Limit technology's role in sport
Michael Phelps, a swimming world-record holder, will promote the latest hi-tech swimsuit in preparation for this year's London Olympics. This reminds us of the debate about the use of technology in sports.
What is sport? It is panting, it is sweating, it is unleashing the potential of human muscles.
A race is for athletes to compete with each other, not for technicians to battle against one another. The intervention of technology breaks the rule of fairness, as athletes no longer compete on a level playing field. The enhanced buoyancy of hi-tech swimsuits is unnatural. So the result no longer reflects the swimmer's performance. With such advanced equipment, people can easily achieve super results. I believe there should be a limit on the use of technology in sport. Technology should not violate the spirit of sport.
Alex Siu, SKH Lam Kau Mow Secondary School
From the Editor
Thank you for your letter, Alex. That's the thing about technology, isn't it? It widens the gap between the 'haves' and the 'have-nots'.
It is a bit strange to pick on a swimming costume as being 'the' thing that needs to be outlawed. The fact is that technology has been and will continue to be used in sports. Technology is also being used to assist umpires and referees in their decisions.
It seems we are drifting away from the idea of sportsmanship and into the realm of science. While many people may feel sad about the prospect, the reality is there is not much we can do about it.
Susan Ramsay, Editor
