Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Amanda, OKC — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 13:54:32 GMT

Chess? That's not even a sport. But if we're going down this line, how about race car driving of some sort?

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Tom, Holden, Ma — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:11:51 GMT

Hot dog eating! Seroiusly rugby and golf are world class sports that should have included a century ago.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Jen, Bawlmer MD — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:27:47 GMT

If we add Chess, surely we would have to add Monopoly. The game Operation requires a certain amount of skill, and no need for professional judges, as a red buzzer is a red buzzer - end of story.

I would love to see Lacrosse, Dodgeball, Tetherball, and Frisbee added to the list. (ok, really only Lacrosse, but wouldn't it be fun to watch hours upon hours of the ball swooshing around the pole back and forth? The Chinese could legitimately recruit competitors from the school yard)

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

toni, Southern California — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 14:35:02 GMT

Get rid of basketball and tennis, like you said. Boring to watch in the Olympics.

Cricket might be good. They play cricket in India, right? And where I live (in Southern California), you can drive by parks where people are playing cricket, so it might be fun to see the world play.

It would be nice to have some sort of competitions that people in other country like to do so it's world friendly

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Lisa, WA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:00:11 GMT

I'd vote for hurling, although since it's pretty specific to Ireland, I'll settle for rugby (and maybe dodgeball). Forget archery and shooting, bring on the blood sports!
Definitely get rid of basketball - if I want to watch it, I'll go to a NBA game. And seriously, cut back on the swimming and gymnastics coverage! I've seen enough of that this year, give me something new to watch. I'll even take field hockey over that right now.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Heather BR, Cville,VA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:03:18 GMT

I really can't figure out why rugby isn't an olympic sport. It is played all over the world (by men and women) at both the professional and club level. College club rugby is extremely popular here in the states, so I can only imagine how popular professional rugby is elsewhere in the world. Rugby has olympics written all over it. The sport is a true test of strength and agility combined, with a little team work thrown in there. Not to mention, rugby althetes world-wide share a common bond, an automatic kinship with eachother, no matter where they are from. I met some fellow ruggers from about 5 different countries at Oktoberfest in Munich a few years back, and we all knew the same drinking songs. If that doesn't capture the olympic spirit, I don't know what does!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Lori, Cleveland OH — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:13:33 GMT

The greatest Olympic sport that I had never heard of before? Handball!! I love it. Based on the name, I initially thought handball was a raquetball-type sport. I was surprised to find it was more like a cross between soccer and basketball, only without the kicking and dribbling. Whatever it is, I love it.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Joe Six-Pack, Oklahoma City, OK — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:39:41 GMT

I completely agree with the respondent who wanted to dump Tennis and Basketball. These are professional sports and are no longer an amateur events. Dump'em.
Bocce Ball. Bowling. Speed Walking. YES!

Kendo, how about Kendo? Aren't they already doing Judo and Karate?

Ok, we've got the javelin throw for distance, but what about spear-chucking at a target? Or the sling?
(traditional, not sling-shot)

Climbing? Speed Rock Climbing?

AMX Cycling?

Skate boarding?

Hang-gliding?

All sounds like fun to me.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

John, Moscow IDAHO — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:44:23 GMT

Drop all "sports" that are actually performances, diving, gymnastics, anything with a judge who determines the winner. Anything based on perception for winning should be stricken from the games.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Mike Philadelphia,PA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 15:54:39 GMT

The Game they should add to the olympics for 2012 or 2016 should be guitar hero since that is one of the most popular games in the world and is a game of skill like table tennis. I think it would be a huge hit at the olympics

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Christine, Frederick MD — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:10:37 GMT

I agree about rugby - it's popular in a lot of countries and is really suited to Olympic competition: a sport that isn't televised to death already (I'm looking at YOU basketball and baseball). I'm glad baseball is out (at least temporarily) after this year.

I'm surprised golf isn't already in the Olympics. It's played worldwide, after all. I find it pretty boring to watch as a rule but I think even I would tune in for the final round.

I like seeing sports that aren't on my TV every weekend. I like watching Olympic cycling (road and track), rowing, track and field and diving.

I could do with less gymnastics (or else a wider focus instead of the same few sparkly faces over and over and over and over). I really enjoy watching the swimming but this year has been a bit much - did we really need to see a clip package of Michael Phelps in Athens? Especially when there's so much more out there that's not getting covered.

Oh, and I can do without table tennis, badminton and fencing - although I'm sure they have their rabid fans.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Michael, Sylacauga, AL — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:13:11 GMT

I think there should be an Olympic definition of sport to insure than one needs to display all of the physical atributes that athletics defines...lungs, muscles, coordination... Tug of war sounds fun. I also think Golf should be added although athletic muscles aren't required... I don't like the idea that professionals are allowed. I think all olympic athletes should be amatuers.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

tiffanie, springfield, va — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:23:18 GMT

Take out rhythmic gymnastics! i like watching it, but it sure doesn't fit.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Jeremy Dunfee, Fort Wayne IN — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:33:42 GMT

Rugby was at one time an Olympic sport. Actually the United States won Gold in the 1924 Olympics. There is some speculation with softball and baseball tentatively leaving the Olympics that Rugby may be given the chance to fill that void.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Fiona64, Silicon Valley, CA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:46:59 GMT

How about if we dump approximately 50% of the swimming events, and actually televise some of the events that require significant training (equestrian sports, fencing)? And what is up with including badminton and ping-pong? Sorry, but in my mind those are *games,* not sports. Sports require athleticism; games do not.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Leslie, Albuquerque — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 16:48:15 GMT

I agree with rugby...I used to love watching our college team play. I never quite figured out all the rules but god what a fun sport to watch.

Right now though I agree with you on the synchronized diving. Kind of has an "oooh" factor because I know if I tried it (if I could swim) I'd probably wind up in a mangled tangle of limbs with my teammate resulting in serious or possibly hilarious injury.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

KendallJaye — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 17:28:09 GMT

So bummed that we couldn't extend the commercial competition into Olympic territory. I've seen some GREAT ones! (maybe next year, Hank.)

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

KG, Twin Cities, MN — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:09:37 GMT

Baseball and softball will be out of the next summer olympics. For me, that is terrible. They are both great summer sports and should be kept in. The men don't use MLB professionals, either. Sort of. The sport (if I'm being generous) that should be dropped is synchronized swimming. Any sport that requires (requires being the key word) sparkles is not a sport. The other sports that have sparkles are optional adornments. Sync swimming should do just that - sink.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Carly D, Baltimore MD — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:33:53 GMT

I agree - the basketball and tennis are OUT.

I enjoy the equestrian (horse back riding) events; there is a discipline called Vaulting, which is gymnastics on horseback. It is simply beautiful - you think the US gymnasts are awesome now? Just WAIT until you see what they do on the backs of horses.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Offmom, Silicon Valley, CA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 18:58:02 GMT

Have to disagree with the inuendo that swimming doesn't require significant training - have you ever known someone who did competitive swimming? That said I do have to agree with badminton and table tennis (ping pong) being games not sports. Have enjoyed the option of switching between main coverage and basic cable coverage - did any of you know that women's wrestling was an olympic event? I sure didn't until 2 nights ago. Would love to see Rugby and Cricket AND I sure would like to see more than U.S. athletes during the various events. NBC should understand that not everyone in the U.S. is from the U.S. or that we have such a short attention span that we cannot watch without an emotional tie to the competition.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Dwight, Harrisburg, PA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:00:05 GMT

I have to agree with removing anything that's Judged, if it's got a judge it's gonna be a problem. Who's strongest, who's fastest, who remains standing. No wishy washy judge from where ever who mars the scoring.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Lori Lamb, Federal Way, WA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:00:20 GMT

Swimming gets so much coverage because a lot of people want to see it, and because they have other avenues for sports that don't bring in the viewers to that degree.

I was a little surprised that table tennis is an Olympic sport. Why not billiards or darts, then? Or beer pong?

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

John, Tennessee — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:26:29 GMT

Run a mile and fish .... run another mile and fish again ... ad infinitum

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Shannon, Georgia — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:41:36 GMT

Keep tennis and basketball, but make it amateur only again. I'm a huge tennis fan, but think the players should not be pros.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Rori Albion, NE — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:43:44 GMT

Dwight Schrute has it all summed up very nicely in 'The Office' teaser for Fall 2008. Watch it. Hilarious.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Sheila Tyne — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:45:35 GMT

What i have to keep reminding myself is that just because Americans don't consider something a sport doesn't mean that it isn't considered a sport somewhere else. Ping Pong, Badmitton, etc, are major sports in the Asian countries. We don't consider soccer a major sport, but the rest of the world does.

I can tell you which one makes me groan every time it is shown on primetime tv, every night, is beach volleyball. What I do like is how NBC has been able to show so many more sports almost 24 hours a day, by putting blocks of hours on their sister channels (USA and MSNBC mostly). I have been able to wach so many more sports than I would have ever been able to watch before.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Cricket, Mesa AZ — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 19:56:48 GMT

I would love to have Sumo Wrestling as a constant in the Olympics. They had it when it was in Nagano but it has not been back. That is such a fascinating sport to me! LOVE IT.

I would also like to see Kick Boxing (Muy Thai - sp?) where it is full contact. Talk about a sport!!!

Eliminate some of the swimming coverage. Don't get me wrong. I love Michael Phelps as much as the next person but it is almost sad for the other swimmers competing because their accomplishments are all lost in the hoopla over him. When the relay was won, they didn't talk to any swimmer but him. It was a 4 man race...he was only one part of it! Give some more credit where credit is due.

Have better coverage of the gymnastics so I can see other countries and not just 3 competing. There were so many other routines I would have liked to have seen. Just saying!

They don't have football or baseball in the Olympics so why Basketball? You already get coverage for the Major League sports so that should be enough. I would however keep Hockey because I love it that much! ;c)

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Kate — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 20:36:40 GMT

How about Olympic Dodgeball! That would be extremely entertaining.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Brenda — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 21:02:17 GMT

Equestrian is NOT a sport. It is an event - considering that the animal is doing all the work. I don't mind watching it but don't call it a sport - because it isn't one. Plus, the fact that schools can choose that joke of an option to meet compliance with Title IX annoys the hell out of me.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Bill, Flower Mound TX — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:24:08 GMT

Let me get this straight. There going to dump Baseball and Softball and keep Trampoline. Just for fun, let's add Olympic Marbles, that's about as exciting to watch as the Trampoline. Way to go Olympic Committee, way to go.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Nicole Yankton, SD — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:32:20 GMT

They spend too much time on things like swimming and gymnastics. They should show a little appreciation for the other sports.

Now what they really need to add to the lineup is a rodeo. It's got horses, speed, action, and people falling off crazy cows.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

sara — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 22:33:58 GMT

Water fight!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Sarah Banks, Madison, MS — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 23:10:21 GMT

Oh wow, I can't believe that someone said swimming doesn't require "significant" training. Anyway, the Olympics are not just broadcast on NBC. MSNBC carries coverage from 8am-4pm everyday. I think there is another channel, but I can't remember which one.

I was surprised to find that Rugby is not an Olympic sport. I definitely think that bowling or pool could work too. Why not? I suppose there could be some definition imposed of what exactly constitutes a sport, but that might turn out ridiculous.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Couch Potato, Seattle, WA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 23:32:49 GMT

Amateurs vanished decades ago. The Soviet block nations just 'hired' their athletes as military instructors, or some such cover. The US had 4/5 (red shirt year) "student athletes". These worked fine until the Russians concentrated on special schools and other covers. The Olympics were set up for amateurs by the very rich who could afford to train, and buy and keep horses for example, as a way to exclude the commoners. Remember Jim Thorpe who was stripped of metals for a very convoluted and flimsy but racist sham. Then re-awarded when the shame got too great to ignore. As for what's a sport and what's a game and judges deciding, whew, why not try to decide or define something simple, like which religion is really God's or who is really on God's side. I personally love it when athletes thank God, as if God really gives a rip about who wins or catches a pass or makes a free throw, unless of course She's got a side bet. And who bets against God ? Who takes God's bets ?

As for future additions / drops, well, I would personally drop all shooting, archery, wt lifting, rhythmic gymnastics [and penalize the cutsy moves], badminton, ping-pong, walking races [why not hopping or crawling, or Monty Python walking], boxing, equestrian, fencing [which has become a jump and slash instead of fencing and skill], and sailing. As for what to add, rugby is as valid as soccer and basketball. The skills biking off half pipes is amazing, certainly as much as diving. If snow boarding, freestyle ski jumping and mogel jumping are in, why not skateboarding. Then again if they were all in what would people sit and around and have to argue about ?

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Dave Ayars, Seattle, WA — Mon, 18 Aug 2008 23:33:31 GMT

I'd scrap trampoline. Or, I'd combine it with other events into a sort overall acrobatics (vs. gymnastics) competition. This could include circus-type aerial acrobatics, which I think deserve representation. But nothing looks sillier than a standalone trampoline event.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Doug, Pittsburgh, PA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:11:09 GMT

I think it would be great to add some extreme sports to bring in the younger crowd, but I agree the Olympics needs less subjective scoring so that rule out most of them. Street luge anyone?

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Gil Snowden Clemson, SC — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 00:13:42 GMT

how about we do away with beach volleyball? they could actually show other things in prime time

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

sportsfan — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 01:02:03 GMT

I have no idea why we have to watch so much beach volleyball during primetime. The regular volleyball is much more interesting... I'd love to see other sports, too, like table tennis, on during prime time.

I can see ill-fitting bikini-clad women on other channels... they expect us to take them seriously??!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Tom Sloan, Hollywood, FL — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 01:10:57 GMT

Let's face it - the Olympics are NOT held for the benefit of Sportswriters, Sportscasters, or people starved for entertainment. It is supposed to be an ATHLETIC competition, not an International picnic, and most definitely not a political circus.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Joe, Fort Wayne, IN — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 01:24:28 GMT

John...I love your idea...the ultimate biathalon...run/fish/run/fish/ad infinitum. That said, could we make this a triathalon? Run/fish/nap/run/fish/nap/ad infinitum

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

TONY C, LOS ANGELES, CA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 01:32:05 GMT

OK, if you're going to have anything where the results are largely dependent upon judges, I say we we have have Olympic Dog Shows. Isn't the Westminster always referred to as the second oldest continuos "sporting" event in the U.S.? "Best In Show", baby!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Dan Z,St.Johns Mi — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 01:40:53 GMT

I agree with the majority,scrap baseball....basket ball should be "no pros"..Dodgeball is on the comeback and could be entertaining,and for the brutal people.....Submission Grappling is rapidly growing world wide.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Judy, Irvine, CA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:38:07 GMT

I am so sad that the men's hammer throw was relegated to 2 AM, and then cut off. Is there anywhere we can see this? It is an amazing sport, too dangerous for high school athletes, and more exciting than the discus.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Lori, Sioux Falls, SD — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:40:40 GMT

The reason why you think that swimming and gymnastics are over covered is that they have always been the first weeks primary events with the track and field events in the second and final week. I am sure by the end of the week you will be sick of track.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

wemedge, wooster, ohio — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 02:55:36 GMT

Ditch badminton. Make pro baseball players play Olympic baseball (much better than what we get and would deflate the Dream Team nonsense). Add rugby and maybe some kind of water skiing. Absolutely NO chess. Talk about a ratings tank...

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

TAC, Baltimore, MD — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 03:15:00 GMT

Add:
Tug of War
Ultimate Frisby
Dodgeball
Kickball, but limit the age to 7-12 year olds
Hide-and-Go-Seek-- how awesome would this game be at the Olympic level!

Bring back Softball and Baseball. Whose hair-brained idea was it to eliminate these?

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Bruce B, NH — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 03:33:56 GMT

Olympic Food Fighting! Now there's an idea!

On the serious side, I really don't care which sports stay and which go, but the professionals have got to go. Thay're just a travesty of the whole idea of the Olympics. And the coverage should be given roughly equally to all sports, not centered on the ones with quick events that fit neatly between commercials and into sound bites. That is unfair and just sucks.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

stingstungme — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 03:46:34 GMT

Leave the tennis alone! That is the only sport that I will play. lol
People are saying that one of the reasons basketball and tennis should be eliminated is because it has pro athletes. They want the best right? They have beach volleyball players and soccer players. They don't get paid?
Seriously, I would vote for archery, all that darn rifle\skeet shooting. I hate the trampoline. I remember seeing it and thinking this is a joke. I understand why they have the marathon but it is so darn boring to watch on tv.
Do we really need a marathon, triathalon, hepatholon, penthalon, decatholon and whatever other lon?
What about sailing?
I love gymnastics but the rhythmic gymnastics with them waving bows and ribbons and playing with balls. Nope. Let the little contortionists join circue du soleil.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

stingstungme — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 03:50:59 GMT

Tug-of-war used to be an event. If you add that then go ahead and add pole dancing.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Cosmo, TN — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 03:55:13 GMT

Chain saw juggling would get HUGE viewership IMHO

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Adam — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 05:04:53 GMT

Equestrian is not a sport. Drop it. Neither is ping pong, sailing, synchronized swiming/diving, Drop them. Anything where judges decide the winner, like Gymnastics (sadly because I like those), drop it. Any sport where winning a gold medal is not the highest accomplishment they can get (tennis, basketball, soccer, baseball, hockey), drop them. For example, ask any tennis player if they would rather win a gold or win Wimbledon... no brainer. Some events are also just unneccesary, like a million different swimming events?? The 4 main strokes in the 100, 400 medley, and 400 relay mens/womens... the end. Also, dont need quite so many distances in running. 100, 110 hurdles, 400, 1500, 400 relay, and the marathon, and thats plenty.
What to add??
As someone said, add a javelin throw at a target. Rugby would be good (especialy with soccer out).
Keep fencing but find a way to make it a bit more like what an actual fencing fight would be like.
Dodgeball!!! That seems in keeping with the ideals of an "Olympic" event. Remember the spirit these games were created upon (plus that would be really fun to watch). And finally (with full body armor in place for the crybabies) CHARIOT RACES!!!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Me, Here — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 12:37:39 GMT

I would definitely watch the Dwight Schrute Olympic event - the Centathalon - if only for the cup stacking, animal mimicry and murder checkers.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Laurian Moomjian, Frisco, TX — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 13:52:35 GMT

Drop all sports that involve subjective judging. That DOES NOT include tennis or basketball!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Harley Santa Monica California — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:05:22 GMT

Basketball and Tennis are very lame. Professional multi-million dollar (some in the 100's of millions) athletes competing for "just the hell of it" is ridiculous and shameful.

If they have equestrian, why not horse racing? Really? What's the diffrence? There isnt one. Get rid of Equestrian OR add Horse Racing.

I personally think the american schoolyard version of hand ball would be awesome. Ducking under at the last second as the ball hits the floor for the gold medal?.... epic!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

John Doe, Seattle, Wash. — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:40:20 GMT

Wet t-shirt contest is a must. Ro-sham-bo and paper-rock-scissors would be nice. Potato sack races could fit, along with a greased pig contest. Disk golf? you got to have Disk golf.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Bryan, Worldwide — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:44:24 GMT

With all this debate over what is a "sport" versus a "game," don't forget these events are called the "Olympic Games," not "Olympic Sports." Since ESPN sees fit to televise card games on a "sports" network, watch out! Poker might be an Olympic event the next time around.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

K Glenn, Denver, Co — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 14:48:10 GMT

Get rid of all sports which can't be timed, measured, or compete 1 on 1 (wrestling, boxing, tennis, etc). This whole thing of dropping the highest/lowest score and averaging the remaining is just too subjective.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

John Doe, Seattle, Wash — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:14:16 GMT

We really need to add an obstacle course. Something just to shake things up. Heck would could even expand it out like an American Gladiators Challenge. I am all for athletes dodging tennis balls being fired at them. Since reality tv has endurance challenges these need to be added as well. Where is the challenge for people like myself that can watch an entire marathon on tv any Saturday without blinking? Where is my gold for this obvious skill?

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Maree, West Lafayette, IN — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:26:19 GMT

The person who said equestrian is not a sport has obviously never ridden a horse at a competitive level. I've ridden competitively for 14 years, I rarely exercise in any other way, yet I've got a six pack and could match or out-do many of our football players on the sled in high school. How is that unathletic? It's hard work, controlling a 1,000lbs animal with an opinion of it's own thank you very much.

I would like to see rugby added for sure!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Jeff Dupont, Lowell, Ma — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:34:09 GMT

I want kickball or 4 square. Watching adults seriously competing in either would be classic

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Tom Halverson Omaha Nebraska — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:38:58 GMT

I would like to see jousting added. It incorpates horsemanship balance and a little smashmouth action to the games.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Lisa, Boise, ID — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:43:44 GMT

First of all, it's called the Olympic "GAMES." Not the Olympic "Sports." And as far as only allowing amateur, isn't the point of the Olympics to find the best athlete in the world??? How do we find the best athlete in the world if we exclude the professionals? And just because you don't like to watch a sport does not mean it doesn’t belong in the Olympics. Someone has put their life's work into what they're doing. It shouldn’t be excluded from the games just because someone isn't entertained by watching it. If you don't want to watch a sport, change the channel.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Fiona64, Silicon Valley, CA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:48:50 GMT

Brenda wrote: Equestrian is NOT a sport. It is an event - considering that the animal is doing all the work.

Dear Brenda:

You are cordially invited to go horseback riding some time. Just for an hour. Just at the two slowest gaits, walk and trot. Then, have a friend ring you up the next day to see how long it takes you to get to the phone.

Then you'll see how much work the equestrian athlete does.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Fiona64, Silicon Valley, CA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 15:52:00 GMT

For those who argue that swimming requires significant training: you're wrong. It requires significant *conditioning* for endurance, but it does not require significant training. There is a difference between the two.

It takes easily 10 years to become a good competitive fencer with training in multiple disciplines. A person can learn to swim in a matter of hours; after that, it's conditioning.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

No one special in Indiana — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:28:06 GMT

Why are there so many Pro athletes involved in the games as team members. I think all olympic athletes should be amatuers and citizenson of the country they are competing with not recruites from other countries. How can this be a true competive event, if we have other players then their own citizenson and Pros.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

No one special in Indiana — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 16:29:04 GMT

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Bruce Williams, Pasadena, CA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:12:57 GMT

Anyone who thinks equestrian isn't a sport has never tried to control a 2,000lb horse with their knees and will power. It is as physical and mental a sport as there is.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Ramone — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:14:11 GMT

@Fiona64, what Olympics were you watching? Fencing WAS televised. It was boring. By the time the commentators start talking about technique it's already over and done with. Swimming is exciting, is both individual and team-based, and requires an enormous amount of coordination, power, and endurance. And equestrian? Yeah, they are trained, but how much of that is the horse? How about rodeo sports? Or a game of grease the pig? We can make it as elitist as equestrian and have the pig chasers where tall boots and funny hats.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Nikki Louis, Smyrna, GA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:48:14 GMT

I'd like to see Jai Alai, that seems to be popular in the Latin countries and is pretty exciting to watch.

And I wish they would actually show the modern pentahalon...it includes all the shooting we need to see, so drop the rest of the shooting.

I agree basketball, tennis, anything with pros playing needs to go.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Fiona64, Silicon Valley, CA — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 17:59:08 GMT

Couch potato wrote: "The Olympics were set up for amateurs by the very rich who could afford to train, and buy and keep horses for example, as a way to exclude the commoners."

Um, no. The Olympiad was a religious event, in which Greek athletes competed to honor the gods.

History is our friend. Sometimes I think we should go back to *only* the original events of the Olympiad, to be perfectly honest.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Sterling — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:24:47 GMT

Disc golf.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Ed Mines, Birmingham, AL — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:33:54 GMT

I was flipping through the channels the other day and i ended up watching "Competitive Jumproping", and decided to check it out. I must say that it should be and Olympic sport just for the amount of stamina and speed they exhibited! Imagine running in place as fast as you can for 3minutes while jumping rope. Laugh if you may, but it better than some of the so called "events" they have now.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Lola OKC, OK — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 18:51:09 GMT

I will just like to add that all those people saying "sports" do realise that its called Olympic "Games" right? just a thought :)

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Jessi Baltimore, MD — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 19:42:59 GMT

Rugby...bring it back. They are discussing sevens, but bring the whole 15, make us forwards happy

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Steven, Atlantic City, New Jersey — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 20:15:39 GMT

To me, the Olympics has always been about "those other sports". You know, the sports you only watch during the Olympics like gymnastics and swimming.

I agree tennis and bball should be dropped cause they already are mainstream. I also agree sports like cricoquet should be brought back along with other, less watched sports.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

tt, tt, tx — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 20:34:15 GMT

War, but it should be the final event of the ceremonies.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

fran, apex, nc — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 20:41:40 GMT

Both Winter and Summer:
Eliminate any "sport" that uses judging to determine the winner such as Gymnastics, Ice Skating, Diving, Trampoline, Boxing... Include any "sport" that has a definative scoring system (fastest, Strongest...) Baseball, Basketball, Rugby, Cricket, Swiming, Track, soccer, Hockey, Cycling, Rowing, Skiing

If you want to include judging "sports" you need to set up a multiple judge blind scoring system similar to what Skating has setup recently (10-15 judges who turn in scores and a computer randomly selects which judges scores to use).

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Dan, Virginia — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 20:54:41 GMT

Perhaps the Olympics would be more interesting if we reverted to the basic forms of sport, like turning boxing into Greek Boxing (bare knuckles and almost no rules); turn fencing into sword fighting (the death part would REALLY boost ratings); turn shooting sports into skirmishes... you know... like when people shoot AT EACH OTHER. In the Greek Olympics from the WAY back, almost all of the events were about war skills. Why, pray tell, should that change? Humans are far more warlike than ever they were then. And how could I forget Roller Derby or Gang Fights?

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

MilkMan, Queens, New York — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:22:50 GMT

I would definetly like to see Mixed Martial Arts in the Olimpics!! What is the point of All those,martial arts,that are not really full contact fighting, where they just wear a ton of padding and 'tap' each other for points. That's just sissy fighting. Can you imagine watching Kimbo Slice, SMASHING Ben Rothwells face in the octogon!!!! Now that is entertainment. MMA is REAL fighting. Not just the guy who can 'touch' the other guy more, and have more points will win the match.
Anyway, not talking about the Olimpics, I believe that sports like boxing are going to decline in popularity, to make way for MMA. because that is real fighting. Dont believe me? Go to youtube and check out Kimbo Slice.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

a p garcia — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 21:49:53 GMT

My choice of sport to see is "Zero G Gynastics".

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Kevin, Christchurch, NZ — Tue, 19 Aug 2008 23:13:37 GMT

Rugby would be OK but I don't know if there would be enough worldwide participants. And games would have to be shortened dramatically as a tourney of any size woul dtake a toll on players, venues, and time. BTW we're in full-swing with rugby right now... and it's winter down here - so wouldn't that make it a winter sport : )

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

John Erickson, Mill City, OR — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 01:06:18 GMT

I'd love to see Gladiatorial Combat Sports! Swordplay in both the light and heavy two handed swords. No need for judges either, combat will be to the death.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Imar, San Francisco, Ca. — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 02:04:53 GMT

I believe that Golf, Rugby, Mixed Martial Arts and Skateboarding should be in the Olympics. I am amazed that Golf is not on the program, since it is played all over the world. The same can be said with Rugby. MMA and Skateboarding would be a great edition, as it would get the young crowd that the IOC is deperately trying to attract.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Dave, FL — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 03:09:50 GMT

Olympic Paintball.

Thats all I have to say.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Rachael Madison Alabama — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 04:15:27 GMT

The reality is that the networks spend tons of money to see what events that people want to see. Although many of you are tired of the sports that they have been showing in "prime time" they are getting huge ratings, so we evidenty want to watch hours upon hours of gymnastics and beach volley ball.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Sasuke Sarutobi, Boulder, Colorado — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 06:43:54 GMT

That's right Cooper. Dump basketball (with the huge following it has and its stars) and tennis (popular everywhere right now except for the states) and put some retarded "sport" like cricket in. Why not push off something no one watches like baseball or men's volleyball?

I'm disappointed to see such a poor argument

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Pat, West Palm Beach, FL — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 09:58:45 GMT

Lacrosse would be a great olympic sport.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

R.C., West Virginia — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:42:13 GMT

It would be wicked awesome to have some paintball thrown into the mix.
It's played throughout the world. There is a professional league here in the states, but there are so many talented players out there it would be easy to get together teams from around the world.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

T Smith — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:50:05 GMT

Get rid of everything that requires a judge's opinion.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Linda, Cleveland, OH — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 14:50:53 GMT

Badminton has to be the silliest sport I have ever seen. So much effort for so little result. And I heard on NPR a while back that there are people trying to get competitive yoga to be an Olympic sport. That's just so wrong. And finally, why is there so much beach volleyball? Don't even get me started on their "uniforms."

Since ESPN likes to show it so much, I guess poker of varying sorts could be added. Rugby and bowling, definitely. And hot dog eating seems to have a worldwide following... I would suggest spelling, but then you would have to decide on which language. Talk about a home court advantage!

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Dr Fizz — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 16:34:34 GMT

How about 18 holes of Golf (IE: Drinking) at 18 fine Pubs in the vacinity. Then pass a sobriety test for the gold, silver and bronze medal.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Tim, San Luis Obispo, CA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 17:15:57 GMT

Instead of eliminating all professionals, just limit their age to compete, just like men's olympic soccer (all but 3 players are limited to be under 23 years of age). Do this for baseball and basketball. Remember, China pays every expense for all of their athletes, so every one of their olympic athletes are professionals.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Anne, NY, NY — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 19:47:21 GMT

I love Hide and Seek - perfect! Maybe "Kick the Can and Run" would be good too! "Jacks"???
('Should be Run/Fish/Nap/Eat, Run/Fish/Nap/Eat)

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Melissa B, Omaha, Nebraska — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 20:01:14 GMT

I feel sorry for the guy that said that Guitar Hero should be the new Olympic sport. There's seriously something wrong about playing fake guitar for an Olympic medal.

I agree that baseball and softball should be eliminated (they're both boring as all hell). I do think they should add rugby, as it is one of the roughest sports out there.

It's stupid to say that gymnastics, diving, etc should be taken out because they are scored by judges. These sports are about technique, not about how many flips you can do. That's the hardest part about doing them, you have to have to take into account all of the details of the athletes performance. Anyone who says they should be removed is too dumb to really appreciate them.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Cristyn, San Antonio, TX — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 21:20:37 GMT

Pole dancing, YES.

Oh, and whatever you call shooting an apple off someone's head... that would be a GREAT addition. Way more suspenseful than waiting for someone to fall off the balance beam.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

jacob — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 21:53:06 GMT

Joe Six Pack: Above, wrote and suggested Climbing, Rock Climbing or Speed Rock Climbing, or maybe "Agility Climbing" I would like to point out that that has got to be one of the best suggestions and Olympic ideas I have ever heard! Seriously, I can't believe I've never thought of it but it makes perfect sense and I can't for the life of me think of one reason why Rock Climbing of some sort had not been scouted out for the Olympics.

Canoe Racing?

Someone suggested car racing but I think that might have the same effect as having basketball or tennis, there is already a pro industry that is probably more exciting to watch. but maybe like a dirt dune buggy indy or something like that.

Motocross.?

Cricket makes a lot of sense as well. and yes to the poser above, there is a lot of cricket played in many parts of India.

rollerblading of somesort, not freestyle trick type roller blading but more race and agility style rollerblading. Speed Blade, Blade slalom??

I think for the diversity instead of "just" weightlifting they should create a whole Bodybuild category and have like 4-5 different events like the ones in the strongest man competitions on tv. But rule them a little more to make them more competitive.

The sports I like to watch the most are the ones that you dont hear about every day or often, and thats what I think is fun to watch, people doing things that you'll never be able to do.

and I also think Hangliding should be added back too.

And fencing! What about fencing, is fencing still involved? I haven't even one thing about fencing at all this year.

Diversify and the Olympics will be way more fun again sometime.

and please escuse my bad sentence structure, I am in a hurry.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

jacob — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 21:54:54 GMT

"Tug-of-war used to be an event. If you add that then go ahead and add pole dancing." - stingstungme.

I am not going to support this, but I am also NOT going to say it's a bad idea either;)

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

jacob — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 22:02:58 GMT

and actually, maybe even a culinary event of some magnitude "could" be pretty interesting if done right.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

jmell, kirkland wa — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 22:30:38 GMT

The comments about Equestrian are way off. I don't ride much but my wife does. It takes incredible conditioning and skill to ride a horse the way they do. It's all about subtle cues and leg pressures and maintaining perfect balance. I admit this is lost on the casual viewer, but being married to a pro will change your tune real quick. I can barely ride my horse, but my wife is absolutely amazing with her.
By the way, though judging systems are flawed, they're the best we have for sports like diving and gymnastics. I'd like to see them improve but totally eliminated? No way. Besides, any sport that has a referee, penalties, etc. can potentially be flawed. You think the refs get every call right in Soccer? Or think they've never affected the outcome of a game? Please.
BTW, never had even one of these get posted so probably nobody will read this anyway.

Dump Olympic tennis, add tug of war

Sara K, Pittsburgh, PA — Wed, 20 Aug 2008 22:58:48 GMT

I disagree about golf. First and foremost, it bores the living hell out of me. Second, you'd have to limit yourself to countries that can actually support a golf course - not all places are built for that! It's bad enough that they have to construct huge Olympic buildings in each city, imagine having to find a place that could fit all those buildings AND an 18 hole course? It's just not feasible.

And.. it's boring ;)