The death of a Georgian luger Nodar Kumaritashvili wasn’t the only tragic even to hit the Vancouver games. Canadian figure skater Joannie Rochette faced her own personal tragedy when she learned her mother – Therese Rochette – died suddenly of a heart attack.
Grief stricken, she could have opted to not skate but decided to soldier on to an eventual bronze medal. A remarkable result given the circumstances. As is the case in most human interest stories, darker interpretations of her accomplishment have been opined on some sites claiming her victory was motivated by racism and pity. In a sport with a spotty if not sullied past, accusations are sure to come. However, in this case, it’s unsubstantiated nonsense – especially the racism part.
I don’t want to give more thought to this than it deserves. Rather, the focus should be on Rochette and her family. Canada should allow her to carry the flag at the closing ceremonies.
***
Bite this
So. Hockey Canada decided to apologize for the post-game on-ice celebration by Team Canada following their win over the United States. The players hit the champagne and beer bottles and chomped on a few unlit cigars in an empty arena.
It’s made news and was even a topic of discussion on Around the Horn and Pardon the Interruption. I’m glad to “report” the consensus according to them was the event was overblown.
No kidding. It’s not like they paraded around naked with their gold medals hanging from their necks. Come to think of it…
Hockey Canada shouldn’t have apologized.
All have to say is: You go girls!
i love to Figure Skate, and this has been my favorite sport ever since i was a kid..’: