A letter was addressed to The New Times on Monday, 2 August 2010 by Sam Rwego of Kimihurura requesting Sports Writers not to be harsh on the athletes. The issue was raised after the performance of Rwanda in the 17th African Championship in Nairobi Kenya when Epiphanie Nyirabarame‘s performance was labeled ‘Feeble’ after being placed 10th in the women’s 1000m. Below is what people felt regarding the issue. William Butera (Businessman)It depends on the preparation you give them that’s before they start the competition and how they are selected. But it’s not healthy to blame them when they lose because it was not the aim. Sheila Uwera (Student)If they are well trained and facilitated then we should be cross with them if they lose. However, don’t be harsh when not facilitated especially the last minute competitions. We need to look at it in a better way. Denis Mugabo (Businessman)Not at all, in life there must be losers and winners that is what makes games or sports interesting. Therefore no need to use harsh words when the sports icon lose. Ronald Lwebuga (IT Consultant) When we use harsh words against the athletes the act discourages the upcoming ones. We are supposed to support them all the way. Jean Burasa (Student)We can only be inconsiderate if the athlete was corrupted to lose a game but otherwise being harsh because they have lost is not right.
