Is winning a bad word?

Sometimes, a letter to the editor is more than just that — it’s a wake-up call. When we covered the recent Fly with the Owls triathlon in the Herald, we chose some photos that would look good on the page, and failed to notice that we left out the winner of the race, Sean Barrett. Although we did ask for information about who won the race, it was not provided to us by the coordinators.
The writer explains that the triathlon story was just the fuel, but canceling events like the Fitness Challenge “is one of many examples of our town’s competitive apathy, and that is truly why I wrote the letter,” Barrett said.  He explained that he was at that challenge a few years ago with his son, and it was nice for him to watch — but there were a few parents who competed many years ago in the same event and they were able to recall all the details 30 years later. “The cancellation of that event was a minor scandal last year, but now it will soon to be forgotten, like so many other things in these overly politically correct times.”
Nice going, Sean — and Uncle Kevin.
— Mary Malloy

When did winning become a bad word?

To the Editor:
First off, let me say I am a long time reader first time complainer. The article Brian Croce wrote in the August 29th edition covering the Lynbrook triathlon was somewhat disappointing.
As a father who had a daughter competing, I was glad to see it was covered because it truly was a great event. Kathleen Hannan and Cathy Pappandrew and the Fly with the Owls group did a wonderful job running this event.  
My problem with the article is a triathlon is a grueling sports competition where the competitors are giving it their best to finish as fast as they can, right?  At the end of the race somebody crosses the finish line first, right?  So, why not mention who came in first place and maybe even throw in a picture of the winner of the race?
For the record, my nephew Sean Barrett came in first place by an incredible margin and as one of the youngest competitors it made it even more amazing — but your slight of my nephew truly is not the motivating factor behind my letter.