Commonwealth Games – still a thing?

Wednesday, July 23, 2014 Permalink

US talk show host John Oliver’s “How is this still a thing?” segment recently dissed the Commonwealth Games.

I know, I know…. gazillions of sports lovers all over the Commonwealth are livid.

I have to admit, I’m kinda with the UK-born comedian on this one. In fact, I didn’t even know they were on or starting (or a twinkle in anyone’s eye) until I saw them scheduled in this week’s TV Guide. Although I did wonder why I was seeing pictures of naff-looking Australian opening ceremony uniforms in the media.

I’ve mentioned before that my former love of all-things-sports disappeared when I went to live overseas. Perhaps if I was still a fan I’d be excited, but… #meh.

How do you view the Commonwealth Games:

a. An important political, social and economic celebration which brings together disparate cultures and countries for a meeting of the minds.
b. A key event on the sporting calendar which allows our athletes to improve and develop by competing against their contemporaries (at least those who bother to turn up)
c. A TV, media and brand money-making bonanza. (Well, except for the host country which often spends more on infrastructure than it rakes in via ticket sales and television rights!)
d. A reminder the Queen is still alive and kicking. And a fan of pastels.
e. Money which could be spent elsewhere. Like on the poor and stuff.
f. The what?

Wordless Wednesdaying with Trish from My Little Drummer Boys.

20 Comments
  • Aroha @ Colours of Sunset
    July 23, 2014

    I see it as our chance to WIN THE MOST MEDALS since China and the USA aren’t in it! HA! I think it’s a great opportunity for athletes to perform at a top level and represent their country. It might not mean much to us, but I bet it means a whole heck of a big deal to them. I’ll be watching and cheering on the Aussies! 🙂

    • Debbish
      July 23, 2014

      Ah yes, def a great opportunity for our athletes!

  • Trish
    July 23, 2014

    It is important to athletes from Australia who train for these events. I watch a bit .

    • Debbish
      July 23, 2014

      Ha! b) then. (I think it’s gonna be the winner!)

  • Emily @ Have A Laugh On Me
    July 23, 2014

    For those athletes that train hard out and yearn to compete it’s such a big thing, and I’ve got their backs! I’ll watch the Kiwis!! Ha ha, and hope my country of birth wins some events, it’s the small countries I love rooting for!

    • Debbish
      July 23, 2014

      Yes…. What was the name of that Zimbabwean swimmer? Eric the eel?

  • Lee-Anne
    July 23, 2014

    Hahaha – loved the clip! America’s just jealous coz they weren’t invited!

    Seriously, I am with you Deb, very ‘ho hum’ about the games but I’d pick B) It’s great for our athletes. Just seeing the cyclist extraordinaire Anna Meares accepting the torch-bearer’s role, last night on TV was touching. 🙂

    • Debbish
      July 23, 2014

      Oh, I haven’t seen any coverage as yet….

  • Tamara
    July 23, 2014

    I watch a little if the time zone is right. We like to win here in New Zealand

    • Debbish
      July 23, 2014

      Ok, cos of the whole Aus vs NZ thing I feel obliged to make some derogatory remark…. But I have to admit, I REALLY don’t care enough! 😉

  • Jo Tracey
    July 23, 2014

    I always watch the swimming & get a little tear when I hear our anthem…but I did love the pastel option too…

    • Debbish
      July 24, 2014

      Oh yes… the Queen and her pastels.. 🙂

  • Alicia
    July 23, 2014

    I am excited to watch the gymnastics with my daughter(probably more than her). I had no idea they were coming up either until the Thorpey thing last week.

    • Debbish
      July 23, 2014

      I don’t think I knew we even had gymnastics in the Commonwealth Games!

  • Annaleis
    July 24, 2014

    Deb I didn’t even know it was on until yesterday. It’s a good training ground for the Olympics

    • Debbish
      July 24, 2014

      Glad it wasn’t just me Annaleis. I was worried I lived under a rock! (PS. Though I do only read online news – don’t watch it or read newspapers… so I can selectively choose what I read!)

  • @Kanga_Rue
    July 24, 2014

    I vaguely knew it was coming. Didn’t realise it had started. Now wondering if I should record some of the gymnastics for Pickle to watch. #mummyguilt

    • Debbish
      July 24, 2014

      Oh yes.. that will inspire him for his Saturday classes!

  • Jess
    July 27, 2014

    Hilarious I didn’t even know they were on! I loved them as a kid. It does amaze me that the queen is still kicking and we are still sort of attached to her rule, even if it is just a technicality.

    • Debbish
      July 27, 2014

      I’m seeing news headlines now they’ve started. I know it must be amazing to represent one’s country… I recall from other Games we sometimes get so many gold we get a bit blase though!

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