On the shortlist...

I was reading an article earlier today that related to BBC's sports personality of the year award. Apparently, UK women's sports is even more of an afterthought than it is here in the U.S.

The top 10 contenders for the award are ALL male. The author of the article (to which I will post a link) expresses that she is hardly surprised that these females were snubbed, given the country's attitude toward women's participation in sport.

Sure, we've learned that mass media in the U.S. pays more attention to male athletics. However, this makes me wonder - how is a woman's involvement in the sporting realm viewed in other countries? I find it so hard to believe that so many other countries would hold such a biased view on female athletes.

I wasn't a fan of women's sports before the class and I'm not afterwards, unfortunately the male dominated money makers are the front runners: this is no surprise to anyone. Although, from an athletic point of view, I respect, and encourage the progress and determination of these athletes. I know the body of work they put in, and they should be praised and admired for doing so. To snub them of any such recognition is immoral and unjust, regardless of the country or its beliefs.

These women, like their male counterparts, are in the gym 24/7. Not only sculpting their bodies into peak physical condition, but perfecting their game: whether it's at the free throw line, in the batting cage, or in the film room. How is it fair for a female athlete to win the gold medal at the Shanghai world championships, and not even be mentioned as one of the best performers of the year? Does the media realize how emotionally and morally degrading this is to an athlete?

This is someone's job; their profession. It's usually a childhood aspiration they've molded and worked on all of their lives. Respect the blood, sweat, and tears these athletes have sacrificed for their sport. We need to be able to give credit where it's due, regardless of sex, race, or religion.

Article Link: http://www.guardian.co.uk/lifeandstyle/2011/nov/29/women-sports-personality-year-2011?newsfeed=true

Elliot Osrin
KIN338I (Sec. 6)