MetaChat - this is really cool

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19 August 2008

this is really cool →[More:]

So, say what you will about the crappy US olympic coverage, gymnastics histrionics, Phelpsmania and relentless track-and-field borecasting.

I can pretty much forgive all of it for the NBC writer who posted the above linked article about the unique combo of great sportsmanship, luck and skill that allowed the Dutch team a shot at the sailing gold despite a broken boat.

post by: lonefrontranger at: 17:50 | 7 comments

What a great story. Thanks, lfr!

posted by msali 19 August | 17:57

I AM WATCHING A PREVIEW OF THE BMX COMPETITION AND I AM REALLY PSYCHED ABOUT IT!!!!!

posted by loiseau 19 August | 18:16

Great story! From all I've heard, it would be an understatement to say that competitive sailors exemplify "good sportsmanship". I wonder why that is?

posted by muddgirl 19 August | 18:17

Fantastic. Here's a BBC story about it.

muddgirl, I think all dinghy sailing is like that. There's a general spirit of being fierce competitors on the water but best of friends back at the bar, and sailing is successful at preserving that spirit even in the highest reaches of the sport. I think probably this is down to the inherent element of danger - even when you're competing, you have to look out for one another and render aid if someone is in trouble. Obviously at most events there is safety boat cover so competitors are not directly responsible for each others' safety, but there's definitely a feeling that you are all helpless out there at the mercy of the sea itself.

posted by matthewr 19 August | 18:46

Thanks for this story, lfr. I haven't heard about it until now. A heartwarming story, as they say.

posted by LoriFLA 19 August | 19:27

The Dutch are from the Netherlands. The Danes are from Denmark.

posted by stilicho 19 August | 20:36

Paging lfr to the green. lfr to the green please.

posted by netbros 19 August | 20:57

← The ring thing. || omg vampire →

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