Exhibit A: Ian Thorpe pulls out of the Australian swimming team for the Commonwealth Games because of the flu. Who is first to know? Why, it's his sponsors: Qantas, Adidas, Omega, Audi, and of course, So Natural Foods Australia, who produce Thorpedo Foods in a joint venture part-owned by the Thorpiness himself.

Exhibit B1: Grant Hackett, also unable to swim for Australia in the Games, is denied access to interview his fellow swimmers for his media employer, Channel Seven. The host broadcaster is Channel Nine.

Exhibit C: Jana Pittman demonstrates courage, determination and persistence by withdrawing from her scheduled leg of the baton relay to rest a troublesome hamstring.

Exhibit B2: Liz Ellis, injured Australian netball captain. Does media gigs for Channel Seven. Copped same treatment as Grant Hackett.

Exhibit D: Ansell is the official provider of 60,000 condoms and 60,000 units of lubricant to the athletes' village. 4500 athletes. 11 days of competition. Will that be enough?