As we are weeks away from the 2016 Summer Olympics, fans are excited to cheer the respective countries to Olympic glory. For years the Olympics have been a goal athletes work their whole lives to achieve and represent their countries in what most would have to say is an incredibly proud moment. But no one is talking about the real issues both athletes and fans are heading for come August, the state of the host of the games, Rio de Janeiro.
Concerns for the games began once Rio was announced as the venue, as the water pollution was at an astronomical level. Complaints arose due to the cost to renovate the sewage system. Apparently, the economy there is in such bad shape that they cannot afford to address the problem, which bodes trouble for athletes and fans attending the games. To date, nothing has been done as a fix, however, sources do say that where the games are being held, the water is in fair condition. All of this without even mentioning the recent reports of deceased body parts washing up on Rio's shore. This should be very comforting for involved parties.
Aside from the issues with the water, lets talk about the Zika virus. Not much is known of this yet, only that it is said to be transmitted sexually (even by kissing) and has major effects on children and the adult reproductive system. Reports of the virus have been flooding throughout Rio, causing Olympic athletes to drop out of the worldwide competition. Professional PGA golfer Jason Day was quoted stating, “The reason for my decision is my concerns about the possible transmission of the Zika virus and the potential risks that it may present to my wife’s future pregnancies and to future members of our family.” Can we talk about how tens of thousands of people will be in the city for this event, some who I am sure will contract the virus and take it back their respective home countries? Needless to say, this is one of the top concerns for the games.
If you thought the issues were over, you are very wrong. Rio is hardly the safest place in the world, and with the events that have gone on in recent history, you can't not be concerned about an attack on the event. This seems like a hotbed for a certain organization that has been trying to flex their muscles recently. A place where top athletes from all over the world come together to compete and celebrate sports would most certainly make for a prime target. The concerns alone would keep myself from going, even if my trip were free. I can't imagine how the participants feel. The hope is that the proper security measures will be taken in order to prevent such events. It is doubtful however, seeing as how the state's police officers have not been paid for overtime work for more than six months. Even the governor has concerns, stating, "I am optimistic about the games, but I have to show the reality. We can make a great Olympics, but if some steps are not taken, it can be a big failure". Not exactly promising words from the leader of the state.
All of this, and the Olympic Committee has decided to keep the games in Rio, thus causing many athletes to second-guess their involvement in the games. I guess logistically, moving the games would seem impossible. However, the alternative may be worse.
