Gaming, A SPORT?!!!

Singapore is gearing up to be a gaming hub. And the Government wants to promote online gaming as a healthy sport. WHAT?! Yes, a SPORT! Just this week The New Paper featured the members of Team Singapore, who will be representing Singapore in the World Cyber Games this November. One of the members said he needs to work out in order to be in top form. So yes, gamers are not balls of flab but actually sporty people. This is new to me, and even with what that guy said, I'm not totally convinced. Isn't gaming a nicer term for sitting in front of the computer and playing games?

Am I ill-informed, myopic or both? Is gaming worth promoting only because it's going to bring in big bucks for the economy? What are the benefits of playing computer games six hours in a stretch? Does it really make you more mentally fit (and physically as well)? Maybe the newspapers should probe further and publish articles on the benefits and ills of gaming. As far as I'm concerned, I think there are more enriching activities than spoiling one's eyesight in front of the comp. Gamers who are are reading this, please feel free to enlighten me.