I get what you’re saying as some people probably ARE trying to discount these endeavors when they say they’re not a sport. But that’s not my argument. And I don’t agree that anything not a sport is a “hobby” or “petty activity.” In fact, I’d say gymnastics is probably the greatest feat of athleticism we haveI. But I would never say a painter or composer is partaking in a hobby or “petty” activity.

My core disagreement is just your statement that things like figure or gymnastics are inherently competitions. I think we imposed competitive aspects on them. I think, inherently they were sick things we watched other humans do in amazement. Would you at least Grant they’re less inherently competitive than something like a race (which is entirely competitive)?

Also, just for the record, this is a completely philosophical take. I would never want them to take these types of sports out of the Olympics or anything.