What’s wrong with Rogge?
Dear Editor,
It is really strange to note that with the exception of Avery Brundage from the United States, all the presidents of the IOC have been Europeans, and all are Caucasians.
The current president, Jacques Rogge, had been very quiet during the London Games. He did not comment personally on the racist tweets by the Greek athlete, he did not comment on the cheats who have been sent home, nor did he comment on the drunken athletes who have besmirched the ‘holiness’ of the Games.
Yet, it seems Mr Rogge has unlimited time to comment on Usain Bolt. At the Beijing Olympics it was Mr Rogge who chastised Bolt for slapping his chest when the young sprinter realised he was going to become Olympic 100-metre champion. Mr Rogge admonished the 22-year-old for not respecting other athletes.
What does Mr Rogge know about a young man catapulting himself to the title of World’s Fastest Man? How many others have celebrated in such a manner or close to when the blood, sweat and tears of preparation reap rewards? A Caucasian, in my view, can never understand!
Mr Rogge is at it again. This time his obvious dislike for Bolt is manifested when he said that the Jamaican, after completing his historic double-double (100m x 2, 200m x 2) does not make him a legend in his chosen discipline.
By the way, aren’t there competent persons outside of Europe and of another hue who can head the IOC?
Wes Martin
Spanish Town
