I read somewhere that since 1994 Olympics a lot of US girls went to figure skating and we saw a surge of champions from US unheard of since Peggy Fleming.
You've nailed what may be the most important impact of events like the Olympics or other high-profile World Championships. The athletes are great role models. I've never been much of sports participant myself but I am in awe of the athletes and their accomplishments. If their efforts can both move our young to get active and to understand the value of perseverance, it's a good thing.
And, of course, there are the Paralympics whose athletes are not only amazing but add a significant dimension to the role model by also demonstrating how to meet adversity head-on and conquer it.
ryck
