While it may appear to be a typographical error, make no mistake: Germany is going "Back to the Roofs." This playful slogan evokes Munich going back to its roots, which happen to include spectacular roofs. Fifty years ago, Munich hosted the 1972 Olympics. Billed as "The Cheerful Games," the Olympiad even featured a first ever mascot, a dachshund named "Waldi." The Olympic Park boasted an iconic translucent roof, stretching across the various venues in graceful geometric glissades. Sadly, the 1972 Games are mostly remembered for the horrific massacre of 11 Israeli athletes and one German policeman by Palestinian terrorists. While this tragedy must never be forgotten, Munich now marches on into the future with an unmistakable reminder of the past. Next August, the 2022 European Championships will be held in the same Olympic Park from 1972, under the same unmistakable roof. In order to promote the 2022 Championships, which include table tennis among the nine disciplines, athletes are going to great lengths (and heights). Sabine Winter (pictured, right), Germany's fifth-ranked table tennis player at world #117, recently scaled the imposing structure with her father (left) for a friendly game. Although the lightweight folding table was not regulation size, this did not deter the Winter family whatsoever from engaging in a rip-roaring rally. With a solemn remembrance of history, Germany has gone back to its roots (and roofs) in order to finally bring about the long-overdue cheerful games. After all, what would Waldi do?

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