The 2016 Rio Olympics are in full swing. I've been feverishly watching the equestrian and gymnastic events (how do they flip like that?!) but I'll admit, not all of the sports hold my attention. In fact, some I had no idea even existed!
1. Handball
This one definitely wins the award for most original name. Afterall, what else would you call a sport that you play with your hands and that uses a ball? Handball is like a realistic version of Quidditch. Two teams of seven players try to get the ball into their opponents goal (past the goalkeeper). Handball is played on a court, and is played over two 30-minute periods.
2. Judo
Often called a "modern martial art," Judo is a sport between two participants. The goal is to take an opponent down and subdue him for 20 seconds. Not only is strength an important factor, Judo also requires a substantial amount of skill and strategy (or so I'm told).
3. Water Polo
This is basically the aquatic version of handball. Each team consists of six players and one goalkeeper, with the goal being to score more points than your opponent in the four quarters of play. The water is 7 feet deep, meaning players must tread water the entire time, and players may only use one hand when throwing and catching the ball (!!!).
4. Pentathlon
The Pentathlon is an incredible showcase of athleticism. Athletes compete in archery, swimming, fencing, equestrianism (show jumping), and cross country running, all in the course of one day. Introduced by Baron de Coubertin in 1912, he stated that this culmination of events would test "a man’s moral qualities as much as his physical resources and skills, producing thereby a complete athlete.” I think I'll watch from the comfort of my couch.
5. Rhythmic Gymnastics
Gymnastics is, in my opinion, one of the most riveting sports to watch. Rhythmic gymnastics take it to a whole new level; teams of five or more perform a routine using one or two pieces of apparatus: a rope, hoop, ball, clubs, or ribbon. They are scored by a panel of judges based on their use of music, choreography, uses of apparatus, and variety of movements.
6. Table Tennis
7. Fencing
Fencing is a sport between two individuals that look like a cross between an astronaut and a giant bug. The goal is to make contact with their opponent with the use of their swords. Players must touch their opponent with the tip of their sword (sides do not count) on their torso. I know there is virtually no way the athletes can get hurt in this sport, but it still makes me nervous to watch!
Again, I applaud everyone who is competing in the Rio Olympics. I am not trying to poke fun at their sport. There really is something for everyone!
