A Canadian in Sweden

A mystery

Here is what I just don't get: how is it that a country that is so left-leaning in their politics, that has some of the most far-reaching social systems in the world and that generally measures merit by benefit to the group rather than the individual, how is it that this country is so overwhelmingly passionate about an individual sport like cross country skiing?

On the other hand, in North America where policy and general attitude place more emphasis on the individual, people get excited about team sports.

I guess it may have something to do with Sweden's close ties to nature and the forest - any sport which emphasizes getting outside will be well loved. Orienteering also obviously fits this category.

Still, an interesting paradox, I think. I was thinking about this while watching old clips from the Vasaloppet and being amazed at both the participant and the spectator turn out for that event. Apparently, the day of the Vasaloppet, there is non-stop commercial free coverage on TV from the start to the finish - over 4 hours of coverage. Not even the final game of the Stanley Cup playoffs gets that kind of treatment.

posted by Jeff @ 5:19 AM