Folklore says that during the Great
Depression a star arose to warm the hearts of average Australians and to give
them hope – Phar Lap. The legendary champion race horse, victorious in 37 of
his 51 races, supposedly raised the spirits of a nation weary of difficult
times, unemployment and food shortages. Phar Lap played the role of hero to a
nation whose hopes had sagged.
Facing our own period of hardship today
it’s not surprising that we are looking for a new champion. Recently this has
led to a rather unedifying spat between Rugby Union and Rugby League over the
playing future of teenage sensation Joseph Suaali. At 16, this young man is
already 193 cm and 93 kg. Videos online reveal a dynamic runner of the ball, a wicked
sidestep, wonderful ball skills and fierce tackling. It’s the sort of thing
that makes old rugby souls get goose bumps – the prospect of a genuine talent
that could revive a dying code. With a pedigree in Junior Rugby League and impressive
stats in GPS Rugby it is no wonder that the rival codes are desperate to sign
him and workout how they can fast track him to the senior ranks.
Sadly, the story of Phar Lap ended in
disappointment with the champion’s mysterious premature death. Was it foul play
or was he literally ridden into the ground. Did we expect too much? Was it fair
for a nation to ride on a horse’s back expecting deliverance, rescue and
economic salvation?
When two sporting codes are bleeding
money, when officials and players are being laid off and taking pay cuts and
when governments are doing their utmost to keep people in jobs it is rather
unedifying to see a teenager being offered millions to play sport. Maybe it’s also
a little unfair on him. But…it is great to have a distraction.
The promise of a new generation, the
glory of speed and the fearlessness of youth are things to be welcomed and
enjoyed. But not idolised.
10 His pleasure is not in
the strength of the horse, nor his delight in
the legs of the warrior; the Lord delights
in those who fear him, who put their hope in his unfailing love. Psalm 147:10-12
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