BEIJING (AP)—”A group of American cyclists has apologized to Beijing Olympic organizers after arriving in China’s capital wearing face masks.
Michael Friedman, Sarah Hammer, Bobby Lea and Jennie Reed released a statement Wednesday, a day after they caused a stir by showing up in the protective gear.
“The wearing of protective masks upon our arrival into Beijing was strictly a precautionary measure we as athletes chose to take, and was in no way meant to serve as an environmental or political statement,” the athletes said. “We deeply regret the nature of our choices. Our decision was not intended to insult BOCOG or countless others who have put forth a tremendous amount of effort to improve the air quality in Beijing.”
The host city’s air remains a concern with the start of the games approaching. Beijing has put into effect long-planned pollution-control measures, such as taking cars off the streets, and American officials are cautiously optimistic.”
I know these people been training for years. We also know that winning the gold can get these people money.
I just think that if they think the air is that bad they should not even go to the Olympic games. Plus they had them on in the airport.
I hope the Americans that go to China will not be the loud and arrogant people. It would be nice if we presented a good face to the people of China and the world. We are not off to a very good start.
