Less criticism of golfers in this year’s Olympics: Your Say

Letters edited for clarity and grammar:

Sports columnist Christine Brennan is off base to criticize pro golfers who have opted out of the Olympics. Why not focus on those who have decided to play in the Olympics like Americans Bubba Watson and Rickie Fowler?

Brennan criticizes golf’s big names such as Rory McIlroy, Jordan Spieth and Jason Day. These guys are all young and will have other opportunities for Olympic gold.

A swimmer has his chance for gold at the Olympics, but that’s the pinnacle for him. Stars in pro golf have major championships on their schedule.

Winning gold at the Olympics is great, no doubt, but is it any greater than winning a Masters tournament green jacket?

Robert Peele; Rocky Mount, N.C.

POLICING THE USA: A look at race, justice and media

Of course this young man, Carmelo Anthony, is ready to lead the United States as part of the men’s basketball team in the Olympics just as long as he does not have to join the rest of the team and play defense. He is a truly skilled player when it comes to offense.

On the other hand, defense is what wins games.

Frank E. Shirley; Yakima, Wash.