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IOC orders probe over He's age

Reuters

Latest comment posted at 9:38 PM EST 21/08/08

International Olympic Committee has asked the International Gymnastics Federation to investigate claims that Chinese double gold medalist He Kexin is younger than the eligible age of 16 ...Read the full article

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  1. Nature Lover from Canada writes: Is anyone surprised to discover China will do anythng to win a medal?
  2. Tora Tora Tora from Montreal, Canada writes: Check this blog out. Some hacking research someone already did - pretty interesting:

    http://strydehax.blogspot.com/2008/08/hack-olympics.html
  3. Johnny Choy from Vancouver, Canada writes: I'm just glad this came to light.....this is one more reason why this Olympics is the most controversial in recent memory....why would the Chinese Gov't let them compete so young??? I don't know about you.....or about gymnastics, but don't these gymnasts be at their athletic peak when they're a bit older??? Most countries would want their athletes to compete at the Olympics when their at their physical peak last time I checked..
  4. Leslie Symes from Canada writes: This whole games has been a farce... check out what happened in women's Tae Kwan Do... and gymnastics, faking fireworks, lip syncing... it's a complete farce.
  5. Hendrick Larose from Canada writes: I agree that countries should follow the rules. I also find it remarkable that someone possibly underage could outperform all others who are at their athletic peak at 6 to 8 years older. Usually one argues rules that give an unfair advantage. There is no advantage in this case. This is a remarkable athlete no matter what her age is.
  6. Major Pain from Canada writes: How exactly will they do this without co-operation from China - cut her in half and count her rings?
  7. Jan Burton from Toronto, Canada writes: She doesn't look a day over 13.
  8. Joseph T from Victoria, Canada writes: She is proof why Asian women even at 30 or 40 look younger than their white counterparts. This is a fact.
  9. His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes:

    According to IGF records, when He Kexin competed in several international meets 2 years ago, her age was listed as 12. Only in China does 12 2 = 16. A simple x-ray of her hands or jaw will show her true age.
  10. Alonso Garnet from Canada writes: Okay tgzo tgzo I hope to point out that it is the IOC bringing this up, not Canadians/ You mean the Chinese might have lied, cheated and are now whining cos they got caugh????? NO WAY!!! didn't see that coming.
  11. His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes:

    The advantage of a 12 or 14-year old competing in women's gymnastics (particularly un-even bars) is that a 12 or 14-year old's growth plates haven't fused together yet (making them more flexible than their 16-year old counterparts). Also, younger children tend to be more fearless (unaware of the consequences of a fall). The truth will come out. The Chinese are clearly cheating - with 3 of their 6 'women' gymnasts less than 14 years old.
  12. Al B from Canada writes: Can any underaged gymnast from other countries do better? If not, it's not really cheating isn't it.
  13. Cdn Chinese in Shanghai from Vancouver, Canada writes: My guess is that she is underage. Actually I don't think China is the only one guilty of this. I think if the IOC makes the rule that someone must be of a certain age then in a time when people will go to any extent to win Olympic gold they need to come up with an air tight method of determining somone's age well in advance of the games.

    That being said, the age limitation rule is stupid. Can anyone here say that He Kexin did not earn that medal with her performance??? I used to play tennis competitively and there were a few times when a kid probably 5 or 6 years younger than me at 16 could wipe the court with me. That kid was better than me and it would be farce if I could claim to be the best due to an age rule.

    BTW Nature Lover from Canada, remember we had Ben Johnson.
  14. Carson Baxter from Vancouver, writes: In women's gymnastics younger girls tend to perform much better than older girls. Young girls are much more limber, the centre of gravity in their smaller bodies allow them to complete tumbles more easily and they tend to be more fearless or impervious to nerves.

    The case for male gymnastics is the opposite as they rely much more on strength which young gymnasts lack.

    The point is a rule is a rule and why should one country be allowed to break them to their advantage?
  15. J Kooman from Canada writes:

    After venting all the frustration of us in North America, the investigation will find that based on official document issued by the Chinese government, the girl is fully legible.

    What else will you expect? The investigation is in fact unnecessary.

    ...
  16. His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes:

    J Kooman - if by 'official document issued by the Chinese government' you mean a forged passport, then yes - she is only 14.
  17. Zoltan Manyoki from Kanata, Canada writes: Not just her age, but she is a He, too. That could be easy to verify.
  18. B I from Toronto, Canada writes: This comes as a result of American whining. Nothing will come of it. In fact, I would hazard a guess that an American athlete will be discovered for doping before they 'discover' this girl's 'true' age. I personally couldn't care less as a better athlete won, no matter the age.
  19. born a cynic from Canada writes: I see the China haters are out in force.....can't stomach that China is kicking Western butt?
    Who cares if the girl is 14 or 16..she put on one terrific performance and earned the gold medal...good for her....
  20. CallofDuty . from Toronto, Canada writes: LOL....check the other Chinese athelete.
  21. Comments closed, censored, deleted or made to disappear from Mini Bushland, Canada writes: Pettiness: the highest tribute losers could have paid to China''s greatness. --- In 2008, and no matter what, He Kexin is and will forever have been the best in the world in her discipline. In 2008, and no matter what, China is and will forever have been the best in the world at the Olympics, with as many or more gold medals than the USA and GB combined. -- By now, the world has watched (an all time record this has been too!) and has got the message. The world now knows who is who and what is what. Who cares that some feed (and have fed since even before the Games) on sour grapes? -- That battle is a lost cause for the West and for the US more particularly: China has risen loud and clear, with class and with charm.
  22. Rolter Lorf from Canada writes: shes 13 !!! definitely athletic slave
  23. born a cynic from Canada writes: Carson Baxter from Vancouver, writes:
    The point is a rule is a rule and why should one country be allowed to break them to their advantage?

    Carson: name one country which hasn't broken a rule to their advantage or is China the only one not allowed?
  24. Rob L from Vancouver, Canada writes: They already verified her age before the competition. Due to whining of some sore losers the IOC had to investigate her age again. They just can't accept China winning the most gold medals. Get used to it!
  25. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: 'Hendrick Larose from Canada writes: I agree that countries should follow the rules. I also find it remarkable that someone possibly underage could outperform all others who are at their athletic peak at 6 to 8 years older. Usually one argues rules that give an unfair advantage. There is no advantage in this case. This is a remarkable athlete no matter what her age is.'
    _________

    i didnt see the performance by He, but i wont disagree with you. she surely earned the medal.... and they're all great athletes.

    however there are rules in place. if athletes/teams cant follow simple rules like age eligibility, then what else will they be willing to do? the rules need to be followed by all teams and enforced by the IOC.

    'Cdn Chinese in Shanghai from Vancouver, Canada writes: BTW Nature Lover from Canada, remember we had Ben Johnson.'
    _________

    you're right, we had been johnson. and if you remember correctly, that incident sparked a massive inquiry into doping in sport (Dubbin Inquiry). and dont forget, ben johnson ran in an era when the majority of track athletes were probably on the juice, he just happened to be the most high profile one that got caught in 1988.
  26. born a cynic from Canada writes: His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes: .html 4) Chinese making and exporting counterfeit Cialis pills made with nothing but poisonous lead-based yellow road paint powder;

    And herein lies the problem....Ice anvil swallowed Cialis and still the performance was lacking...hence the hatred for all things Chinese
  27. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: You western idiots are simply focusing on China because it's an emerging superpower, look at doping in USA and Greece and Romania and Russia, why aren't focused on them? I know why! Because it's China, the big bad China.

    Western losers. What can I say.

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    So what are you doing in Canada?
  28. P. Mueller from Wet Vancouver, BC, Canada writes: something is wrong with the headline: it should be 'his age' or 'her age', not 'he's age'. I'll be glad when all the summer interns go back to school, and so will He.

    Wait 'til the Chinese hosts realize what a totalitarian organization the IOC is. I hear they brook no dissent!
  29. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: 'Comments closed, censored, deleted or made to disappear from Mini Bushland, Canada writes: Pettiness: the highest tribute losers could have paid to China''s greatness. --- In 2008, and no matter what, He Kexin is and will forever have been the best in the world in her discipline. In 2008, and no matter what, China is and will forever have been the best in the world at the Olympics, with as many or more gold medals than the USA and GB combined. -- By now, the world has watched (an all time record this has been too!) and has got the message. The world now knows who is who and what is what. Who cares that some feed (and have fed since even before the Games) on sour grapes? -- That battle is a lost cause for the West and for the US more particularly: China has risen loud and clear, with class and with charm.'
    __________

    i'm glad you werent fighting on our side in world war II LOL
  30. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: On the bright side, thank God Toronto lost the bid for these Games. China can pay for them by churning out a few million more defective toys made by their impoverished. I guess here, in a democratic country, we get to decide where our government spends its money. I pity the Chinese.
  31. Jack Rip from Vancouver, Canada writes: The IOC is a joke. Powerful people, powerful countries are untouchable.

    Rogge complains about Usain Bolt celebrating .. well I saw Michael Phelps pumping his fists after winning his gold medal swims. And I never saw Michael Phelps shake anybody's hand either. Is Bolt supposed to keep his head down and say 'Yeah, Masa ...' What bullsh!t.

    Juan Antonio Samaranch's son is an IOC member. I'm sure daddy had nothing to do with it. The list goes on and on ....
  32. Springfire . from China writes: Ha.. every day you wake up with bunch of rednecks bashing China.
    one is not guilty until proven otherwise.
    IOC is going to investigate and the result is yet to be known. Yet you got loads of China-bashers spring into action, like a bunch of flies looking for some dirt to ley their eggs. LOL.
  33. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: I LOVE CANADA AND ITS PEOPLE, they provide entertainment to me with their loserness. HAHA.

    ---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    Hey Lilly, get me another beer, will you...lol...Your a phony. probably some prebuscent with a sore right hand.
  34. MSF Montreal Quebec from Anywhere, Canada writes: All readers' comment here are all the fact, and somewhat true. This girl's performance can not be done on her own alone, so if she is under aged, then someone did not explain the rule well and she is still innocent. It's about the culture of a society and how to count the age is very different from West to East. Say I am born in Year 1976, and I have some Chinese friends telling me I am 34, while I told them I am only 32, then today a friend of mine from Japan simply says I am 30. Haha! The younger the better, isn't it? From my point of view when we are judged of our age. But in China, they count it by adding 2 since they start to count one when she was in mother's womb. Do you know in Africa? Your age needs to add 3-year in extra to the real age, since your soul was already formed 3 year prior to your birth to this world in God's hand. Any more surprise? As long as we enjoy this event, and we pay respect to each other, more encouraging than discouraging, more peace than politics. Com'mon, she is just a girl who practices under the direction of some adults in her school, why bother?! Well, if her medal can come to become ours, then I will support, no we shall support. Cuz we all love our own people, right?! But The essential principal for having this worldly event is to build more friendship, rather than opposition or complaint. Maybe as most Canadian prefer to say, 'Don't judge' We are always proud of our own athelets no matter they got Gold or Diamond!!!! Go! Go! Leafs and Jays, I really love you! And tell you, I was born in Asia, but the passion for me to you isn't less than any other ordinary Canadians!! Because you accept me to be one of you, and I feel very grateful, and so are many other friends from world wide. Yes, the motto is from Far and Wide, and we stand on guard for thee.
  35. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: China has way more political power and influence than Canada will ever have in thousand lifetimes. Catch this, even Jean Chretien, the ex-Canadian prime minister admits that Canada has no influence whatsoever compared to China on world stage.

    Canadians in general have small country mentality, always whine and never improve. Hahaha.
  36. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: What ever happenned to the kid singer with the bad teeth. Atleast the Chinese will win a gold for lip syncing
  37. His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes:

    Don't you just love how these inbred CCP shills think? 'Hey, we're not the only country to cheat, so leave us alone!'

    The 'Rule of Law' is obviously as foreign to these CCP shills as is right and wrong and logic.
  38. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: John Smith, you must be a pitiful and sad Canadian who sits there and watches China everyday in misery and see it climb on top helplessly.

    I love you John Smith, haha, so Canadian.
  39. J Kay from Canada writes: P Mueller: You do realised that her last name is He correct, and thus when the headline refers to He's age, it is akin to writing a headline saying Mueller's age, which is grammatically correct.
  40. His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes:

    'MSF Montreal Quebec from Anywhere, Canada' - the IOC goes by the year of her birth based on the Caeserian Callendar (used by the rest of the developed world). You CCP shills have to stop sucking and blowing.
  41. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: I LOVE CANADA! THIS COUNTRY IS GREAT! I GET TO DO WHATEVER I WANT HERE AND PEOPLE ARE STILL SO FRIENDLY! THEY WOULDN'T DARE TO DO A THING TO ME, THEY ARE EAGER TO PLEASE, that's what I love about Canada and people like John Smith.

    Servants.
  42. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: dont feed the trolls......
  43. Springfire . from China writes: Tgzo tgzo, whoever you are, you are not make any sense. You do not represent anything Chinese.
  44. kyle phillips from Canada writes: ah...nothing says class and charm like forging passports, doctoring previous news articles, and telling 7 year olds they're not attractive enough to perform.
  45. Robert Bland from Calgary, Canada writes: Tom Daley (British diver) is 14 years old.

    Does that make the British child exploiters, or is it just an inconvenience for the people who would rather bash China instead?
  46. Rob L from Vancouver, Canada writes: John Smith, you're so laughable. Did you had a say when every year bearucrats get a big fat raise why middle income earners are piling debt to make ends meets? Did you had a say when government year after year pile massive amount of money into health care and the only result is longer and longer queues? Did you had a say when you want to see a private health provider because your condition can't wait for public care? Did you had a say when taxes are hitting the roof because of Canada's ineffective and wasteful government?

    ---

    John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: On the bright side, thank God Toronto lost the bid for these Games. China can pay for them by churning out a few million more defective toys made by their impoverished. I guess here, in a democratic country, we get to decide where our government spends its money. I pity the Chinese.
  47. His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes:

    Fakers, Lip-synchers, Liars, Cheaters and Killers - its the Sino Totalitarian Olympic Games ; )

    http://thegidcumbs.com/dblog/archives/china-olympics-firing-squad-cartoon.jpg
  48. p m from Canada writes: Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes:
    ' Many foolish westerners who ACTUALLY been to China have all changed their minds about the country which is actually peaceful and friendly.

    TRY IT, YOU IGNORANT FOOL. OR ELSE YOU HAVE NO CREDIBILITY AND SHUT UP. '

    If you think it's so great ..move back..I've lived in china for 20 years and it is NOT friendly...they treat foreigners like your comment.=fools= when they speak chinese and they are NOT peaceful...check out the police actions shooting the villagers whose property has been taken for developments...
  49. Karin Pasnak from North Vancouver, Canada writes: Most of the chinese girls look very young.
    Sounds to me like SOUR GRAPES
  50. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: Rob L from Vancouver, Canada writes: John Smith, you're so laughable. Did you had a say when every year bearucrats get a big fat raise why middle income earners are piling debt to make ends meets? Did you had a say when government year after year pile massive amount of money into health care and the only result is longer and longer queues? Did you had a say when you want to see a private health provider because your condition can't wait for public care? Did you had a say when taxes are hitting the roof because of Canada's ineffective and wasteful government?

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    But atleast I can go into a voting both and vote against the crooks in power and elect new crooks. The Chinese, on the other hand, get to be run over buy tanks. I would say the Canada option is the one for me.
  51. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: If you think it's so great ..move back..I've lived in china for 20 years.

    Hahaha, not really, i love Canada and its servant like people as i told you! They come up to your knees to please! This country is great.
  52. His Ice Anvil from Toronto, Canada writes:

    'Robert Bland from Calgary, Canada' wrote: 'Tom Daley (British diver) is 14 years old.

    Does that make the British child exploiters, or is it just an inconvenience for the people who would rather bash China instead?'

    -------

    The IOC rule for womens' gymnastics is that you have to be at least 16-years old to compete. Again, in case you missed it the first time, a 12 or 14-year old has an unfair advantage in womens' gymnastics because her growth plates haven't fused yet - allowing her to be more flexible. Also younger gymnasts tend to be more fearless - unaware of the consequences of a fall or injury. Your 'diving' comment has no bearing.
  53. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: Springfire . from China writes: John Smith, you are a disgrace to Canadians and indeed humanity. Shut yourself up!

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    I speak the truth Lilly. Now where's my beer?
  54. Bruce Banner from Toronto, Canada writes: Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes = 'You western idiots are simply focusing on China because it's an emerging superpower..'
    If you are 'from Canada' aren't you also a western idiot? Why do you shills think you can slap a label on something (her 'age', your 'citizenship') and expect people to accept it at face value?

    born a cynic 'from Canada' writes: 'name one country which hasn't broken a rule to their advantage or is China the only one not allowed?'

    Logic = Everyone else is doing it so why can't I?

    I dare you to use that logic as a defence at traffic court or in criminal court. Your Honour everyone else was speeding; your Honour, everyone else is committing murder..
    Doesn't that 'logic' fly in the face of Chinese concepts of 'harmony' and safeguards against 'chaos' caused by brigands?

    Why don't you PRC shills take a logic or critical thinking course or two before posting. Better yet, as the next superpower, you shills should take notes from the USA on how to deal with criticism.
  55. Oswaldo I from Canada writes: Fisrt of all, it's a dumb rule. Because of a lower hip to knee ratio and quicker healing times, youger girls are, arguably, less prone to injury.

    Having said that, there is a rule in place and, if it was broken, it gave the athletes of one country an unfair advantage over those of another. Who is to say that a 15 year old American couldn't have outperformed He. If she is underage it is the Chinese government that altered the documents. The punishment should not just fall on He.
  56. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: 'Comments closed, censored, deleted or made to disappear from Mini Bushland, Canada writes: Pettiness: the highest tribute losers could have paid to China''s greatness. --- That battle is a lost cause for the West and for the US more particularly: China has risen loud and clear, with class and with charm.'
    __________

    not sure where you get this idea from (if you're talking medals). the US will most likely finish these games with more medals than 2004 (102) and more total medals than anyone. the chinese success in beijing (which is not surprising) came primarily at the expense of countries other than the US (russia for instance, who is performing much worse than in athens). the US is clearly still very strong.
  57. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: ANYWAYS, IT'S BEEN FUN TALKING TO YOU WHITE IDIOTS, HISANVIL AND JOHN SMITH, KEEP BASHING AND KEEP LIVING IN MISERY. NO ONE REALLY CARES ABOUT WHAT YOU SAY BESIDES YOU AND YOUR FAMILIES.

    MEANWHILE, LET ME GO ENJOY SOME MORE OF CANADA, THIS GREAT NATION OF PEOPLE PLEASERS, HAHA, I LOVE CANADIANS!
  58. Digital Taco from Canada writes: How is this front page headlines? Man, G&M, new low. She didn't make frontpage for winning her Gold Medals. So G&M all about showcasing negative news (and rumor rather than fact). Awesome!

    Anyway, I find it hard to believe with 1 billion people, China couldn't find another well qualified 16 yr old gymnast.
  59. Springfire . from China writes: John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: "Now where's my beer? "

    You had your time, go back to have your beer. Don't be a disgrace to yourself.

    Tgzo Tgzo, you are provoked into low. Get yourself up. Don't disgrace yourself.
  60. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: Anyway, I find it hard to believe with 1 billion people, China couldn't find another well qualified 16 yr old gymnast.

    I FIND IT HARD TO BELIEVE THAT OUT OF ENTIRE USA AND CANADA, NO ONE CAN BEAT AN "UNDERAGE" GYMNASTS. YOU KNOW WHAT THAT MEANS? STICK TO HOCKEY AND FOOT BALL!
  61. Still Canadian from Japan writes: Asking a country provide documents that are created by the company is the same as asking someone to vouch for themselves. It's all pointless! Her age is going to remain a mystery and that is the sad truth. Then again my grandmother is still twenty according to her! She scares the hell out of most people so her twenty candled cake every year continues to this day!
  62. Carl Hansen from Canada writes: These Olympics have been great so far. You China haters have been proven wrong time and time again.

    The He joke was funny.
  63. Springfire . from China writes: Bruce Banner and Oswaldo I, what you write would be good points. However, at the moment, she is not proved guilty yet. Therefore she is innocent.

    I take that you guys are intelligent enough to accept my statement above?
  64. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: Tgzo Tgzo, you are provoked into low. Get yourself up. Don't disgrace yourself.

    WHOA WHOA, EASY THERE, I LOVE THE CONVERSATION WITH IDIOTS LIKE JOHN SMITH. THE FRIENDLY WHITE CANADIAN MAKES MY DAY!

    HE PLAYS HOCKEY FOR ME WHEN I'M BOARD AND SINGS ROCK FOR ME WHEN I'M DOWN AND COOKS PASTA FOR ME WHEN I'M HUNGRY. WHAT'S THERE NOT TO LOVE IN FRIENDLY CANADIAN? HAHAHA
  65. Springfire . from China writes: Still Canadian from Japan writes: "Asking a country provide documents that are created by the company is the same as asking someone to vouch for themselves. "

    What would be your suggestion? There are must be some way to figure out one's age?
  66. al goguen from Victoria, B.C., Canada writes: Why not wait to see the facts before acusing someone?
    There are more pressing issues in the world today: our soldiers being killed in keeping Bush happy, what is going on between
    Georgia and Russia....
  67. I'm Canadian from Molson from Canada writes: Keep bashing, till we have to face the reality as to how insignificant our opinions are to our own government, not to say how even more insignificant to a totalitarian regime half way around the world.

    Our big brother down South owing hundreds of billions dollars to the Chinese, so who's owning who now?
  68. Rob L from Vancouver, Canada writes: You can vote, big deal. In China you can vote for one party, in Canada you can vote for one of two parties. Don't tell me there are more than two parties, there are only two that have any realistic chance of getting elected in the federal level. Also check how much of the population is happy with their government. There is a much higher percentage of the Chinese population happy with their government than the Canadian population with theirs. The Canadian government doesn't even have the support of 1/2 of the population.
  69. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: ALRIGHT I'M DONE HAVING FUN, GOOD NIGHT, FRIENDLY CANADIANS!
  70. Damian Lopez from Toronto, Canada writes: Three Canadian soldiers died in Afghanistan, who gives a sh*t how old she is
  71. Bruce Banner from Toronto, Canada writes: Springfire . from China - for once I agree with you on two points 1) innocent until proven guilty 2) the comments made by John Smith and Tgzo tgzo are offensive.

    Apart from that, Chinese shills are as big a whores as the IOC. If there are no human rights we all get used and abused by the puppet masters PRC, Putin and GWB.
  72. Springfire . from China writes: Well, one thing is clear: G&M likes to bash China. Just read the string of negative news on China.

    Canadians, how would you think Chinese people think of Western main stream newspapers? I would suggest that they be thrown out of China altogether :)
  73. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: Springfire . from China writes:...who do you think you are? Here in Canada I can write anything I want. I'm surprised that the G&M website isn't censored in China. While it looks like the athletes are hving a good time, the Chinese are using the spectacle as a platform for political acceptance. Thank God the IOC didn't award the Games to Toronto.
  74. P cheng from ottawa, Canada writes: James C from Shenzhen, China writes: not sure where you get this idea from (if you're talking medals). the US will most likely finish these games with more medals than 2004 (102) and more total medals than anyone. the chinese success in beijing (which is not surprising) came primarily at the expense of countries other than the US (russia for instance, who is performing much worse than in athens). the US is clearly still very strong.
    ================>
    There are more medals given out this year as more even. That is another reason. But, US lose a lot of medal from track and field to Jamica too.

    Can I switch other topic? DL makes a statement about the Fench press on the recent riot in Tibet. The press quote that there are 100 tibetan dead according to the exile government. DL said that it is worng. Does anyone know anything about the riot?
  75. NotASpoiledAthelete - from Canada writes: I love every comment that says He deserves the medal, even if she is 14 because she beat everyone else.

    The arrogance in the assumption that no other country in the world has a 14 yr old gymnast who wouldn't have smoked He out of the water at these Olympics is brilliant.

    And you'll have to live with that assumption because all of the other federations for every other country made sure, without a doubt, that their athletes were of age.
  76. Chris O'Regan from Canada writes: She doesn't look 16. She doesn't even look 12!

    But I find it interesting that such a young person could be a gold medal winner over others who have been training for much longer..

    Really, I would find it unfair if she were older than the age limit. Younger? Sounds to me that the bar is set too low...or too high.
  77. Comments closed, censored, deleted or made to disappear from Mini Bushland, Canada writes: Damian Lopez from Toronto, Canada writes: Three Canadian soldiers died in Afghanistan, who gives a sh*t how old she is -- Yes, that military adventure, that non-war is so popular, so transparent in this country, that three Canadian soldiers had to die "Comments closed"... That is a disgrace!
  78. Scotcho Libre from Burlington, Canada writes: This story didn't break just today, but has been brewing since before the Olympics began. I suspect that if the Chinese OC doesn't want the truth to be known, it won't be known. I don't believe He Kexin is 16 years old, but China is powerful enough to make it so.

    Because people (and Olympic Comitees) want eligibility rules to be enforced doesn't make them sore losers. It makes them defenders of fair play. He Kexin may indeed be the premier female athlete of the day, but unless she is 16 years of age, she isn't a woman, under IOC rules.

    Canadians have long suspected that Carl Lewis, the 1988 Gold Medal 100m sprinter, was under the influence of "the juice" at the time but was clever enough not to be discovered. Time will tell who at these games is under the influence. Or not.

    The one thing Chinese don't seem to have is a thick skin when it comes to criticism. For anyone who wants to criticize me for being anti-China, I am not, but everyone must own up to their shortcomings and mistakes. In time, China should be able to dominate the Olympic Games based on the sheer force of their population, without doping or lying about athletes ages.

    I am relieved that Toronto didn't win these games back in 2001. I respect all of the athletes who give their lives to sport in hopes of fulfilling dreams (including their parents dreams) and inspiring others to become active, but I have little respect for the IOC.
  79. Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: 16? You've got to be kidding me, some of those girls looked 12.

    I guess it's all for the 'glory of the nation'. Gotta win those golds.
  80. Digital Taco from Canada writes: Why are we even debating if she is 14 or 16 yrs old.

    Honestly, by Caucasian standards, she don't even look 10 yrs old.

    I'm wondering if her age is in the single or double digits!!!!

    Now lets find some porn-starved computer nerd to hack the Communist mainframe and dig up proof she is actually only 9 yrs old. And then we post that proof, front page on G&M, as irrefutable evidence.
  81. John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: guess it's all for the 'glory of the nation'. Gotta win those golds.

    ----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

    I wonder how the Chinese junta feels about black guy like Bolt winning the golds. It kind of reminds me of the 1936 Nazi Games.
  82. J Kay from Canada writes: His Ice Anvil: Upon what basis do you suggest that it is solely down to epiphyseal growth plate closure that the age is set for gymnastic competition for women. First epiphyseal growth plate closure does not occur by 16 years of age for women, it can range from 13 years of age to 19 years of age for women and slightly longer for men, so if even that age is set based on growth plate closure of the epiphyseal plates, then it's clearly arbitrary. Moreover I don't see how epiphyseal growth plate closure makes much of a difference. If instead you are referring to vertebral growth plate closure, the vertebral growth plates close even later for women than the epiphyseal ones.
  83. Springfire . from China writes: Canadians, the news says that her age is still under investigation!

    Therefore She is innocent!

    Don't let me call you guys low IQ rednecks!
  84. Juan Valasquez from Canada writes: TGZO: your grasp of the English language is hilarious.
    ESL will help you with that.
  85. Toodles Loos from Toronto, Canada writes: Who cares about all of this?
    Why all the anti-Chinese this and that?
  86. Springfire . from China writes: Ok, got to have lunch. Have fun and enjoy Olympic. I will comment at the bottom after my evening dinner.
  87. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: "Comments closed, censored, deleted or made to disappear from Mini Bushland, Canada writes: Damian Lopez from Toronto, Canada writes: Three Canadian soldiers died in Afghanistan, who gives a sh*t how old she is -- Yes, that military adventure, that non-war is so popular, so transparent in this country, that three Canadian soldiers had to die "Comments closed"... That is a disgrace!"
    __________

    no its not a disgrace. because many of the comments would simply not be in good taste in light of the deaths of three of our soldiers (as your post right here indicates). comments closed on that story is one good decision by the G&M that most people would support.
  88. Rob L from Vancouver, Canada writes: Oh, China has a junta now. What's the matter? Running out of bad things to say about China?

    You can't compare a Chinese person with Caucasian standards, Chinese people don't start developing body hair by the time they're 8 or 9. Must be all that hormone laced in their junk food.
  89. Jimmy K from Toronto, Canada writes: Springfire, how is this considered "bashing China"? Is anything critical of China considered bashing?

    This has been a story since the games begun. Obviously people are talking about it, so the globe should just ignore it, for fear of being considered bashers? Come on. China is a world super power, and with respect to the Olympics, just dominated the medals tally. Why do they have such a thin skin? Can't handle a few questions? People pepper the Americans with questions all the time about their athletes and juicing, is that America bashing?
  90. John Zhou from Canada writes: If she is really 14 year old. Then, IOC should change their rules on age.
  91. James C from Shenzhen, China writes: "P cheng from ottawa, Canada writes: James C from Shenzhen, China writes: not sure where you get this idea from (if you're talking medals). the US will most likely finish these games with more medals than 2004 (102) and more total medals than anyone. ...
    ================>
    There are more medals given out this year as more even. That is another reason. But, US lose a lot of medal from track and field to Jamica too. "
    __________

    you're correct, the US finished second or third to jamaica in the sprints (jamaica is strong there but its their only strength). the US is still strong on the track, and remember, their track program is rebuilding after the BALCO scandal. they'll be stronger in 2012.
  92. Jack L from Canada writes: Sour grape
  93. Naomi Y from Canada writes: Three of OUR soldiers just died today and people think this is more important????

    Don't dare G&M ever say they support the troops.
  94. B Lam from Canada writes: Leslie Symes from Canada writes: This whole games has been a farce... check out what happened in women's Tae Kwan Do... and gymnastics, faking fireworks, lip syncing... it's a complete farce.
    ____________________________

    Those were all you could pick on the Games? Before the Games, you were hoping of doping of Chinese athletes, collapse of the Birds Nest, traffic chaoses, protests of Tibetan leading to military crackdown by the Chinese troops... too bad, none of these happen. The Games is a complete disaster to you China basher.
  95. Dennis sinneD from Calgary, Canada writes:

    My 14 year old was watching her with my wife and me... He commented that she looked too young to compete. We told him some Chinese and other Asians don't look as old as they are and not to be "read books by the cover" (no kidding...).

    I hope I'm right.

    ...

    Springfire . from China, do you have low IQ rednecks back home?
  96. Tgzo tgzo from Canada writes: Chinese people don't start developing body hair by the time they're 8 or 9. Must be all that hormone laced in their junk food.

    BODY HAIR!? ARE YOU KIDDING ME?!

    THANK GOD I DON'T LOOK LIKE A HAIRY MONKEY LIKE YOU! YOU HAVE NO IDEA WHAT THE CHINESE ALWAYS CALL YOU FRIENDLY WHITE EUROPEANS, HINT, SOMETHING TO SEE AT THE ZOO.
  97. Amdo Namma from Canada writes: Almost anyone can buy ID in China if they pay bribes. I am sure members of the Olympic team would get their new identification free and fast.
  98. Digital Taco from Canada writes: John Smith from Ottawa, Canada writes: I wonder how the Chinese junta feels about black guy like Bolt winning the golds. It kind of reminds me of the 1936 Nazi Games.

    You for real man? China loves that guy. They sang happy birthday for him. When Japan walked into the opening ceremonies, China cheered (they are old foes you know). The sad truth is Canadians are extremely racist and xenophobic. I don't blame you though. With propaganda machines like G&M, you don't know better.
  99. R Miller from Halifax, Canada writes: Why would the IOC even care about this issue given the number of times that they have casually looked the other way already on so many others ?

    They have to maintain appearances, I guess.

    Cheers
  100. This is bat country! from Canada writes: Somebody says:

    "Canadians, how would you think Chinese people think of Western main stream newspapers? I would suggest that they be thrown out of China altogether"

    What opinions can they form on western newspapers if they are not allowed to read them?
  101. Joe Straw from Canada writes: G&M moderators:

    To allow some of the personal attacks appear on this board is your fault.

    We should not allow those words in this forum. It is disgrace to all of us.