Let The Game's Begin

Ever since the announcement was made that Beijing, China’s capital city, were to host the 2008 Olympic Games there has been controversy surrounding the issue. Unless you have been living out in Mongolia for the last few years you will have heard of the dreadful Human Right’s record of the Chinese Government- although out in Mongolia you may even have felt the effects of that record.

Most of the focus has, of course, been on the problems concerning neighbouring Tibet and, in particular, the extradition of the Dalai Lama. However there are other issues that have caused controversy, most notably the 1989 Tiananmen Square ‘Massacre’ where hundreds of students and protesters were killed in one of Beijing’s main focal points after demonstrations got out of hand. Another recent issue to occur is the problem of pollution in the city that many believe will have an effect on the endurance events at the Games. Some of America’s cyclists pushed this further into the spotlight by arriving in Beijing wearing ludicrous face masks to ‘protect’ themselves that were surely more of a statement than a precaution taken to help with their performance in their respective events.

Whatever anyone thinks about the hosting of these Games, and no matter how many (non-violent) protests are made the Games will go ahead and everyone will leave China with smiley-happy faces and regard this years Olympics as one of the greatest ever, comparisons will of course be made with the magnificent 2000 Games in Sydney. The Olympic Games are THE greatest show on earth, it gives sports that would not normally be given any media exposure the chance to shine- which is why, as a side issue, I believe a Great Britain team at the 2012 Games would be detrimental for the event. It creates a real sense of community for everyone involved and any issues that are concerning the Chinese government need to be dealt with once the Games are complete. If they are not, I have a very bad feeling that a group or individual will take their protests too far which could potentially result in catastrophic consequences.

I understand that something needs to be done regarding the record in China and their Government should not be allowed to use the ‘Greatest Show on Earth’ in their apparent propaganda but the truth is, the decision has been made and only a serious and over the top protest will prevent those in charge coming away from Beijing deeming it a success, but that alternative could prove a lot worse.