The Reminder is making its archives back to 2003 available on our website. Please note that, due to technical limitations, archive articles are presented without the usual formatting.
This is the third Sports Experts column, and although the past week was a slow one in the world of sports, with the December 1 trade deadline and next week's NHL bargaining session, I'm sure there will be lots to discuss next time around. Earlier this week, The Reminder ran a story on increased funding for the Canadian Olympic Committee (COC), to ensure that Canada finishes at the top of the medal standings for the 2010 Olympics. During the last Winter Olympics, Canada finished fourth in the medal standings with 17, behind Germany (35), the United States (34) and Norway (24). I asked the panel what they thought about the COC's goal, and if it they thought it was important for Canada to finish at the top of the list, no matter what the cost. Personally, I don't think it matters how much money they spend on training, coaches and facilities. You can't buy Olympic medals. Take a close look at what happened to Perdita Felicien. She was Canada's guarantee in Athens, only to stumble on the first hurdle and go home empty-handed. No amount of money could have helped her get over that hurdle. "I'd like to see us around the top. However, it's unrealistic for us to be truly competitive with some of the power houses. I'd rather have health care than be number 1 at the Olympics." - Jeff K. "I find it hard to believe that the Canadian government would be that stupid to think we could be the top medal winner, no matter what amount of money we spend. I agree we need to increase funding for our athletes, but let's not be ridiculous about our expectations." - Tom T. "Canada needs to spend more on the Olympics, but not win at any cost." - Bob H. That is all for this week. Go to the Whitney Forum this weekend and support your Flin Flon Bombers, and pay special attention to all the new faces in the lineup. I would like to hear what you think of the trades the Bombers made this week. If you would like to join our panel of experts, please e-mail me at [email protected]. Remember, every person who joins the Sports Experts until December 17 will have their name entered into a draw for a free pair of Visiball Golf Ball Finders, a $40 value.
