Lindsey, You Are Truly “The Man”
BY RICK TITTLE
In everyday life we like to use the term, “You’re The Man.” This is a term that gives endearment and praise. It can be used willy-nilly to express thanks and other such trivial graces. It’s a part of our American lexicon at this point. But when it comes to sports, women rarely get the opportunity to prove themselves among the men and be “The Man.” One rare instance where women can achieve this is on a snow-covered mountain.
Being a member of the US Ski Team is a very impressive accomplishment. It has a different panache and vibe than any other sports squad – every member is not only athletic, daring and savvy, but also a little bit nuts. I’ve always admired our ski teams, both male and female. Slippery slopes do not distinguish when it comes to gender. The slick ice and the treacherous winds battle both sides of the sexes. The women are in just as much danger as the men, and they run the exact same risks.
Winter Olympics have always been close to my heart, even more so than the summer games. I’m just not a big track or swimming guy. And winter games always feature the signature moment near the end of the tournament: ladies figure skating. But the coolest event in my opinion is the downhill. It doesn’t get any more simple and pure as the downhill. Put on some skis and race to the bottom of the mountain faster than anyone else? You win the gold. It is the unadulterated essence of winter sports. It is also one fraught with peril at every turn.
I can’t think of another sport in which I enjoy watching the men and the women equally. I usually have a preference one way or the other. But the downhill is where it’s at. It separates the men from the boys…and the women from the girls. Broken ribs, punctured lungs, lacerated thighs, fractured hips, or even worse are the norm. This sport is not for the meek and mild. It is truly the great equalizer amongst the sport of skiing. And to think that our Lindsey Vonn won it on practically one leg is beyond amazing. Lindsey, you are truly “The Man.” God Bless America. USA! USA!
Rick Tittle can be reached at
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Blue Goo Medicine Minute
Head and Mouth Protection: Think about whatever sports you're into these days and be prepared to take a shot to the head or mouth somewhere, some time, or some how. There are several ways to protect your precious cargo. Click below to listen.