Many of us gripe about the FIE rule changes that keep being made in an
effort to make fencing a better television spectacle. But we don't have
it so bad really, at least so far they have resisted any temptation to
make us fence with brightly coloured "Wacky Whackers" [tm] *.
The folks in table tennis land aren't so lucky. At the 2000 olympics it
has apparently been decided they will use larger and heavier balls. Why?
To slow down the action so that the audience at home can see it. An
advantage to those of european stock perhaps, who generally struggle to
keep up with the lightning reflexes of the asians.
Can you imagine fencing with thick foam weapons? Ideal for spectators I'm sure,
easy to see, slows the action, and then we could dispense with masks altogether!
(Or at least we wouldn't have to worry if the lexan ones cracked). Easier to
parry, you'll see the attack coming a mile away. Tricky to score electrically,
but I'm sure if they change the rules then the manufacturers will rise to the
challenge.
Or maybe they'll just follow the WWF and have us employ theatrical fencing
techniques.
Do you hear the bells tolling? 'tis time to sacrifice your sport on the altar
of television.
You didn't think you were doing this for fun, fitness or pleasure did you?
You're all just potential camera fodder for the entertainment of weekend couch
potatoes everywhere.
* Soft foam sabres. Fun, but not very demanding.