I think that it's the ability to interact that separates a "sport" from an "exhibition". Call it offense vs. defense if you want. In sailing, at least you can block or head-up the other guys and affect the outcome. But if you're alone on the floor or rings or golf course or bowling alley, where does the competition come in?

In swimming, as long as they're restricted to lanes, who cares if Michael Phelps is swimming alone or against 20 others? I say take away the ropes and let them block or grab; then see who's really the best swimmer! <img src="http://www.catsailor.com/forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif" alt="" />