked of no taste at all. One of the problems with the Olympics has been that the nationalism has overshadowed the true spirit of the competition. That spirit was about respectful competition, not rubbing losers' noses in it, or asserting our country is superior because one guy whose ancestors were brought here in a slave ship can run the fastest.
If anyone is having trouble understanding my position, I suggest you get a copy of Chariots of Fire.
I am going to surprise some of you and say I agree with this suggestion. I have always found the chants of "U-S-A, U-S-A", to be in questionable taste( ok, except for the "Miracle on Ice") and some of the past celebrations smacked of no taste at all. One of the problems with the Olympics has been that the nationalism has overshadowed the true spirit of the competition. That spirit was about respectful competition, not rubbing losers' noses in it, or asserting our country is superior because one guy whose ancestors were brought here in a slave ship can run the fastest.
If anyone is having trouble understanding my position, I suggest you get a copy of Chariots of Fire.
