Phlegm

"Australian athletes have announced they will arrive in Beijing as late as possible because of concerns that the air quality might hinder their performance. Two weeks ago, two Ethiopian middle-distance running champions announced they would forgo some events because of the "disgusting weather and air pollution." New Zealand and American athletes say they will wear face masks if necessary. Even Jacques Rogge, president of the International Olympic Committee, warned that some endurance sports might be postponed if the pollution gets too bad."

"For athletes unaccustomed to Beijing's pollution, the assault can feel like 'an invisible wet rag that chokes your lungs,' Cassmassi said."

Yum.