Cram slams Olympic politics

Aug 3 2008 by Ian Robson, Sunday Sun

ONE of the North’s top athletes claims politics should be kept out of out of sport.

Steve Cram is one of several BBC commentators at the Olympic Games in Beijing.

He said he has no sympathy with human rights protesters campaigning against the choice of venue.

He said: “I think we sometimes forget that the world sees us in a slightly different way as well.

“If London were hosting the Games this time round, or perhaps in 2004, I’m pretty sure there would have been parts of the world where our presence in Iraq would have been an issue.

“So if the International Olympic Committee decide they want to go to China and everyone accepts the decision at the time – which they obviously did – it’s a bit rich when people six months out suddenly decide to say we shouldn’t be going there.

“I have my views on human rights and Government policy but as an athlete that’s not how you operate, you just go and compete where the world takes you.

“You compete on a regular basis around the world in places that are not in the media spotlight but if you were choosy about where you went you’d end up not competing very often.

“I’d have more sympathy for people saying you shouldn’t be going to compete in China if other sectors of society were following the same pattern.”

In a career spanning more than three decades, Steve’s many achievements include six Commonwealth gold medals and the European and World Championships.

Jonathan Edwards, another North athlete turned presenter, is diplomatic in his views. He said the selection of Beijing will help bridge cultural differences between cultures.

He said: “I have been to China only once, and briefly, so I’m just looking forward to spending more time in a place which will soon become one of the most powerful in the world.

“As to the significance of the Games being held in Beijing, it’s part of a process which will help break down some of the barriers and mistrust that exist between China and the West.

“I think there is much to learn on both sides.”

V Coverage of the Olympics begins with the opening ceremony on BBC1, Saturday, 1.55am.