Nelson Mandela Voices Support for Sport

Nelson Mandela, former President of South Africa, firmly believes that sport is a great tool that mankind can use to promote peace around the world. He sees sport as a big contributor to South Africa’s development and growth as a democratic nation. And the Olympic Games is one great example of a sporting event.

Mandela is a former boxer, hence, his apparent fondness of sports. He supported South Africa’s return to the Olympics during the 1992 Barcelona Games by being there.

According the article I read, Mandela and IOC President Jacques Rogge met, discussed and agreed that “Sport can facilitate dialogue between different communities and be a catalyst in our society.”

The IOC President also congratulated Nelson Mandela on the successful staging of major sports events in his country, recalling the Rugby World Cup in 1995, the African Games in 1999 and the Cricket World Cup in 2003. Such events play an important role in the development of South African sport, the two men agreed. Looking into the future, Rogge expressed his best wishes for the staging of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, which will attract people from all over the globe to South Africa.

Sometimes, it’s better to see sports in a different light and used in a different way. This article doesn’t simply sugar coat some trivial thing that happens every 4 years but it actually showcases the essence of the Olympic Games.

I commend all the Nelson Mandelas in this world. :)

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