I Told You So

I woke up this morning a few minutes early and on a whim decided to head downstairs and check to see what olympic coverage was coming across from China. Never has the television coverage in Doha been so frustrating as it has been since the opening ceremony in Beijing 3 days ago. Although there are 5 channels in our satellite lineup that are 'showing' olympic events, 4 of them are broadcast in Arabic, and ALL of them seems determined to show ANYTHING but American performances, even interrupting the Finals of the 400IM (Phelps' first gold medal / WR event) to show us a meaningless first round boxing match because it featured an Armenian fighter. So imagine my surprise when I flipped to the 3rd option this morning - Saudi Sports 1 to find swimmers in the pool... it took a few seconds to realize that this was the 4x100 Freestyle Relay Men's Final, 2nd leg finishing and the USA was dead even with France and Australia for the lead a full body length in front of the WR tracking 'green line'. This was forecasted to be the event that would make or break Phelps' attempt at 8 gold medals, one of 3 events in which Phelps' destiny will be decided by more than his own accomplishments.

The Arab broadcaster and I apparently agree that the subsequent 2 minutes of television is surely one of the most exciting sporting events of all time... I feel no guilt in ruining the surprise for anyone who hasn't already visited a site on the web, turned on the TV, or talked to another person - because no text can properly capture this moment. My hope is that my post will ensure you see the race for yourself. Critical analysis of HOW Lezak managed to draft along the laneline and make up a full body length in the final 15 meters cannot replace the emotional rollercoaster that had a nation standing in its living room pumping its fist (even if that nation sees the event tape delayed 14 hours later). I acknowledge that my attachment to swimming, especially the 4x100 relay is tied to my own experiences (substitute high school regional meet with the Olympics!), but even the layman can 'feel' the utter brilliance of this single event. A comeback and dynasty reclaimed rolled into one experience. The collective performance of 8 men showcased swimming's ability, even if only for a few moments every 4 years, to entertain the world.

If I don't see another minute of olympic coverage; if Phelps does or doesn't win 8 golds; if the Dream Team finally returns Gold to US Basketball - I am confident I will have seen the most exhilirating moment of the 2008 games (or any games for that matter). The fact that it came at the expense of a highly talented, highly favored, 'big talking' French team is just the custard in the eclair.

In other news, Qatar has publicly expressed interest in hosting the 2020 games!

Two 'I Told You So's in one day... and it's not even noon!