By John E. Settle Jr.
Editor / Publisher
OK, it WAS a totally different Labor Day.
Goodness, the pandemic has sure put a damper on many traditions. But it did bring a couch potato feast of TV sports to watch.
Where to start?
How about a continuation of no-fans-in-the-seats baseball games? These are a bit more realistic with the fan cut-outs in some of the stadiums. Why this fad has not been duplicated in all the stadiums is a mystery.
And then there was more of the "bubble sports." Hockey playoffs for the Stanley Cup along with the NBA playoffs provided plenty of excitement. Hopefully, this is the last year of bubble hockey and basketball.
For other sports fans, the Tour de France offered great scenery and excitement as cyclists climbed mountains and then descended them at speeds up to 50 mph. And there is another week or so to watch.
A true indicator of some normalcy was provided by college football games. No matter who played or where, it WAS the first TV pigskin viewing since the Super Bowl. Thank goodness!
On the other hand, the running of the Kentucky Derby as the second leg of the Triple Crown in September with no fans was a poignant reminder that the COVID monster is still alive. And the upset winner provided plenty of excitement.
Lastly, golf was on the tube. Of all sports, the lack of fans is the least distracting in a golf tournament. But, it’s not the same.
Other sports for viewing included soccer and car racing, if one is into those. Generally, these are watched when nothing else if available.
By the time this is read, NFL addicts will be discussing the Chiefs-Texans game and getting ready for the first big Sunday of pro football.
And who would even think of missing the Drew Brees-Tom Brady showdown on Sunday?
Well, Cowpoke fans may. Eat your heart out!
THIS ARTICLE WAS PUBLISHED IN THE September 11 ISSUE OF FOCUS SB - THE INQUISITOR.