But What About the World Champion Balloonists? Do They Not Matter?

Since last Friday, millions of people have come down with Olympic Fever. A few even contracted cases of Pageantry Plague after the opening ceremonies. They sit on their couches for great lengths of time constantly mumbling “Go U.S.A. Go U.S.A.,” in between shrieking cries of “WOOO!!!” They’ll recover in about two weeks.

So since no one is really reading this due to their incessant checking of medal counts and searches for all things Phelpsian, I thought I’d highlight a few of the less popular Olympic sports no longer in fashion. Did you know:

-In 1900, the fast-paced, full-contact sport of ballooning was demonstrated for consideration as a future event. Shockingly, all the balloonists’ invitations to the 1904 games were “lost in the mail.” Further humiliation came by later being invited back only as a means of providing aerial photography.

-1904 was the only year to have a Roque competition. Roque was a game much like croquet but without the C or the T. America soundly dominated the event by getting not only the gold, but the silver and bronze medal for the sport as well. It should be noted that they were also the only country to participate in the event.

-Glima was introduced in the 1912 games. What is Glima, you ask? It is the gentlemanly sport of Icelandic belt wrestling.

-From the years 1900 through 1920, tug of war wasn’t just played in summer camps. It was a legitimate, medal-earning event. Competitive Red Rover and Freeze Tag players were sick with envy.

-Fans of The Dude rejoiced in 1988 when their favorite sport looked like it was going to become a new Olympic event. But like getting a spare off a 7-10 split, it just didn’t work out.

Of course, there are some games currently being played that don't get mentioned too much. So when you are cheering on your country of choice, remember to remember the archer. Give some love to the badminton player. Raise your voice for the people who play field hockey. While their sports might not be slick or prime-time television worthy, they deserve some respect too.

posted by -jw-