Own the Podium

The Vancouver Winter Games carry on with some trepidation. With critics at home and abroad, contention seems to be one of the international themes of the game. I would like to address two of these. One being the British newspaper "The Guardian" referring to these games as the "worst ever" and the issue of the phrase "own the podium."

I am unsure where the Guardian is coming from with their assertions about the games but as a Canadian I have never been more proud as a Canadian then I have these past few days. It is interesting that a nation with no real chance at winter sports would be so critical towards a country that excels at them despite a significant population disadvantage.

With the London Summer games 2 years from now, I would imagine that this criticisms stems from their own hopes. I will say however that it will be difficult not to chuckle a little if their games faces some difficult moments

"Own the Podium." It may sound like some silly slogan that CTV is force feeding us, but the underlying theme is being questioned for being unCanadian. The assumption is usually made that Canadians are polite and well-mannered. Is the idea of owning a podium therefore arrogant?

It is not. In fact it is a sentiment that this country has been lacking, not only in sports excellence, but in general. Canadians are always facing an identity crisis. Unlike our neighbors to the south, we do not have a mystical history to turn too in times of question. Therefore when it comes to backing sports, our patriotic fervor is perhaps lacking.

These are our olympics. Lets fill BC place with golds and perhaps be a little less humble then usual. Our athletes and our country deserve this moment.

Vancouver 2010 can be the new Expo '67

-Todd Colin Vaughan

Journalist