When did ping-Pong become an Olympic sport?
It might surprise or confuse you if you know already.Compared with other dramatic sports, like pole vaulting or cycling, Ping Pong can seem quite boring.
Ping pong players don't jump very high or do crazy dives.Why is ping pong an Olympic sport?
Let's take a closer look at how Ping Pong became part of the Summer Olympics lineup.
Any old game can become an Olympic sport.There would be some really strange, obscure events in the Olympics if that were the case.
A strict process is used to screen out sports that don't have the support or history to be viable.Random trends can become part of the worldwide games.
A non-governmental organization that oversees the administration of the sport is the first step.
The organization needs to meet the requirements of the anti-doping code.The sporting organization needs to find a way to discourage competitors from using drugs.
The international organization has to apply to the IOC.Before it approves an application, the IOC considers a number of factors.
The sport must have male and female players in at least 75 countries on four continents.The sport can only be a mind game and can not use methods of mechanical propulsion.
The sport needs to add something to the appeal of the Olympics.The values and traditions of the Olympics need to be mirrored.
It stands a better chance of being approved by the IOC if the sport in question can meet all these criteria.
The sport of ping pong became an Olympic sport in 1988.This happened because it met the requirements set by the IOC.
The International Table Tennis Federation is a non-governmental organization.There is a
The sport has met the requirements of the anti-doping code.You can read about the testing policies here.
Ping pong is played all over the world.It helps that it is a very unique sport, bringing something new to the Olympics.
It is easy to forget how influential Ping Pong tables have been given that they are a forgotten part of many basements and garages around the world.There are tons of dedicated players who strive to master this sport daily, even if you aren't playing it every day.
Ping pong has evolved into a highly organized sport because of its loyal fan base.We will likely see it around for a long time.
If you ever hear someone ask why ping pong is part of the Olympics, you know the answer.
These ping pong dining table combo are more mature than you might think.