Sayonara Olympics

In my previous column I wrote that there’s a big possibility the 2020 Tokyo Olympics will be postponed due to the threat of the coronavirus pandemic which is creating havoc globally.  For a while IOC President Thomas Bach was hoping Japan could still host the Games, but pressures from the USA, England, Canada and several other countries, finally convinced Batch that it’s just impossible to host the Games at this time.  With the covid-19 pandemic almost getting out of control, I believe postponement was the practical thing to do.  Even if the virus slows down say in June, two months are not enough for the athletes training for the Games.  In fact, some countries lashed out the OIC for taking too long to decide.  Of course the organizers are also looking at Tokyo’s investment of at least $12 billion and postponement would mean some $6billion, but that’s a wise decision for we cannot endanger the safety of the athletes and spectators.  The Games which was reset to 2021 will still be known as 2020 Tokyo Olympics.  On the other hand, some athletes said they don’t know if their performance will still be the same. Some said they’re getting old while some wailed they might lose focus and momentum.  Safety however is the top priority. See you in 2021.

Hasta La Vista

Several known personalities died recently including country singer Kenny Rogers, 81, former Harley Globetrotter Fred “Curly” Neal, 77 and my friend former UST Tigers Coach Aric Del Rosario, 80.  No, they didn't die of the coronavirus but of natural causes.  May you all rest in peace.