Readers Get Into Festive Atmosphere

I am writing in reaction to Mike Downey’s article about the Olympic Festival on July 10.

Mr. Downey indulges himself in a smug, condescending attitude toward the Olympic Festival. He demeans a competition that offers young athletes an opportunity to test themselves against their peers, to prepare themselves for the Olympic contests they have been working toward and dreaming about for most of their lives. Not only is his attitude pitifully egotistical, but it shows that he does not understand either the spirit or the importance of amateur competition.

SUSAN B. FRANKLIN

Los Angeles