@SavoirFaire Good old days , I would come home with a whole bunch of firsts, seconds and thirds, I rarely got participation ribbons. Those who have puberty early cleaned house with firsts. I had a shot at the Olympics and I dislocated my knee and was crippled for two years. By that time I found that I like sleeping in and drinking name brand cola, and watching TV. and I found enjoyment reading forgotten realms , dragon lance, and D&D novels.
Seems good to me. Every single athlete at the Olympics has put in an incredible amount of time and effort. Simply qualifying to be there is an acheivement which puts them in the vast minority of all people. Might as well give them a ribbon.
I had so many “trophies” from my kids sports participation but when they left home the only ones they wanted and took were the 1st and some of the better looking 2nd place tournament trophies, not the rah-rah participation ones. Those ended up in the trash.
@PhiNotPi Indeed. So perhaps we should go back to the old days when we didn’t hand those out either. I would have no objection to that. In fact, a return to the days of olive wreaths might be nice. The impermanence of the award is a literal reminder not to rest on one’s laurels.
I like the idea. Some sort of token at least. I guess the cost would add up, but it is such an accomplishment for the athletes I think it would be a nice thing to do. Maybe they do get all sorts of souveniers, which kind of serves as the same thing.
I am completely against medals and trophies for all children in school sports whether they win or lose, but the Olympics is different.