Quote from col :

IMO the reasons for the lack of success in UK sport have nothing to do with 'this type of mentality' as you put it - but that's a whole different issue.

IMO Teachers in schools promote this mentality by telling kids that its the taking part that matters, breeding the mentality I was speaking of.

Quote from Chris_Kerry :

IMO Teachers in schools promote this mentality by telling kids that its the taking part that matters, breeding the mentality I was speaking of.

No, actually, after industrial action in the 80s, (when i was in school), most schools dramatically reduced there involvement with competitive sport (and other extra curicular activities). For the last 10 - 15 years, the generation that should have been producing sports stars has not - the same generation that was affected by this political battle.

For the vast majority of children you HAVE to encourage them to play sport even though they know they cannot and will not be winners - there are only a very tiny minority who will win at sport. this goes for every country not just UK - teachers will tell all 'average' kids that they have to try and enjoy sport without having to be the winner

also - you stated that "The guys who are fast, deserve rewarding."
this attitude in itself is part of the reason that top level sport in the UK is suffering !
Its too easy for the fast/strongest/most tallented to gain big rewards in this country - without delivering results !
I hope what you meant was "The guys who WIN deserve rewarding."

Any racing involving money would have to make sure the contestants are on a very similar level, and known to be fair and race clean under pressure.

"The guys who WIN deserve rewarding."

That is what I meant. *puts foot in mouth*