(02-19-2026, 06:07 PM)SkiBum80 Wrote:(02-19-2026, 03:44 PM)ca245 Wrote: I think Eileen Gu should have chosen to represent the USA, but I am surprised to see the animus directed at her for her choice to represent China.Part of the difference in response might be due to the point that we are less likely to get into a war, or worst case nuclear war, with Sweden, over say, their threat to militarily attack and take over the democratically elected govt on the island of Zealand.
Her situation is not that different from that of Armand Duplantis (https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Armand_Duplantis), the world record holder in the pole vault. He has an American father and a Swedish mother and was born in Lafayette, Louisiana. He went to high school in Louisiana and then LSU. But when he chose to represent Sweden in international competition, there wasn't any controversy about it.
Given that Eileen is Asian and female, the vitriol directed at her because of her choice of country to represent raises the specter of racism and misogyny.
Today Zoe Atkin qualified top highest score in the freeski half pipe.
Finals Saturday
During Zoe Atkin's first run, the commentator noted that while Stanford usually has several athletes at the Summer Olympics, they had two in this one event. Then gave out a hearty "Go Cardinal". Decent chance both could medal.
The Peacock feeds have had some interesting moments during the Olympics today. Sweet Caroline playing in the venue while Gu waiting on her phone for her 2nd qualifying run. Alysa Liu dropping a couple f-bombs after her really incredible skate for gold.
Really a very enjoyable Winter Olympics all around IMHO.
