Some Mutterings

I was a bit thunderstruck by this. At the running and swimming races at school I was always so far behind, some wondered whether I might not be competing in the next race. I mean, if I had managed to get to TV level and play as well as they did, then I would be uncontrollably ecstatic. To play in front of throngs of people, representing your country is an enormous privilege. Of course the player got heaps of media attention because of their angst and unhelpful words.

And pondered as I waited for the kettle to boil.

When did coming second in any sport, at any level, become a source of shame and regret? Is it really such a life changing disaster? What happened to the joy of just simply participating and giving something your very best shot? Is it a terrible thing to be inspired and challenged by a more worthy opponent?

Don’t get me wrong. A bit of healthy competition can push us along and bring out our very best effort. It is what happens at the finish line and some post match speeches that have left me scratching my head and stroking my chin in bemusement.

There is another question which goes to the heart of the matter and I would ask it of everyone that enters any competition or plays competitive sport. And my question is this. ‘Why did you enter the race?’ If your answer is to win and only to win at any cost, then my friend, I think you have lost already.