Why Amateur Athletes Compete

Part 5 – Multiple Choice Reading (Questions 31–36)

Read the article and choose the correct answer.

Why Amateur Athletes Compete

Many people assume that competitive sport is driven primarily by the desire to win. While this may be true for professional athletes, the motivations of amateurs are often more complex.

For many participants, competition provides a sense of purpose. Training for an event encourages individuals to adopt healthier lifestyles and develop greater discipline.

Another motivation is social connection. Sporting events often bring together people from different backgrounds who share a common interest.

However, the benefits of competition are not purely social. Many amateur athletes report that the challenge of improving their personal performance is deeply satisfying.

Some psychologists argue that competition allows individuals to test their limits. By pushing themselves beyond what they previously believed possible, they develop greater confidence and resilience.

Nevertheless, experts caution that excessive competitiveness can be harmful. If individuals become overly focused on winning, they may lose sight of the enjoyment that originally attracted them to sport.

Questions:

31. The writer suggests that amateur athletes mainly compete in order to...

A earn money.

B defeat their opponents.

C achieve personal satisfaction.

D gain professional recognition.

32. Training for competitions often leads people to...

A change their daily habits.

B meet professional athletes.

C travel more frequently.

D avoid social activities.

33. Sporting events help people...

A find employment opportunities.

B meet others with similar interests.

C compete against professionals.

D improve their academic skills.

34. According to psychologists, competition helps individuals...

A avoid difficult challenges.

B understand their limitations.

C improve their physical appearance.

D develop greater self-confidence.

35. The writer warns that competition can become harmful if people...

A train too frequently.

B focus only on winning.

C participate too often.

D compete internationally.

36. The writer’s overall attitude toward amateur sport is...

A critical.

B neutral.

C supportive.

D doubtful.