NEW RULE

Awareness is mandatory.

In the 2008 Olympics, Kirsty Coventry garnered one gold medal. She scored three silver medals. Last week, she received $100,000. Internationally, this is standard. Athletic excellence is compensated. In Zimbabwe, this is unacceptable. President Robert Mugabe is a fraudulent figurehead. He is a criminal and tyrant.

Coventry’s presence is repugnant. Her response is predictable. I am an athlete. Athletes are non-political. This is atrocious. Athletes posses prominence. They posses stature and status. Their opinion can alter circumstances. Their opinion can inspire citizens. Obviously, Muhammad Ali and Tommy Smith were exceptions. Coventry is not them. However, she must recognize the obvious. Athletes have power.