Are race car drivers atheltes?

[Lehesu]

I believe the core origins of being an athlete are found in the exercise of basic physical human functions, especially those that stem from warfare or conflict. Running is a basic human function, a talent useful in combat. So too is wrestling, javelin throwing, jumping, swimming, etc. Most "athletic" sports test human skill in surmounting obstacles posed by their environment (including humans in that environment). As such, even more specialized skills such as skiing pertain, as they are related to overcoming environmental conditions.

I would argue that race car driving, while certainly a sport that may tax the body as much as any activity, does not specifically test skills related in overcoming a natural environment, so much as a fabricated and completely artificial one.

Of course, this is just an observation, nothing more concrete than that. Using these guidelines, competitive eating becomes even more of a sport than anyone ever realized.

Oh, and Ninja Gaiden is sick hard. But I am still going to get the Black version when it comes out.