Tuesday, May 3, 2011

Winter Olympics joins 21st century

A Norwegian reader (thanks Marte) sent me a link about the IOC's decision to allow women ski jumpers in the tournament. I'm a bit late to the party on this one but bloggers' prerogative and all that ...

So it seems ski-jumpers have Canadian Katie Willis and her friends to thank for this. They took a rights case to a Canadian court, claiming they were being discriminated against by not being allowed to take part. Can you imagine having to take a human rights case to be allowed compete in a sports tournament? Well, not just any tournament but still. Really Jacques Rogge, this is what you want happening on your watch? Can we all please pack up and join the 21st century? (hard to do in Europe at the moment with royal weddings and beatified popes everywhere but let's try)
Katie Willis, Canada
I'm pleased for the new generation of ski-jumpers, and sure there will be more of them now with the Olympic gold as a lure. But was saddened to read that Katie Willis herself is near the end of her career so may not compete in Sochi 2014. In the story, she said: "I've been off for a bit so that does make it hard to get back and get into the rhythm of it. But it's definitely possible, there's still a few years."

I'm sure we missed out many great boxing fights too. Looking forward to seeing all of these women compete in the next few years.
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3 comments

Paperbark Writer said...

Yes about time that happened - more women's events in the Olympics. There's not enough coverage of women's sports in general. Cricket, football, whatever sports, all require dedication and more dedication.

It's sad that such a challenge was needed, but it's a big step in the right direction

niamh said...

@ Paperbark Writer - good to see your blog is up and running! Yes on the coverage, something I've been known to mention, cough once or twice

Anonymous said...

Well done to Kate Willis for (pardon the pun) having the balls to push this!

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