Why would you trek all the way to Canada and not perform? Turkey's entry of Men's Alpine Skiing Erdinc Turksever 'Did Not Finish' either of his two events. I know I sound harsh but, staying home was not an option? His female counterpart Tugba Tasdemir was 56th (out of 86) in one of her events; she did not finish her second event either. In Cross-Country Skiing, Turkey's male entry Sebahattin Oglago finished 77th out of 86. In Ladies Cross-Country, Kelime Cetinkaya was involved in three separate events. She finished 69th, 53rd, and 63rd respectively. (see attached)
Turkey needs to re-reevaluate its 'sports' philosophy. Turkey and Turks need to also 'learn' that for success in the future, great investments (and not just monetary) need to be made, and patience have to be 'practiced' for many (many) years. Which brings us to Tugba Karademir. She was quite promising and deserved to be placed higher than 21st during the Short Program (to the music of Bazaar Istanbul). Two nights later, although she fell and self-admittedly didn't skate well, some others did worse yet placed higher. Subjective judging?
Her mom said it best, "will she ever be a medal contender in figure skating, probably not!" However, sometimes winning a medal is not the only thing. Especially in the case of Miss Karademir. Her and her parents' story was repeated many times during NBC's telecast (and the accompanying commentaries). True Olympics spirit. Sacrifice, that's what the Olympics is all about. And Turks I am sure were all proud that NBC showed her skate both nights, something the other 'less than perfect' skaters and their represented countries did not enjoy. Once again, great advertising for Turkey and Turks that no amount of money can buy!
I wish Turkey would present her with a medal. A medal for showcasing Turkey to the world by performing to the best of her abilities; but more importantly for having a great personality, attitude, and charisma. I and many thousands of others are very proud of her. I also hope (Turkish) sponsors would jump on the Tugba Karademir bandwagon and ride on her coattails.
Finally, no offense Kelime Centinkaya (and Turkish [in]decision makers), but Tugba should have been the flag-bearer for Turkey!
