Considerations for reconfiguration of the summer olympic games: suggestions on the future of olympic games

Introduction

There is no doubt that the Olympic Games are by far the greatest sporting festival in the history of mankind. It is equally undeniable that the Games have helped to unite the peoples of the world (unity in diversity) - serving as a forum for festival of humanity, friendship, solidarity and peace. The Games are the largest peaceful gathering of humanity (1), seeking to promote international understanding and dialogue among civilizations, nations and individuals. Clearly the Olympic Games continue to fascinate the world (2). The noble ideas behind the revival of the Games in 1896 have for some years now being put to test (a great concern). Viewed from the perspective of history, there have been notable departures from the original ideals of the Games. Although the International Olympic Committee has taken some positive steps to advance its agenda regarding the Games, there are serious problems and departures from the Olympic ideology that could result in diminished perception of the organization thereby causing it to lose its credibility (3). The purpose of this paper was to analyze critical issues concerning reconfiguration of the Olympic Games, and to give practical recommendations.

Methods

In order to address the key issues, relevant literature was reviewed and analysed. Content analysis method was used to critique available literature. Based on the content analysis the problems and challenges facing the organization of the summer Olympics were identified and discussed.

Results
The findings and discussion were based on the following eight challenges and concerns facing the summer Olympics, on the basis of which recommendations were made regarding the future of the Games. These are: (i) size and number of summer games events and the monetary investment; (ii) increased number of drugged athletes (males and females) entering the Olympic Games; (iii) empowerment of women to the highest and most responsible positions within the 10C-NOC-ISF "family"; (iv) emphasis on Olympism rather than nationalism and recognition of the achievements of the athletes; (v) replacement of full time IOC members from the five continents whose skills and interest are political and are considered inappropriate in the 21st Century; (vi) the implementation of the "Elliot Ness Untouchable Incorruptible" syndrome; (vii) a drastic reduction in the size of the IOC members and (viii) the possibility of a permanent site for the summer Olympics (3). Future Olympic Games should be guided by the slogan "bigger is not necessarily better in the Olympic World". The Olympic Games should be different and unique from other global sporting events. It should serve as a model and indeed epitomize the organization of international sport.

References

1. Brennan, C. (1998). USA Today, August 20: 14c
   
2. Kleinert, M. & Deimler Chrysler, A.G. (2001). Perspectives, 3, 177 - 179.
   
3. Lucas, J.A. (1998). The HK J. of Sports Med. & Sports Sci., IX, 58 - 60.