Olympic Games 2008 - Page 5

August 23, 2008, 7:36 PM

I wonder why the athletes have to be at least 16 years old. If they're good enough to compete at a younger age, why not let them? I believe some other events allow for younger athletes to participate.

Heck, part of me thinks being younger would be a disadvantage. Less experience/maturity and whatnot.

August 23, 2008, 7:43 PM

It's only really an issue when it comes to women's gymnastics. The younger a competitor is, the more flexible and lightweight they are, meaning they can perform more difficult maneuvers. Hence the big issue.

The required age actually used to be 14, but it's been increased in recent years. Apparently the reason is to prevent injuries or some such, but I'm not really sure. It probably is the only competition where a lower age is an advantage, intrestingly enough.

August 23, 2008, 7:59 PM

Quote:

Originally Posted by VoN

I've heard of doping allegations regarding the Ukranian athlete who took silver in the female heptathlon. Blonska her name is. There's a very real chance that she'll lose her medal. Not sure if they're ruled on that yet or not..

Blonska has lost her medal and will probably be banned for life now as she's already served a two-year drugs ban before. Frankly if you're dumb enough to take drugs again after being caught for it once you deserve to be banned for life, if only for sheer idiocy.

September 6, 2008, 10:02 PM

I really enjoyed watching Shawn Johnson and Nastia Liukin in the gymnastic events for women. Really, really impressive and elegant.

September 17, 2008, 1:22 PM

i dont like to watch olypic games, cause their kinda boring...