The short story is that my wife and I want to expose our kids to a bunch of different activities and let them choose which ever one they are passionate about.
They are involved (at different times of the year) in
1. running
2. cross country skiing
3. speed skating
4. triathlon
5. swimming
6. biking.
My oldest son asked me what is the best way to get to the Olympics (don't worry - he not that good)
But I thought about it and came up with this order and some reasons why.
Hardest to easiest get to /medal in the Olympics
1. Running - every country competes in this one, no social economic barriers, high exposure, big money at top.
2. Cross country skiing- Winter countries only, but probably the most competitive winter sport. Lots of $ for the best.
3. triathlon - numbers wise it's lower than a lot of sports, but there is only one medal given out per gender.
4. Swimming - 1st world countries only, Would have put #2 but so many events makes for lots of chances to medal.
4. Biking - need big bucks to be competitive.
6. Speed Skating - lowest overall numbers competing.