USOC and Ravelympics

I am far from alone in being offended by the tone of a letter sent to the leaders of Ravelry by the USOC.

Being a business owner, entrepreneur, knitter, life-long fan of the Olympic Games and wife of an aspiring Paralympian, I have mixed feelings.

I absolutely agree with the issues related to trademark infringement.  I completely disagree with stating that the Ravelympics inappropriately represents the ideals of the Olympic Movement or is disrespectful in anyway.

I have not participated in the Ravelympics before and was not planning to participate this year.  However, I do plan to knit something specific to commemorate the London Paralympics, if my Husband is fortunate enough to be invited to participate.

While the first apology was also offensive, the update made me feel that the fiber community had been heard.

I know first hand the level of effort, commitment and expense required to bring yourself to the very top of your game.

Yes, it's true.  My husband is the one doing the work... pushing the miles, focusing his intention and peeing in a cup in front of witnesses.  But I am the one supporting him.

I will, of course, watch the London Olympic Games.  Because I love sport.  I love that the athletes have dedicated themselves to becoming as good as they can be.  And I love that they respect excellent performances by their competition regardless of where that competition happens to be from.

I will, most likely, be knitting.  Because that's what I do when I'm watching TV.

I would love to knit while watching the London Paralympic Games as well, but sadly there will be no domestic broadcast on the networks of NBC for those Games.