A game of sport involves two opponents or two opposing teams. The objective is to win by defeating the other. Yet it’s not a war. It involves some universally accepted ethics. According to Merriam Webster dictionary, 'sportsmanship' is “fair play, respect for opponents, and polite behavior by someone who is competing in a sport or other competition.”
Thus, other than one’s skill, a game of sport also tests one’s patience and conduct in the...
A game of sport involves two opponents or two opposing teams. The objective is to win by defeating the other. Yet it’s not a war. It involves some universally accepted ethics. According to Merriam Webster dictionary, 'sportsmanship' is “fair play, respect for opponents, and polite behavior by someone who is competing in a sport or other competition.”
Thus, other than one’s skill, a game of sport also tests one’s patience and conduct in the field.
In ‘Raymond’s Run,’ neither Hazel nor Gretchen takes to unfair means to win the race. They give their best and compete without any malice for each other.
When the winner is announced, Hazel looks at Gretchen and smiles as an acknowledgement of her good running.
“And I smile. Cause she’s good, no doubt about it. Maybe she’d like to help me coach Raymond; she obviously is serious about running, as any fool can see.”
Gretchen reciprocates and answers her back with a smile.
“And she nods to congratulate me and then she smiles. And I smile.|”
Respect for and appreciation of the opponent is one of the most admirable qualities in a sportsman. Though not so common, it exhibits one’s strong sense of sports ethics. At the end we are filled with admiration for both Hazel and Gretchen, because of the smiles they exchange. Actually, with the smiles they express their respect and appreciation for one another.
Both these young girls, therefore, smile because they are bestowed with the true sportsman spirit.
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