I posted none...although I may catch a few here and there...
Winter Olympics is the one I watch more of..still not like I used to.
For me the msm has really wrecked it with the non-stop commercials, half-hour sob stories of some athlete...on and on, you wait forever for the real competition, then you have the know-it-all talking head commentators that drive me insane with all of their comments during the competition and you just want them to shut-up most of the time so you can just sit back and enjoy ect.
It just isn't what it used to be...I used to really look forward to it, watch it all.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~Rush Limbaugh
You hit the big reasons, BT. Here are some of my minor reasons, including: 1) The very narrow list of their favorite events (rather than all of the events); 2) The exclusive focus on U.S. participation -- unless, of course, there is a "human interest" story of another country's athlete, or anything of a socialist nature; 3) This year, all of the to-be-told stories of how wonderful China is; 4) Drugs -- how many athletes are going to be disqualified again this year, or 8 years from now? 5) The inevitible comparisons with the U.S. -- "why can't the U.S. be like this?" stories; 6) The breaks in action in single events and the long, long lead-up to each U.S. medal; 7) The airing of the finals for each event at 11:00pm or so, just so they can draw a larger audience for their news shows or other shows they want to highlight; and finally 8) Because the IOC, China, and others get too much money out of this, and I want to see NBC lose big.
___________________________________
If you can read this, thank a teacher. If it is in English, thank aSoldier. - My barber
The only Olympic thing I like to watch is figure skating. For me it isn't even about them being in China. They could be in Des Moines and I still wouldn't watch because I don't care.
The world is burning up and we're out of gas while millions watch kids games.
Just kidding, I no longer watch any sports since they have become so 'controlled' by sponsors they are all phony. I was once a big football fan and a NASCAR fan until the last couple of years. Now even NASCAR if corporate controlled down to 10th place. Only a real accident changes the predetermined result as it does the scores in all sports.
You must get TIVO or similar. Your old, retired and you do not have time to watch commercials since the end is near. ;-) You'll be even more glad of it.
As much as possible, I will not support China. They're crapping all over the environment, have no respect for human life, and take jobs from Americans. America should boycott them, but they own a huge chunk of our country, so I guess the U.S. is stuck.
Plus, I sure as hell won't support NBC in any way, shape, or form. No way!
I only intend to watch a few things of particular interest and to educate my 5 year old on what the Olympics are. IMO, the networks past and present are really missing the boat- they could do all the personal interest crap on the main network channel (i.e. NBC) and do nothing but action (i.e. no footage of the 5 minutes between heats of the 100m trials) on the "cable" channels (i.e. CNBC, MSNBC). I'm definitely inclined to watch far less based on NBC's collective conduct in recent years.
I'm no anti-China activist in any way, shape, or form, but it really disgusts me how the press is totally in the tank if either of the following apply:
1. Their jobs are on the line (NBC news people wouldn't dare do an anti-China story that hit very hard since they are the host network)
2. They're sympathetic to the cause (i.e. communists).
The games haven't even started and there are already several story lines that the press should be going ape over but aren't:
a. denial of visas to ex-olympic athletes/Darfur posters
All the reasons BT cited, plus I'm getting to where I just can't stand the networks and I just don't want to patronise them. I'm already down to maybe 3 hours of TV/week.
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."
I hate sports in the first place, but I usually follow the Olympics just out of international interest's sakes. This time I am completely boycotting because I refuse to give the commies any credit.
My wife will have the men's swimming on when the stud, what's his name from the U.S. is competing. It should only be about 3 DAYS!! Is there any woman's beach volley ball? I might (WILL DO!) have to check that out.
Instead of good training, good diet and good exercise and practice, so many atheletes are so doped up it is no longer a competition, but a contest over who has the best drugs for their atheletes. The Olympics are a joke.
All this is sad, of course, for so many, young, aspiring atheletes, who do not use enhancement drugs.
Mostly because it's on NBC (2 words - Matt Lauer). Then there's the issue that it should have never been in China (it's just doggone wrong on many levels).
We've got a local in at least one of the competitions. I'll watch that one. Otherwise, meh, nothing doing here!
Fascism is a religious conception in which man is seen in his imminent relationship with a superior law and with an objective will that transcends the particular individual - Mussolini
Spamming the globe to bring us the constant variety of political sport! The thrill of victory tingling up your leg...and the agony of defeat to the capitalists! The human drama of athletic and political competition! This is MSNBC Sports!
Not sure if I would watch even if I got NBC, but I don't, so I won't. Yup, I only get one lonely chanel, a CBS affiliate. Thank goodness I can watch 24 online.
Well I work at an NBC station so I'll probably see some just in passing...but I won't watch it on my down time, mainly because I don't want to hear the lies about how great China is or how happy Chinese people are living there. Horrible human rights, religious oppression, and pollution should be a focus there but we know NBC won't highlight any of that.
Oh, wow! I'm so sorry. The stress of the NBC environment must be huge. I hope you have some great employees there to make the job worth it. I can not even imagine and I used to work in the bond market! I love where I work now.
On which NBC affil you work at? I will not be watching ANY Olympics coverage. Besides, MLB already has something that is very convincing. It's called a pennant race.
By the by Tater I will take responsibility should this NBC station fire you or do anything to you. You are a victim of what I call the Corporate Fascist media--where media outlets are run by coroprate tycoons who tend to lean to the fascist left.
and it's fairly liberal. I listen to his drivel about how we (Americans) are the Nazi's of our time. We've had a go around with that perception.
No offense intended here, as I can seperate the individual from the politics of the unit, and I have a high respect for the working man/woman, but the good news is, NBC has little credibility these days, so not many are going to pay much attention to what is being said by the commentators at the Olympics.
"we should immediately give every working family in America a
$1,000 energy rebate, and we should pay for it with part of the record
profits that the oil companies are making" Barack Hussein Obama, Communist
I won't watch any of the Olympic Games. Not interested. NBC is just going to have to find another way of plugging its awful fall lineup. I haven't watched the Olympics since the ad nauseum coverage of the obnoxiously self-annointed "Dream Team" in 1992. I'm not about to start now. NBC's predictable, but sickening glorification of China only makes this spectacle more unwatchable.
"Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." -Ronald Reagan
Hopefully the HD coverage will be better this time around. If I ever see that Sony HD TV commercial again, I'll scream....
As for Olympic events, please get rid of any event whose outcome is determined solely by a panel of judges. In other words, no gymnastics. And to make shooting and archery events more challenging, get rid of all the high tech accoutrements to the weapon - is it the person or all the gizmos on the weapon that do all the work. Horse riding events? Get rid of them. It's the horse doing all the work.
Very surprised with the vote totals so far. I thought watching these games were supporting American athletes and not NBC or China.
I will be watching gymnastics, the 100 meter dash and going for the USA. Some might find this unpatriotic, but I will be cheering for the USA in all sports, but not sure if I will root for the Dream Team this year.
I used to enjoy the Olympics. I was a kid growing up in Southern California when the 1984 Olympics took place, and I was really sad when the closing ceremonies were over. But I detest the Olympic Games now...and I'll give you a list as to why...
1) The creation of the "Dream Team". In the aftermath of the defeat to the Soviets in Seoul, the incorporation of the NBA into the Olympics to show everyone "who's really the best" was an obnoxious marketing gimmick made to prove a point...once. Unfortunately, the nature of the hype surrounding the original "Dream Team" (even the nickname is nauseating) meant that the stunt couldn't be the one-off it was originally meant to be. And the point that was proven was that Americans couldn't accept defeat graciously. Now we're stuck with the incessant hype and preening brought to you by David Stern.
2) The network switch from ABC to NBC. Jim McKay, Kathleen Sullivan and even Frank Gifford brought an air of competence and class to the Olympics. Once NBC took over, we got stuck with the self-absorbed, pseudo-know-it-all Bob Costas to talk down to us...and the inevitable Olympic Villager interviews on the Today Show with (vomit) Matt and Katie.
3) The calendar switch of the Winter Olympics. Up until 1994, both Winter and Summer Olympic Games were played in the same calendar year. Then some gasbag (probably that criminal Juan Antonio Samaranch) got the bright idea to move the Winter Games to years divisible by 2 and the Summer games to years divisible by four. Now we're oversaturated with the Olympics as they happen every two years. It just isn't that special anymore.
4) The figure skating soap operas. From Tonya Harding, to the irritating Nancy Kerrigan and from the lead pipe to "the French judge", these subjective "sports" have reduced much of the Olympic drama to gossip. And the way that that Canadian pair managed to whine their way to a supplemental gold medal (when other, more wronged athletes like Evander Holyfield and Roy Jones, Jr. took their injustices with some dignity) simply made a mockery of the competition. By the way, I mean no offense by referring to them as "that Canadian pair"...I know you're originally from Canada...I simply don't remember their names, nor could I be bothered to retrieve them. I, for one, wish that Ben Johnson could have kept that gold medal...with or without steroids, he earned it in my book. He kicked Carl Lewis' a**, and far too many glorious Olympic moments had been saved for that self-righteous turd already.
5) The corruption. Always on the take, these well-fed, smug IOC blowhards make the UN look like the Sisters of Mercy. I'm surprised Kofi and Kojo Annan didn't get to replace Samaranch once he mercifully retired.
6) The incessant packaging. I'm sick and tired of the networks and marketers telling audiences who they should be rooting for and why these athletes are so spectacular. If their pursuits were so worthwhile, we wouldn't need the carnival barkers telling us what we should be looking for ad nauseum.
7) The need for anyone covering the Olympics to tell us how important this event is and why we should be interested. Over the years, the media coverage of the Olympics has become very self-focused, as if we should give a damn what transportation, information, logistical and government headaches they have to negotiate to bring us the news.
8) Frankly, there are far more interesting sports to be played. NFL and College Football are getting close, baseball is approaching post-season and (my personal favorite), the football (soccer to some of you) season is starting up in England and Scotland this month. And if that fails to fill the time, there's paint to dry and grass to grow.
and finally...
9) The way we're all expected to tiptoe around the Chinese Government so as not to offend. While we're subjected to daily lectures from Western Europe and liberals throughout the world about how the United States has to slow down its economy for the betterment of earth, as usual, we're not permitted to point out that there's a major double standard for the Chinese...from Kyoto to the real violations of human rights. I'm not about to sit through hours of NBC's political hand-wringing in between seemingly endless promos for 30 Rock.
Perhaps this was a long-winded dissertation, but it fully explains my reasons for not giving a cr** about the Olympics. Cheers, Shawn.
-fitz
"Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." -Ronald Reagan
I remember the 84 games as well. I was 13 years old and I really did not understand politics at all. I was amazed on how this country called the USA kept winning all these medals and no one could even touch them.
I did not find out, until I was 17 that the Germans and Soviet Union boycotted those Olympics.
I am looking forward to these Olympics because this is the first time in my life I can enjoy it in high def, instead of fuzzy 27 inch tube tv.
I agree with you about the Dream Team, that is why I am considering for rooting against them.
I thought the 96 Olympics and the ladies gymnastics and what Keri Strug did was one of the greatest moments I ever witnessed Roy Jones Jr. Losing the gold was one of the worst.Who can forget the Miracle on Ice
Also, I try to hope there will not be too much politics involved in these games. I just want to cheer on our athletes and hope they win lots of medals.
That is my take on the Olympics fitz and i'm looking forward to them, but I do see your POV and can understand why you are less than enchanted by watching them
I used to watch the Olympics pretty regularly. I particularly liked the winter games. I still remember the US victory over Russia in the 1980 hockey game. Amatuers defeating professionals.
But, since they've decided to let profesional atheletes in back in the 90's I've totally lost interest. I dont care who wins what or loses what.
"There is none so blind as they that won’t see."
Jonathan Swift 1667-1745
I'll probably watch a lot but mainly in the second week when the track and field starts. A lot will depend on the time zone difference. Beijing is 15 hours ahead of pacific time. Not going to watch as much if I already know the results.
I will watch some of the events, because in my opinion, I'm supporting the athletes first.
I have no problem with the games being held in Beijing. Seems to me that of late, China's horrible record on everything is now at the forefront, and it's not giving communism a warm fuzzy glow by any stretch.
My daughter is now the age I was (7) when the Games came to Montreal. I doubt she'll ever be as engaged as I was back in those days (there's more commanding our attention now than there was back then), but I'm hoping she'll be interested in the sports she enjoys, namely women's soccer and swimming.
I always enjoyed the running events, as well as the oddball sports that you never even think about until the Games roll around. Does anything beat speed walking?
I'll be checking out our Olympics On Demand hoping that it'll have the events we want to watch, without all the touchy feely stuff that gets quite annoying fast. Or the commercials.
And now your quiz: Can you figure out how old is Hero Squad?
*****
"People only insist that a debate stop when they are afraid of what might be learned if it continues." - George Will
are the two olympic sports that are the most thrilling to me!
I'm hoping the competition gets incredibly intense and a brawl breaks out among the contestants. I could just see the Bulgarian ribbon twirling team rushing the French on the mats as the French try an illegal 720 twirl with a flip twist. I could see one of those athletes going down when two Bulgarians perform a well-executed chop block on her.
I voted none. The single reason I will not watch the Olympics is because NBC is airing them. They have invested hundreds of millions of dollars to air them, I hope they do not get a return on their investment. Low ratings are the only way we can affect these Olympics.
None. I have recently discovered that life is short and limited span we are alotted is better spent watching Spaghetti Westerns or sleazy Alien ripoffs than propaganda for totalitarian regimes. I know our athletes with kick ass and they have my best wishes, but watching the major networks and their corporate sponsors cowtow to the ChiComs is not my idea of a good time.
I don't mind at all the NBA players on the American basketball team. Other countries were using 25 to 35 year old professionals and those nations were producing better talent than what colleges could produce at the time. This year as in past Olympics other nations will also feature NBA players and most of their rosters are filled with pro players from other leagues including strong European leagues.
I will watch some events when I'm home but won't stay home or change plans to do so. There are too many human interest stories for my liking. I can't see the need, does the average housewife think "Darn, they didn't do a feature on my favorite gymnast's battle with anorexia, I'm going to watch a rerun of Desperate Housewives instead!"
I'd watch every minute if the added real football to the mix. I'll likely watch basketball, softball, and track.
Editor at Large
Comments Policy
I posted none...although I
August 6, 2008 - 22:37 ET by bigtimerI posted none...although I may catch a few here and there...
Winter Olympics is the one I watch more of..still not like I used to.
For me the msm has really wrecked it with the non-stop commercials, half-hour sob stories of some athlete...on and on, you wait forever for the real competition, then you have the know-it-all talking head commentators that drive me insane with all of their comments during the competition and you just want them to shut-up most of the time so you can just sit back and enjoy ect.
It just isn't what it used to be...I used to really look forward to it, watch it all.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
...on and on
August 7, 2008 - 05:51 ET by ThisnThatYou hit the big reasons, BT. Here are some of my minor reasons, including: 1) The very narrow list of their favorite events (rather than all of the events); 2) The exclusive focus on U.S. participation -- unless, of course, there is a "human interest" story of another country's athlete, or anything of a socialist nature; 3) This year, all of the to-be-told stories of how wonderful China is; 4) Drugs -- how many athletes are going to be disqualified again this year, or 8 years from now? 5) The inevitible comparisons with the U.S. -- "why can't the U.S. be like this?" stories; 6) The breaks in action in single events and the long, long lead-up to each U.S. medal; 7) The airing of the finals for each event at 11:00pm or so, just so they can draw a larger audience for their news shows or other shows they want to highlight; and finally 8) Because the IOC, China, and others get too much money out of this, and I want to see NBC lose big.
___________________________________
If you can read this, thank a teacher. If it is in English, thank a Soldier. - My barber
I voted zero
August 6, 2008 - 23:03 ET by candanceThe only Olympic thing I like to watch is figure skating. For me it isn't even about them being in China. They could be in Des Moines and I still wouldn't watch because I don't care.
i will watch the protestor
August 7, 2008 - 08:42 ET by TruthMongeri will watch the protestor crackdowns, the deadly smog alerts, and Matt Lauer rave about all the happy people
World burning...
August 6, 2008 - 23:23 ET by ScrapironThe world is burning up and we're out of gas while millions watch kids games.
Just kidding, I no longer watch any sports since they have become so 'controlled' by sponsors they are all phony. I was once a big football fan and a NASCAR fan until the last couple of years. Now even NASCAR if corporate controlled down to 10th place. Only a real accident changes the predetermined result as it does the scores in all sports.
Old, Retired and glad of it.
Trying to Help
August 7, 2008 - 00:16 ET by Kirk HallYou must get TIVO or similar. Your old, retired and you do not have time to watch commercials since the end is near. ;-) You'll be even more glad of it.
Now that's an olympic sport
August 7, 2008 - 10:59 ET by Dr_LibertyInstead of ping pong, it would be great if NASCAR was an olympic sport. Perhaps next time it is in the US we can suggest that one.
<insert witty signature here>
None
August 6, 2008 - 23:30 ET by iconoclastAs much as possible, I will not support China. They're crapping all over the environment, have no respect for human life, and take jobs from Americans. America should boycott them, but they own a huge chunk of our country, so I guess the U.S. is stuck.
Plus, I sure as hell won't support NBC in any way, shape, or form. No way!
I'm with you Icon
August 7, 2008 - 00:26 ET by hungarianfalconI only intend to watch a few things of particular interest and to educate my 5 year old on what the Olympics are. IMO, the networks past and present are really missing the boat- they could do all the personal interest crap on the main network channel (i.e. NBC) and do nothing but action (i.e. no footage of the 5 minutes between heats of the 100m trials) on the "cable" channels (i.e. CNBC, MSNBC). I'm definitely inclined to watch far less based on NBC's collective conduct in recent years.
I'm no anti-China activist in any way, shape, or form, but it really disgusts me how the press is totally in the tank if either of the following apply:
1. Their jobs are on the line (NBC news people wouldn't dare do an anti-China story that hit very hard since they are the host network)
2. They're sympathetic to the cause (i.e. communists).
The games haven't even started and there are already several story lines that the press should be going ape over but aren't:
a. denial of visas to ex-olympic athletes/Darfur posters
b. pollution/environment
c. restrictions on reporters
d. abuse of reporters
PATHETIC
HF
Thanks icon......
August 7, 2008 - 05:37 ET by MOONSTRUCKI did not realize the games are on nbc. Change my vote to none.
MOONSTRUCK
August 7, 2008 - 05:52 ET by Cool ArrowHaven't you heard? The Chinese people are happy.
And please don't let a little thing like NBC's parent company (GE) aiding our Iranian enemies stop you from enjoying the propaga.. er, I mean games.
LYDSEXICS UNTIE
I Went For None
August 6, 2008 - 23:26 ET by geoff.galeAll the reasons BT cited, plus I'm getting to where I just can't stand the networks and I just don't want to patronise them. I'm already down to maybe 3 hours of TV/week.
"All that is necessary for the triumph of evil is that good men do nothing."
- Edmund Burke (1729 - 1797)
www.conservativeboot...
I hate sports in the first
August 6, 2008 - 23:54 ET by Warner Todd HustonI hate sports in the first place, but I usually follow the Olympics just out of international interest's sakes. This time I am completely boycotting because I refuse to give the commies any credit.
NBC doing the olympics, again,, balance beam ..monopoly.
August 6, 2008 - 23:56 ET by upcountrywaterHow about more of the Hammer throw, discus ,shotput..HIGH JUMP! Track and field! Dump gymnastics PLEASE!!
No chance'em in the "misty" air of happy china.
Mostly indoor shots to not show off the SMOG.
None..was my vote. however youtube clips later.
I'm wondering how hard it would be to upload a home video, to YT, from china?
Liberals62%
IranianUranium
I will see more than enough
August 7, 2008 - 00:19 ET by Kirk HallMy wife will have the men's swimming on when the stud, what's his name from the U.S. is competing. It should only be about 3 DAYS!! Is there any woman's beach volley ball? I might (WILL DO!) have to check that out.
Olympic circus
August 7, 2008 - 01:10 ET by wdhorningInstead of good training, good diet and good exercise and practice, so many atheletes are so doped up it is no longer a competition, but a contest over who has the best drugs for their atheletes. The Olympics are a joke.
All this is sad, of course, for so many, young, aspiring atheletes, who do not use enhancement drugs.
Why None?
August 7, 2008 - 01:20 ET by DoktorFrankenMostly because it's on NBC (2 words - Matt Lauer). Then there's the issue that it should have never been in China (it's just doggone wrong on many levels).
US Women's Soccer
August 7, 2008 - 05:03 ET by SouthJersey1953I plan to watch the women's soccer for two reasons: I know one of the players (Carli Lloyd, #11) and I coach girl's soccer.
Other than that, I will most likely skip the rest of the Olympics.
We've got a local in at
August 7, 2008 - 05:28 ET by dmntd1We've got a local in at least one of the competitions. I'll watch that one. Otherwise, meh, nothing doing here!
Fascism is a religious conception in which man is seen in his imminent relationship with a superior law and with an objective will that transcends the particular individual - Mussolini
Spamming the globe to bring
August 7, 2008 - 06:43 ET by KarmaSpamming the globe to bring us the constant variety of political sport! The thrill of victory tingling up your leg...and the agony of defeat to the capitalists! The human drama of athletic and political competition! This is MSNBC Sports!
Two reasons
August 7, 2008 - 07:17 ET by IgnatzJFahrquarfor a very, very limited viewing:
Boob Costas and Chris Collinsworthless.
Well maybe more than two reasons ... BT's list is a start.
"All generalizations are false, including this one.” Mark Twain
Not sure if I would watch
August 7, 2008 - 07:27 ET by amberNot sure if I would watch even if I got NBC, but I don't, so I won't. Yup, I only get one lonely chanel, a CBS affiliate. Thank goodness I can watch 24 online.
Well I work at an NBC
August 7, 2008 - 07:31 ET by taterWell I work at an NBC station so I'll probably see some just in passing...but I won't watch it on my down time, mainly because I don't want to hear the lies about how great China is or how happy Chinese people are living there. Horrible human rights, religious oppression, and pollution should be a focus there but we know NBC won't highlight any of that.
www.theholyrosary.org
"There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we can not resolve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary." -Sister Lucia
Oh, wow! I'm so sorry.
August 7, 2008 - 08:09 ET by amberOh, wow! I'm so sorry. The stress of the NBC environment must be huge. I hope you have some great employees there to make the job worth it. I can not even imagine and I used to work in the bond market! I love where I work now.
http://ambersmerinos.blogspot.com/
Isn't it pretty?
Well I'm in a more
August 7, 2008 - 08:21 ET by taterWell I'm in a more conservative location so it isn't as wacky as the big boys...but I may be getting out of the biz soon anyway.
www.theholyrosary.org
"There is no problem, I tell you, no matter how difficult it is, that we can not resolve by the prayer of the Holy Rosary." -Sister Lucia
Care to spill the beans
August 7, 2008 - 16:56 ET by BobAnthonyOn which NBC affil you work at? I will not be watching ANY Olympics coverage. Besides, MLB already has something that is very convincing. It's called a pennant race.
By the by Tater I will take responsibility should this NBC station fire you or do anything to you. You are a victim of what I call the Corporate Fascist media--where media outlets are run by coroprate tycoons who tend to lean to the fascist left.
My son works for an NBC affiliate
August 7, 2008 - 14:08 ET by iconoclastand it's fairly liberal. I listen to his drivel about how we (Americans) are the Nazi's of our time. We've had a go around with that perception.
No offense intended here, as I can seperate the individual from the politics of the unit, and I have a high respect for the working man/woman, but the good news is, NBC has little credibility these days, so not many are going to pay much attention to what is being said by the commentators at the Olympics.
"we should immediately give every working family in America a
$1,000 energy rebate, and we should pay for it with part of the record
profits that the oil companies are making" Barack Hussein Obama, Communist
As many as I can
August 7, 2008 - 08:03 ET by BlondeI love the equestrian events (particularly great on the big screen)...and track & field, swimming, & diving.
Also of interest are some of the newer sports, tennis, wind-surfing, white water cayaking, etc.
I read a book while watching to fill in the gaps on the over-commercialized and blathering blather.
I love all sports!
David Gregory, do you know which damn network you lie for? ~ Uncle Jimbo, @Blackfive
I won't watch any of the
August 7, 2008 - 08:15 ET by fitzfongI won't watch any of the Olympic Games. Not interested. NBC is just going to have to find another way of plugging its awful fall lineup. I haven't watched the Olympics since the ad nauseum coverage of the obnoxiously self-annointed "Dream Team" in 1992. I'm not about to start now. NBC's predictable, but sickening glorification of China only makes this spectacle more unwatchable.
"Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." -Ronald Reagan
fitzfong.blogspot.com
Man...
August 7, 2008 - 08:23 ET by Roger the ShrubberPut aside politics, crappy commercials, and annoying idiots like Brian Williams. Don't punish our atheletes for the sins of the dumbasses...
Come on, guys, it's the frigging Olympics!
OK
August 7, 2008 - 08:28 ET by Cool ArrowI'll watch the Bear-baiting finals
LYDSEXICS UNTIE
Cool Arrow, Bear-baiting?
August 7, 2008 - 10:36 ET by goldenthroatCool One,
I am anxiously awaiting the gold medal round of worm wrestling!
"We're all bozos on this bus!" - Firesign Theatre
Fine, I'll watch it if you
August 7, 2008 - 10:34 ET by amberFine, I'll watch it if you buy me NBC for the month. I think it costs $4 from the local telephone company.
Ok, so $4 buys all of the normal network channels (ABC,CBS,NBC,FOX, even PBS). Wow I am cheap!
Some events...
August 7, 2008 - 08:40 ET by owr084Hopefully the HD coverage will be better this time around. If I ever see that Sony HD TV commercial again, I'll scream....
As for Olympic events, please get rid of any event whose outcome is determined solely by a panel of judges. In other words, no gymnastics. And to make shooting and archery events more challenging, get rid of all the high tech accoutrements to the weapon - is it the person or all the gizmos on the weapon that do all the work. Horse riding events? Get rid of them. It's the horse doing all the work.
Events
August 7, 2008 - 08:55 ET by DarkseanI am going to try to watch basketball, volleyball, swimming, water polo and fencing.
Fencing
August 7, 2008 - 18:38 ET by Dr_LibertyIs fencing the same sport that Tom Sawyer and Huck Finn played?
<insert witty signature here>
The weight lifting and some
August 7, 2008 - 09:06 ET by bassndudeThe weight lifting and some of the gymnastics. I like watching them on those rings.
I wish bass fishing was an Olympic event.
Save a SeAL, club a liberal!!
Why would you do this "I
August 7, 2008 - 16:36 ET by Dan The Man 2Why would you do this "I wish bass fishing was an Olympic event" only the dregs get to be Olympic. Bass fishing is high sport Bass.
Nuke em til they glow then shoot em in the dark.
Wow
August 7, 2008 - 09:22 ET by shawn228Very surprised with the vote totals so far. I thought watching these games were supporting American athletes and not NBC or China.
I will be watching gymnastics, the 100 meter dash and going for the USA. Some might find this unpatriotic, but I will be cheering for the USA in all sports, but not sure if I will root for the Dream Team this year.
Real life video games are cool
Shawn, I used to enjoy
August 7, 2008 - 16:09 ET by fitzfongShawn,
I used to enjoy the Olympics. I was a kid growing up in Southern California when the 1984 Olympics took place, and I was really sad when the closing ceremonies were over. But I detest the Olympic Games now...and I'll give you a list as to why...
1) The creation of the "Dream Team". In the aftermath of the defeat to the Soviets in Seoul, the incorporation of the NBA into the Olympics to show everyone "who's really the best" was an obnoxious marketing gimmick made to prove a point...once. Unfortunately, the nature of the hype surrounding the original "Dream Team" (even the nickname is nauseating) meant that the stunt couldn't be the one-off it was originally meant to be. And the point that was proven was that Americans couldn't accept defeat graciously. Now we're stuck with the incessant hype and preening brought to you by David Stern.
2) The network switch from ABC to NBC. Jim McKay, Kathleen Sullivan and even Frank Gifford brought an air of competence and class to the Olympics. Once NBC took over, we got stuck with the self-absorbed, pseudo-know-it-all Bob Costas to talk down to us...and the inevitable Olympic Villager interviews on the Today Show with (vomit) Matt and Katie.
3) The calendar switch of the Winter Olympics. Up until 1994, both Winter and Summer Olympic Games were played in the same calendar year. Then some gasbag (probably that criminal Juan Antonio Samaranch) got the bright idea to move the Winter Games to years divisible by 2 and the Summer games to years divisible by four. Now we're oversaturated with the Olympics as they happen every two years. It just isn't that special anymore.
4) The figure skating soap operas. From Tonya Harding, to the irritating Nancy Kerrigan and from the lead pipe to "the French judge", these subjective "sports" have reduced much of the Olympic drama to gossip. And the way that that Canadian pair managed to whine their way to a supplemental gold medal (when other, more wronged athletes like Evander Holyfield and Roy Jones, Jr. took their injustices with some dignity) simply made a mockery of the competition. By the way, I mean no offense by referring to them as "that Canadian pair"...I know you're originally from Canada...I simply don't remember their names, nor could I be bothered to retrieve them. I, for one, wish that Ben Johnson could have kept that gold medal...with or without steroids, he earned it in my book. He kicked Carl Lewis' a**, and far too many glorious Olympic moments had been saved for that self-righteous turd already.
5) The corruption. Always on the take, these well-fed, smug IOC blowhards make the UN look like the Sisters of Mercy. I'm surprised Kofi and Kojo Annan didn't get to replace Samaranch once he mercifully retired.
6) The incessant packaging. I'm sick and tired of the networks and marketers telling audiences who they should be rooting for and why these athletes are so spectacular. If their pursuits were so worthwhile, we wouldn't need the carnival barkers telling us what we should be looking for ad nauseum.
7) The need for anyone covering the Olympics to tell us how important this event is and why we should be interested. Over the years, the media coverage of the Olympics has become very self-focused, as if we should give a damn what transportation, information, logistical and government headaches they have to negotiate to bring us the news.
8) Frankly, there are far more interesting sports to be played. NFL and College Football are getting close, baseball is approaching post-season and (my personal favorite), the football (soccer to some of you) season is starting up in England and Scotland this month. And if that fails to fill the time, there's paint to dry and grass to grow.
and finally...
9) The way we're all expected to tiptoe around the Chinese Government so as not to offend. While we're subjected to daily lectures from Western Europe and liberals throughout the world about how the United States has to slow down its economy for the betterment of earth, as usual, we're not permitted to point out that there's a major double standard for the Chinese...from Kyoto to the real violations of human rights. I'm not about to sit through hours of NBC's political hand-wringing in between seemingly endless promos for 30 Rock.
Perhaps this was a long-winded dissertation, but it fully explains my reasons for not giving a cr** about the Olympics. Cheers, Shawn.
-fitz
"Government's view of the economy could be summed up in a few short phrases: If it moves, tax it. If it keeps moving, regulate it. And if it stops moving, subsidize it." -Ronald Reagan
fitzfong.blogspot.com
How can you wish Ben Johnson
August 7, 2008 - 18:50 ET by balboaHow can you wish Ben Johnson kept his medal when he cheated?
Hi Fitz
August 7, 2008 - 20:32 ET by shawn228I remember the 84 games as well. I was 13 years old and I really did not understand politics at all. I was amazed on how this country called the USA kept winning all these medals and no one could even touch them.
I did not find out, until I was 17 that the Germans and Soviet Union boycotted those Olympics.
I am looking forward to these Olympics because this is the first time in my life I can enjoy it in high def, instead of fuzzy 27 inch tube tv.
I agree with you about the Dream Team, that is why I am considering for rooting against them.
I thought the 96 Olympics and the ladies gymnastics and what Keri Strug did was one of the greatest moments I ever witnessed Roy Jones Jr. Losing the gold was one of the worst.Who can forget the Miracle on Ice
Also, I try to hope there will not be too much politics involved in these games. I just want to cheer on our athletes and hope they win lots of medals.
That is my take on the Olympics fitz and i'm looking forward to them, but I do see your POV and can understand why you are less than enchanted by watching them
Real life video games are cool
I used to watch the
August 7, 2008 - 09:28 ET by misterbee241I used to watch the Olympics pretty regularly. I particularly liked the winter games. I still remember the US victory over Russia in the 1980 hockey game. Amatuers defeating professionals.
But, since they've decided to let profesional atheletes in back in the 90's I've totally lost interest. I dont care who wins what or loses what.
"There is none so blind as they that won’t see."
Jonathan Swift 1667-1745
I'm kinda shocked by the
August 7, 2008 - 09:39 ET by balboaI'm kinda shocked by the results here. I LOVE the Olympics. Swimming, track & field, I'll even watch gymnastics. Plus volleyball.
Sure, there are a lot of commercials (but that's capitalism, right?), and annoying "Up Close & Personal" bits, but I can take it.
Olympics
August 7, 2008 - 10:04 ET by dboI'll probably watch a lot but mainly in the second week when the track and field starts. A lot will depend on the time zone difference. Beijing is 15 hours ahead of pacific time. Not going to watch as much if I already know the results.
I thought I read somewhere
August 7, 2008 - 10:06 ET by balboaI thought I read somewhere that we'd see most of it live. I could be imagining things, though. I just avoid any sports news for the whole day. :-)
I miss Jim McKay. I will
August 7, 2008 - 10:22 ET by Hero SquadI miss Jim McKay.
I will watch some of the events, because in my opinion, I'm supporting the athletes first.
I have no problem with the games being held in Beijing. Seems to me that of late, China's horrible record on everything is now at the forefront, and it's not giving communism a warm fuzzy glow by any stretch.
My daughter is now the age I was (7) when the Games came to Montreal. I doubt she'll ever be as engaged as I was back in those days (there's more commanding our attention now than there was back then), but I'm hoping she'll be interested in the sports she enjoys, namely women's soccer and swimming.
I always enjoyed the running events, as well as the oddball sports that you never even think about until the Games roll around. Does anything beat speed walking?
I'll be checking out our Olympics On Demand hoping that it'll have the events we want to watch, without all the touchy feely stuff that gets quite annoying fast. Or the commercials.
And now your quiz: Can you figure out how old is Hero Squad?
*****
"People only insist that a debate stop when they are afraid of what might be learned if it continues." - George Will
Synchronized swimming and ribbon twirling
August 7, 2008 - 11:02 ET by Dr_Libertyare the two olympic sports that are the most thrilling to me!
I'm hoping the competition gets incredibly intense and a brawl breaks out among the contestants. I could just see the Bulgarian ribbon twirling team rushing the French on the mats as the French try an illegal 720 twirl with a flip twist. I could see one of those athletes going down when two Bulgarians perform a well-executed chop block on her.
<insert witty signature here>
Ribbon twirling is for sissies!
August 7, 2008 - 11:43 ET by Roger the ShrubberReal men do trampoline gymnastics.
Personally, I'm all about
August 7, 2008 - 12:54 ET by Hero SquadPersonally, I'm all about the Men's Syncrhonized Swimming.
"I'm not that sss-strong a swimmer."
*****
"People only insist that a debate stop when they are afraid of what might be learned if it continues." - George Will
Thx for the link, HS. You
August 7, 2008 - 21:14 ET by Roger the ShrubberThx for the link, HS.
You cannot go wrong with you team up Guest and Shearer!
Killed my cable, so I will
August 7, 2008 - 11:35 ET by HermanoKilled my cable, so I will have to get updates on the web. On the plus side, I don't have to see the MSM pimp Obama.
The Newsbusters Comments Crew: Saving the Environment - One Ribeye at a Time! h/t Dr_Liberty
I voted none. The single
August 7, 2008 - 14:01 ET by ConservativeRexI voted none. The single reason I will not watch the Olympics is because NBC is airing them. They have invested hundreds of millions of dollars to air them, I hope they do not get a return on their investment. Low ratings are the only way we can affect these Olympics.
Zilch
August 7, 2008 - 15:48 ET by SquonkamaticNone. I have recently discovered that life is short and limited span we are alotted is better spent watching Spaghetti Westerns or sleazy Alien ripoffs than propaganda for totalitarian regimes. I know our athletes with kick ass and they have my best wishes, but watching the major networks and their corporate sponsors cowtow to the ChiComs is not my idea of a good time.
Are you ready for some football!
August 7, 2008 - 18:43 ET by Dr_LibertyWho here is more excited about the start of football season? Sound off.
Preseason NFL gets off to its full start this weekend after a great Hall of Fame game last Sunday.
College football about a month away.
And when I mean football, I mean football... not that sissy game of soccer.
<insert witty signature here>
Dr.L.... I am so more
August 7, 2008 - 18:58 ET by bigtimerDr.L....
I am so more than ready....
Bad thing about it for me though is I just cannot get used to football in early Aug. I forget that preseason is going....this year, I think not.
"America isn't the problem...America is the solution." ~ Rush Limbaugh
I LOVE college football.
August 7, 2008 - 19:03 ET by balboaI LOVE college football. There's nothing better than flopping on your couch and hearing Keith Jackson's voice.
I am with you 100%, Bal!
August 7, 2008 - 21:11 ET by Roger the ShrubberI am with you 100%, Bal!
Olympic basketball
August 7, 2008 - 22:36 ET by ProudAmerican33I don't mind at all the NBA players on the American basketball team. Other countries were using 25 to 35 year old professionals and those nations were producing better talent than what colleges could produce at the time. This year as in past Olympics other nations will also feature NBA players and most of their rosters are filled with pro players from other leagues including strong European leagues.
I will watch some events when I'm home but won't stay home or change plans to do so. There are too many human interest stories for my liking. I can't see the need, does the average housewife think "Darn, they didn't do a feature on my favorite gymnast's battle with anorexia, I'm going to watch a rerun of Desperate Housewives instead!"
I'd watch every minute if the added real football to the mix. I'll likely watch basketball, softball, and track.