Fat, happy pigs, on the other hand, take part in a series of Last Suppers that are an important part of the rearing process.

WSJ: High on the Hog

The event is viewed as an important preparation for riders hoping to take part in the 2012 London Olympics.

BBC: Showjumping

Daley and Rebecca will take part in a breeding programme to provide an important safety net to populations in the wild.

BBC: Otters at Chester Zoo named after Olympic hopefuls

And, when your money is on the line, and when you have to take an active part in deciding where it goes, a whole bunch of other things you never considered become infinitely more important.

FORBES: Send report cards to the people on their tax money.