Re: why are african americans better athletes

Hello Roy,

Well, this is an odd question to answer.  First, we have to ask ourselves 
if one group of individuals, in our society, are more skilled than others 
at certain sports.

I'm not convinced that African Americans are "better athletes" than their 
non-African American counterparts.  While it may be true that they are 
better represented in certain sports as opposed to other groups, I do not 
think that it is in any way linked to race.

For example, the people of northern Europe are usually the favourites and 
the winners of Cross Country skiing events.  Same goes for Russia.  In 
other sports, like figure skating, Americans are particularly strong.  In 
long-distance running, often people of African decent do very well.  In 
dowhnill/slalom skiing, the Swiss and the Austrians do very well too.  

Maybe this has to do with social *exposure* rather than race or biology.  
In a country where there *is* no snow, you're bound to have less skiiers.  
In a country where there is ample trainers and ice time, you  may have more 
skaters.  In a country that is dry and warm year round, you may find more 
runners - especially in countries where the economy is particularly rough, 
or where equipment simply cannot be afforded.  

We do find a good number of African Americans in certain sports - and they 
sometimes outnumber members of other cultures.  There may be a 
predisposition in some cultural groups to support certain sports in which 
they have a particularly strong role model - boxing, or basket ball in the 
case of African American communities, downhill racing for the Swiss, and 
pairs skating for Canadians.  

These role model allow people who can relate to them to build similar 
dreams, and carry them out, too.  An African American child may find it 
easier to identify with an African American basketball player.  An Asian 
American child may find it easier to identify with Michelle Kwan and take 
up skating.  

I think what we are dealing with is more a question of social circumstances  
than genetics, race, or biology as a whole.

I hope this answers your question.

Marie-Helene "Racing to the T