Sir, - I find it hard to believe the conduct of the Irish Olympic Council in the matter of Sonia O'Sullivan and the Irish flag. I thought that by now, most people involved in sport and in preparing athletes for top international competition would be aware of the importance of proper psychological preparation.
I know, from my work, as a professional psychotherapist, that athletes at this, level need unnecessary stress eliminated and positive encouragement in their training. They will then be able to give of their best, and not be affected by the importance, of the event or by our expectations of them.
What Sonia O Sullivan and the other athletes need from those around them at the moment is the knowledge that they can do it, and that we are behind them 190 per cent. They do not need distractions like this. If the IOC cannot, provide the proper environment, let it move over and make room for someone who can.
I would also appeal to your reporters and the others, in the Irish, media not to provide distraction for the competitors until their events are over. Yours, etc.,
Main Street,
Tramore,
Co Waterford.