"The Tibetans, as people, we are not recognized. And we want to show through our participation that we exist," says athlete Dominick Erne. The International Olympic Committee has already endorsed other non-sovereign states such as Palestine and Taiwan. However, the athletes suspect their late submission will be rejected for fear of offending China. "They are entitled ...to promote their rightful cause," protests journalist Jan Mühlenthaler. "It would be the best moment, if I could beat a Chinese," says incorrigible optimist Dominick Erne. These new political tactics have certainly ruffled a few feathers.