Yes, I know Alena has expressed mixed feelings about the possibility of pole as an Olympic sport. That may have something to do with the standardization of governance, judging, and moves.

There are a number of competing organizations and I wonder if they could all get together and form a single approach to the sport…or if that is even a good thing.

I did sign the petition–partly as a matter of respect. I just think pole deserves more exposure–even if the Olympics is not the final destination. I have to admit there is something a little fun about the anarchy in pole dancing. All of the styles and individualism makes it the Golden Age of the dance/sport/hobby!

And I am not the least bit uncomfortable with the exotic/erotic aspect of pole dance. Many of the You-Tube polers are shamelesly erotic, sensual, and sexual in their style of dance and I think that is just fine. I would hate to see that aspect of pole dancing go away (and it probably wouldn’t!) But it would also be nice to have a venue for a straightforwardly athletic exhibition of gymnastic ability.

I spend a lot of time galumpfing around the pole and falling on my butt–nothing erotic about that and I think there should be a place for that, too!

And Olympic or some other quote/ unquote "legitimate" sport broadcasting would make many people who feel insecure about taking up pole feel more comfortable about it.

Joel