Olympic MTB Endurance Gold?

So what makes a sport an Olympic event? I lifted the following right out of the WSJ. In order for a sport to be considered for the Olympics, "..it must be played in at least 25 countries and on three continents... An event needs to have been included at least twice in world or continental championships, and must be played by men in at least 50 countries or women in at least 35 countries."

Given those requirements, perhaps a Marathon event might be next. I know it's popular in Europe, raced in South America and there are events in North America. I could see either a 2-person team event or a 24 hour solo event next. The 2-person event because the UCI seems to be slowly moving into the endurance world; UCI points will be awarded at the Cape Epic. Having a governing body behind a sport adds some weight. As far as a 24 solo event, there aren't any governing bodies but Kona is attempting to have a "Global Championship." (Check out this blog for a series on the future of endurance racing.)

In reality, events like short track and downhill will probably make it first, but that's ok because billards is on the list of recognized sports. I had a hunch that all those hours spent in the pool hall playing 9-ball for pitchers back in the day might come in handly.

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