Gene Lyons, a columnist for the Arkansas Democrat Gazette and a national magazine award winner, recently shared his thoughts on the Olympics and his general disinterest in the event. While many people around the world eagerly anticipate the Olympics every four years, Lyons admits that he finds the spectacle somewhat underwhelming. He humorously quips about his lack of enthusiasm for gymnastics, swimming, and other Olympic sports, preferring contests with more objective scoring like traditional team sports.
Despite his lukewarm feelings towards the Olympics, Lyons reveals that he is a dedicated sports fan. He recounts his experiences watching baseball and basketball games with his wife, who comes from a family deeply involved in coaching. Lyons shares anecdotes from his own athletic past, including a brief stint as a competitive swimmer, which ultimately led him to abandon the sport due to its repetitive nature and the unpleasant smell of chlorine.
While Lyons may not be captivated by the Olympics as a whole, he does acknowledge the impressive achievements of athletes from smaller countries and the individual excellence displayed in certain events. He highlights moments of triumph, such as the Netherlands‘ Femke Bol’s remarkable finish in the 4×400 mixed relay race and Danish badminton player Viktor Axelsen’s dominance in a sport typically dominated by China.
One athlete who commands Lyons‘ respect is Simone Biles, whom he describes as one of the most extraordinary athletes in the world. Biles‘ resilience in overcoming both sexual abuse and mental health challenges is commendable, and Lyons criticizes those who fail to recognize her strength and heroism. He contrasts Biles‘ struggles with the dismissive comments made by Republican vice-presidential nominee J.D. Vance, who questioned the praise given to Biles for addressing her mental health needs.
In conclusion, Lyons reflects on the paradox of his own sports fandom, which includes a deep devotion to baseball games while largely ignoring the Olympic games. Despite his personal preferences, Lyons acknowledges the significance of the Olympics and the incredible feats achieved by athletes from around the world. While he may not be a die-hard fan of the event, Lyons‘ commentary offers a unique perspective on the intersection of sports, competition, and national pride.
In summary, Gene Lyons‘ musings on the Olympics provide a thought-provoking look at the complexities of athletic competition and the diverse reactions it elicits from individuals. His candid reflections on his own sporting interests and disinterests offer a refreshing take on a global event that often evokes strong emotions and fervent support.