Olympic Let Down

I got into an argument with my Mom today. I presented a hypothetical situation and asked her opinion.

That was a mistake.

"If you had to choose, which would you rather have - a Super Bowl ring or an Olympic Gold Medal?" I asked.

"A Gold Medal, no doubt," she answered.

"You're wrong," I countered.

"Get out of my house," she replied.

Now don't get me wrong, I understand the importance of the Olympics. I'm as patriotic as the next American and will root for any American in any event. But to me, the Olympics are anti-climactic.

Athletes prepare for four years for their one chance to compete. That doesn't even include the numerous qualifiers they have to make it through.

The focus and dedication it takes is unmatched in any other sport.

And what do they get for it? A medal if they're on the top of their game at that particular moment. A few endorsements if they're marketable. Maybe a groupie or two.

But when all is said and done and their time has passed, where does that put them? Can you tell me who won the women's' 100 meter backstroke in 1996? Now can you tell me who won the Super Bowl in the 1996 season?

Answer A) Beth Botsford
Answer B) The Green Bay Packers

My guess is more people got B right.

I'll take my Super Bowl ring, my five figure bonus and six figure minimum salary from the NFL. Mom, you can have your $1,000 in endorsements.

Maybe I'll buy insurance from you after you retire from the Olympics.

An Olympic athlete can prepare for their one shot their entire life. They can train 80 hours a week for four straight years. But if they slip once on the big stage, it's over. There is no next season. Sure they can go to Worlds, or compete in other events - but that's like winning the CFL Championship. Who cares?

That isn't meant to knock the athletes who are competing in Beijing. I have an enormous amount of respect for them and they will return as Hero's.

But in a month from now when the Olympics are in the rear view mirror, it's back to the real world. Not everyone can bask in the glory of the Games like Michael Phelps.

Don't miss my point here - an Olympic Gold Medal is very impressive, to say the least. If you go to a bar and bring it with you, everyone will gather around to hear your story.

You just better hope someone else picks up the bill.