Surfing Through The Olympics

Men's ice skating was exciting last night, despite dull-as-dishwater Plushenko sealing the gold with his dull but technically excellent routine. The Americans were disappointing: Johnny Weir because he didn't skate well and Evan Lysacek because he skated so well. (If Lysacek hadn't collapsed in his short program, he could have medaled.) Weir at least was fun and Lysacek had a gripping story. A generally nice kid, Lysacek unfortunately had one talking point drilled into him: since he couldn't conceivably medal, his performace was about "courage." I hate it when commentators say an athlete or actor is "brave" or "courageous." There is never anything brave about playing a game. Save that word for soldiers and cops and firemen. But even more annoying than hearing someone else say it is hearing Lysacek himself say he was showing "courage" about four or five times in a two minute interview. Just obnoxious. The future looks bright for Canada and the 2010 Games in Vancouver: Jeffrey Buttle got the bronze and has lots of room for improvement and Shawn Sawyer was stunningly flexible and had moments of brilliance even though he's only 19.