Much publicity has been made in regards to the air quality in Beijing during the Summer Olympics. The air pollution levels there are twice as high as what is recommended to be safe. The image to the left shows the smog sitting over the region from a visible satellite perspective. The shot on the right is a look at the "Bird's Nest" where the opening ceremonies were held and many track and field events will take place.
Most of the big name events thus far in the Olympics have been played indoors including gymnastics, basketball, and swimming. Numerous swimming records have fallen, which are partly being attributed to the design of the pool. Many believe the deeper pool allows less turbulence in the water and less wave action for a smoother stroke. Some experts believe very few records will be broken outdoors because of the smog and soot hanging in the air. They believe the air pollution could have an adverse role in the lungs of some of the runners. One quote I read, involved a comparison of the air quality to holding an athletic competition in a construction zone. Anybody care to jog in something like that? -ADAM
No comments:
Post a Comment