August 14, 2008
Letters to the Editor:
I was totally offended by the tasteless cartoon in Thursday’s Spectator regarding our great Canadian athletes.
My wife and I have watched a lot of the television coverage and have been proud to see our athletes try their best and give it their all, against other athletes who are supported by their governments with large sums of money.
Maybe the cartoonist and some of our politicians should get out and support our athletes, or maybe even volunteer to coach or assist some of these fine examples of Canadian youth, instead of poking fun at them.
Good luck to all our athletes.
P. Knapp, Hamilton
The editorial cartoon depicts a Canadian swimmer running along the edge of the pool and still finishing well behind the pack. I find this cartoon totally offensive.
As the son of a man who competed in the first British Empire Games in Hamilton and later in the Los Angeles Olympics in 1932, I am aware of the dedication, hard work and many sacrifices made by athletes. There is also heartbreak endured by many along the journey.
I would have expected a major urban newspaper to show understanding and compassion in its coverage be it print or “humour.” I challenge The Spectator to take a more constructive role in promoting future Olympic podium successes.
J. Ravensdale, Puslinch
I would like to congratulate your witty and talented cartoonist Graeme MacKay. I read the criticism of his cartoon about the failure of the Canadian athletes the first week of the Olympic Games. Cartoon is satire and the one who doesn’t accept it lacks a sense of humour.
Panos Andronidis, Hamilton