Co-Flounder wrote:
The question was about the original purpose of sports. But thanks for playing.
Actually I was referring to the participation of various sports as an amateur pursuit for those learning, so you are missing my point, sir. I was not aware of golfers in the 19th century punishing their enemy to death in some martial aim. It was a past time to enjoy as a break from intellectual pursuit. My point is sports in the Victorian and early 20th century (not referring to some grecian wrestling, etc.) was as the Latin indicated, to fuel the mind.
If we think pouring millions into making a longer golf ball or discovering new ways to microdose EPO are the best uses of our time and treasure, then our society has deeper problems than some people cheating at what are nothing more than games.
God help us all.