Phelps criticized for endorsements

Michael Phelps’ endorsements of Kellogg’s Frosted Flakes and McDonald’s have attracted criticism from the Children’s International Obesity Foundation.

In a statement Friday, the foundation said: “As a role model and Olympic hero to America’s children, Michael Phelps -- and all athletes and celebrities -- are asked to reconsider any connection to substances suspected as agents of obesity, including sugary cereals, soft drinks and other foods with refined carbohydrates, saturated fats, trans fats and high fructose corn syrup.”

The statement referred to the documentary “Killer at Large,” about obesity in children, which will be released in November in New York.

One of its producers, Bryan Young, said: “Michael Phelps’ endorsement will undoubtedly influence more children to nag their parents for products that endanger their health so that they can go home, consume these products and gain weight instead of becoming gold medalists. This is unconscionable and we hope that Michael Phelps reconsiders his endorsement contracts.”

Whatever happened to being on the Wheaties box?

-- Randy Harvey

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Even if they are 14...

The International Olympic Committee has asked the international gymnastics federation to probe whether China’s gymnasts are underage. There are claims that Chinese double gold medalist He Kexin is younger than the eligible age to compete in the Olympic Games.

But is this really cheating?

I don’t understand why a 14-year-old can’t compete in the Olympics. It’s supposed to be the best in sport, and He won. Who cares if she’s 14?

I remember being 14. When I think of being 14, I think weak and awkward, not Olympic gold medalist in gymnastics. I would imagine that being 14 would be a terrible disadvantage.

I guess I don’t know very much about gymnastics.

Wouldn’t it be embarrassing if a 14-year-old beat you at the Olympics though, just a little?

-- Gary Hall Jr.