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.
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! 🙂
July 23, 2014
Ah yes, def a great opportunity for our athletes!
July 23, 2014
It is important to athletes from Australia who train for these events. I watch a bit .
July 23, 2014
Ha! b) then. (I think it’s gonna be the winner!)
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!
July 23, 2014
Yes…. What was the name of that Zimbabwean swimmer? Eric the eel?
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. 🙂
July 23, 2014
Oh, I haven’t seen any coverage as yet….
July 23, 2014
I watch a little if the time zone is right. We like to win here in New Zealand
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! 😉
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…
July 24, 2014
Oh yes… the Queen and her pastels.. 🙂
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.
July 23, 2014
I don’t think I knew we even had gymnastics in the Commonwealth Games!
July 24, 2014
Deb I didn’t even know it was on until yesterday. It’s a good training ground for the Olympics
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!)
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
July 24, 2014
Oh yes.. that will inspire him for his Saturday classes!
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.
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!