Are only gold medals acceptable?

THE London 2012 Olympics is currently seeing athletes from more than 200 nations competing amongst each other to be the best and to make their countries proud.

On Tuesday morning, a British radio station asked its listeners whether silver and bronze were acceptable in the Olympics.

It was a heated debate with mixed reactions from the callers.

Some felt that getting anything other than gold is an embarrassment to the country, whereas others believed that the competition is more important than the medals.

Our country sent 30 of the nation’s best to compete in this Summer Olympics and currently, we have one silver from badminton, earned by Datuk Lee Chong Wei.

Are the medals the only important thing for the sports?

This question has become apparent, especially when there are reports of athletes “throwing matches” during the competition.

It is undeniable that it is the dream of most athletes to want to be recognised as the best by snatching a gold medal in their respective events.

Others enjoy the atmosphere of the events and the spirit of competing with their peers.

While our athletes compete with the rest of the world, many of us sport fans sit in front of our television screaming our support for our athletes and crying our disappointment when they lose a match.

Regardless of the results, we must remember that although everyone has expectations, there is more than just medals in sports.

The athletes should perform to their fullest potential, enjoy the events and be proud of themselves.

As the end of the Olympics draws near, let us all enjoy the remaining events and continue to support our athletes. UNIVERSITY STUDENT Birmingham, England