Everyone has gotten into this argument. What exactly constitutes a sport? There are the popular controversial "sports" such as cheerleading, chess, synchronized swimming, horse racing, NASCAR, and even trampoline??
Here's the newest one to add to the mix - beer pong.
ESPN.com's Rick Reilly explores the issue in his recent column . Reilly had the pleasure of experiencing the World Series of Beer Pong held in where else, Las Vegas.
FIrst of all, please notice the atrocious leaning violation from the guy in the picture. I guess that rule goes out the window once you get to the big leagues. Before you brush these beer-guzzling athletes as just guys, and yes girls, that have taken an unhealthy obsession to the college-favorite game, take a look at the "stats."
These people are hitting 10 cups on only 12 throws. Take last year's final between "Albany's the Iron Wizard Coalition" and "Chauffeuring the Fat Kid." The former sank its last cup while its opponent still had four cups sitting at the opposite side of the table. BUT, as is the hope for all of us who lack pong skills, there is always redemption. "Chauffering the Fat Kid" hit all four remaining cups and took home the grand prize, $50,000. That's right - $50,000. 5-0. Just a tad more than what you get from those beer pong tournaments around State College. Oh, and if you come in second among the 414 teams in the tourney? Nada. Sucks for you.
So before you sign you and your partner's name at the beer-soaked sheet above the table at the next party, don't see it as just a chance to lower your inhibitions and possibly make the other team do a naked lap. See it as an opportunity to hone your ping pong wielding skills. And maybe, just maybe you can win some big cash.....or just leave Vegas with nothing but a bigger gut and the shame of your naked lap around The Mirage and Caesar's Palace.
Just another day in the life of the all-american "athlete."
-Julie
