Sheffield’s table tennis stars have returned to the city with early Christmas presents and recognition that they are favourites to break the Asian stranglehold on the sport.
A squad of four players who train daily in world-class facilities at the English Institute of Sport – Sheffield (EIS Sheffield) have come back from the World Junior Championships in Spain with a set of outstanding performances.
In the singles, 2012 hopeful Paul Drinkhall, who lives in Clifton in Rotherham, secured silver while doubles partner Darius Knight made the last 16 of the competition and 15 year old Gavin Evans was in the last 32.
The squad, which also included Chesterfield youngster Liam Pitchford and coaches Jia Yi Liu and Linus Mernsten who are all based at EIS Sheffield, finished third in the team event.
Steen Hansen, Performance Director for the English Table Tennis Association (ETTA), which is based at EIS Sheffield and runs the British Table Tennis Federation (BTTF), said: “This was a fantastic performance and again we proved that we are the only nation in Europe on the boys side who can compete with Asia.
“It was another high profile opportunity for the likes of Paul and Darius to show that they are rapidly becoming key faces of the sport in the build-up to London’s 2012 Olympic Games and for Gavin to make the last 32 at only 15 years old is a real achievement.”
Paul Drinkhall is currently ranked third in the world at his age group. The 18-year-old, plays for Julich Table Tennis Club in Germany and trains for up to 30 hours a week, plus fitness work, performance support, studying and matches at the weekend.
Eighteen-year-old Darius Knight first started in the sport at nine years old. He already plays for Great Britain on the World Pro Tour, is the national under-21 champion and is the figurehead for the Urban Cup initiative, which promotes the sport in inner-cities.
London 2012 prospect Gavin Evans, who lives in Newark, comes from a family of table tennis players and his parents and three brothers all play the sport. Gavin plays his league table tennis in Germany and is ranked four on the World Ranking list for Under 15 level.
Liam Pitchford, current Under 15 number two in England, was individual and team champion at the 2007 Cadet Six Nations and was a member of the Under 15 team at the 2006 European Youth Championships.
The squad celebrated their success at EIS Sheffield’s fifth birthday party on Saturday, December 20, which featured a host of sports sessions including table tennis masterclasses with Paul Drinkhall and Gavin Evans as well as a few others including former World number 26 Alan Cooke who now coaches the women’s team.
EIS Sheffield is home to 12 National Governing Bodies and organisations, 10 Olympic sports and provides facilities for more than 60 local sports clubs and table tennis is one of the venue’s biggest success stories.
Paul Hudson, general manager of EIS Sheffield, said: “The EIS Sheffield table tennis centre continues to go from strength to strength and the sport is fast becoming internationally recognised for what it has achieved at the venue. Steen and the rest of the team have developed a remarkable group of players, by investing in youngsters from the bottom up to create a 2012 legacy.”
Thursday, December 25, 2008
Diving Off Krabi, Thailand
The beauty of Krabi province, Thailand, is simply overwhelming, including its underwater world, teeming with a plethora of marine life. The rock formations and corals are a breathtaking wonder. A visit to Krabi is not complete without taking a plunge into the deep and alluring underwater world.
The dive sites of Krabi lie in the Andaman Ocean, where a multitude of locations await to be explored and you don’t always have to travel too far, as the nearest diving site is close to Ao Nang Beach. Small local islands are approximately 30 minutes by longtail boat from Ao Nang, good for both scuba diving and snorkelling. There are also beautiful beaches to relax on, while listening to the waves lapping the shore.
Here are a few special dive site recommendations, courtesy of Amari Vogue Resort:
The diving spots around local islands are Koh Ha and Koh Ha Yai, where there are many corals and large schools of colourful fish, such as red coral groupers, black spotted porcupine pufferfish, scorpionfish, lobsters, motleys, turtles and large fans. Leopard sharks can also be seen, along with many more.
Koh Si, on the southern end of the island, has good visibility. There are staghorn and brain corals. Schools of snapper and large grouper are common in this area, as well as the chance to see seahorses. This is also a good spot for the shy black-tip reef shark.
Koh Poda is a small limestone island, where the coral reefs lie 20m offshore. This island is an excellent choice for snorkeling.
Hin Daeng (Red Rock) is a part of Lanta National Marine Park, further south of Ao Nang. It is an excellent scuba diving site, with a number of large species and stunning reefs. The soft corals in various shades of red and sea fans adorn the vertical wall. The presence of whale sharks and manta rays is also frequent. Hin Daeng pinnacle protrudes 3m above the surface and drops 70m vertically below. This site is suitable for advanced divers.
Hin Muang (Purple Rock), situated a few hundred metres from Hin Daeng, is covered with a colour-rich range of pink to purple soft corals, hence the name. This is Thailand’s highest vertical wall at 200m long and 20m wide. It is a home to anemones and colourful sea fans. There are little caves and ledges for the sea creatures to inhabit, including micro life. Manta rays, sharks and leopard sharks are seen around here. This site is also ideal for more experienced divers.
The Phi Phi Islands are a popular site with an unforgettable land and seascape. Phi Phi, a gem of the Andaman, is comprised of Phi Phi Don and Phi Phi Leh, which lie in national marine park territory. There are a number of dive sites to discover both for snorkeling and scuba diving. The best season to dive here is from February to May. Limestone cliffs that plunge down beneath the surface are the abode of lively soft coral, with a profusion of marine life, such as black and white banded sea snakes, turtles and nudibranches.
Anemone Reef is 18km west of the Phi Phi Islands. At 7m deep, this reef hosts a variety of clownfish, anemone crabs and clear cleaner shrimps. Large schools of fish are seen everywhere on this reef, including snapper, grouper, fusilier. Black-tip reef shark and leopard shark are common around here.
Experience the wonderful underwater world of Krabi and touch base with luxury at Amari Vogue Resort, on Tub Kaek Beach.
Outdoor activities, including diving and snorkeling trips can be booked at the resort. After a day out, chill by the pool, sipping cocktails from Sunset Lounge or pamper body, mind and soul at Sivara Spa.
Sailing : Day 45 onboard Roxy in the Vendée Globe
Sam Davies’ daily log - Ice cream head
“Hello there everyone!
Well, whilst you are all comfy in front of the fire (or bbq for those down under) eating chocolates, singing carols, drinking mulled wine, I will explain a bit of my day on Roxy today. We are reaching (side on to the wind) with 25knots of wind and a bumpy sea. That makes doing anything pretty much impossible, as if you were living on a roller-coaster. Changing or trimming a sail requires me to be in full drysuit, which is easier said than done. Try putting a dry suit on when you are on dry land you will see... Then tilt the land to 30 degrees, make the floor wet (so if you put that foot down before it is in the drysuit your sock gets wet). Put a blindfold on. Then start the roller-coaster! The roller-coaster doesn't stop when the sail is done - so the reverse process of removing (now very wet) drysuit and hanging it up to dry has to be done. Just earlier, I noticed a big bulge in the reef of my mainsail. There was a fold of sail that had been collecting water and it was fully loaded up, which is not at all good for the sail. I quickly got dressed up and went outside to see what I could do. I tried everything, luffing up, bearing away, as it was too windy to shake the reef. Nothing would get rid of the bulge. I then bore away, got a bucket, and got in there and bailed it out! 10 buckets - so at least 100kg of water in my sail. I re-adjusted the lazyjacks and got going again..... only to see that the bulge was back! So in the end I got a knife and pierced some holes in it so it would drain. I'm hoping my drain-holes will keep it at bay. Once going again, I got totally DRENCHED - I had only my dry top on as I had got dressed in a rush. Wet hair, Yuk! So I bit the bullet, got out my shampoo, and tried to get a positive side out of the situation. The trouble is, although I have lovely clean hair, the water is SO cold that I have got ice-cream head now. So that is a little snippet of life on board Roxy rollercoaster today. Doing anything else is just too dangerous as she is jumping around so much. I am sitting in my sleeping bag, watching the Albatross circle around the boat through my porthole, and the waves come crashing over the deck into the cockpit. A little bit of music, reading, sleeping, as the miles tick by towards Cape Horn. I opened my Christmas dinner package today. My boyfriend Romain has prepared a super meal for me - a delicious fish soup, with rouille and croutons! Yummy. I can't wait. The only thing is that I think it is almost impossible to eat soup in these conditions! I might have to postpone my Christmas dinner to when its calmed down a bit, otherwise I will be wearing more of it than eating it!
x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 8th position, 1501 miles from race leader Michel Desjoyeaux aboard Foncia
“Hello there everyone!
Well, whilst you are all comfy in front of the fire (or bbq for those down under) eating chocolates, singing carols, drinking mulled wine, I will explain a bit of my day on Roxy today. We are reaching (side on to the wind) with 25knots of wind and a bumpy sea. That makes doing anything pretty much impossible, as if you were living on a roller-coaster. Changing or trimming a sail requires me to be in full drysuit, which is easier said than done. Try putting a dry suit on when you are on dry land you will see... Then tilt the land to 30 degrees, make the floor wet (so if you put that foot down before it is in the drysuit your sock gets wet). Put a blindfold on. Then start the roller-coaster! The roller-coaster doesn't stop when the sail is done - so the reverse process of removing (now very wet) drysuit and hanging it up to dry has to be done. Just earlier, I noticed a big bulge in the reef of my mainsail. There was a fold of sail that had been collecting water and it was fully loaded up, which is not at all good for the sail. I quickly got dressed up and went outside to see what I could do. I tried everything, luffing up, bearing away, as it was too windy to shake the reef. Nothing would get rid of the bulge. I then bore away, got a bucket, and got in there and bailed it out! 10 buckets - so at least 100kg of water in my sail. I re-adjusted the lazyjacks and got going again..... only to see that the bulge was back! So in the end I got a knife and pierced some holes in it so it would drain. I'm hoping my drain-holes will keep it at bay. Once going again, I got totally DRENCHED - I had only my dry top on as I had got dressed in a rush. Wet hair, Yuk! So I bit the bullet, got out my shampoo, and tried to get a positive side out of the situation. The trouble is, although I have lovely clean hair, the water is SO cold that I have got ice-cream head now. So that is a little snippet of life on board Roxy rollercoaster today. Doing anything else is just too dangerous as she is jumping around so much. I am sitting in my sleeping bag, watching the Albatross circle around the boat through my porthole, and the waves come crashing over the deck into the cockpit. A little bit of music, reading, sleeping, as the miles tick by towards Cape Horn. I opened my Christmas dinner package today. My boyfriend Romain has prepared a super meal for me - a delicious fish soup, with rouille and croutons! Yummy. I can't wait. The only thing is that I think it is almost impossible to eat soup in these conditions! I might have to postpone my Christmas dinner to when its calmed down a bit, otherwise I will be wearing more of it than eating it!
x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 8th position, 1501 miles from race leader Michel Desjoyeaux aboard Foncia
Matthew Hayden urges boaters keep proper Look-Out
Australian Test cricketer Matthew Hayden reckons that keeping a proper look-out should be the “first rule of the water.” Matthew has volunteered his services for the third year in a row to be spokesperson for the Australia New Zealand Safe Boating Education Group’s public awareness campaign, which this year urges skippers to “keep their eye on the ball”.
“Keeping your eye on the ball is obviously a catch cry back to cricket, but on the water, it’s significant because there are so many things that do change every time you go out,” he explained. “That can be a slight adjustment in the sand bar, reading navigation beacons correctly, avoiding boats in half light or where you can’t see because you are blinded by sun or salt on the window.
“Things can change in an instant, another boat can come out of nowhere, a wave can swamp you and suddenly you can be in real trouble.”
He emphasised how important it is to maintain awareness at all times “because in a lot of ways we can take for granted how well we know the water.”
According to the latest National Marine Safety Committee statistics*, of the 47 boating related deaths reported in 2007, 85% involved at least one recreational vessel.
Acting NMSC CEO John Henry revealed that the “keep your eye on the ball” slogan was coined from the latest national research. “In 2007, collisions with vessels and collisions with a fixed object accounted for 35% of all incidents and a collision of vessels was the most common incident type in 2005 and 2006.”
He explained that the National Assessment of Boating Fatalities in Australia Report released earlier this year tracked fatalities from 1999 to 2004 and studied 196 incidents where 241 people died. It found that failure to keep a proper lookout was the primary factor in one in ten of these fatalities.
“It’s such a simple thing, yet it could save your life.”
“I would like to thank Matthew for donating his time to the campaign to ask boaters to keep a proper look-out and expect the unexpected when you are out on the water.”
Matthew went on to say that speaking from experience, it only takes a split second to suddenly make you vulnerable, and then you are in scenario that you don’t want to be in.
“And that can happen so quickly,” he said, harking back to the fateful day a few years ago when his boat was hit by waves, capsized and sank off North Stradbroke Island. It took Matthew, fellow cricketer Andrew Symonds and friend Trent Butler an hour to reach the shore, battling currents, waves and eventually, shock and exhaustion.
But he pointed out that he felt the initial mistake was made before the trio was even out on the water.
“We took on the conditions ahead of time, a bit too early in half light, and we came a cropper that way.”
Boaters warned: go easy on the drink
AUSTRALIAN BOATIES, BE WARNED .....
As Christmas approaches boaters are warned the same drinking and driving rules apply on the water as on the road. Skippers are warned it is their responsibility to stay under the 0.05 blood alcohol (BAC) limit.
This follows two incidents early on the night of Friday December 20 in which the skipper of an 8m runabout and the skipper of a 40ft yacht were found to be each over the 0.05 BAC (high range) in random breath tests on Brisbane Water.
NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers and Water Police will be on the water every day over the holiday period checking safety equipment, speed and alcohol.
www.maritime.nsw.gov.au
As Christmas approaches boaters are warned the same drinking and driving rules apply on the water as on the road. Skippers are warned it is their responsibility to stay under the 0.05 blood alcohol (BAC) limit.
This follows two incidents early on the night of Friday December 20 in which the skipper of an 8m runabout and the skipper of a 40ft yacht were found to be each over the 0.05 BAC (high range) in random breath tests on Brisbane Water.
NSW Maritime Boating Safety Officers and Water Police will be on the water every day over the holiday period checking safety equipment, speed and alcohol.
www.maritime.nsw.gov.au
Sailing : Wins are not just in the wind Currents and sea temperatures provide tactical edge
A revolutionary new website which charts ocean currents and sea temperatures in conjunction with navigational charts has been released in time for the start of the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race.
The site, www.tidetech.org is the only service in the world to provide ocean current information as well as present sea temperatures in an easy-to-use grib file format.
Tidetech Director Penny Haire said that navigators who consider currents and ocean temperature as well as wind speeds will have a competitive edge of hours over their competitors who rely on wind speeds alone.
“In the past, navigators have found it very difficult to get hold of accurate ocean current and tidal information in grib format and seeing exactly what the current and sea temperatures are doing for a race like the Sydney Hobart is vital,” said Ms Haire.
“The sea temperature information is particularly exciting. Looking at charts from earlier this week we can see a big jet of warm water off Sydney which will provide a tactical strong lead for yachts who know where it is.”
The pictures demonstrate the progression of this warm water compared over two days. Today’s information is only available to subscribers. Free demonstration files are available for download at www.tidetech.org.
The grib charts are available by subscription especially for the Rolex Sydney Hobart Yacht Race. The latest sea surface current data is available for $220 and a package of the latest sea surface current data and the sea surface temperature information is available for $385. Subscribers will receive charts right up until 0700 on Boxing Day. To subscribe, please contact penny.haire@tidetech.org.
“Last week Tidetech had a major technological breakthrough when we converted CSIRO Australian ocean current data into a grib format.
“This week, just in time for the Rolex-Sydney Hobart, we have been able to apply similar technology to provide sea temperature information from the Nova AVHRR (Advanced Very High Resolution Radiometer) satellite.
“It’s very exciting. As long as the weather is clear, we can get provide detailed information at 1km resolution. When this is overlaid with the sea surface current grib, it gives you a better idea of what's actually happening,” said Penny.
Tidetech was founded by Penny Haire who is the Chief Examiner for the RYA/Yachting Australia National Yacht Training programme and Dr Roger Proctor who is an internationally recognised coastal oceanographer responsible for the integration and coordination of the Australian marine observing system, based at the University of Tasmania. He has also been a tidal consultant to the UK Olympic Sailing Team since 1988
Cricket : Captains lead the way in latest MVP rankings
Captains lead the way as State Shield gets underway
An unbeaten innings of 84 from State Central Stags captain Mathew Sinclair has moved the right hand batsman to the top of the State Shield MVP table and second in the overall rankings. Sinclair has had a strong start to the season in both the State Championship and now in the one day form of the game, with his side unbeaten to date and top of both competition ladders.
Sinclair says “I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season, and it’s great to be able to lead from the front in both competitions.”
Central Stags teammate Ewen Thompson took 3 for 52 in the victory over the State Auckland Aces at the weekend, securing his place at the top of the overall MVP table for another week.
State Wellington Firebirds skipper Matthew Bell has also had a solid start to the season, and his 74 not out on Sunday was crucial in leading his side to victory over the State Northern Knights. Bell is fifth in the State Shield MVP table and eighth overall.
MVP TOP FIVE AT A GLANCE
1. Thompson, Ewen (CD) 136.87 points
2. Sinclair, Mathew (CD) 121.02
3. Franklin, James (WLG) 117.11
4. Napier, Graham (WLG) 110.23
5. De Grandhomme, Colin (AKL) 99.93
STATE Shield top five
1. Sinclair, Mathew (CD) 20.44 points
2. Napier, Graham (WLG) 19.19
3. Thompson, Ewen (CD) 19.03
4. Martin, Chris (AKL) 17.79
5. Bell, Matthew (WLG) 16.45
An unbeaten innings of 84 from State Central Stags captain Mathew Sinclair has moved the right hand batsman to the top of the State Shield MVP table and second in the overall rankings. Sinclair has had a strong start to the season in both the State Championship and now in the one day form of the game, with his side unbeaten to date and top of both competition ladders.
Sinclair says “I couldn’t have asked for a better start to the season, and it’s great to be able to lead from the front in both competitions.”
Central Stags teammate Ewen Thompson took 3 for 52 in the victory over the State Auckland Aces at the weekend, securing his place at the top of the overall MVP table for another week.
State Wellington Firebirds skipper Matthew Bell has also had a solid start to the season, and his 74 not out on Sunday was crucial in leading his side to victory over the State Northern Knights. Bell is fifth in the State Shield MVP table and eighth overall.
MVP TOP FIVE AT A GLANCE
1. Thompson, Ewen (CD) 136.87 points
2. Sinclair, Mathew (CD) 121.02
3. Franklin, James (WLG) 117.11
4. Napier, Graham (WLG) 110.23
5. De Grandhomme, Colin (AKL) 99.93
STATE Shield top five
1. Sinclair, Mathew (CD) 20.44 points
2. Napier, Graham (WLG) 19.19
3. Thompson, Ewen (CD) 19.03
4. Martin, Chris (AKL) 17.79
5. Bell, Matthew (WLG) 16.45
Sailing : DELTA LLOYD SAFELY FINISHES LEG THREE
Roberto Bermudez de Castro/ESP brought the crippled Delta Lloyd across the finish to complete leg three of the Volvo Ocean Race from Cochin in India, at 2007 GMT tonight, after 10 days, 10 hours, 7minutes and five seconds (elapsed time 10:10:7:5), more than 24 hours after Bouwe Bekking and Telefónica Blue scored their first leg win of the event.
Roberto Bermudez, who stepped onto the boat for the first time in Cape Town as skipper, has had a tough leg, culminating with damage to the port keel ram structure on day six, 8 December. The crew considered diverting to a nearer port, but were able to affect a repair sufficient to enable them to sail the remainder of the leg and finish under sail. At the time of the incident, Bermudez said, “This is incredibly bad luck, but the crew is my first priority. It is my job to bring them home safely.” And that is exactly what the Spanish skipper has done.
The shore team is ready to start repairing the damage, which should enable the boat to start the in-port race scheduled for 10 January.
Meanwhile, Kosatka Team Russia today announced that it has suspended racing due to insufficient funds to continue the campaign. The boat finished in seventh position yesterday.
The team has been actively approaching sponsors in recent months in a bid to secure enough financial support to continue, however no sponsorship has been forthcoming. The team has no alternative other than to suspend racing until further financial support can be secured.
“From the outset, it was always a goal to bring commercial partners into the project,” explains Oleg Zherebtsov, the team principal. “Until now, I have financed the team with my own money, in advance of anticipated sponsorship funding. By this stage in the campaign we had intended to find sponsorship, but this process has been impacted by the global economic situation.”
The next action on the water will be on 10 January with the UBS Challenge for the In-Port Race, followed by the start of leg four from Singapore to Qingdao in China on 18 January.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points
2. PUMA : 7 points
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points
4. Ericsson 4: 5points
5. Telefónica Black: 4 points
6. Green Dragon: 3 points
7. Kosatka Team Russia: 2 points
8. Delta Lloyd: 1 points
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points
3. PUMA : 27.5 points
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points
5. Green Dragon: 20.5 points
6. Telefónica Black: 19.5 points
7. Team Russia: 10.5 points
8. Delta Lloyd: 9 points
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Roberto Bermudez, who stepped onto the boat for the first time in Cape Town as skipper, has had a tough leg, culminating with damage to the port keel ram structure on day six, 8 December. The crew considered diverting to a nearer port, but were able to affect a repair sufficient to enable them to sail the remainder of the leg and finish under sail. At the time of the incident, Bermudez said, “This is incredibly bad luck, but the crew is my first priority. It is my job to bring them home safely.” And that is exactly what the Spanish skipper has done.
The shore team is ready to start repairing the damage, which should enable the boat to start the in-port race scheduled for 10 January.
Meanwhile, Kosatka Team Russia today announced that it has suspended racing due to insufficient funds to continue the campaign. The boat finished in seventh position yesterday.
The team has been actively approaching sponsors in recent months in a bid to secure enough financial support to continue, however no sponsorship has been forthcoming. The team has no alternative other than to suspend racing until further financial support can be secured.
“From the outset, it was always a goal to bring commercial partners into the project,” explains Oleg Zherebtsov, the team principal. “Until now, I have financed the team with my own money, in advance of anticipated sponsorship funding. By this stage in the campaign we had intended to find sponsorship, but this process has been impacted by the global economic situation.”
The next action on the water will be on 10 January with the UBS Challenge for the In-Port Race, followed by the start of leg four from Singapore to Qingdao in China on 18 January.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points
2. PUMA : 7 points
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points
4. Ericsson 4: 5points
5. Telefónica Black: 4 points
6. Green Dragon: 3 points
7. Kosatka Team Russia: 2 points
8. Delta Lloyd: 1 points
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points
3. PUMA : 27.5 points
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points
5. Green Dragon: 20.5 points
6. Telefónica Black: 19.5 points
7. Team Russia: 10.5 points
8. Delta Lloyd: 9 points
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Sailing : Day 44 onboard Roxy in the Vendée Globe
Sam Davies’ daily log - Mum’s Christmas Cake is Always Best!
Hello!
Day 43 is finished, and that means that Roxy is halfway through her record time of 87 days!!! I think we are pretty much halfway distance-wise too.... so it might be still be possible to break Roxy's record time from the last race! After a long night of "wallowing" and a lot of hard work by me to squeeze the maximum boat speed out of just a few knots of wind, we were rewarded by a lovely sunrise, and the first zephyrs of the "new" Northerly wind! This extra bit of wind, meant that I could leave the pilot to do the job and I managed to get a bit of sleep. Now, there is 16 knots of wind and finally the speedo is reading 15-16knots - AT LAST!!! We are tight reaching, so the daggerboard is down and I can hear it "singing"! It is a sweet sound that I haven't heard for a while and as we accelerate, the pitch gets higher and higher! The objective now is to try and stay in front of the low pressure that is behind us! I called Brian Thompson on Pindar this morning and I was relieved to hear he has finished his repair to Pindar's bow structure. He sounded very tired but quite optimistic that it should hold. So now my fingers and toes are crossed for Brian and Pindar, as we go through this windy low pressure system. And finally, I have a confession to make (to my Mum.) She's made me a lovely Christmas cake, and today I gave in to the temptation and I have eaten a piece - a day early!!! Oooops, sorry!!! But it is (as always) DEICIOUS!!!! Thanks Mummy!
S x
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 8th position, 1,515 miles from race leader Michel Desjoyeaux aboard Foncia
Poll results : Should the haka remain
At the time of closing, votes were 100% in favour of getting rid of the haka pre sports events!
Marine Industry : New management service at Sunseeker
New management service at Sunseeker
By IBI Magazine/Michael Howorth
Using the London International Boat Show to launch its new yacht management service for owners, Sunseeker Superyacht Management aims to look after maintenance, operation and administration of any Sunseeker vessel and reporting directly to the owner.
Captain Ben Young, who for many years was the company's trials master, has a wealth of experience. He believes that the complexities of operating a superyacht requires skills, experience and experience of the brand and feels he fits the bill. He said: "An object as beautiful and valuable as a superyacht deserves exemplary treatment, and we plan to offer exactly that."
Properly managed and maintained yachts retain much higher values long-term. With specialist knowledge, management support can reduce the risk of incidents onboard and make financial savings in the day-to-day running of the vessel. Owners can experience problems recruiting the right captain and crew and there are often headaches involved in the administration and practical operation of a yacht.
Young's team plan to solve these problems. They can place a qualified, professional captain and crew onboard taking care of classification, flagstate, mini-ISM and financial administration. Working with the captain they then offer practical operational support, providing protection and peace of mind.
The company's close relationship with the builder gives them direct access to key personnel and infrastructure, yet their independence from the shipyard and brokerage houses is intended to allow them to make decisions and give advice quickly and without bias. Based in Port Camille Rayon, Golfe Juan in the South of France, it has a multi-lingual team positioned to offer support throughout the Mediterranean and beyond.
By IBI Magazine/Michael Howorth
Using the London International Boat Show to launch its new yacht management service for owners, Sunseeker Superyacht Management aims to look after maintenance, operation and administration of any Sunseeker vessel and reporting directly to the owner.
Captain Ben Young, who for many years was the company's trials master, has a wealth of experience. He believes that the complexities of operating a superyacht requires skills, experience and experience of the brand and feels he fits the bill. He said: "An object as beautiful and valuable as a superyacht deserves exemplary treatment, and we plan to offer exactly that."
Properly managed and maintained yachts retain much higher values long-term. With specialist knowledge, management support can reduce the risk of incidents onboard and make financial savings in the day-to-day running of the vessel. Owners can experience problems recruiting the right captain and crew and there are often headaches involved in the administration and practical operation of a yacht.
Young's team plan to solve these problems. They can place a qualified, professional captain and crew onboard taking care of classification, flagstate, mini-ISM and financial administration. Working with the captain they then offer practical operational support, providing protection and peace of mind.
The company's close relationship with the builder gives them direct access to key personnel and infrastructure, yet their independence from the shipyard and brokerage houses is intended to allow them to make decisions and give advice quickly and without bias. Based in Port Camille Rayon, Golfe Juan in the South of France, it has a multi-lingual team positioned to offer support throughout the Mediterranean and beyond.
Tuesday, December 23, 2008
Volleyball : CROCS™ GIVE PLAYERS THE EDGE
It will be a summer of sun, sea, sand and Crocs™, as the global footwear phenomenon sponsors one of the hottest female volleyball teams in the 2009 McEntee Hire Beach Volleyball Tour.
As “Team Crocs™”, American volleyball stars Paige Davis and Jenn Snyder will tour New Zealand from Oriental Parade in Wellington to the ASB Tennis Centre in Auckland – demonstrating not only their amazing athletic ability, but also why Crocs™ are the leisure footwear of choice for serious athletes.
During the tour, Davis and Snyder will wear Crocs™ Capri Canvas, Malindi, Cleo and Women’s Santa Cruz off court, providing comfort, style and the support that athletes need to maintain their fitness.
Crocs™ have proven to be a favourite with Kiwi athletes. They were worn as the official footwear of the New Zealand Olympic team in Beijing this year and ensured NZ athletes were kept cool, stylish and comfortable in throughout the heat and humidity of Beijing.
“Crocs™ are ideal footwear for athletes, who need to ensure their muscles are fully supported and relaxed so they can recover between games of extreme, taxing activity,” says Crocs™ general manager Andy Witts.
“All Crocs™ feature a massaging footbed and super soft circulation nubs that help to stimulate blood flow. Like all authentic Crocs™ shoes they mould to the feet for an immaculate custom fit that will keep athletes feet cool and comfortable all day long.”
Crocs™ are also made from a unique material called Croslite™, which is odour-resistant, slip resistant, lightweight and gives the feeling of walking on air.
This will be the second time Davis has taken part in what is New Zealand’s only national beach volleyball tournament – the McEntee Hire Beach Volleyball Tour. In 2008 she reached the finals with her then partner Jennelle Koester.
Davis has been playing professionally since her passion for beach volleyball was sparked while working for NBC at the 2004 Athens Olympics. She is the 2008 Australia Crocs™ Tour champion.
Fellow Team Crocs™ player, Snyder will be participating for the first time in the New Zealand Tour, however she has played professionally in Italy, Turkey, Switzerland and the United States.
Both players say they are looking forward to the competition, and to the fun, relaxed atmosphere of a New Zealand summer. And they’re also excited to continue their love affair with Crocs™.
“Beach volleyball is tough, physical work,” says Davis. “It’s really important that between games our muscles get the maximum chance to recover so we can give 100% every time we’re on the court.”
“With their built-in arch and heel support, Crocs™ help reduce muscle fatigue in our legs and feet, so we can always be at the top of our game.
“And, of course, they look great as well!”
The 2009 McEntee Hire Beach Volleyball Tour, now in its 13th year, runs from January 3-25. Games will be held at Sumner Beach in Christchurch, Wellington’s Oriental Parade, Ohope Beach in Whakatane, Mt Maunganui and the ASB Tennis Centre in Auckland.
Team Crocs™ will play on three of the major legs of the tour - Wellington, Mt Maunganui and Auckland – vying to take out top honours as the best female team at this year’s event.
As “Team Crocs™”, American volleyball stars Paige Davis and Jenn Snyder will tour New Zealand from Oriental Parade in Wellington to the ASB Tennis Centre in Auckland – demonstrating not only their amazing athletic ability, but also why Crocs™ are the leisure footwear of choice for serious athletes.
During the tour, Davis and Snyder will wear Crocs™ Capri Canvas, Malindi, Cleo and Women’s Santa Cruz off court, providing comfort, style and the support that athletes need to maintain their fitness.
Crocs™ have proven to be a favourite with Kiwi athletes. They were worn as the official footwear of the New Zealand Olympic team in Beijing this year and ensured NZ athletes were kept cool, stylish and comfortable in throughout the heat and humidity of Beijing.
“Crocs™ are ideal footwear for athletes, who need to ensure their muscles are fully supported and relaxed so they can recover between games of extreme, taxing activity,” says Crocs™ general manager Andy Witts.
“All Crocs™ feature a massaging footbed and super soft circulation nubs that help to stimulate blood flow. Like all authentic Crocs™ shoes they mould to the feet for an immaculate custom fit that will keep athletes feet cool and comfortable all day long.”
Crocs™ are also made from a unique material called Croslite™, which is odour-resistant, slip resistant, lightweight and gives the feeling of walking on air.
This will be the second time Davis has taken part in what is New Zealand’s only national beach volleyball tournament – the McEntee Hire Beach Volleyball Tour. In 2008 she reached the finals with her then partner Jennelle Koester.
Davis has been playing professionally since her passion for beach volleyball was sparked while working for NBC at the 2004 Athens Olympics. She is the 2008 Australia Crocs™ Tour champion.
Fellow Team Crocs™ player, Snyder will be participating for the first time in the New Zealand Tour, however she has played professionally in Italy, Turkey, Switzerland and the United States.
Both players say they are looking forward to the competition, and to the fun, relaxed atmosphere of a New Zealand summer. And they’re also excited to continue their love affair with Crocs™.
“Beach volleyball is tough, physical work,” says Davis. “It’s really important that between games our muscles get the maximum chance to recover so we can give 100% every time we’re on the court.”
“With their built-in arch and heel support, Crocs™ help reduce muscle fatigue in our legs and feet, so we can always be at the top of our game.
“And, of course, they look great as well!”
The 2009 McEntee Hire Beach Volleyball Tour, now in its 13th year, runs from January 3-25. Games will be held at Sumner Beach in Christchurch, Wellington’s Oriental Parade, Ohope Beach in Whakatane, Mt Maunganui and the ASB Tennis Centre in Auckland.
Team Crocs™ will play on three of the major legs of the tour - Wellington, Mt Maunganui and Auckland – vying to take out top honours as the best female team at this year’s event.
Betting : Yachting to become a 'sure bet'
It's now possible to bet on yacht racing:
Yachting New Zealand has reached an agreement with the New Zealand Racing Board which allows the Board (TAB) to conduct betting on yachting.
Most major New Zealand sports have allowed betting for some time, and this is sanctioned under section 5 of the Racing Act 2003.
Yachting New Zealand's Chief Executive Des Brennan says, "Most sports funding is sourced from gaming activity, and when Yachting New Zealand sought the views of members last year, we found that there was little strong opinion against the move."
While it is not foreseen that funding from betting will be a major source of income, it is hoped that it will be a useful one. It is also hoped that any promotion of events carried out by the TAB will increase the visibility of yachting and increase interest in its principal regattas.
Yachting New Zealand has reached an agreement with the New Zealand Racing Board which allows the Board (TAB) to conduct betting on yachting.
Most major New Zealand sports have allowed betting for some time, and this is sanctioned under section 5 of the Racing Act 2003.
Yachting New Zealand's Chief Executive Des Brennan says, "Most sports funding is sourced from gaming activity, and when Yachting New Zealand sought the views of members last year, we found that there was little strong opinion against the move."
While it is not foreseen that funding from betting will be a major source of income, it is hoped that it will be a useful one. It is also hoped that any promotion of events carried out by the TAB will increase the visibility of yachting and increase interest in its principal regattas.
Volleyball : 10 Things you didn't know
1. Volleyball was invented in 1895 by William G. Morgan from the State of New York, USA. It was originally called "Mintonette" before changing its name after a demonstration given at the YMCA in Springfield, USA.
2. Volleyball is now the second most popular sport in the world today, behind football. There are more than 800 million players worldwide and more than 200 national federations.
3. Sheffield is the home of British Volleyball with the GB men’s and women’s teams training at the city’s English Institute of Sport.
4. The ball has been given a recent make-over. The yellow and blue eight panel design now has dimples for a truer flight pattern for creative serves and spikes.
5. The major differences between beach and indoor volleyball is the playing surface! While teams consist of two players for beach rather than six for the indoor game.
6. The ball can be played by any part of the body.
7. Volleyball was introduced to the Olympic Games in 1964
8. Most volleyball players jump about 300 times a match.
9. There is a paralympic sport of sitting volleyball
10. A powerful one-arm hit of the ball returning it to the opponent’s court is called a spike.
2. Volleyball is now the second most popular sport in the world today, behind football. There are more than 800 million players worldwide and more than 200 national federations.
3. Sheffield is the home of British Volleyball with the GB men’s and women’s teams training at the city’s English Institute of Sport.
4. The ball has been given a recent make-over. The yellow and blue eight panel design now has dimples for a truer flight pattern for creative serves and spikes.
5. The major differences between beach and indoor volleyball is the playing surface! While teams consist of two players for beach rather than six for the indoor game.
6. The ball can be played by any part of the body.
7. Volleyball was introduced to the Olympic Games in 1964
8. Most volleyball players jump about 300 times a match.
9. There is a paralympic sport of sitting volleyball
10. A powerful one-arm hit of the ball returning it to the opponent’s court is called a spike.
Volleyball : Star Switches Rio For Sheffield
A British volleyball star has switched spending Christmas in Rio de Janeiro to be in Sheffield ahead of the World Championships in the city.
Mark Plotyczer is a receive hitter for the Great Britain volleyball squad which will be taking its first steps on the global stage when the prestigious tournament begins at the EIS – Sheffield, January 2 - 4.
The 21-year-old - born in Rio but qualifies to play for Britain through his parents - is playing a key role in volleyball’s development performance programme as the team prepares to participate in the London 2012 Olympics.
Mark plays professional volleyball with top-flight club Milon in Athens, Greece, but it has always been his dream of playing for Great Britain and is staying in Sheffield over the festive period as the squad prepares for the World Championships with games against Sweden.
A number of players from the GB squad now reside in Sheffield, including Maria Bertelli, who will be part of the women’s squad which have their own preparation camp by taking on Austria between Christmas and New Year.
Maria, 30, plays for national volleyball league side London Malory after making her England volleyball debut against Australia in 1996. Last year she committed herself to Volleyball full-time and moved to Sheffield after previously sharing her sporting ambitions by playing professional football at Charlton Athletic.
Maria even played for Charlton in the FA Cup final before the ladies team was scrapped by the Championship club following relegation. She responded by flying out to Switzerland later the same month to begin her volleyball career with the newly formed Great Britain team.
Tickets for the first round event, supported by Yorkshire Forward, are priced at £8 for adults and £4 for concessions. They are available in advance by visiting www.volleyballengland.org, calling 0114 223 5742 or from the EIS - Sheffield reception, Coleridge Road, Sheffield, S9 5DA.
Mark Plotyczer is a receive hitter for the Great Britain volleyball squad which will be taking its first steps on the global stage when the prestigious tournament begins at the EIS – Sheffield, January 2 - 4.
The 21-year-old - born in Rio but qualifies to play for Britain through his parents - is playing a key role in volleyball’s development performance programme as the team prepares to participate in the London 2012 Olympics.
Mark plays professional volleyball with top-flight club Milon in Athens, Greece, but it has always been his dream of playing for Great Britain and is staying in Sheffield over the festive period as the squad prepares for the World Championships with games against Sweden.
A number of players from the GB squad now reside in Sheffield, including Maria Bertelli, who will be part of the women’s squad which have their own preparation camp by taking on Austria between Christmas and New Year.
Maria, 30, plays for national volleyball league side London Malory after making her England volleyball debut against Australia in 1996. Last year she committed herself to Volleyball full-time and moved to Sheffield after previously sharing her sporting ambitions by playing professional football at Charlton Athletic.
Maria even played for Charlton in the FA Cup final before the ladies team was scrapped by the Championship club following relegation. She responded by flying out to Switzerland later the same month to begin her volleyball career with the newly formed Great Britain team.
Tickets for the first round event, supported by Yorkshire Forward, are priced at £8 for adults and £4 for concessions. They are available in advance by visiting www.volleyballengland.org, calling 0114 223 5742 or from the EIS - Sheffield reception, Coleridge Road, Sheffield, S9 5DA.
Running : Berhane Adere To Defend Title At Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon
One year after the biggest payday of her athletics career, Ethiopia’s Berhane Adere will return to Dubai to defend her title in the 2009 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon on January 16.
Last year, the 35 year-old set a new Dubai record for the women’s event when she stormed to victory in a time of 2h:22m:42s to collect gold and the winner’s cheque for US$250,000.
“We are delighted that Berhane has decided to defend her title in Dubai,” said Event Director Peter Connerton. “Her win and new race record means she is part of the history of our event and will always be welcome on the streets of Dubai.”
Although Adere failed to finish after dropping out at the 30lm mark in the marathon at the Beijing Olympics, she followed her win in Dubai with seventh place in the London Marathon and will surely start the 2009 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon as one of the race favourites.
“It was a great race for me in Dubai and I like the course very much,” she said. “I was obviously delighted to have won in what was a very good time and I look forward to coming back.”
Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and staged under the aegis of the Dubai Sports Council, the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon will see Adere up against the woman she beat to the title fellow Ethiopian Bezenushe Bekele.
Adere 2
“It was Bezenushe’s first ever marathon so for her to finish second over four minutes better than the previous women’s record was a wonderful result,” said the event’s General Co-ordinator Ahmed Al Kamali.
“Haile Gebrselassie’s new men’s record may have overshadowed the ladies but the top three women in 2008 all broke the previous ladies’ best for the event. It just goes to show the quality of field that is attracted to a race that is now the richest in the world.”
Once again the women’s field will be the strongest ever seen in the UAE with Adere, Bekele and last year’s third place finisher and former champion Askale Tafa Magarsa all going for the biggest prize in their chosen sport.
But it’s Adere they’ll all have to catch. Gold and two silvers at 10,000m in the World Championships as well as World Indoor and World Cup titles over 3,000m underline her class, while she combines he running with a role as a UN goodwill ambassador in Africa.
Runners looking to compete alongside the world’s elite marathon athletes have until December 31 to sign up at www.dubaimarathon.org or at any branch of Fitness First in Dubai.
Last year, the 35 year-old set a new Dubai record for the women’s event when she stormed to victory in a time of 2h:22m:42s to collect gold and the winner’s cheque for US$250,000.
“We are delighted that Berhane has decided to defend her title in Dubai,” said Event Director Peter Connerton. “Her win and new race record means she is part of the history of our event and will always be welcome on the streets of Dubai.”
Although Adere failed to finish after dropping out at the 30lm mark in the marathon at the Beijing Olympics, she followed her win in Dubai with seventh place in the London Marathon and will surely start the 2009 Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon as one of the race favourites.
“It was a great race for me in Dubai and I like the course very much,” she said. “I was obviously delighted to have won in what was a very good time and I look forward to coming back.”
Held under the patronage of HH Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, Vice President and Prime Minister of the UAE, Ruler of Dubai, and staged under the aegis of the Dubai Sports Council, the Standard Chartered Dubai Marathon will see Adere up against the woman she beat to the title fellow Ethiopian Bezenushe Bekele.
Adere 2
“It was Bezenushe’s first ever marathon so for her to finish second over four minutes better than the previous women’s record was a wonderful result,” said the event’s General Co-ordinator Ahmed Al Kamali.
“Haile Gebrselassie’s new men’s record may have overshadowed the ladies but the top three women in 2008 all broke the previous ladies’ best for the event. It just goes to show the quality of field that is attracted to a race that is now the richest in the world.”
Once again the women’s field will be the strongest ever seen in the UAE with Adere, Bekele and last year’s third place finisher and former champion Askale Tafa Magarsa all going for the biggest prize in their chosen sport.
But it’s Adere they’ll all have to catch. Gold and two silvers at 10,000m in the World Championships as well as World Indoor and World Cup titles over 3,000m underline her class, while she combines he running with a role as a UN goodwill ambassador in Africa.
Runners looking to compete alongside the world’s elite marathon athletes have until December 31 to sign up at www.dubaimarathon.org or at any branch of Fitness First in Dubai.
Commonwealth Games : Glasgow 2014 Board Appointments
Glasgow 2014 Limited, the Organising Committee (OC) for the XXth Commonwealth Games to be held in Glasgow in 2014, has announced the appointments of Sir Bill Gammell and Alan Mitchelson to its Board as Non-Executive Directors.
Sir Bill Gammell is Chief Executive of Cairn Energy and among a number of other board positions he is a Director of Sportscotland, Founder and Chairman of Winning Scotland Foundation and a member of the British Olympic Advisory Board. He is passionate about developing people and instilling a positive winning attitude in both business and sport.
Alan Mitchelson is Legal and Commercial Director and Company Secretary of The Weir Group. He will Chair the Audit and Risk Committee of the OC Board.
Lord Smith of Kelvin, Chair of the Organising Committee welcomed the appointments and commented: “Both Bill and Alan bring enormous commercial experience to the Glasgow 2014 Board. They share our passion for sport and our determination to deliver an outstanding Games in Glasgow in a little under six years’ time. Their skills and experience will complement the contribution to our Board from the representatives of our partners - the Commonwealth Games Federation, The Commonwealth Games Council for Scotland, The Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council.”
Sir Bill Gammell said:“I’m delighted to able to be joining Glasgow 2014 - an event that I believe will be a catalyst to create an enduring symbol for sport in Scotland. The event will give the many talented youngsters in the country, both those that have been discovered and those whose talents are yet to be discovered, a clear goal to target and the aspiration to be a winner.”
Alan Mitchelson added:
“I very much look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the organisation of the Games.”
--------------
Sir Bill Gammell is Chief Executive of Cairn Energy PLC (Cairn) and Chairman of Cairn India Ltd. Cairn is a FTSE100, Edinburgh-based oil and gas Exploration and Production (E&P) company. Bill Gammell founded Cairn in 1980 and under his direction the Group has grown to be one of the largest independent E&P companies in Europe. Bill is passionate about developing people and instilling a positive winning attitude in both business and sport. This developed from his own entrepreneurial career and his experience as a Scottish rugby internationalist (1977-1980). In 2006 he founded Winning Scotland Foundation to mobilise efforts to raise aspirations and self-belief amongst young people and their coaches in Scotland. The mantra of the Foundation is ‘winning isn’t everything but wanting to win is’ and over £3.5 million has been invested in key programmes to date.
Alan Mitchelson’s responsibilities as a member of the Group Executive in The Weir Group include legal, corporate governance, secretarial, risk and property. He is involved in all Group M&A work and some of the Group’s investor relations activities. He held senior positions previously in Highland Distilleries and Trafalgar House.
The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games will be the biggest multi-sports event that Scotland has ever hosted, bringing over 6,000 athletes and officials from 71 countries to the city to compete in 17 different sports in 13 venues over 11 days between 23rd July and 3rd August 2014. With a budget of £373 million including public investment of £298m the Commonwealth Games are expected to bring significant sporting, economic and social benefits to Glasgow and Scotland.
Sir Bill Gammell is Chief Executive of Cairn Energy and among a number of other board positions he is a Director of Sportscotland, Founder and Chairman of Winning Scotland Foundation and a member of the British Olympic Advisory Board. He is passionate about developing people and instilling a positive winning attitude in both business and sport.
Alan Mitchelson is Legal and Commercial Director and Company Secretary of The Weir Group. He will Chair the Audit and Risk Committee of the OC Board.
Lord Smith of Kelvin, Chair of the Organising Committee welcomed the appointments and commented: “Both Bill and Alan bring enormous commercial experience to the Glasgow 2014 Board. They share our passion for sport and our determination to deliver an outstanding Games in Glasgow in a little under six years’ time. Their skills and experience will complement the contribution to our Board from the representatives of our partners - the Commonwealth Games Federation, The Commonwealth Games Council for Scotland, The Scottish Government and Glasgow City Council.”
Sir Bill Gammell said:“I’m delighted to able to be joining Glasgow 2014 - an event that I believe will be a catalyst to create an enduring symbol for sport in Scotland. The event will give the many talented youngsters in the country, both those that have been discovered and those whose talents are yet to be discovered, a clear goal to target and the aspiration to be a winner.”
Alan Mitchelson added:
“I very much look forward to the opportunity to contribute to the organisation of the Games.”
--------------
Sir Bill Gammell is Chief Executive of Cairn Energy PLC (Cairn) and Chairman of Cairn India Ltd. Cairn is a FTSE100, Edinburgh-based oil and gas Exploration and Production (E&P) company. Bill Gammell founded Cairn in 1980 and under his direction the Group has grown to be one of the largest independent E&P companies in Europe. Bill is passionate about developing people and instilling a positive winning attitude in both business and sport. This developed from his own entrepreneurial career and his experience as a Scottish rugby internationalist (1977-1980). In 2006 he founded Winning Scotland Foundation to mobilise efforts to raise aspirations and self-belief amongst young people and their coaches in Scotland. The mantra of the Foundation is ‘winning isn’t everything but wanting to win is’ and over £3.5 million has been invested in key programmes to date.
Alan Mitchelson’s responsibilities as a member of the Group Executive in The Weir Group include legal, corporate governance, secretarial, risk and property. He is involved in all Group M&A work and some of the Group’s investor relations activities. He held senior positions previously in Highland Distilleries and Trafalgar House.
The Glasgow 2014 Commonwealth Games will be the biggest multi-sports event that Scotland has ever hosted, bringing over 6,000 athletes and officials from 71 countries to the city to compete in 17 different sports in 13 venues over 11 days between 23rd July and 3rd August 2014. With a budget of £373 million including public investment of £298m the Commonwealth Games are expected to bring significant sporting, economic and social benefits to Glasgow and Scotland.
Snooker : Murphy Jumps To Third
Shaun Murphy has climbed up to third place in the latest world rankings after capturing the Maplin UK Championship title.
The 26-year-old Harlow-born player won his biggest title since the 2005 World Championship by beating Hong Kong’s Marco Fu 10-9 in a thrilling final in Telford.
Murphy had a slow start to the season, failing to win a match in the first four ranking events, but his victory in snooker’s second biggest ranking tournament has seen him jump from sixth to third in the latest list.
“I've dreamt of winning the big titles and no amount of money can buy your name on the trophy. I've now won the two biggest ranking events, and I hope there are more titles to come,” said Murphy, who became only the tenth player to have won the World and UK titles.
Fu missed out on the second ranking title of his career but is still up three places to No 6.
Losing semi-finalist Stephen Maguire has narrowed the gap on leader Ronnie O’Sullivan to less than 6000 points, while Ali Carter also reached the semis and moves into the top four.
Mark Williams boosted his chances of regaining a place among the official top 16 by making the quarter-finals, he’s up three places to 12th. Stephen Lee got to the same stage and flies seven spots to 25th.
Martin Gould reached the last 32 of a ranking event for the second time in his career and jumps six places to No 56.
The 26-year-old Harlow-born player won his biggest title since the 2005 World Championship by beating Hong Kong’s Marco Fu 10-9 in a thrilling final in Telford.
Murphy had a slow start to the season, failing to win a match in the first four ranking events, but his victory in snooker’s second biggest ranking tournament has seen him jump from sixth to third in the latest list.
“I've dreamt of winning the big titles and no amount of money can buy your name on the trophy. I've now won the two biggest ranking events, and I hope there are more titles to come,” said Murphy, who became only the tenth player to have won the World and UK titles.
Fu missed out on the second ranking title of his career but is still up three places to No 6.
Losing semi-finalist Stephen Maguire has narrowed the gap on leader Ronnie O’Sullivan to less than 6000 points, while Ali Carter also reached the semis and moves into the top four.
Mark Williams boosted his chances of regaining a place among the official top 16 by making the quarter-finals, he’s up three places to 12th. Stephen Lee got to the same stage and flies seven spots to 25th.
Martin Gould reached the last 32 of a ranking event for the second time in his career and jumps six places to No 56.
Snowsports: Going For Gold With Snoasis
- World’s First Centre Of Excellence For UK Winter Sports -
Snowsport GB, the governing body for the British Ski and Snowboard Teams, has announced a major sponsorship deal with SnOasis, the world’s first indoor winter sports resort and what will become the UK’s first Centre of Excellence for competitive snow sports.
The SnOasis development, near Ipswich, Suffolk, will be complete in 2012 and become the first UK-based training home for the British Ski and Snowboard teams. Today's top athletes including Chemmy Alcott, Noel Baxter and Dan Wakeham, as well as future ski and snowboard stars, will benefit from being able to develop their winning skills on home ground and build their standing as contenders for podium positions on the international competitive circuit.
Mark Simmers, chief executive of Snowsport GB, said: "SnOasis is the most significant development for competitive snowsports, not just for Britain but on a global scale and is an unparalleled opportunity for the UK teams. We have the talent and ability in Britain to win Olympic medals. A centre of excellence with resources from all year training to in-house medical and fitness teams means we can replicate the success of the Bejiing Olympics.”
SnOasis was recently granted Government approval for construction of the £350 million ‘Super Site’. It will feature Europe’s largest indoor ski slope at over 415 metres in length with a 100 metres vertical drop. It will also host a World Cup standard Half Pipe, one of only two in Europe, giving a major boost to snowboarding in the UK. There will be facilities for 14 different winter sports disciplines in total including the first ever 400 m speed skating track in the UK.
Plans are also underway to attract FIS World and Europa Cup competitions in snowboard and alpine skiing to the UK, which are normally only held in mainland Europe and North America. British athletes will get the chance to compete in front of “home” spectators, which will be a huge boost for the sport.
Chemmy Alcott said: “We all want to achieve the very highest accolades in our sport and it is fantastic to get this investment for all winter sports. Very few teams in the world will be able to train on snow 365 days a year. I also can’t wait for the chance to compete in front of home crowds which will be unbelievable.”
Godfrey Spanner, managing director of Onslow Suffolk, the developer of SnOasis said: “The vision to create a dedicated training centre for all British snowsports has taken over eight years but now we will be creating a world-class training and development facility, unrivalled across the globe. Our current athletes are competing at the top level and there is an amazing potential for youth development across all winter sports. They will have year round access to snow-based training and additional teams of expertise to complement existing support. We are absolutely committed to helping our athletes win gold medals.”
In addition to world-class training facilities, SnOasis and Snowsport GB will work with Essex University to put in place dedicated programmes for athlete development in their sporting discipline but also offering higher education opportunities to fit with training and competitions.
Cricket : Greatbatch appointed selection adviser
New Zealand Cricket has announced the appointment of former Blackcaps batsman Mark Greatbatch as an advisor to the national selection panel.
Greatbatch, who currently also provides coaching to elite emerging players at Central Districts, will have a specific role to monitor and advise on the progress of players in State domestic cricket.
Head of the selection panel Glenn Turner said Greatbatch’s input would help the selectors panel maintain a comprehensive view of players across the country.
“Mark has wide experience of playing and coaching at home and abroad,” Turner said. “He will be getting around the grounds to keep an eye on the form of players coming through – his advice will be a huge asset to the selection process.”
Greatbatch, who played for New Zealand between 1988 and 1996, said he was excited about the role, and about helping to build depth into the top levels of the game.
“There’s a lot of young, exciting talent coming through the State competitions right now,” said Greatbatch. “Part of my role will be to help identify and develop that talent so that there’s a strong pool of players knocking hard on the door for national selection.”
Greatbatch, who currently also provides coaching to elite emerging players at Central Districts, will have a specific role to monitor and advise on the progress of players in State domestic cricket.
Head of the selection panel Glenn Turner said Greatbatch’s input would help the selectors panel maintain a comprehensive view of players across the country.
“Mark has wide experience of playing and coaching at home and abroad,” Turner said. “He will be getting around the grounds to keep an eye on the form of players coming through – his advice will be a huge asset to the selection process.”
Greatbatch, who played for New Zealand between 1988 and 1996, said he was excited about the role, and about helping to build depth into the top levels of the game.
“There’s a lot of young, exciting talent coming through the State competitions right now,” said Greatbatch. “Part of my role will be to help identify and develop that talent so that there’s a strong pool of players knocking hard on the door for national selection.”
Cricket : Support role for Reeve at Twenty20 games
Central Districts coach Dermot Reeve will join the BLACKCAPS squad as a bowling coach for the two Twenty20 matches against the West Indies later this week.
BLACKCAPS coach Andy Moles said Reeve’s reputation for flair and innovation – and his experience in international limited overs competition – would add strength to the team’s build-up.
“Dermot's experience as a coach and as a top level bowler will bring extra depth and focus to our preparation for these games. He is a good example of us bringing in talented coaches to broaden and stimulate new thinking with our players.”
Reeve played for England as an allrounder between 1991 and 1996, including three tests – all against New Zealand – and 29 one day internationals.
Reeve was appointed Central Districts coach earlier this year, and has led the Stags to the top of the Sate Championship rankings at the halfway point of the 2008/09 season.
BLACKCAPS coach Andy Moles said Reeve’s reputation for flair and innovation – and his experience in international limited overs competition – would add strength to the team’s build-up.
“Dermot's experience as a coach and as a top level bowler will bring extra depth and focus to our preparation for these games. He is a good example of us bringing in talented coaches to broaden and stimulate new thinking with our players.”
Reeve played for England as an allrounder between 1991 and 1996, including three tests – all against New Zealand – and 29 one day internationals.
Reeve was appointed Central Districts coach earlier this year, and has led the Stags to the top of the Sate Championship rankings at the halfway point of the 2008/09 season.
Tennis : Tearney & Preston win NZ Junior Champs 18u
Top seed Finn Tearney (Wgtn) and second seed Jordan Kelly-Houston (Cant) had a close boy's final at the prestigious NZ Junior Championships 18u at Albany Tennis Park, North Shore with the match taking over three hours.
Kelly-Houston took out the first 7-5. In the second set Tearney capitalised after breaking at 4 all and went on to win 6-4. At one set all, it went on serve for four games before Tearney again broke to gain a 3-2 lead and was able to sustain his momentum to win the final set 6-4.
In the girls final, top seed Briar Preston (Akld) had a great start against sixth seed Heidi Stewart (Wkto) winning the first set 6-1. In the second set Stewart got on top of the match and had a 5-2 lead in the second before Preston was able to get back on track. Preston edged her way back into the second set levelling it at 5-all and then went on to take the match 7-5.
Results: Boys Final: (1) Finn Tearney d. (2) Jordan Kelly-Houston 5-7;6-4;6-4; Girls Final (1) Briar Preston d. (6) Heidi Stewart 6-1;7-5; Boys Doubles Final: (1) Mackenzie/Tearney d. (2) McLachlan/McLachlan 2-6;6-2;10-4tb; Girls Doubles Final: (1) Adams/Preston d. (2) Golder/Laing 7-6(4);6-3
Full Results: http://tennisnz.infonetwork.com/tournaments/draws.asp?tid=5185619
Kelly-Houston took out the first 7-5. In the second set Tearney capitalised after breaking at 4 all and went on to win 6-4. At one set all, it went on serve for four games before Tearney again broke to gain a 3-2 lead and was able to sustain his momentum to win the final set 6-4.
In the girls final, top seed Briar Preston (Akld) had a great start against sixth seed Heidi Stewart (Wkto) winning the first set 6-1. In the second set Stewart got on top of the match and had a 5-2 lead in the second before Preston was able to get back on track. Preston edged her way back into the second set levelling it at 5-all and then went on to take the match 7-5.
Results: Boys Final: (1) Finn Tearney d. (2) Jordan Kelly-Houston 5-7;6-4;6-4; Girls Final (1) Briar Preston d. (6) Heidi Stewart 6-1;7-5; Boys Doubles Final: (1) Mackenzie/Tearney d. (2) McLachlan/McLachlan 2-6;6-2;10-4tb; Girls Doubles Final: (1) Adams/Preston d. (2) Golder/Laing 7-6(4);6-3
Full Results: http://tennisnz.infonetwork.com/tournaments/draws.asp?tid=5185619
Tennis : Tennis Legend For ASB Classic
JAPANESE SPORTING LEGEND GAINS ASB CLASSIC WILDCARD
A Japanese sporting legend with a high class tennis pedigree is set to join the 2009 ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles after being granted a main draw wildcard.
Kimiko Date Krumm was ranked as high as No4 in the world before she retired. She has now re-launched her professional tennis career and so far staged a remarkable comeback in 2008 to go from no ranking to her current place at 189 after just 12 tournaments.
The 38-year-old will be making her first appearance in New Zealand as a professional player and it will also be her first tournament outside of Japan for 12 years.
During the 1990’s Date Krumm was a force to be reckoned with on the WTA Tour having 18 wins over top 10 players.
She came out of retirement in May 2008 after her husband, German motor racing driver Michael Krumm suggested she play again.
Date Krumm quickly made an impact by reaching the final of the US$50,000 event in Gifu, Japan as a qualifier. There was then wins at the US$10,000 ITF event and at two US$25,000 tournaments as well.
During the year there were a couple of victories over top-100 players including a win over 46th ranked Casey Dellacqua of Australia.
For Date Krumm the ASB Classic is the start of a year which will feature WTA events and Grand Slams. She is keen to qualify at the Australian Open and to make an impact in Auckland.
“I have once played in a tournament in New Zealand when I was in high school, but this is actually the first time to play in a WTA Tour tournament in New Zealand so I am very excited to have this great opportunity to play in ASB Classic. It also has been 12 years since I last went on a WTA Tour, so I am grateful to have this chance to start my season in New Zealand, and I will do my best as I can,” says Date.
It’s been 12 years since I last played in a Grand Slam, the last time I played in a qualifying draw was in 1989.
I believe this time will be much much tougher, but I will try my best to adapt to the heat and its toughness by adjusting myself to the weather and the competitive environment through playing in ASB Classic Auckland. I do understand that this challenge will not be an easy one, but I hope to truly enjoy myself in this challenging and tough world of tennis and am excited to see how far I could go,” says Date Krumm.
ASB Classic Tournament Director Brenda Perry believes Date Krumm will be an asset to the tournament and that her presence in Auckland will create quite a stir in Japan and around the world.
“Kimiko was a star in women’s tennis in the 90’s and has a ‘rock star’ like status in Japan. Her achievements in 2008 are against the odds and are very inspirational. There are not too many players who could do what she has done this year, but Kimiko has been top 10 and has that special ‘x-factor’,” says Perry.
Date led her nation in the tennis world winning seven singles titles before she retired at 26 at the end of 1996.
No other player from Japan or all of Asia has achieved what Date Krumm has managed in her career so far. In addition to her seven titles she had a win over the then No1 Steffi Graf and spent 153 weeks in the top-10 rankings. She reached the semifinals at three of the four Grand Slams (Australian Open 1994, Roland Garros 1995 and Wimbledon 1996) and was a quarterfinalist at the US Open 93-94 and Wimbledon in 1995.
During her break away from tennis she married German race car driver Krumm who has finished as high as third at the 24-hour race at Le Mans (2002) and competes in Japan.
“My husband was always talking about motor sports and kept telling me I could try playing tennis again. I played some exhibition matches against Graf and Martina Navratilova last year and it made me want to play even more. So I started practicing seriously again and I decided to return to professional tennis,” she says.
Date Krumm started playing tennis at age six and although actually being left-handed she was encouraged to play right-handed to follow Japanese custom.
An arrival time for Date Krumm and other players will be confirmed closer to the tournament start.
The ASB Classic will also feature on-court coaching for the first time as part of an initiative on Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.
The tournament will once again feature audio and video podcasting as well as live scoring.
The ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles will be played at the ASB Tennis Centre January 5-10, with qualifying January 3-4.
A Japanese sporting legend with a high class tennis pedigree is set to join the 2009 ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles after being granted a main draw wildcard.
Kimiko Date Krumm was ranked as high as No4 in the world before she retired. She has now re-launched her professional tennis career and so far staged a remarkable comeback in 2008 to go from no ranking to her current place at 189 after just 12 tournaments.
The 38-year-old will be making her first appearance in New Zealand as a professional player and it will also be her first tournament outside of Japan for 12 years.
During the 1990’s Date Krumm was a force to be reckoned with on the WTA Tour having 18 wins over top 10 players.
She came out of retirement in May 2008 after her husband, German motor racing driver Michael Krumm suggested she play again.
Date Krumm quickly made an impact by reaching the final of the US$50,000 event in Gifu, Japan as a qualifier. There was then wins at the US$10,000 ITF event and at two US$25,000 tournaments as well.
During the year there were a couple of victories over top-100 players including a win over 46th ranked Casey Dellacqua of Australia.
For Date Krumm the ASB Classic is the start of a year which will feature WTA events and Grand Slams. She is keen to qualify at the Australian Open and to make an impact in Auckland.
“I have once played in a tournament in New Zealand when I was in high school, but this is actually the first time to play in a WTA Tour tournament in New Zealand so I am very excited to have this great opportunity to play in ASB Classic. It also has been 12 years since I last went on a WTA Tour, so I am grateful to have this chance to start my season in New Zealand, and I will do my best as I can,” says Date.
It’s been 12 years since I last played in a Grand Slam, the last time I played in a qualifying draw was in 1989.
I believe this time will be much much tougher, but I will try my best to adapt to the heat and its toughness by adjusting myself to the weather and the competitive environment through playing in ASB Classic Auckland. I do understand that this challenge will not be an easy one, but I hope to truly enjoy myself in this challenging and tough world of tennis and am excited to see how far I could go,” says Date Krumm.
ASB Classic Tournament Director Brenda Perry believes Date Krumm will be an asset to the tournament and that her presence in Auckland will create quite a stir in Japan and around the world.
“Kimiko was a star in women’s tennis in the 90’s and has a ‘rock star’ like status in Japan. Her achievements in 2008 are against the odds and are very inspirational. There are not too many players who could do what she has done this year, but Kimiko has been top 10 and has that special ‘x-factor’,” says Perry.
Date led her nation in the tennis world winning seven singles titles before she retired at 26 at the end of 1996.
No other player from Japan or all of Asia has achieved what Date Krumm has managed in her career so far. In addition to her seven titles she had a win over the then No1 Steffi Graf and spent 153 weeks in the top-10 rankings. She reached the semifinals at three of the four Grand Slams (Australian Open 1994, Roland Garros 1995 and Wimbledon 1996) and was a quarterfinalist at the US Open 93-94 and Wimbledon in 1995.
During her break away from tennis she married German race car driver Krumm who has finished as high as third at the 24-hour race at Le Mans (2002) and competes in Japan.
“My husband was always talking about motor sports and kept telling me I could try playing tennis again. I played some exhibition matches against Graf and Martina Navratilova last year and it made me want to play even more. So I started practicing seriously again and I decided to return to professional tennis,” she says.
Date Krumm started playing tennis at age six and although actually being left-handed she was encouraged to play right-handed to follow Japanese custom.
An arrival time for Date Krumm and other players will be confirmed closer to the tournament start.
The ASB Classic will also feature on-court coaching for the first time as part of an initiative on Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.
The tournament will once again feature audio and video podcasting as well as live scoring.
The ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles will be played at the ASB Tennis Centre January 5-10, with qualifying January 3-4.
baseball : YANKEES SIGN RHP CHIEN-MING WANG TO A ONE-YEAR CONTRACT
The New York Yankees announced today that they have signed right-handed pitcher Chien-Ming Wang to a one-year contract for $5 million, avoiding arbitration.
Wang, 28, was 8-2 with a 4.07 ERA in 15 starts for the Yankees in 2008 before being placed on the disabled list on June 17 for the remainder of the season with a mid-foot sprain of the Lisfranc ligament and a partial tear of the peroneal longus tendon in his right foot. He began the season 6-0, including a 5-0 mark in April, and was the Yankees’ Opening Day starter in the final season opener at Yankee Stadium on April 1, defeating Toronto, 3-2.
Despite missing most of the 2008 season, Wang’s 46 wins since 2006 are tied for the third-most in the American League and eighth-most in the Majors. His .754 combined winning percentage over the last three seasons (2006-08) is the second-highest in the Majors behind Boston’s Jon Lester (.771, 27-8). He recorded back-to-back seasons with 19 wins in 2006 and 2007, becoming the first Yankee to win as many games in each of two consecutive seasons since Tommy John in 1979-80.
On April 22, 2008, in his 85th career start, Wang became the third-fastest Major League pitcher in the last 50 years to reach 50 career wins behind Dwight Gooden (82nd start) and the Yankees’ Ron Guidry (82nd start), according to the Elias Sports Bureau.
Signed by the Yankees as a non-drafted free agent on May 5, 2000, Wang has won more games than any Taiwanese-born pitcher and ranks third all-time in wins by Asian-born pitchers behind Japan’s Hideo Nomo (123) and South Korea’s Chan Ho Park (117).
Wang, 28, was 8-2 with a 4.07 ERA in 15 starts for the Yankees in 2008 before being placed on the disabled list on June 17 for the remainder of the season with a mid-foot sprain of the Lisfranc ligament and a partial tear of the peroneal longus tendon in his right foot. He began the season 6-0, including a 5-0 mark in April, and was the Yankees’ Opening Day starter in the final season opener at Yankee Stadium on April 1, defeating Toronto, 3-2.
Despite missing most of the 2008 season, Wang’s 46 wins since 2006 are tied for the third-most in the American League and eighth-most in the Majors. His .754 combined winning percentage over the last three seasons (2006-08) is the second-highest in the Majors behind Boston’s Jon Lester (.771, 27-8). He recorded back-to-back seasons with 19 wins in 2006 and 2007, becoming the first Yankee to win as many games in each of two consecutive seasons since Tommy John in 1979-80.
On April 22, 2008, in his 85th career start, Wang became the third-fastest Major League pitcher in the last 50 years to reach 50 career wins behind Dwight Gooden (82nd start) and the Yankees’ Ron Guidry (82nd start), according to the Elias Sports Bureau.
Signed by the Yankees as a non-drafted free agent on May 5, 2000, Wang has won more games than any Taiwanese-born pitcher and ranks third all-time in wins by Asian-born pitchers behind Japan’s Hideo Nomo (123) and South Korea’s Chan Ho Park (117).
Sailing : Day 42 onboard Roxy in the Vendée Globe
Sam Davies’ daily log - Genevive – she’s a big girl
“Hello from a sunny Southern Ocean!
Roxy is being chased by a ridge of high pressure, with no wind, so the next 24 hours are going to be a bit slow for us. I have been making the most of the nice conditions to check and double check everything on board, plus carry out a bit of routine maintenance, bailing out, drying and housework. Roxy is still happily gliding along on her own, "Black Pearl-style", under a big gennaker, which has enabled me to top up my "sleep bank". I think I have managed at least 8 hours in the last 24, which is a great achievement: I must be almost back in the black! Genevive - the big gennaker - is enjoying stretching her cloth out in the sunshine after having been cooped up in Roxy's port bunk for rather a long time. But soon, we will have the usual struggle between her and me to get her rolled up, back down in the boat, and into the port bunk again, as we will be reaching on port tack. This means that all the gear must be "stacked" up to port to optimise Roxy's power and speed. That manoeuvre in itself takes at least an hour, as Genevive and I have to get down the forehatch, through the small hatch in the mast bulkhead, over the keel rams, in front of the nav station - without touching any of the switches - round 90°, then folded into the bunk! At least the struggle with Genevive makes the other stacking, itself also quite tiring as there is nearly 800kg of sails and gear, relatively straightforward! Another little treat today was that the Roxy boys have told me I'm allowed to open the Christmas decorations box. I've been putting up tinsel, and I've even got a Christmas tree!
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 8th position, 1458 miles from race leader Michel Desjoyeaux aboard Foncia
“Hello from a sunny Southern Ocean!
Roxy is being chased by a ridge of high pressure, with no wind, so the next 24 hours are going to be a bit slow for us. I have been making the most of the nice conditions to check and double check everything on board, plus carry out a bit of routine maintenance, bailing out, drying and housework. Roxy is still happily gliding along on her own, "Black Pearl-style", under a big gennaker, which has enabled me to top up my "sleep bank". I think I have managed at least 8 hours in the last 24, which is a great achievement: I must be almost back in the black! Genevive - the big gennaker - is enjoying stretching her cloth out in the sunshine after having been cooped up in Roxy's port bunk for rather a long time. But soon, we will have the usual struggle between her and me to get her rolled up, back down in the boat, and into the port bunk again, as we will be reaching on port tack. This means that all the gear must be "stacked" up to port to optimise Roxy's power and speed. That manoeuvre in itself takes at least an hour, as Genevive and I have to get down the forehatch, through the small hatch in the mast bulkhead, over the keel rams, in front of the nav station - without touching any of the switches - round 90°, then folded into the bunk! At least the struggle with Genevive makes the other stacking, itself also quite tiring as there is nearly 800kg of sails and gear, relatively straightforward! Another little treat today was that the Roxy boys have told me I'm allowed to open the Christmas decorations box. I've been putting up tinsel, and I've even got a Christmas tree!
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 8th position, 1458 miles from race leader Michel Desjoyeaux aboard Foncia
Sailing : ICAP LEOPARD TO COMPETE IN HEINEKEN CAPE TO BAHIA RACE
On 10th January 2009, ICAP Leopard, the record breaking British supermaxi yacht, will compete in the Heineken Cape to Bahia Race (formerly the ‘Cape to Rio’) – one of the longest and toughest offshore races of its kind. This will be the first race for ICAP Leopard, following modifications to improve speed predictions by 7.5%, and she will be looking to set an impressive record on the new race route.
Owner Mike Slade commented: “ICAP Leopard has been a wonderful performer since her launch in June 2007. She has achieved a total of four world speed sailing records, five course records, undertaken 100+ corporate charters in Australia, the US and the UK and has sailed over 15,000 nautical miles! We are really looking forward to kicking off the 2009 season with a good performance in this tough offshore challenge.”
ICAP Leopard will compete in this traditionally downwind race with a world class crew that includes Whitbread and Volvo Round the World Race sailors Gordon Maguire (IRE), Jason Carrington (GBR) & Paul Standbridge (GBR), as well as members of America’s Cup syndicate Team Shosholoza, David Rae (RSA) and Joey Heywood (RSA). ICAP Leopard will be the largest boat in the fleet, however she will face stiff competition from the 90ft American maxi Rambler. Having crossed paths in last years Rolex Fastnet Race, in which ICAP Leopard took line honours but conceded to Rambler on handicap, the race between these two boats is sure to be tight.
At the end of the British summer season, ICAP Leopard underwent a 10 week refit programme at Hamble Yacht Services in Southampton led by Captain Chris Sherlock with help from refit manager Paul Quinn. After recent changes to the supermaxi class regulations, it was decided that it would be the perfect time to optimise the yacht, utilising what has been learnt over the last 14 months. Alongside modifications, such as a switch to twin rudders, the team has had the opportunity to dismantle the whole yacht, piece by piece, in order to service every hydraulic, electrical and deck component and add a scoop to the stern, increasing waterline length to 100ft precisely.
Following on from the Heineken Cape to Bahia Race, ICAP Leopard will compete in the RORC Caribbean 600 and Antigua Sailing Week, before heading to North America for a number of corporate events. She will then return to the UK for the summer racing season and her corporate charter commitments.
Owner Mike Slade commented: “ICAP Leopard has been a wonderful performer since her launch in June 2007. She has achieved a total of four world speed sailing records, five course records, undertaken 100+ corporate charters in Australia, the US and the UK and has sailed over 15,000 nautical miles! We are really looking forward to kicking off the 2009 season with a good performance in this tough offshore challenge.”
ICAP Leopard will compete in this traditionally downwind race with a world class crew that includes Whitbread and Volvo Round the World Race sailors Gordon Maguire (IRE), Jason Carrington (GBR) & Paul Standbridge (GBR), as well as members of America’s Cup syndicate Team Shosholoza, David Rae (RSA) and Joey Heywood (RSA). ICAP Leopard will be the largest boat in the fleet, however she will face stiff competition from the 90ft American maxi Rambler. Having crossed paths in last years Rolex Fastnet Race, in which ICAP Leopard took line honours but conceded to Rambler on handicap, the race between these two boats is sure to be tight.
At the end of the British summer season, ICAP Leopard underwent a 10 week refit programme at Hamble Yacht Services in Southampton led by Captain Chris Sherlock with help from refit manager Paul Quinn. After recent changes to the supermaxi class regulations, it was decided that it would be the perfect time to optimise the yacht, utilising what has been learnt over the last 14 months. Alongside modifications, such as a switch to twin rudders, the team has had the opportunity to dismantle the whole yacht, piece by piece, in order to service every hydraulic, electrical and deck component and add a scoop to the stern, increasing waterline length to 100ft precisely.
Following on from the Heineken Cape to Bahia Race, ICAP Leopard will compete in the RORC Caribbean 600 and Antigua Sailing Week, before heading to North America for a number of corporate events. She will then return to the UK for the summer racing season and her corporate charter commitments.
Sailing : GREEN DRAGON AND KOSATKA TEAM RUSSIA BATTLE TO THE END
Green Dragon (Ian Walker/GBR) and Kosatka Team Russia (Andreas Hanakamp/AUT) have been fighting their own private battle for the minor placings. As the Malacca Straights narrowed, Green Dragon was becalmed with a strong tide against her. As the team struggled to turn the corner, Kosatka reached up from 24-miles behind with good wind, closing to within a mile of the Chinese/Irish boat. Ian Walker managed to hold off the Russian advances and crossed the finish in Singapore tonight at 2249 GMT in sixth place. Kosatka followed shortly after at 0008 GMT.
Ian Walker said, earlier today, “This leg has simply not gone our way and I look with envy at the close racing amongst the top four. It might seem strange, but on balance, I think we have sailed the best on this leg that we have so far in the race, and everyone remains very focused on the task ahead.”
Austrian skipper of Kosatka, Andreas Hanakamp, said:
“For the last 24 hours of the leg, everyone has been working incredibly hard to get in front of Green Dragon and, we got within a mile of them. They had managed to get further inshore than us and picked up the breeze just a few minutes earlier, which gave them valuable miles.
“The leg was a different challenge again, with forecasts unreliable in the light winds. Again, the fleet was close together from start to finish which shows how close the racing is.
“I am happy to get to Singapore, looking forward what they come up with after the great time we had in India. Thanks to my sailing team for the incredible effort they put in right to the finish line.”
Delta Lloyd (Roberto Bermudez/ESP) who is limping with a damaged keel ram, will be the next boat to finish later tomorrow.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points (FINISHED)
2. PUMA : 7 points (FINISHED)
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 4: 5points (FINISHED)
5. Telefónica Black: 4 points (FINISHED)
6. Green Dragon: 3 points (FINISHED)
7. Kosatka Team Russia: 2 points (FINISHED)
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points (FINISHED)
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points (FINISHED)
3. PUMA : 27.5 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points (FINISHED)
5. Green Dragon: 20.5 points (FINISHED)
6. Telefónica Black: 19.5 points (FINISHED)
7. Team Russia: 10.5 points (FINISHED)
8. Delta Lloyd: 8 points (RACING)
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Ian Walker said, earlier today, “This leg has simply not gone our way and I look with envy at the close racing amongst the top four. It might seem strange, but on balance, I think we have sailed the best on this leg that we have so far in the race, and everyone remains very focused on the task ahead.”
Austrian skipper of Kosatka, Andreas Hanakamp, said:
“For the last 24 hours of the leg, everyone has been working incredibly hard to get in front of Green Dragon and, we got within a mile of them. They had managed to get further inshore than us and picked up the breeze just a few minutes earlier, which gave them valuable miles.
“The leg was a different challenge again, with forecasts unreliable in the light winds. Again, the fleet was close together from start to finish which shows how close the racing is.
“I am happy to get to Singapore, looking forward what they come up with after the great time we had in India. Thanks to my sailing team for the incredible effort they put in right to the finish line.”
Delta Lloyd (Roberto Bermudez/ESP) who is limping with a damaged keel ram, will be the next boat to finish later tomorrow.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points (FINISHED)
2. PUMA : 7 points (FINISHED)
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 4: 5points (FINISHED)
5. Telefónica Black: 4 points (FINISHED)
6. Green Dragon: 3 points (FINISHED)
7. Kosatka Team Russia: 2 points (FINISHED)
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points (FINISHED)
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points (FINISHED)
3. PUMA : 27.5 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points (FINISHED)
5. Green Dragon: 20.5 points (FINISHED)
6. Telefónica Black: 19.5 points (FINISHED)
7. Team Russia: 10.5 points (FINISHED)
8. Delta Lloyd: 8 points (RACING)
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Sailing : TELEFÓNICA BLACK LEG THREE DAY 10 QFB: received 22.12.08 2013 GMT
We saw this leg as a good opportunity to get a podium place as we did not expect any hard running conditions, our known ‘Achilles heel’. We had ‘no excuse to lose’ as Dennis Conner used to say. In front of us we had a long upwind struggle in NE trade winds, which should do us, fine we thought…
The first night we did fine and found ourselves in the leading group next morning. But, someone up there did not like us, as the light breeze seemed to turn only us in a bad direction. But, we fought back during the reach across to the first waypoint SW of Sri Lanka. As we stayed low in the NE fading breeze, we caught up and rounded close behind Ericsson 4, Telefónica Blue and Puma.
Like everybody else, we had to fight an unknown enemy along the southern part of Sri Lanka. It was not the Tasmal Tigers but instead a very, at least for us, unknown current. Like the Gulf Stream it was rushing, often at 3 knots in the middle of the ocean! We going east, current going west…
Going upwind in light air against a current of that force is like walking in deep mud, you are going forward very slowly. Still we managed for a while being second behind our so-successful teammates on Telefónica Blue who made a brave move going east from Sri Lanka instead of the more ‘normal’ Northerly route, which the rest of us took.
All looked well until we really got stuck in a bad cloud and the before so-unlucky Ericsson 3 could pass by and Puma came uncomfortably close after they both had been a fair bit behind us. Things did not become easier when just before reaching our northern turning point, we broke our fractional halyard and had to sail with Jib 4 instead of the bigger Jib 2 for 13 hours. When daylight came, we could sort out the problem, but by then Ericsson 3 had passed and so had Puma in a very frustrating way.
Puma is the boat we have come really close to a couple of times during this race. This time she came from behind and just sailed by, 100 metres to windward, on a tight reach. Us with our too-small headsail and them with the right gear up. That was enough to face the situation. We had to go downwind and fix the halyard in the fresh breeze and saw Puma disappearing in the morning mist.
As we approached the gate at Pulau We, we should have tacked North a bit earlier behind Puma, but the greedy navigator wanted to split tacks with Puma to see if we could pass her. Instead, we nearly lost Green Dragon, but managed, just in time, to take the necessary, badly unfavoured, tack to the north for two hours, just to get in the same pressure as Dragon. That tack helped us to keep Dragon behind as the gate approached.
We passed the gate at Pulau We and had another frustrating 24 hours, when we often did not know which tack to be on or which sail to have up. Finally, we settled down on a long port fresh reach towards the shore of Malaysia. The leading pack had a better timing to hug the shore in the dying NE trade before the sea breeze set in. To our surprise Ericsson 4 did not push to the shore in time and allowed their great lead to be destroyed in hours, sitting in light air offshore and just seeing three boats, tight on the beach, passing by. I can just imagine how they must have felt.
We managed to get into land in time and picked up the last hours of sea breeze and also welcomed the sudden onset of land breeze last night just before Kuala Lumpur, Port Klang.
Along the shore we went last night, zig zagging between fishing boats and coastal shipping. Luckily, we never got stuck in any nets and also understood that the risks for pirates had been, at least in my mind, slightly exaggerated!
This morning a light WNW breeze took over from the land breeze and suddenly someone called out. “Looks like two VOR boats in front…! We are catching them...!”
We just got closer and closer until I could read the logos in the sails of Puma and Ericsson 4….Then all of the sudden the compression effect we had enjoyed turned into our face and we could just helplessly watch all the four boats in sight catching a new breeze and sail away from us…Our fifth place was a fact, but we were at least happy to have out sailed the Green Dragon the last 24 hours.
Christmas is waiting and then a new much longer uphill fight to China…When we will complain about the cold, not the heat…
Roger Nilson - navigator
The first night we did fine and found ourselves in the leading group next morning. But, someone up there did not like us, as the light breeze seemed to turn only us in a bad direction. But, we fought back during the reach across to the first waypoint SW of Sri Lanka. As we stayed low in the NE fading breeze, we caught up and rounded close behind Ericsson 4, Telefónica Blue and Puma.
Like everybody else, we had to fight an unknown enemy along the southern part of Sri Lanka. It was not the Tasmal Tigers but instead a very, at least for us, unknown current. Like the Gulf Stream it was rushing, often at 3 knots in the middle of the ocean! We going east, current going west…
Going upwind in light air against a current of that force is like walking in deep mud, you are going forward very slowly. Still we managed for a while being second behind our so-successful teammates on Telefónica Blue who made a brave move going east from Sri Lanka instead of the more ‘normal’ Northerly route, which the rest of us took.
All looked well until we really got stuck in a bad cloud and the before so-unlucky Ericsson 3 could pass by and Puma came uncomfortably close after they both had been a fair bit behind us. Things did not become easier when just before reaching our northern turning point, we broke our fractional halyard and had to sail with Jib 4 instead of the bigger Jib 2 for 13 hours. When daylight came, we could sort out the problem, but by then Ericsson 3 had passed and so had Puma in a very frustrating way.
Puma is the boat we have come really close to a couple of times during this race. This time she came from behind and just sailed by, 100 metres to windward, on a tight reach. Us with our too-small headsail and them with the right gear up. That was enough to face the situation. We had to go downwind and fix the halyard in the fresh breeze and saw Puma disappearing in the morning mist.
As we approached the gate at Pulau We, we should have tacked North a bit earlier behind Puma, but the greedy navigator wanted to split tacks with Puma to see if we could pass her. Instead, we nearly lost Green Dragon, but managed, just in time, to take the necessary, badly unfavoured, tack to the north for two hours, just to get in the same pressure as Dragon. That tack helped us to keep Dragon behind as the gate approached.
We passed the gate at Pulau We and had another frustrating 24 hours, when we often did not know which tack to be on or which sail to have up. Finally, we settled down on a long port fresh reach towards the shore of Malaysia. The leading pack had a better timing to hug the shore in the dying NE trade before the sea breeze set in. To our surprise Ericsson 4 did not push to the shore in time and allowed their great lead to be destroyed in hours, sitting in light air offshore and just seeing three boats, tight on the beach, passing by. I can just imagine how they must have felt.
We managed to get into land in time and picked up the last hours of sea breeze and also welcomed the sudden onset of land breeze last night just before Kuala Lumpur, Port Klang.
Along the shore we went last night, zig zagging between fishing boats and coastal shipping. Luckily, we never got stuck in any nets and also understood that the risks for pirates had been, at least in my mind, slightly exaggerated!
This morning a light WNW breeze took over from the land breeze and suddenly someone called out. “Looks like two VOR boats in front…! We are catching them...!”
We just got closer and closer until I could read the logos in the sails of Puma and Ericsson 4….Then all of the sudden the compression effect we had enjoyed turned into our face and we could just helplessly watch all the four boats in sight catching a new breeze and sail away from us…Our fifth place was a fact, but we were at least happy to have out sailed the Green Dragon the last 24 hours.
Christmas is waiting and then a new much longer uphill fight to China…When we will complain about the cold, not the heat…
Roger Nilson - navigator
Sailing : PUMA Second into Singapore for Christmas
Podium finish for PUMA team in leg three of Volvo Ocean Race
December 23, 2008 – PUMA Ocean Racing, skippered by Ken Read (USA) finished leg three of the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09 in second place late last night (local time). Crossing the finish line at 23:08 local (15:08 GMT) on December 22nd, just 17 minutes after leg winners Telefonica Blue, the PUMA team experienced an exhausting end to an incredibly intense 1,950 mile leg from India to Singapore. Separated from rivals Ericsson 3 and Ericsson 4 by just a few metres as they approached the finish line, PUMA beat the two Swedish boats by a matter of seconds to take second place.
Sticking inshore of the group as they raced along the Malaysian coastline during the last 24 hours, the PUMA team made some excellent tactical decisions to see them maintain their position at the front of the pack. To add to the stress of the tight finish in light winds, the fleet also had to negotiate hundreds of container ships and fishing boats littering the Straits of Malacca, not an easy task in the darkness. After motoring in from the finish line to the race village on Sentosa Island, the team were met by family on the dock, where they celebrated Watch Captain Sidney Gavignet’s 40th birthday.
PUMA Ocean Racing skipper Ken Read commented: “Every time I do one of these legs I come back and say I have never done anything like it before. It was hard work for ten days straight, with not a moment to spare. We are all exhausted – none of us can actually remember the last time we slept or ate or drank, or anything else. It’s just been non-stop for as long as we can remember...it’s gotten like that. That’s what this is about. All these boats are so similar in speed, and nobody’s letting up.”
“This leg was an amazing rollercoaster – you would have to just keep talking yourself out of getting too low when things weren’t going great or too high when things were going fantastic. It was tough but we knew the racecourse before we got into this and you just adapt to it. We knew this is exactly what this leg was going to be, and it lived up to its expectations. Unbelievable. Hats off to the Telefonica Blue guys, they did a really nice job. They just snuck through and didn’t look back. So congratulations to them.”
PUMA’s podium position earns the team seven points, keeping PUMA in third place overall in the race to date. The team will now take a well-deserved rest over Christmas, before competing in the Singapore In-Port and Pro-Am races on the 10th and 11th January, just off the coast of East Coast Park, Singapore.
The Volvo Ocean Race is made up of ten legs, finishing in June 2009 in St. Petersburg, Russia.
By joining the race, PUMA has entered a new premium category and is the only Sportslifestyle company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09. For more information about the race, team and the PUMA Sailing collections, please visit www.pumaoceanracing.com
December 23, 2008 – PUMA Ocean Racing, skippered by Ken Read (USA) finished leg three of the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09 in second place late last night (local time). Crossing the finish line at 23:08 local (15:08 GMT) on December 22nd, just 17 minutes after leg winners Telefonica Blue, the PUMA team experienced an exhausting end to an incredibly intense 1,950 mile leg from India to Singapore. Separated from rivals Ericsson 3 and Ericsson 4 by just a few metres as they approached the finish line, PUMA beat the two Swedish boats by a matter of seconds to take second place.
Sticking inshore of the group as they raced along the Malaysian coastline during the last 24 hours, the PUMA team made some excellent tactical decisions to see them maintain their position at the front of the pack. To add to the stress of the tight finish in light winds, the fleet also had to negotiate hundreds of container ships and fishing boats littering the Straits of Malacca, not an easy task in the darkness. After motoring in from the finish line to the race village on Sentosa Island, the team were met by family on the dock, where they celebrated Watch Captain Sidney Gavignet’s 40th birthday.
PUMA Ocean Racing skipper Ken Read commented: “Every time I do one of these legs I come back and say I have never done anything like it before. It was hard work for ten days straight, with not a moment to spare. We are all exhausted – none of us can actually remember the last time we slept or ate or drank, or anything else. It’s just been non-stop for as long as we can remember...it’s gotten like that. That’s what this is about. All these boats are so similar in speed, and nobody’s letting up.”
“This leg was an amazing rollercoaster – you would have to just keep talking yourself out of getting too low when things weren’t going great or too high when things were going fantastic. It was tough but we knew the racecourse before we got into this and you just adapt to it. We knew this is exactly what this leg was going to be, and it lived up to its expectations. Unbelievable. Hats off to the Telefonica Blue guys, they did a really nice job. They just snuck through and didn’t look back. So congratulations to them.”
PUMA’s podium position earns the team seven points, keeping PUMA in third place overall in the race to date. The team will now take a well-deserved rest over Christmas, before competing in the Singapore In-Port and Pro-Am races on the 10th and 11th January, just off the coast of East Coast Park, Singapore.
The Volvo Ocean Race is made up of ten legs, finishing in June 2009 in St. Petersburg, Russia.
By joining the race, PUMA has entered a new premium category and is the only Sportslifestyle company to participate in the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09. For more information about the race, team and the PUMA Sailing collections, please visit www.pumaoceanracing.com
Sailing : FIFTH PLACE FOR TELEFÓNICA BLACK
Fernando Echávarri from Spain brought Telefónica Black through the finish in Singapore today in fifth place at 1736 GMT (0136 local time), after racing for nine days, seven hours, 36 minutes and 23 seconds (09:07:36:23).
The team’s total overall score is 19.5 points, which puts them fifth overall. However if Green Dragon (Ian Walker/GBR) is the next boat to finish, they will slip to sixth place. Ian Walker and his men are currently fighting off an attack from Kosatka Team Russia (Andreas Hanakamp/AUT), which, if they succumb and Kosatka beats them to the finish, will leave Green Dragon and Telefónica Black on an equal score overall of 19.5 points.
As the team began the long motor in to Sentosa Island, Fernando Echávarri said:
“It’s not disappointing at all for us. We just couldn’t pass the others, we had opportunities to do it but we just couldn’t.
“We are happy because we made a good leg, we were a few hours behind the top boats, but we know we can do better and we’ll keep working on it.
“We are really destroyed...exhausted. We thought we had a chance at one stage, we could see the others about four miles ahead, but we were never really in the right place at the right time to take advantage and get past them."
The next boat to finish will be later this evening.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points (FINISHED)
2. PUMA : 7 points (FINISHED)
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 4: 5points (FINISHED)
5. Telefónica Black: 4 points (FINISHED)
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points (FINISHED)
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points (FINISHED)
3. PUMA : 27.5 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points (FINISHED)
5. Telefónica Black: 19.5 points (FINISHED)
6. Green Dragon: 17.5 points (RACING)
7. Team Russia: 8.5 points (RACING)
8. Delta Lloyd: 8 points (RACING)
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Positions are available every hour, on the hour, at www.volvooceanrace.org. Click on RESULTS at the top of the page to go straight to the points table and onboard data.
The team’s total overall score is 19.5 points, which puts them fifth overall. However if Green Dragon (Ian Walker/GBR) is the next boat to finish, they will slip to sixth place. Ian Walker and his men are currently fighting off an attack from Kosatka Team Russia (Andreas Hanakamp/AUT), which, if they succumb and Kosatka beats them to the finish, will leave Green Dragon and Telefónica Black on an equal score overall of 19.5 points.
As the team began the long motor in to Sentosa Island, Fernando Echávarri said:
“It’s not disappointing at all for us. We just couldn’t pass the others, we had opportunities to do it but we just couldn’t.
“We are happy because we made a good leg, we were a few hours behind the top boats, but we know we can do better and we’ll keep working on it.
“We are really destroyed...exhausted. We thought we had a chance at one stage, we could see the others about four miles ahead, but we were never really in the right place at the right time to take advantage and get past them."
The next boat to finish will be later this evening.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points (FINISHED)
2. PUMA : 7 points (FINISHED)
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 4: 5points (FINISHED)
5. Telefónica Black: 4 points (FINISHED)
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points (FINISHED)
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points (FINISHED)
3. PUMA : 27.5 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points (FINISHED)
5. Telefónica Black: 19.5 points (FINISHED)
6. Green Dragon: 17.5 points (RACING)
7. Team Russia: 8.5 points (RACING)
8. Delta Lloyd: 8 points (RACING)
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Positions are available every hour, on the hour, at www.volvooceanrace.org. Click on RESULTS at the top of the page to go straight to the points table and onboard data.
Sailing : PUMA LEG THREE DAY 10 QFB: received 22.10.08 1817 GMT
We just finished the leg to Singapore. I have to be simple with my thoughts because I am too tired to get really in-depth. We finished second on this leg and hats off to the Telefónica Blue team for their leg win.
And I can officially say that it was one of the most stressful seconds in my sailing career.
Let’s just take the last 24 hours:
The lead changed hands amongst the top four boats more times than I can imagine. We anchored twice. We were solidly fourth several times. We were winning several times. We were picked off by a tug and barge at the most critical time of the leg (about 15 miles from the finish trying to keep both Ericsson boats from rolling us). We saw more fishing boats and ships than any of us had ever seen before. We just missed massive logs and hunks of rope and other debris on many occasions. We had to dive on the keel to get a tree off it. No one on the boat really remembers the last time they slept or ate. Let’s see - anything else I have forgotten? Sounds glamorous eh?
We are powering in from the finish now and our entire team is relieved as well as anxious when we think about what was and what could have been. The team effort on this boat was nothing short of spectacular. The intensity that has to take place 24 hours a day is like nothing that I have ever experienced. A good group of guys, who I believe are proud of what they did over the past 10 days. Even if we did get nipped out by one other boat in the end. That battle amongst the top four was ridiculous.
So, time soon to see the families and friends on the dock. Always an emotional experience. Many of the guys are flying home soon to be with their families over the holidays and I know that all look forward too that.
PUMA Ocean Racing wishes all a wonderful holiday. And please let me know how it goes because I think I may be sleeping all of Christmas day!
Kenny Read - skipper
And I can officially say that it was one of the most stressful seconds in my sailing career.
Let’s just take the last 24 hours:
The lead changed hands amongst the top four boats more times than I can imagine. We anchored twice. We were solidly fourth several times. We were winning several times. We were picked off by a tug and barge at the most critical time of the leg (about 15 miles from the finish trying to keep both Ericsson boats from rolling us). We saw more fishing boats and ships than any of us had ever seen before. We just missed massive logs and hunks of rope and other debris on many occasions. We had to dive on the keel to get a tree off it. No one on the boat really remembers the last time they slept or ate. Let’s see - anything else I have forgotten? Sounds glamorous eh?
We are powering in from the finish now and our entire team is relieved as well as anxious when we think about what was and what could have been. The team effort on this boat was nothing short of spectacular. The intensity that has to take place 24 hours a day is like nothing that I have ever experienced. A good group of guys, who I believe are proud of what they did over the past 10 days. Even if we did get nipped out by one other boat in the end. That battle amongst the top four was ridiculous.
So, time soon to see the families and friends on the dock. Always an emotional experience. Many of the guys are flying home soon to be with their families over the holidays and I know that all look forward too that.
PUMA Ocean Racing wishes all a wonderful holiday. And please let me know how it goes because I think I may be sleeping all of Christmas day!
Kenny Read - skipper
Sailing : GREEN DRAGON LEG THREE DAY 10 QFB: received 22.12.08 1434 GMT
All the talk on the Malacca Straits was of pirates, fishing nets, shipping and obstacles but it was the wind shifts and tide that we should have been focusing on.
It has been a frustrating 24 hours on the Green Dragon. We gained many miles back on the leaders yesterday and then were stuck in a similar place to Ericsson 4 with no wind and lots of tide against us. For five hours we sat and were washed backwards into the old wind and we couldn't get into the westerly that carried the leaders away.
It was infuriating, as we knew this was likely to be our one shot at getting back into the race. We licked our wounds and made gains back overnight, but today we again were stuck at the narrowing of the straits in no wind and foul tide. This was simply bad luck on our timing. As we struggled to turn the corner, the Russians reached up behind us in good wind from 24 miles astern! They are now about 3 miles behind us, which will ensure close racing until the end.
This leg has simply not gone our way and I look with envy at the close racing amongst the top four. It might seem strange, but on balance, I think we have sailed the best on this leg that we have so far in the race and everyone remains very focused on the task ahead. What is in no doubt is that we are all looking forward to getting to port. Considering I write that at this stage of every leg, it does make me question why on earth we choose to do this in the first place!
Ian Walker - skipper
It has been a frustrating 24 hours on the Green Dragon. We gained many miles back on the leaders yesterday and then were stuck in a similar place to Ericsson 4 with no wind and lots of tide against us. For five hours we sat and were washed backwards into the old wind and we couldn't get into the westerly that carried the leaders away.
It was infuriating, as we knew this was likely to be our one shot at getting back into the race. We licked our wounds and made gains back overnight, but today we again were stuck at the narrowing of the straits in no wind and foul tide. This was simply bad luck on our timing. As we struggled to turn the corner, the Russians reached up behind us in good wind from 24 miles astern! They are now about 3 miles behind us, which will ensure close racing until the end.
This leg has simply not gone our way and I look with envy at the close racing amongst the top four. It might seem strange, but on balance, I think we have sailed the best on this leg that we have so far in the race and everyone remains very focused on the task ahead. What is in no doubt is that we are all looking forward to getting to port. Considering I write that at this stage of every leg, it does make me question why on earth we choose to do this in the first place!
Ian Walker - skipper
Sailing : TELEFÓNICA BLUE LEG THREE DAY 10 QFB: received 22.10.08 1549 GMT
A very happy bunch here on Telefónica Azul. We kept our heads cool today, and, as predicted, it wasn't over until close to the finish.
We had all the excitement in the last 50 miles, dodging fishing nets, zig-zagging around tugboats, hundreds of commercial ships, and then the wind, which was ranging from 20 knots to nearly zero. A real test for all the guys’ minds, as our nice advantage over the others nearly vanished, but we pulled it off and all the guys did a marvellous job. A better Christmas present we couldn't have wished for.
Cheers,
Bouwe Bekking
We had all the excitement in the last 50 miles, dodging fishing nets, zig-zagging around tugboats, hundreds of commercial ships, and then the wind, which was ranging from 20 knots to nearly zero. A real test for all the guys’ minds, as our nice advantage over the others nearly vanished, but we pulled it off and all the guys did a marvellous job. A better Christmas present we couldn't have wished for.
Cheers,
Bouwe Bekking
Sailing : HARD-FOUGHT VICTORY FOR TELEFÓNICA BLUE
Fighting for every inch, Telefónica Blue, skippered by Dutchman Bouwe Bekking, crossed the finish line at the end of leg three of the Volvo Ocean Race to score an emphatic victory in Singapore today at 1451 GMT (2251 local time).
It was among the closest finishes in the race history, with the top four boats finishing within 20 minutes following nearly 10 days of racing.
The Spanish team takes a valuable eight points towards their overall score, which now stands at 30.5 points, putting them into second place overall (subject to protest).
The 1950 nautical mile leg, which started from Cochin, India, on December 13, has been a leg of mental and physical torture for the crew, which took nine days, four hours, 51 minutes and 22 seconds to complete (09:04:41:22)
PUMA, led by Kenny Read/USA claimed second, 17 minutes behind the Spanish team, (finish time 1508 GMT) adding seven points to her tally, giving her a total of 27.5 points and third place overall. (Elapsed time: 09:05:08:01)
The final podium spot went to Ericsson 3 (Anders Lewander/SWE), who beat their teammates on Ericsson 4 (Torben Grael/BRA) to take third, and a total of 23.5 points overall. (Finish time 1509 GMT, elapsed time 09:05:09:48s)
Ericsson 4 was relegated to fourth place, adding five points to the four they earned for passing through the scoring gate a Palau We in first place. They still lead the race overall, but the margin has narrowed to just 4.5 points over Telefónica Blue. (Finish time 15:10:28 GMT elapsed time 09:05:10m28s).
After crossing the finish, Bouwe Bekking and his crew were ecstatic. Speaking from Telefónica Blue as they motored to Race Village at Sentosa Island and the waiting crowds and families, Bekking said:
“It is a very sweet victory. Very special - just before Christmas – a nice little gift for us and very nice because all the families are here. It will be good to see all the happy faces when we get in.
“It was incredible for us. We were in the lead, then we lost it and then took it back again. In the final six or seven miles, the breeze died completely and the other guys got very close, then we got a little puff of breeze and I managed to bring her home.
“I have never seen the guys so happy. I have known them for quite a while and normally they are very cool, but they were just ecstatic when they went through the finish. It is a huge thing for us.
“I told the guys to take it easy as especially in this part of the race, the seas can change in half an hour, and then we sailed a really good race from that point on. We had a couple of really good shifts and, tactically, it went our way and the guys sailed very fast in light airs, which is was why we won. It shows that Ericsson 4 is not invincible and it is really good overall for the race itself.”
Ken Read on finishing second said:
“I have never done anything like this before. Not really sure I want to do it again. Unbelievable. Hats off to the Telefónica guys, they did a nice job, congratulations. Nobody can remember the last time they either slept or ate. It has really been all hands on.”
Anders Lewander, skipper of Ericsson 3, the Nordic team, said:
“It’s been so enormously tough - all of this leg…but it’s been really amazing. I’ve really enjoyed it because of the close tactics and the mix of conditions. It’s hard work but the close encounters and the whole situation on this leg has been really challenging.
“I must admit that on several occasions during this leg, I truly believed we were able to win. I’m really proud and happy about our achievement…this short gybing and close encounters is really good racing.
”The Malacca Strait was challenging with night sailing up the shoreline…then the line-up with the four of us in very variable, light wind conditions. It was a bit of a lottery situation. But it was important to keep in mind the big picture and not necessarily look just at the short term.”
The next boat to finish will be Telefónica Black (Fernando Echávarri/ESP) at approximately 1800 GMT.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points (FINISHED)
2. PUMA : 7 points (FINISHED)
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 4: 5points (FINISHED)
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points (FINISHED)
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points (FINISHED)
3. PUMA : 27.5 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points (FINISHED)
5. Green Dragon: 17.5 points (RACING)
6. Telefónica Black: 13.5 points (RACING)
7. Team Russia: 8.5 points (RACING)
8. Delta Lloyd: 8 points (RACING)
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Positions are available every hour, on the hour, at www.volvooceanrace.org . Click on RESULTS at the top of the page to go straight to the points table and onboard data.
It was among the closest finishes in the race history, with the top four boats finishing within 20 minutes following nearly 10 days of racing.
The Spanish team takes a valuable eight points towards their overall score, which now stands at 30.5 points, putting them into second place overall (subject to protest).
The 1950 nautical mile leg, which started from Cochin, India, on December 13, has been a leg of mental and physical torture for the crew, which took nine days, four hours, 51 minutes and 22 seconds to complete (09:04:41:22)
PUMA, led by Kenny Read/USA claimed second, 17 minutes behind the Spanish team, (finish time 1508 GMT) adding seven points to her tally, giving her a total of 27.5 points and third place overall. (Elapsed time: 09:05:08:01)
The final podium spot went to Ericsson 3 (Anders Lewander/SWE), who beat their teammates on Ericsson 4 (Torben Grael/BRA) to take third, and a total of 23.5 points overall. (Finish time 1509 GMT, elapsed time 09:05:09:48s)
Ericsson 4 was relegated to fourth place, adding five points to the four they earned for passing through the scoring gate a Palau We in first place. They still lead the race overall, but the margin has narrowed to just 4.5 points over Telefónica Blue. (Finish time 15:10:28 GMT elapsed time 09:05:10m28s).
After crossing the finish, Bouwe Bekking and his crew were ecstatic. Speaking from Telefónica Blue as they motored to Race Village at Sentosa Island and the waiting crowds and families, Bekking said:
“It is a very sweet victory. Very special - just before Christmas – a nice little gift for us and very nice because all the families are here. It will be good to see all the happy faces when we get in.
“It was incredible for us. We were in the lead, then we lost it and then took it back again. In the final six or seven miles, the breeze died completely and the other guys got very close, then we got a little puff of breeze and I managed to bring her home.
“I have never seen the guys so happy. I have known them for quite a while and normally they are very cool, but they were just ecstatic when they went through the finish. It is a huge thing for us.
“I told the guys to take it easy as especially in this part of the race, the seas can change in half an hour, and then we sailed a really good race from that point on. We had a couple of really good shifts and, tactically, it went our way and the guys sailed very fast in light airs, which is was why we won. It shows that Ericsson 4 is not invincible and it is really good overall for the race itself.”
Ken Read on finishing second said:
“I have never done anything like this before. Not really sure I want to do it again. Unbelievable. Hats off to the Telefónica guys, they did a nice job, congratulations. Nobody can remember the last time they either slept or ate. It has really been all hands on.”
Anders Lewander, skipper of Ericsson 3, the Nordic team, said:
“It’s been so enormously tough - all of this leg…but it’s been really amazing. I’ve really enjoyed it because of the close tactics and the mix of conditions. It’s hard work but the close encounters and the whole situation on this leg has been really challenging.
“I must admit that on several occasions during this leg, I truly believed we were able to win. I’m really proud and happy about our achievement…this short gybing and close encounters is really good racing.
”The Malacca Strait was challenging with night sailing up the shoreline…then the line-up with the four of us in very variable, light wind conditions. It was a bit of a lottery situation. But it was important to keep in mind the big picture and not necessarily look just at the short term.”
The next boat to finish will be Telefónica Black (Fernando Echávarri/ESP) at approximately 1800 GMT.
Leg Three Finishing Order Singapore
1. Telefónica Blue: 8 points (FINISHED)
2. PUMA : 7 points (FINISHED)
3. Ericsson 3: 6 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 4: 5points (FINISHED)
Overall Leaderboard (Subject to Protest)
1. Ericsson 4: 35 points (FINISHED)
2. Telefónica Blue: 30.5 points (FINISHED)
3. PUMA : 27.5 points (FINISHED)
4. Ericsson 3: 23.5 points (FINISHED)
5. Green Dragon: 17.5 points (RACING)
6. Telefónica Black: 13.5 points (RACING)
7. Team Russia: 8.5 points (RACING)
8. Delta Lloyd: 8 points (RACING)
Scoring Gate Order
1. Ericsson 4 (4 points)
2. Telefónica Blue (3.4 points)
3. Ericsson 3 (3 points)
4. PUMA (2.5 points)
5. Telefónica Black (2 points)
6. Green Dragon (1.5 points)
7. Kosatka Team Russia (1 point)
8. Delta Lloyd (0.5 points)
Positions are available every hour, on the hour, at www.volvooceanrace.org . Click on RESULTS at the top of the page to go straight to the points table and onboard data.
Sailing : KOSATKA TEAM RUSSIA LEG THREE DAY 10 QFB: received 22.12.08 0846 GMT
Light six knots breeze, calm water, there is no cloud in the sky. December 21st. The Volvo Ocean Race fleet is sailing the Malacca Strait somewhere between Sumatra and Indonesia. Christmas is approaching and as to our Russian cold New Year with its New Year tree, it is simply impossible to imagine it here 250 miles off the equator.
Everywhere around you see a huge amount of ocean water and the sky and the scorching sun, and the white A1, which covers half of the horizon and small fishing boats of Indonesian fishermen in the distance.
Yesterday, December 20th, we were the seventh to cross the scoring gate and entered the Malacca Strait. About 30 miles behind us Delta Lloyd was slowly moving in the direction of the third finish in Singapore. Sumatra’s coastline was dimly seen in the distance to the starboard.
There was good wind in the Strait and we were sailing at a pretty nice pace of 12-15 knots. As usual, the boat was sailing forward, jumping up and down the waves with spray loudly beating against the spray rails. At night, our speed luckily did not slow down, though the sea became quiet and we sailed under Cassiopeia and Southern Cross while the ocean was sparkling with the myriads of strange tropical stars.
As we were moving forward at a good speed yesterday, we planned to reach Singapore on December 22nd. Today our speed is not as good as we had hoped and the finish is expected to be on the 23rd. But, the good news is that we are catching up with the rest of the fleet because the sea is calm and the boats are practically not moving and we pray that our wind should not stop.
Our everyday schedule is as usual: keeping watch, sail changing, going to bed, meals, stacking parties above and below decks, no matter whether the sea is calm or rough. But, neither the stormy sea nor the calm tropical waters can stop us or change our forward movement to the finish. And let luck be WITH US!
Sergey Bogdanov MCM
Everywhere around you see a huge amount of ocean water and the sky and the scorching sun, and the white A1, which covers half of the horizon and small fishing boats of Indonesian fishermen in the distance.
Yesterday, December 20th, we were the seventh to cross the scoring gate and entered the Malacca Strait. About 30 miles behind us Delta Lloyd was slowly moving in the direction of the third finish in Singapore. Sumatra’s coastline was dimly seen in the distance to the starboard.
There was good wind in the Strait and we were sailing at a pretty nice pace of 12-15 knots. As usual, the boat was sailing forward, jumping up and down the waves with spray loudly beating against the spray rails. At night, our speed luckily did not slow down, though the sea became quiet and we sailed under Cassiopeia and Southern Cross while the ocean was sparkling with the myriads of strange tropical stars.
As we were moving forward at a good speed yesterday, we planned to reach Singapore on December 22nd. Today our speed is not as good as we had hoped and the finish is expected to be on the 23rd. But, the good news is that we are catching up with the rest of the fleet because the sea is calm and the boats are practically not moving and we pray that our wind should not stop.
Our everyday schedule is as usual: keeping watch, sail changing, going to bed, meals, stacking parties above and below decks, no matter whether the sea is calm or rough. But, neither the stormy sea nor the calm tropical waters can stop us or change our forward movement to the finish. And let luck be WITH US!
Sergey Bogdanov MCM
Sailing : DELTA LLOYD LEG THREE DAY 9: received 21.12.08 2239 GMT
Still sailing…
We are still sailing, which means that we are still in the race. We are almost 200 miles behind the leaders, but still pressing onward to the finish of leg three under sail….. We are badly broken but not out. Hopefully we can make it the entire way under sail; that would be a victory in itself. One great thing about the Volvo 70 is that even with the throttle set at an idle, we can still sail at nine or 10 knots with decent wind. Not too bad.
Although a new problem has arose today. We can’t keep hydraulic fluid in the one remaining cylinder that is holding the keel in the centre cant position. This means that the keel slowly creeps to the leeward side. Hydraulic oil is running out of the cylinder and into the bilge. It’s a huge mess. We’ve used all our spare oil. Now we are collecting the oil - water slurry that ends up in the bilge putting it in buckets, letting it settle, skimming off the oil from the water and pouring it back into the hydraulic pump.
Yup, this is a long, long leg. Knowing that we all have a week long vacation when we get to Singapore only makes us more anxious to put this leg behind us.
But, in the meantime, we’ll keep sailing.
Matt Gregory – navigator
We are still sailing, which means that we are still in the race. We are almost 200 miles behind the leaders, but still pressing onward to the finish of leg three under sail….. We are badly broken but not out. Hopefully we can make it the entire way under sail; that would be a victory in itself. One great thing about the Volvo 70 is that even with the throttle set at an idle, we can still sail at nine or 10 knots with decent wind. Not too bad.
Although a new problem has arose today. We can’t keep hydraulic fluid in the one remaining cylinder that is holding the keel in the centre cant position. This means that the keel slowly creeps to the leeward side. Hydraulic oil is running out of the cylinder and into the bilge. It’s a huge mess. We’ve used all our spare oil. Now we are collecting the oil - water slurry that ends up in the bilge putting it in buckets, letting it settle, skimming off the oil from the water and pouring it back into the hydraulic pump.
Yup, this is a long, long leg. Knowing that we all have a week long vacation when we get to Singapore only makes us more anxious to put this leg behind us.
But, in the meantime, we’ll keep sailing.
Matt Gregory – navigator
Sailing : ERICSSON 3 LEG THREE DAY 10 QFB: received 22.12.08 0940 GMT
Christmas cramps
For the first time this year, I have some Christmas feelings. It was this morning and it was all about excitement. Actually, the feeling is still there.
We, Telefónica Blue, Puma and Ericsson 4, parked up and some even had to anchor to avoid being pushed back by the current. It was almost impossible to predict from where and when the wind was going to come.
We had been in second place for 24 hours and we had no intention to loose it. But, it was hard to do anything about the situation and it was nerve-wracking. That’s where the Christmas feeling comes in place.
I remember when I was a kid and I had been hoping for months that I was going to get something special. The last hours before the ‘present-opening-ceremony’, I had just the same feeling as I had this morning. But, this present could be worth more than any present ever – a podium position.
We never used our anchor and we were the first to get some breeze and start moving. It felt fantastic, even though we knew the game was far from over. The conditions here are just a bit too fluky to take anything for granted.
Telefónica got the wind just after us and together we left Ericsson 4 and Puma behind us. They were still lying still, close to shore. But, as I said, do not trust the winds.
A couple of hours later they had made big gains on us from their inshore route and when we gybed we were equal with them, just a few metres apart.
We were in the lead for quite a long time, but in one gybe Telefónica Blue managed to pass us and unfortunately, Puma slipped in front of us as well after a while. We are currently in third place with Ericsson 4 chasing us closely, just like we are chasing Puma and the Spanish.
It’ s about 65 miles left to finish and still a lot can happen, even though we have a more steady gradient wind now.
But, just as when I was a little boy standing by the Christmas tree crossing my fingers so hard I got cramp, I will not stop wishing until it’s over.
I want a podium position for Christmas.
Gustav Morin - MCM
For the first time this year, I have some Christmas feelings. It was this morning and it was all about excitement. Actually, the feeling is still there.
We, Telefónica Blue, Puma and Ericsson 4, parked up and some even had to anchor to avoid being pushed back by the current. It was almost impossible to predict from where and when the wind was going to come.
We had been in second place for 24 hours and we had no intention to loose it. But, it was hard to do anything about the situation and it was nerve-wracking. That’s where the Christmas feeling comes in place.
I remember when I was a kid and I had been hoping for months that I was going to get something special. The last hours before the ‘present-opening-ceremony’, I had just the same feeling as I had this morning. But, this present could be worth more than any present ever – a podium position.
We never used our anchor and we were the first to get some breeze and start moving. It felt fantastic, even though we knew the game was far from over. The conditions here are just a bit too fluky to take anything for granted.
Telefónica got the wind just after us and together we left Ericsson 4 and Puma behind us. They were still lying still, close to shore. But, as I said, do not trust the winds.
A couple of hours later they had made big gains on us from their inshore route and when we gybed we were equal with them, just a few metres apart.
We were in the lead for quite a long time, but in one gybe Telefónica Blue managed to pass us and unfortunately, Puma slipped in front of us as well after a while. We are currently in third place with Ericsson 4 chasing us closely, just like we are chasing Puma and the Spanish.
It’ s about 65 miles left to finish and still a lot can happen, even though we have a more steady gradient wind now.
But, just as when I was a little boy standing by the Christmas tree crossing my fingers so hard I got cramp, I will not stop wishing until it’s over.
I want a podium position for Christmas.
Gustav Morin - MCM
Sailing : ERICSSON 4 LEG THREE DAY 9 QFB: received 21.12.08 1953 GMT
Not a great day onboard Ericsson 4 - we watched a 30+ mile lead turn into a deficit of 10 miles in six hours, the victim of the Malacca Straits and its very light winds.
We were caught five miles further offshore than the chasing pack with our path blocked by a few small islands and a complete lack of wind.
It was also 37+ degrees inside the boat today - so the only comfort has to be had on deck, and with Telefónica Blue, Ericsson 3 and Puma all within view - it has really got the boys working hard - there is no way they will roll over after all the effort that had been invested to reach the scoring gate in first.
We had managed to get within 300m of Puma in a drifting race with only the tide moving us both - but they have now stretched this back out to around a mile - but its never say die onboard and we will keep the pressure on all in front of us until we find the opportunity to pass.
It has been very positive onboard - everyone was obviously gutted to be passed - but why waste time and effort on regrets - and so the attitude became one of trying to drag ourselves back into the action and with around 200 nm to go we feel there may be one or two chances to do this.
The potential is in place for a real fight to the finish - so stay tuned, just hope the weather plays ball!
Guy Salter MCM
We were caught five miles further offshore than the chasing pack with our path blocked by a few small islands and a complete lack of wind.
It was also 37+ degrees inside the boat today - so the only comfort has to be had on deck, and with Telefónica Blue, Ericsson 3 and Puma all within view - it has really got the boys working hard - there is no way they will roll over after all the effort that had been invested to reach the scoring gate in first.
We had managed to get within 300m of Puma in a drifting race with only the tide moving us both - but they have now stretched this back out to around a mile - but its never say die onboard and we will keep the pressure on all in front of us until we find the opportunity to pass.
It has been very positive onboard - everyone was obviously gutted to be passed - but why waste time and effort on regrets - and so the attitude became one of trying to drag ourselves back into the action and with around 200 nm to go we feel there may be one or two chances to do this.
The potential is in place for a real fight to the finish - so stay tuned, just hope the weather plays ball!
Guy Salter MCM
Sailing : TELEFÓNICA BLUE LEG THREE DAY 10 QFB: received 22.10.08 0717 GMT
As bad the day before was, so good was yesterday. In the early afternoon, we wiggled ourselves in the lead. A big call had to be made to go either inside or outside a group of islands, and since the sky was clear, we opted to stay inshore, as most likely we would keep more pressure.
A very good call as Ericsson 4 opted to go outside and they paid heavily for that decision. They went from a comfortable first place to fourth, that must have hurt. From then on, we more or less stayed all the same until dawn was breaking.
Ericsson 3 was always within half a mile of us, and the other two a couple more behind. Then, at dawn, we had a huge park up again for a couple of hours, and our lead vanished, as a northerly breeze brought the other boats close to us. We were sailing under spinnaker and we were neck and neck with Ericsson 3. They passed us once, but then we passed them again. We had navigate through an area of shoals, so tricky for the navigators, not to let us run aground.
Then we got involved in an incident with Ericsson 3. We were both on opposite tacks, and we had the right of way. It resulted in us protesting Ericsson 3. I won't go into detail what exactly happened, so that I don't influence the international jury. The good news is that we got the entire incident on video tape.
From then on, we led until the early hours, all four boats within 1.5 miles, as if we were attached with a string, but then we parked up again. It was touch and go, if we had to anchor, as there was a strong current against us. It resulted in Puma and Ericsson 4 anchoring. We kept a whisker of breeze 2-3 knots and since we were still making slow progress, we separated together with Ericsson 3 from the other two.
I wasn't very happy with what happened, as we ended up going offshore, without actually making distance to the finish. And yes, the other two started moving again, and made huge gains. I didn't want to put all the eggs in one basket, and said to the guys, we have to bite the bullet and take their sterns, as we have seen a lot of things can happen in no time. Then we picked up a couple of nice shifts and all of sudden, we find ourselves again in the lead. Happy we didn't stay offshore!
So, hopefully, by tomorrow we are finished. Prediction on the result? What about this suggestion: we could as well decide with the other three skippers to throw the dice on who is going to win. So much for my prediction who is going to win.
Cheers,
Bouwe Bekking - skipper
A very good call as Ericsson 4 opted to go outside and they paid heavily for that decision. They went from a comfortable first place to fourth, that must have hurt. From then on, we more or less stayed all the same until dawn was breaking.
Ericsson 3 was always within half a mile of us, and the other two a couple more behind. Then, at dawn, we had a huge park up again for a couple of hours, and our lead vanished, as a northerly breeze brought the other boats close to us. We were sailing under spinnaker and we were neck and neck with Ericsson 3. They passed us once, but then we passed them again. We had navigate through an area of shoals, so tricky for the navigators, not to let us run aground.
Then we got involved in an incident with Ericsson 3. We were both on opposite tacks, and we had the right of way. It resulted in us protesting Ericsson 3. I won't go into detail what exactly happened, so that I don't influence the international jury. The good news is that we got the entire incident on video tape.
From then on, we led until the early hours, all four boats within 1.5 miles, as if we were attached with a string, but then we parked up again. It was touch and go, if we had to anchor, as there was a strong current against us. It resulted in Puma and Ericsson 4 anchoring. We kept a whisker of breeze 2-3 knots and since we were still making slow progress, we separated together with Ericsson 3 from the other two.
I wasn't very happy with what happened, as we ended up going offshore, without actually making distance to the finish. And yes, the other two started moving again, and made huge gains. I didn't want to put all the eggs in one basket, and said to the guys, we have to bite the bullet and take their sterns, as we have seen a lot of things can happen in no time. Then we picked up a couple of nice shifts and all of sudden, we find ourselves again in the lead. Happy we didn't stay offshore!
So, hopefully, by tomorrow we are finished. Prediction on the result? What about this suggestion: we could as well decide with the other three skippers to throw the dice on who is going to win. So much for my prediction who is going to win.
Cheers,
Bouwe Bekking - skipper
Sailing : PUMA LEG THREE DAY 9 QFB: received 21.Sent: 21.12.08 1536 GMT
A solid three iron. That is what it would take to whack a golf ball off the mainsail of half the fleet at this stage as we literally drift off the coast of Malaysia and its major city Kuala Lumpur.
And, when I say there is no wind, I mean complete glass off. Ericsson 4 came up to the Ericsson 3, Telefónica Blue and ourselves just after the sunset and the breeze died from in front of us. Fortunately, the tide is with us at this stage and we are making somewhere between .5 and 1.5 knots toward the finish. Telefónica Blue just snuck off a bit (as they always seem to do in drifting conditions and we actually have lost sight of Ericsson 3. Mainly because there stern light has blended in to the lights on the 100 or so fishing boats that surround us.
I wish I could say that this wasn't expected, but it was. Fishing boats and all.. Straight out of the leg three travel guide.
Much more racing to go. About 200 miles worth, which may seem like 2000 at this rate.
Kenny Read - skipper
And, when I say there is no wind, I mean complete glass off. Ericsson 4 came up to the Ericsson 3, Telefónica Blue and ourselves just after the sunset and the breeze died from in front of us. Fortunately, the tide is with us at this stage and we are making somewhere between .5 and 1.5 knots toward the finish. Telefónica Blue just snuck off a bit (as they always seem to do in drifting conditions and we actually have lost sight of Ericsson 3. Mainly because there stern light has blended in to the lights on the 100 or so fishing boats that surround us.
I wish I could say that this wasn't expected, but it was. Fishing boats and all.. Straight out of the leg three travel guide.
Much more racing to go. About 200 miles worth, which may seem like 2000 at this rate.
Kenny Read - skipper
Monday, December 22, 2008
Tennis : Finals Time at NZ Juniors Champs 18u
The semi-finals of the NZ Junior Champs 18u were held this morning (Monday) at Albany Tennis Park with the boys top seeds prevailing but not without some fight.
Riki McLachlan (Sthrn) started off well against number one seed Finn Tearney (Wgtn) taking a 3-0 lead in the first to unsettle Tearney. Tearney persevered to level the first 3 all, and then went to a tiebreak before prevailing. In the second it was all went Tearney's way with a 6 - 1 win in the second to secure his place in tomorrow's final.
It was an all Canterbury affair in the other semi-final between Barrett Franks and second seed Jordan Kelly-Houston. Kelly-Houston won the first set 6-3 before Franks turned the match to take the second 6-2. Kelly-Houston broke Franks serve in the fourth game to take the lead and went on to win the set 6-4.
Davis Cup Captain / Peak Performance Manager James Greenhalgh has been at the NZ Junior Champs all week and quotes "The future of men's tennis is looking bright with this crop of promising juniors emerging. It has been the best field depth-wise in the boys for many years. Three of the quarterfinalists have secured their main draw status in the all important Grand Slam Australian Open next month. This is a tribute to the RPC coaches who have developed world class training facilities for these high performance players to emerge. I look forward to seeing how their individual tennis careers evolve over the coming years."
In the girls semi-finals top seed Briar Preston (in main pic on homepage) was too strong for fellow Aucklander Imogen Golder winning her match in straight sets 6-2 6-2. Sixth seed Heidi Stewart (Wkto) continued her strong run in the tournament advancing into the final with a 6-0 6-2 win against Tiffany Wheelock (Nthrn) in their semi-final encounter.
For full results follow the link below
http://tennisnz.infonetwork.com/tournaments/results.asp?tid=5185619
Riki McLachlan (Sthrn) started off well against number one seed Finn Tearney (Wgtn) taking a 3-0 lead in the first to unsettle Tearney. Tearney persevered to level the first 3 all, and then went to a tiebreak before prevailing. In the second it was all went Tearney's way with a 6 - 1 win in the second to secure his place in tomorrow's final.
It was an all Canterbury affair in the other semi-final between Barrett Franks and second seed Jordan Kelly-Houston. Kelly-Houston won the first set 6-3 before Franks turned the match to take the second 6-2. Kelly-Houston broke Franks serve in the fourth game to take the lead and went on to win the set 6-4.
Davis Cup Captain / Peak Performance Manager James Greenhalgh has been at the NZ Junior Champs all week and quotes "The future of men's tennis is looking bright with this crop of promising juniors emerging. It has been the best field depth-wise in the boys for many years. Three of the quarterfinalists have secured their main draw status in the all important Grand Slam Australian Open next month. This is a tribute to the RPC coaches who have developed world class training facilities for these high performance players to emerge. I look forward to seeing how their individual tennis careers evolve over the coming years."
In the girls semi-finals top seed Briar Preston (in main pic on homepage) was too strong for fellow Aucklander Imogen Golder winning her match in straight sets 6-2 6-2. Sixth seed Heidi Stewart (Wkto) continued her strong run in the tournament advancing into the final with a 6-0 6-2 win against Tiffany Wheelock (Nthrn) in their semi-final encounter.
For full results follow the link below
http://tennisnz.infonetwork.com/tournaments/results.asp?tid=5185619
Tennis : ASB CLASSIC QUALIFYING WILDCARDS CONFIRMED
The four qualifying wildcards for the 2009 ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles have been confirmed with two New Zealanders making the cut.
These will be the only two Kiwis receiving singles wildcards in either main draw or qualifying.
Auckland’s Sacha Jones (ranked at 319) who is currently at her Florida base has declined the offer of a main draw spot.
“I have decided that I want to continue working on my game and finish my six week strength and conditioning block as I really feel it will set me up for 2009,” says Jones.
Meanwhile Canterbury’s Ellen Barry who is ranked at 320 is unable to accept a wildcard as she is still recovering from wrist surgery.
Both players were recipients of main draw wildcards in 2008.
Di Hollands who has dominated the recent New Zealand Money Tournaments where she won all five titles including the New Zealand Residentials last week has earnt herself an automatic ASB Classic wildcard into qualifying.
Hollands, 25 has played for the New Zealand Fed Cup team in the past and is looking towards playing a full year on the international circuit in 2009.
Also gaining a place in the January 3-4 qualifying tournament is Auckland 19-year-old Kairangi Vano who has a current WTA ranking of 686 and is intending to compete in 2009 on the professional tour.
Dutchwoman, Michaella Krajieck who had a year disrupted by injuries is on the comeback and is the recipient of one of the four qualifying wildcards. She has a current WTA ranking of 219.
Krajicek who is still 19 has been ranked as high as 30 in the world and was the fourth seed at the 2008 ASB Classic. She was a Wimbledon quarterfinalist in 2007 and has three career singles titles to her credit.
In 2008 she was hindered with a wrist injury and also had knee surgery but still managed to score a quarterfinal result at ‘s-Hertogenbosch and won the doubles title at the same event with Kiwi, Marina Erakovic.
The fourth wildcard goes to Croatian 17-year-old Petra Matic who is rated as one of the world’s young players to watch. She is coached by Zoltan Kuharszky who has assisted Ana Ivanovic, Anke Huber and other top players in their careers.
"I am so excited to come to NZ for the first time and play in Auckland. I hear that NZ is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and that the tournament is a fantastic venue.
I'm a big fan of Lord of the Rings that I hear was filmed there so not only am I so thankful to the tournament for the opportunity to play there but also I’m excited to experience New Zealand as a country for the first time,” said Matic.
Her best result in WTA play in 2008 was reaching the quarters at the Potoroz tournament in Slovenia and won a US$75,000 ITF tournament as well.
The current cutoff for qualifying for the 2009 ASB Classic is a ranking of 165.
The ASB Classic will also feature on-court coaching for the first time as part of an initiative on Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.
The tournament will once again feature audio and video podcasting as well as live scoring.
The ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles will be played at the ASB Tennis Centre January 5-10, with qualifying January 3-4.
These will be the only two Kiwis receiving singles wildcards in either main draw or qualifying.
Auckland’s Sacha Jones (ranked at 319) who is currently at her Florida base has declined the offer of a main draw spot.
“I have decided that I want to continue working on my game and finish my six week strength and conditioning block as I really feel it will set me up for 2009,” says Jones.
Meanwhile Canterbury’s Ellen Barry who is ranked at 320 is unable to accept a wildcard as she is still recovering from wrist surgery.
Both players were recipients of main draw wildcards in 2008.
Di Hollands who has dominated the recent New Zealand Money Tournaments where she won all five titles including the New Zealand Residentials last week has earnt herself an automatic ASB Classic wildcard into qualifying.
Hollands, 25 has played for the New Zealand Fed Cup team in the past and is looking towards playing a full year on the international circuit in 2009.
Also gaining a place in the January 3-4 qualifying tournament is Auckland 19-year-old Kairangi Vano who has a current WTA ranking of 686 and is intending to compete in 2009 on the professional tour.
Dutchwoman, Michaella Krajieck who had a year disrupted by injuries is on the comeback and is the recipient of one of the four qualifying wildcards. She has a current WTA ranking of 219.
Krajicek who is still 19 has been ranked as high as 30 in the world and was the fourth seed at the 2008 ASB Classic. She was a Wimbledon quarterfinalist in 2007 and has three career singles titles to her credit.
In 2008 she was hindered with a wrist injury and also had knee surgery but still managed to score a quarterfinal result at ‘s-Hertogenbosch and won the doubles title at the same event with Kiwi, Marina Erakovic.
The fourth wildcard goes to Croatian 17-year-old Petra Matic who is rated as one of the world’s young players to watch. She is coached by Zoltan Kuharszky who has assisted Ana Ivanovic, Anke Huber and other top players in their careers.
"I am so excited to come to NZ for the first time and play in Auckland. I hear that NZ is one of the most beautiful countries in the world and that the tournament is a fantastic venue.
I'm a big fan of Lord of the Rings that I hear was filmed there so not only am I so thankful to the tournament for the opportunity to play there but also I’m excited to experience New Zealand as a country for the first time,” said Matic.
Her best result in WTA play in 2008 was reaching the quarters at the Potoroz tournament in Slovenia and won a US$75,000 ITF tournament as well.
The current cutoff for qualifying for the 2009 ASB Classic is a ranking of 165.
The ASB Classic will also feature on-court coaching for the first time as part of an initiative on Sony Ericsson WTA Tour.
The tournament will once again feature audio and video podcasting as well as live scoring.
The ASB Classic featuring the Kia Motors Singles and Doubles will be played at the ASB Tennis Centre January 5-10, with qualifying January 3-4.
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