Scars Remain From 1980 Olympic Boycott

Boycott Still Haunts 1980 Olympians

THEN-U.S. REP. WILLIAM RATCHFORD, left, greets UConn hammer thrower Andy Bessette, UConn soccer player Joe Morrone Jr. and former UConn coach Dee Rowe in Washington in August 1980 at a celebration to honor Olympians forced to boycott the Moscow Games. (Courant File Photo / April 10, 2008)

By TOM YANTZ |Courant Staff Writer

April 15, 2008

There have been protests around the world involving the Olympic torch. Leaders of various countries say they will not attend Opening Ceremonies. Athletes speak of displaying some symbol of solidarity.

There is anger and hurt, all of it associated with human rights violations against Tibet by China, host of the Beijing Games in August.

The threats mount.

Bill Rodgers, a four-time winner of the Boston and New York marathons, hopes they don't lead countries to boycott the Games.