British champion Chemmy Alcott raced to a personal best finish in the FIS World Championship Super G discipline in the race held at Val D’Isere in France earlier today, less than 12 weeks after breaking her ankle in a training accident in Canada.
Recording a time of 1min 25.19secs, Alcott, 26, from Twickenham, finished 20th in today’s race, which was won by Lindsey Vonn of the USA. Alcott thus beat her previous world championship Super G best of 22nd, set in 2005 at Santa Caterina in Italy. Today’s result was also her second best-ever in any FIS World Championship event, almost matching her 19th place in the Downhill in 2005.
Alcott had started the season well, finishing 10th in the FIS World Cup Giant Slalom race in Soelden, Austria, in October before her training accident. An intensive rehabilitation programme enabled her to return to racing three weeks ago and her 15th place in the FIS World Cup Giant Salom at Cortina D’Ampezzo nine days ago and last weekend’s 21st place in the FIS World Cup Super G race at Garmisch Partenkirchen showed that she was returning to form after the injury.
Alcott will also compete in the Downhill, Super Combined, Giant Slalom and Slalom events at Val D’Isere where Britain’s men skiers begin their championships tomorrow (Wednesday, February 4) with Ed Drake of Kingston-upon-Thames and Dougie Crawford of Glasgow both set for the Super G race.
British Alpine Ski Team Head Coach Mark Tilston said: “It was a creditable performance given that six weeks ago, Chemmy was still on crutches. It was also a difficult course, with lot of turns and bumps and it was raced in flat light conditions. It is a realistic indication of where we expected her to be, given her lack of snow time this season.”
Thursday, February 5, 2009
Equestrian : Laura Pritchard Wins The 2009 John Whitaker International Winter JA Classic Qualifier
Fourteen year old Laura Pritchard from Holyhead, Gwynedd took first place in the John Whitaker International Winter JA Classic Qualifier, held at The Hand Equestrian Centre in Clevedon. Laura had already book her place for the 2009 final which is to be held at The Royal Show in the summer.
Laura riding Tracy Pritchards’ twelve year old grey gelding Baussy Jones jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 31.45 seconds. Second place went to Jessica Mendoza from Chippenham, Wiltshire. Jessica riding Sarah Mendoza’s eleven year old chestnut mare Tixylix jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 31.57 seconds. Third place went to Timothy Wilks securing his place in the final. Timothy riding Caroline Wilks eleven year old coloured gelding The colour Of Money jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 33.35 seconds. Fourth place went to Laura Robinson securing her place in the final. Laura riding Neal Robinsons’ ten year old grey gelding Paddy Power jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 36.38 seconds. Fifth place went to Chad Fellows securing his place in the final. Chad riding Amanda Hilliards’ twelve year old dark bay gelding Snatch, jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 36.53 seconds.
The John Whitaker International Winter JA Classic Qualifier
The Hand Equestrian Centre 24th January 2009
1st Laura Pritchard riding Baussy Jones – 0/0/0 31.45 seconds
2nd Jessica Mendoza – 0/0/0 31.57 seconds
3rd Timothy Wilks riding The Colour Of Money – 0/0/0 33.35 seconds - Qualified
4th Laura Robinson riding Paddy Power – 0/0/0 36.38 seconds - Qualified
5th Chad Fellows riding Snatch – 0/0/0 36.53 seconds - Qualified
Laura riding Tracy Pritchards’ twelve year old grey gelding Baussy Jones jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 31.45 seconds. Second place went to Jessica Mendoza from Chippenham, Wiltshire. Jessica riding Sarah Mendoza’s eleven year old chestnut mare Tixylix jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 31.57 seconds. Third place went to Timothy Wilks securing his place in the final. Timothy riding Caroline Wilks eleven year old coloured gelding The colour Of Money jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 33.35 seconds. Fourth place went to Laura Robinson securing her place in the final. Laura riding Neal Robinsons’ ten year old grey gelding Paddy Power jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 36.38 seconds. Fifth place went to Chad Fellows securing his place in the final. Chad riding Amanda Hilliards’ twelve year old dark bay gelding Snatch, jumped three clear rounds in a jump off time of 36.53 seconds.
The John Whitaker International Winter JA Classic Qualifier
The Hand Equestrian Centre 24th January 2009
1st Laura Pritchard riding Baussy Jones – 0/0/0 31.45 seconds
2nd Jessica Mendoza – 0/0/0 31.57 seconds
3rd Timothy Wilks riding The Colour Of Money – 0/0/0 33.35 seconds - Qualified
4th Laura Robinson riding Paddy Power – 0/0/0 36.38 seconds - Qualified
5th Chad Fellows riding Snatch – 0/0/0 36.53 seconds - Qualified
Motor Racing : Singapore GP Circuit Fine-Tuned To Increase Overtaking
The Marina Bay circuit, home to the FORMULA 1™ Singapore Grand Prix will be fine-tuned for the 2009 event. Following consultation with the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and the teams, minor changes will be made to Turns 1, 13 and 14 to further increase the potential for overtaking, road surface improvements will be undertaken at Turns 5, 6 and 7, and revisions will be made to the Pit Lane entry and exit as well as the Turn 22 runoff area.
Drivers as well as spectators can now look forward to an enhanced experience in the 2009 season as race promoter Singapore GP Pte Ltd is looking at improving all aspects of the race after drawing upon lessons and feedback garnered from hosting the first ever night race here.
“While the circuit and the event exceeded expectations around the world, as with any brand new event, there are always things which we now know we can do better” says Technical and Race Operations Director, Michael McDonough. “Minor modifications are proposed on the track, at Turns 1, 7 and 14 in order to improve overtaking opportunities whilst the main changes will be to the Pit Entry and Pit Exit to provide added margins of safety for cars entering and leaving the pit lane.”
TURN 1
The changes to Turn 1 will involve modification to the geometry to reduce corner speed so that it provides potential overtaking opportunities in the braking zone at the approach to the corner. The modifications will involve relocating the corner apex, reducing the corner radius and thereby reducing the estimated cornering speed.
Once the cars took to the track last September, some drivers took a far wider line, turning in from the concrete verge next to the wall. Kerbing will therefore be installed on the entry to Turn 1 so as to prevent cars utilising the concrete verge to obtain a wider line into the corner.
TURN 13/14
Turn 13, the tight left handed hairpin after the historic Anderson Bridge, will be amended to increase cornering speed, providing additional speed on Esplanade Drive and increasing the opportunity for overtaking in the braking zone at Turn 14. With the revision, the cars are likely to reach speeds of approximately 275km/h along the Esplanade Drive.
In addition, the geometry of Turn 14 will also be modified to improve overtaking opportunities in the braking zone. The modifications will involve relocating the corner apex to reduce the corner radius and reducing the estimated cornering speed of the cars.
PIT LANE ENTRY
During the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, a significant speed differential was observed at the apex of Turn 22 between cars entering the pit lane and those lapping the track. A dedicated pit entry lane will be constructed to separate slowing cars from the lapping vehicles, in order to reduce any risk of interference caused by pitting vehicles on those lapping the track. The runoff distances at Turn 22 will be reduced, providing better spectator circulation in the area.
PIT LANE EXIT
For the 2008 race, the pit exit lane entered the circuit into the braking zone for Turn 1, immediately after the pit wall. Following suggestions from the FIA, the pit lane will be re-aligned and lengthened for 2009, exiting on the drivers’ left at Turn 2, away from the racing line and onto a part of the circuit where the cars will all be accelerating.
About the FORMULA 1™ Singapore Grand Prix
The inaugural FORMULA 1™ Singapore Grand Prix took place on 28 September 2008 on a street circuit of public roads around the Marina Bay area. The race was the first Formula One™ to be held at night, and the first Formula One™ street race in Asia. Over 100,000 spectators, a sell-out capacity crowd, watched the Singapore Grand Prix trackside.
The 2009 FORMULA 1™ Singapore Grand Prix will take place from 25 – 27 September 2009 at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in the heart of downtown Singapore.
Drivers as well as spectators can now look forward to an enhanced experience in the 2009 season as race promoter Singapore GP Pte Ltd is looking at improving all aspects of the race after drawing upon lessons and feedback garnered from hosting the first ever night race here.
“While the circuit and the event exceeded expectations around the world, as with any brand new event, there are always things which we now know we can do better” says Technical and Race Operations Director, Michael McDonough. “Minor modifications are proposed on the track, at Turns 1, 7 and 14 in order to improve overtaking opportunities whilst the main changes will be to the Pit Entry and Pit Exit to provide added margins of safety for cars entering and leaving the pit lane.”
TURN 1
The changes to Turn 1 will involve modification to the geometry to reduce corner speed so that it provides potential overtaking opportunities in the braking zone at the approach to the corner. The modifications will involve relocating the corner apex, reducing the corner radius and thereby reducing the estimated cornering speed.
Once the cars took to the track last September, some drivers took a far wider line, turning in from the concrete verge next to the wall. Kerbing will therefore be installed on the entry to Turn 1 so as to prevent cars utilising the concrete verge to obtain a wider line into the corner.
TURN 13/14
Turn 13, the tight left handed hairpin after the historic Anderson Bridge, will be amended to increase cornering speed, providing additional speed on Esplanade Drive and increasing the opportunity for overtaking in the braking zone at Turn 14. With the revision, the cars are likely to reach speeds of approximately 275km/h along the Esplanade Drive.
In addition, the geometry of Turn 14 will also be modified to improve overtaking opportunities in the braking zone. The modifications will involve relocating the corner apex to reduce the corner radius and reducing the estimated cornering speed of the cars.
PIT LANE ENTRY
During the 2008 Singapore Grand Prix, a significant speed differential was observed at the apex of Turn 22 between cars entering the pit lane and those lapping the track. A dedicated pit entry lane will be constructed to separate slowing cars from the lapping vehicles, in order to reduce any risk of interference caused by pitting vehicles on those lapping the track. The runoff distances at Turn 22 will be reduced, providing better spectator circulation in the area.
PIT LANE EXIT
For the 2008 race, the pit exit lane entered the circuit into the braking zone for Turn 1, immediately after the pit wall. Following suggestions from the FIA, the pit lane will be re-aligned and lengthened for 2009, exiting on the drivers’ left at Turn 2, away from the racing line and onto a part of the circuit where the cars will all be accelerating.
About the FORMULA 1™ Singapore Grand Prix
The inaugural FORMULA 1™ Singapore Grand Prix took place on 28 September 2008 on a street circuit of public roads around the Marina Bay area. The race was the first Formula One™ to be held at night, and the first Formula One™ street race in Asia. Over 100,000 spectators, a sell-out capacity crowd, watched the Singapore Grand Prix trackside.
The 2009 FORMULA 1™ Singapore Grand Prix will take place from 25 – 27 September 2009 at the Marina Bay Street Circuit in the heart of downtown Singapore.
Rugby : Old Trafford To Host England Against Argentina
ENGLAND will play Argentina at Old Trafford in the first Test of this summer’s two-game series.
The 76,000 all-seater home of Premier League champions Manchester United will host England and the Pumas on Saturday, June 6 (4pm kick-off) with the second Test in Argentina on Saturday, June 13 (venue to be confirmed).
In partnership with Manchester City Council and the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), the Rugby Football Union are taking an England international to Manchester for the first time since 1997.
RFU Chief Executive Francis Baron said: "We received a request from the Argentinean Rugby Union to play one of the tests in England to generate funds to invest in their squads.
“We are delighted to have been able to help them by securing Old Trafford, one of the most famous football stadiums in the world, and our thanks go to Manchester City Council, the NWDA and Old Trafford itself.
“Rugby Union is thriving in the North West and this is a great opportunity for us to play a match away from Twickenham and aid the development of the game in the region. Tickets will be competitively priced and we are looking forward to a great occasion.”
Ricardo García Fernández, Chairman of the Professional Rugby Board of the Union Argentina de Rugby, said: “We are really happy with the agreement with the Rugby Football Union to play the first Test match in Manchester. Those extra funds we will get for playing there allow us to continue investing in our local development programmes.
“Regarding the second Test to be played on June 13 in Argentina, we will know the venue at the end of February after having concluded the diligences with those local unions that have applied for hosting this Test match.”
Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure at Manchester City Council, said: "Manchester is proud to be hosting an England international, the first to have been staged outside of the capital for over a decade. This yet again reinforces our position as a world-class destination for sport.
“Manchester City Council has worked hard to help secure this event which underlines our commitment to bringing major sports events to the City. We hope this is just the start and we will continue to bring international rugby matches to Manchester in the future.
“This opportunity has allowed us to strengthen our links with the RFU, with whom we're already working with, to develop the sport across the City. This event will help us to support local schools, clubs and communities to get involved in rugby activities whilst enjoying world class rugby on our doorstep."
Peter Mearns, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at the NWDA, added: “Securing this match between two world class teams is a fantastic coup for Manchester. Sport makes a huge contribution to our regional economy and we expect tens of thousands of fans to head to Manchester in June. We are pleased to have been involved in bringing such a high-profile event to the region.”
Manchester United Chief Executive David Gill said: “We are delighted that Old Trafford has been chosen to host this international fixture. It underlines the stadium as one of the premier venues in world sport and we look forward to welcoming both teams to the Theatre of Dreams.”
Ticketing details will be available in due course.
----------------------------
• England played at Old Trafford in November 1997 when they lost 25-8.
• England last played a game away from Twickenham in England in November 1998 when they beat Holland 110-0 and Italy 23-15 respectively at the then McAlpine Stadium in Huddersfield.
The 76,000 all-seater home of Premier League champions Manchester United will host England and the Pumas on Saturday, June 6 (4pm kick-off) with the second Test in Argentina on Saturday, June 13 (venue to be confirmed).
In partnership with Manchester City Council and the Northwest Regional Development Agency (NWDA), the Rugby Football Union are taking an England international to Manchester for the first time since 1997.
RFU Chief Executive Francis Baron said: "We received a request from the Argentinean Rugby Union to play one of the tests in England to generate funds to invest in their squads.
“We are delighted to have been able to help them by securing Old Trafford, one of the most famous football stadiums in the world, and our thanks go to Manchester City Council, the NWDA and Old Trafford itself.
“Rugby Union is thriving in the North West and this is a great opportunity for us to play a match away from Twickenham and aid the development of the game in the region. Tickets will be competitively priced and we are looking forward to a great occasion.”
Ricardo García Fernández, Chairman of the Professional Rugby Board of the Union Argentina de Rugby, said: “We are really happy with the agreement with the Rugby Football Union to play the first Test match in Manchester. Those extra funds we will get for playing there allow us to continue investing in our local development programmes.
“Regarding the second Test to be played on June 13 in Argentina, we will know the venue at the end of February after having concluded the diligences with those local unions that have applied for hosting this Test match.”
Councillor Mike Amesbury, Executive Member for Culture and Leisure at Manchester City Council, said: "Manchester is proud to be hosting an England international, the first to have been staged outside of the capital for over a decade. This yet again reinforces our position as a world-class destination for sport.
“Manchester City Council has worked hard to help secure this event which underlines our commitment to bringing major sports events to the City. We hope this is just the start and we will continue to bring international rugby matches to Manchester in the future.
“This opportunity has allowed us to strengthen our links with the RFU, with whom we're already working with, to develop the sport across the City. This event will help us to support local schools, clubs and communities to get involved in rugby activities whilst enjoying world class rugby on our doorstep."
Peter Mearns, Executive Director of Marketing and Communications at the NWDA, added: “Securing this match between two world class teams is a fantastic coup for Manchester. Sport makes a huge contribution to our regional economy and we expect tens of thousands of fans to head to Manchester in June. We are pleased to have been involved in bringing such a high-profile event to the region.”
Manchester United Chief Executive David Gill said: “We are delighted that Old Trafford has been chosen to host this international fixture. It underlines the stadium as one of the premier venues in world sport and we look forward to welcoming both teams to the Theatre of Dreams.”
Ticketing details will be available in due course.
----------------------------
• England played at Old Trafford in November 1997 when they lost 25-8.
• England last played a game away from Twickenham in England in November 1998 when they beat Holland 110-0 and Italy 23-15 respectively at the then McAlpine Stadium in Huddersfield.
Sport Industry Awards 2009 – Official Shortlist
The Sport Industry Group is delighted to unveil the Official Shortlist for the Sport Industry Awards 2009.
After a steering committee process involving over 50 key industry figures and 40 hours of intensive judging, the list of nominees below represents the very best that the sports marketing industry had to offer over the course of 2008.
With a substantial year-on-year increase in entries for the Sport Industry Awards, reaching the shortlist represents a stellar achievement, so many congratulations.
The nominees listed below will now go forward to the main judging panel, headed by Chairman and BBC broadcaster John Inverdale, who will decide the winners in each of the 12 award categories.
The results will be announced at the star-studded Awards ceremony on 30th April in front of 1,400 industry representatives.
The Sport Industry Awards 2009 Shortlist
Best Sponsorship of a Sport Event or Competition
Castrol - Castrol UEFA Euro2008 Sponsorship
Guinness - Guinness Premiership
iShares - iShares Cup Extreme 40 Sailing Series 2008
Powerade - Official Sports Drink of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games
Speedo - 9th FINA Swimming Championships Manchester 2008
Visa - The Visa London 2012 Party
The Technological Innovation in Sport Award
Aqua Sphere - Vista Cross-Swim Goggle
Everton FC - Everton Bluetooth
HI-TEC - HI-TEC featuring ion mask
Johnson & Johnson - The Road to Beijing
Speedo - Speedo LZR Racer
Best Use of PR in a Sport Campaign
Sponsored by Action Images
AVIVA - Community Chest Challenge
E.ON – Carbon Footyprint
McDonald's - 'When Theo's mum met Rio's mum'
Premier League - Creating Chances Places for Players
Reebok - Lewis Hamilton - The Art of Driving
Speedo - Speedo LZR Racer
The Community Programme Award
Football Foundation, Premier League and Metropolitan Police - Kickz
McDonald's - 'When Theo's mum met Rio's mum'
npower - npower Urban Cricket
Preston North End and NHS Central Lancashire - Healthy Lifestyles Scheme
The Cricket Foundation - Chance to Shine
The FA and Tesco- The FA Tesco Skills Programme
Best Promotion of a Sport by a Governing Body
British Horseracing Authority - Go Jump Racing
ECB – TwelfthMan - Get Closer to England Cricket
English Golf Union & the English Women’s Golf Association - National Skills Challenge
NBA - Growing the Game of Basketball
The FA - The FA Tesco Skills Programme
The Football League - Enjoy the Match
Best Digital Sport Marketing Campaign
Sponsored by Sky Digital Media
adidas - London Marathon Competitor Tracking
Barclaycard – Barclaycard World Freerun Championships
Nike - 'Their Game. Your Finishing Touch' NIKEiD Campaign
British Horseracing Authority – Raceday for Schools
The FA - Respect
Women's Sport and Fitness Foundation - Sweat in the City
Best TV Sport Commercial
Sponsored by Eurosport
adidas - Dassler Originals
adidas - Dream Big
BBC Sport Marketing – Monkey - Journey to the East
EA SPORTS - Let's FIFA 09
Nike - Take it to the Next Level
ParalympicsGB - Superheroes
Best Sponsorship of a Sport Team or Individual
Sponsored by Nolan Partners
adidas - adidas & Chelsea FC
Budweiser - Official Beer of Manchester United
Coca-Cola - Coke Zero Presents: Wayne Rooney Street Striker
JPMorgan Asset Management - Title Sponsorship of Ben Ainslie's Olympic Campaign
Samsung Electronics - Chelsea Football Club Sponsorship
Vodafone - Vodafone McLaren Mercedes F1 Team Sponsorship
Sport Newspaper of the Year
Sponsored by UK Sport
The Daily Telegraph
The Guardian
The Observer
The Sun
The Sunday Times
The Times
Best Integrated Sport Marketing Campaign
EA SPORTS - Let's FIFA 09
E.ON – Carbon Footyprint
Harlequins - The Big Game
Samsung Electronics - 'Experience Football'
The FA and Tesco- The FA Tesco Skills Integrated Programme
Wrigley - Airwaves Pro
Sport Brand of the Year
Sponsored by Clarke Willmott
BBC Sport
Nike
Speedo
Sport Agency of the Year
Fast Track
Four Sports, Arts & Sponsorship
M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment
MEC Access
Octagon
Synergy
After a steering committee process involving over 50 key industry figures and 40 hours of intensive judging, the list of nominees below represents the very best that the sports marketing industry had to offer over the course of 2008.
With a substantial year-on-year increase in entries for the Sport Industry Awards, reaching the shortlist represents a stellar achievement, so many congratulations.
The nominees listed below will now go forward to the main judging panel, headed by Chairman and BBC broadcaster John Inverdale, who will decide the winners in each of the 12 award categories.
The results will be announced at the star-studded Awards ceremony on 30th April in front of 1,400 industry representatives.
The Sport Industry Awards 2009 Shortlist
Best Sponsorship of a Sport Event or Competition
Castrol - Castrol UEFA Euro2008 Sponsorship
Guinness - Guinness Premiership
iShares - iShares Cup Extreme 40 Sailing Series 2008
Powerade - Official Sports Drink of the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games
Speedo - 9th FINA Swimming Championships Manchester 2008
Visa - The Visa London 2012 Party
The Technological Innovation in Sport Award
Aqua Sphere - Vista Cross-Swim Goggle
Everton FC - Everton Bluetooth
HI-TEC - HI-TEC featuring ion mask
Johnson & Johnson - The Road to Beijing
Speedo - Speedo LZR Racer
Best Use of PR in a Sport Campaign
Sponsored by Action Images
AVIVA - Community Chest Challenge
E.ON – Carbon Footyprint
McDonald's - 'When Theo's mum met Rio's mum'
Premier League - Creating Chances Places for Players
Reebok - Lewis Hamilton - The Art of Driving
Speedo - Speedo LZR Racer
The Community Programme Award
Football Foundation, Premier League and Metropolitan Police - Kickz
McDonald's - 'When Theo's mum met Rio's mum'
npower - npower Urban Cricket
Preston North End and NHS Central Lancashire - Healthy Lifestyles Scheme
The Cricket Foundation - Chance to Shine
The FA and Tesco- The FA Tesco Skills Programme
Best Promotion of a Sport by a Governing Body
British Horseracing Authority - Go Jump Racing
ECB – TwelfthMan - Get Closer to England Cricket
English Golf Union & the English Women’s Golf Association - National Skills Challenge
NBA - Growing the Game of Basketball
The FA - The FA Tesco Skills Programme
The Football League - Enjoy the Match
Best Digital Sport Marketing Campaign
Sponsored by Sky Digital Media
adidas - London Marathon Competitor Tracking
Barclaycard – Barclaycard World Freerun Championships
Nike - 'Their Game. Your Finishing Touch' NIKEiD Campaign
British Horseracing Authority – Raceday for Schools
The FA - Respect
Women's Sport and Fitness Foundation - Sweat in the City
Best TV Sport Commercial
Sponsored by Eurosport
adidas - Dassler Originals
adidas - Dream Big
BBC Sport Marketing – Monkey - Journey to the East
EA SPORTS - Let's FIFA 09
Nike - Take it to the Next Level
ParalympicsGB - Superheroes
Best Sponsorship of a Sport Team or Individual
Sponsored by Nolan Partners
adidas - adidas & Chelsea FC
Budweiser - Official Beer of Manchester United
Coca-Cola - Coke Zero Presents: Wayne Rooney Street Striker
JPMorgan Asset Management - Title Sponsorship of Ben Ainslie's Olympic Campaign
Samsung Electronics - Chelsea Football Club Sponsorship
Vodafone - Vodafone McLaren Mercedes F1 Team Sponsorship
Sport Newspaper of the Year
Sponsored by UK Sport
The Daily Telegraph
The Guardian
The Observer
The Sun
The Sunday Times
The Times
Best Integrated Sport Marketing Campaign
EA SPORTS - Let's FIFA 09
E.ON – Carbon Footyprint
Harlequins - The Big Game
Samsung Electronics - 'Experience Football'
The FA and Tesco- The FA Tesco Skills Integrated Programme
Wrigley - Airwaves Pro
Sport Brand of the Year
Sponsored by Clarke Willmott
BBC Sport
Nike
Speedo
Sport Agency of the Year
Fast Track
Four Sports, Arts & Sponsorship
M&C Saatchi Sport & Entertainment
MEC Access
Octagon
Synergy
Football : Boertien Pens New Deal
WALSALL Football Club have today extended the contract of Paul Boertien until the end of the season.
The Saddlers’ left-back signed a six-month contract in the summer and boss Chris Hutchings is delighted to have secured the services of the 30 year-old for the remainder of the campaign.
“Paul is a very experienced player,” explained Hutchings. “We are delighted to have secured his services until the end of the season.
“I am sure he will play an important role at this football club throughout the remainder of the campaign.”
The Saddlers’ left-back signed a six-month contract in the summer and boss Chris Hutchings is delighted to have secured the services of the 30 year-old for the remainder of the campaign.
“Paul is a very experienced player,” explained Hutchings. “We are delighted to have secured his services until the end of the season.
“I am sure he will play an important role at this football club throughout the remainder of the campaign.”
Football : Menseguez Makes Albion Move
ALBION have completed a beat-the-deadline swoop for Juan Carlos Menseguez.
The 24-year-old right-winger has joined on loan until the end of the season, with a view to a permanent move, from ten-times Argentine Primera Division champions San Lorenzo.
The relevant paperwork was processed literally seconds before the winter transfer window closed at 5pm.
Menseguez will be available to make his Barclays Premier League debut against Newcastle on Saturday (ko 3pm) - subject to international clearance being granted.
He made 14 appearances for San Lorenzo during the Primera Division Apertura, which finished late December.
The Cordoba-born player helped his team tie on points with Boca Juniors and Tigre at the top of the 19-game championship to force a three-way play-off, before finishing third on goal difference.
The pacey wideman also has experience of competing in the Copa Libertadores - South America's equivalent of the Champions League. He started his career as a junior at South-American giants River Plate and penned his first professional contract in 2002.
Menseguez joined VfL Wolfsburg on loan during the 2003/04 campaign and sealed a permanent move to the German outfit the following season.
After three seasons in the Bundesliga, the 5ft8in ace returned to Argentina to join then-Primera Division Clausura champions San Lorenzo in 2007.
In total, Menseguez has made 136 career league appearances, including 53 as a substitute, scoring ten times.
The 24-year-old right-winger has joined on loan until the end of the season, with a view to a permanent move, from ten-times Argentine Primera Division champions San Lorenzo.
The relevant paperwork was processed literally seconds before the winter transfer window closed at 5pm.
Menseguez will be available to make his Barclays Premier League debut against Newcastle on Saturday (ko 3pm) - subject to international clearance being granted.
He made 14 appearances for San Lorenzo during the Primera Division Apertura, which finished late December.
The Cordoba-born player helped his team tie on points with Boca Juniors and Tigre at the top of the 19-game championship to force a three-way play-off, before finishing third on goal difference.
The pacey wideman also has experience of competing in the Copa Libertadores - South America's equivalent of the Champions League. He started his career as a junior at South-American giants River Plate and penned his first professional contract in 2002.
Menseguez joined VfL Wolfsburg on loan during the 2003/04 campaign and sealed a permanent move to the German outfit the following season.
After three seasons in the Bundesliga, the 5ft8in ace returned to Argentina to join then-Primera Division Clausura champions San Lorenzo in 2007.
In total, Menseguez has made 136 career league appearances, including 53 as a substitute, scoring ten times.
Rugby : Keven Mealamu re-signs
All Blacks hooker and Blues captain Keven Mealamu has agreed to a two-year contract extension with the New Zealand Rugby Union and Auckland Rugby and re-signed through to the end of 2011.
Mealamu, whose previous contract was through to the end of 2009, joins a group of leading players who have committed to New Zealand rugby through to 2011, including All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Ma’a Nonu and Andrew Hore.
29-year-old Mealamu, who captained the All Blacks against Scotland on last year’s Grand Slam tour, said he loved playing rugby in New Zealand.
“I love playing for Auckland, the Blues and the All Blacks. For me, the best way to show my commitment to continue playing rugby in New Zealand was to sign until the end of 2011.
“I believe it’s an honour to play for the All Blacks and it would be very special indeed to play at a Rugby World Cup held in our country. Also, my wife and I believe the best place to raise our young family is right here.”
New Zealand Rugby Union CEO Steve Tew said Mealamu was not only a key rugby player for the All Blacks, the Blues and his Auckland team but “an exceptional person” as well.
“He is a leader in the All Blacks, respected by his peers and a key influence for younger players as well and we are delighted to have him re-sign with New Zealand rugby.”
Auckland Rugby and Blues CEO Andy Dalton said Mealamu’s significant commitment to local and national rugby over the next few years epitomised the integrity of the Blues’ captain.
“Keven is one of the most respected players in the game today, both at home and abroad. He represents what is great about the game of rugby, on and off the field. We are extremely proud to have him in our union and franchise and welcome the continuance of our partnership.”
Mealamu, whose previous contract was through to the end of 2009, joins a group of leading players who have committed to New Zealand rugby through to 2011, including All Blacks captain Richie McCaw, Dan Carter, Ma’a Nonu and Andrew Hore.
29-year-old Mealamu, who captained the All Blacks against Scotland on last year’s Grand Slam tour, said he loved playing rugby in New Zealand.
“I love playing for Auckland, the Blues and the All Blacks. For me, the best way to show my commitment to continue playing rugby in New Zealand was to sign until the end of 2011.
“I believe it’s an honour to play for the All Blacks and it would be very special indeed to play at a Rugby World Cup held in our country. Also, my wife and I believe the best place to raise our young family is right here.”
New Zealand Rugby Union CEO Steve Tew said Mealamu was not only a key rugby player for the All Blacks, the Blues and his Auckland team but “an exceptional person” as well.
“He is a leader in the All Blacks, respected by his peers and a key influence for younger players as well and we are delighted to have him re-sign with New Zealand rugby.”
Auckland Rugby and Blues CEO Andy Dalton said Mealamu’s significant commitment to local and national rugby over the next few years epitomised the integrity of the Blues’ captain.
“Keven is one of the most respected players in the game today, both at home and abroad. He represents what is great about the game of rugby, on and off the field. We are extremely proud to have him in our union and franchise and welcome the continuance of our partnership.”
Cricket : Exciting relationship between Cricket Wellington and Whitireia Polytechnic
The Wellington School of Cricket and Whitireia Polytechnic have entered into an exciting joint venture involving the securing of international students to study at Whitireia and also complete a two-year cricket education module with the Wellington School of Cricket.
The first intake of four Sri Lankan international students arrives in Wellington between February and June. The first intakes of international students are aged 18-21 and Cricket Wellington is hopeful in year two of extending the programme to involve secondary school aged players.
The first intake of four Sri Lankan international students arrives in Wellington between February and June. The first intakes of international students are aged 18-21 and Cricket Wellington is hopeful in year two of extending the programme to involve secondary school aged players.
Cricket : Blaze win women's Twenty20 title
Congratulations to the State Wellington Blaze for winning the State League Twenty20 title in a thriller against the State Canterbury Magicians.
The Blaze bowled out the Magicians for 123 inside their allotted 20 overs and then chased down the target with nine balls to spare, opener Lucy Doolan scoring 63 off 52 balls.
The previous day's State League 50-over final between the same teams also went down to the wire, Canterbury hitting the winning runs off the last ball of the game.
The Blaze bowled out the Magicians for 123 inside their allotted 20 overs and then chased down the target with nine balls to spare, opener Lucy Doolan scoring 63 off 52 balls.
The previous day's State League 50-over final between the same teams also went down to the wire, Canterbury hitting the winning runs off the last ball of the game.
Cricket : Are you NZ's biggest hitter????
The search is now on for New Zealand's BIGGEST HITTER. State and New Zealand Cricket are looking for the cricket fan who can smash the biggest ball, to set an unofficial world record on Thursday, February 26.
Each regional State Big Hits winner will be invited to the "hit off" in Wellington at the end of February, against the biggest hitters from the men's State domestic teams and the BLACKCAPS.
You can play Big Hits online too, in a fun appetiser to the real big hitting action on the field.
Each regional State Big Hits winner will be invited to the "hit off" in Wellington at the end of February, against the biggest hitters from the men's State domestic teams and the BLACKCAPS.
You can play Big Hits online too, in a fun appetiser to the real big hitting action on the field.
Cricket : Waitangi Day Specials!
Get on down to the Allied Nationwide Finance Basin Reserve for a TWENTY20 double header this weekend! It's cricket but not as we know it!
Kick off Waitangi Day on the bank of the Basin with high octane rock 'n' roll cricket, 11am - 2pm. It's the best way to start your weekend with a complimentary beer for paying adults, the Bodyworks dance crew, and a free bus to the Sevens post match.
TWENTY20 is set to light up the Basin Reserve over the next two weeks with four home games. It starts this weekend as the Firebirds take on the State Otago Volts tomorrow and the State Northern Knights on Sunday.
State Wellington Firebirds v State Otago Volts, 6 February 11am-2pm
Twenty20 at the Basin starts with a $10 adult ticket special (under 18's $5). It is the perfect entree to the Sevens party or a relaxing day off work or school.
Highlights include:
COMPLIMENTARY beer coupon with all paying adult tickets
Free Speights straw hat with every four beers purchased
Free buses from the Basin to Westpac Stadium for rugby Sevens fans
Bodyworks dance crew
State Wellington Firebirds v State Northern Knights, 8 February 2pm-5pm
Take a picnic to the bank at the Basin.
Highlights include:
Under 18's FREE (with any paying adult)
Junior Firebirds Guard of Honour on to the field
Win Jesse Ryder's bat
State Sixes competition, State hospitality competition and much more
Adult tickets $15
Tickets for all games can be purchased at the gates. Gates open one hour before the start of play
Kick off Waitangi Day on the bank of the Basin with high octane rock 'n' roll cricket, 11am - 2pm. It's the best way to start your weekend with a complimentary beer for paying adults, the Bodyworks dance crew, and a free bus to the Sevens post match.
TWENTY20 is set to light up the Basin Reserve over the next two weeks with four home games. It starts this weekend as the Firebirds take on the State Otago Volts tomorrow and the State Northern Knights on Sunday.
State Wellington Firebirds v State Otago Volts, 6 February 11am-2pm
Twenty20 at the Basin starts with a $10 adult ticket special (under 18's $5). It is the perfect entree to the Sevens party or a relaxing day off work or school.
Highlights include:
COMPLIMENTARY beer coupon with all paying adult tickets
Free Speights straw hat with every four beers purchased
Free buses from the Basin to Westpac Stadium for rugby Sevens fans
Bodyworks dance crew
State Wellington Firebirds v State Northern Knights, 8 February 2pm-5pm
Take a picnic to the bank at the Basin.
Highlights include:
Under 18's FREE (with any paying adult)
Junior Firebirds Guard of Honour on to the field
Win Jesse Ryder's bat
State Sixes competition, State hospitality competition and much more
Adult tickets $15
Tickets for all games can be purchased at the gates. Gates open one hour before the start of play
Baseball : YANKEES ACQUIRE OF/C ERIC FRYER FROM MILWAUKEE
The New York Yankees today acquired outfielder/catcher Eric Fryer from the Milwaukee Brewers in exchange for left-handed pitcher Chase Wright.
Fryer, 23, batted .335 (129-for-385) with 26 doubles, five triples, 10 home runs and 63 RBI in 104 games with Single-A West Virginia in 2008, seeing time at left field, catcher, first base and designated hitter. He led the South Atlantic League in batting average and on-base percentage (.407) and ranked third in slugging percentage (.506). Fryer was originally selected by the Brewers in the 10th round of the 2007 First-Year Player Draft out of Ohio State University. He will be assigned to Single-A Tampa.
Wright, 25, posted a 10-3 record with one save and a 2.85 ERA in 24 combined appearances (22 starts) with Double-A Trenton, the GCL Yankees and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in 2008, ranking fifth in wins among Yankees minor leaguers. The left-hander’s lone Major League action came in 2007 with the Yankees, going 2-0 with a 7.20 ERA in three appearances (two starts). He was designated for assignment on January 27, when LHP Andy Pettitte was re-signed and added to the 40-man roster.
Fryer, 23, batted .335 (129-for-385) with 26 doubles, five triples, 10 home runs and 63 RBI in 104 games with Single-A West Virginia in 2008, seeing time at left field, catcher, first base and designated hitter. He led the South Atlantic League in batting average and on-base percentage (.407) and ranked third in slugging percentage (.506). Fryer was originally selected by the Brewers in the 10th round of the 2007 First-Year Player Draft out of Ohio State University. He will be assigned to Single-A Tampa.
Wright, 25, posted a 10-3 record with one save and a 2.85 ERA in 24 combined appearances (22 starts) with Double-A Trenton, the GCL Yankees and Triple-A Scranton/Wilkes-Barre in 2008, ranking fifth in wins among Yankees minor leaguers. The left-hander’s lone Major League action came in 2007 with the Yankees, going 2-0 with a 7.20 ERA in three appearances (two starts). He was designated for assignment on January 27, when LHP Andy Pettitte was re-signed and added to the 40-man roster.
sailing : Day 87 onboard Roxy in the Vendée Globe
Sam Davies’ daily log - Azores here we come!
“Hello everyone!
I have just woken up as the wind has dropped a little and Roxy has changed motion slightly. The half moon is brightly lighting up the sky and I can see a squall cloud ahead that marks the return of the wind, probably with the strengthening that is forecast. I am ready to change from Solent to Staysail...
I had a bit of a shock just now as there was an EYE staring up at me from the cockpit floor, like in a scary movie! I guessed that it had been ejected in a high-impact collision between fish and boat, and I am sure I will find its owner in the morning. I just don't want to tread on it with bare feet!
The peaceful days of trade wind sailing are soon behind me as I start to have to manoeuvre around and across the Azores high pressure. I am going to need some big energy reserves to do the manoeuvres and stacking required in the next few days. Maybe, when I tack and change the stack, I will find where my Imp has stashed away the head torches, socks, scissors, winch grease and Nutella; well, maybe not the Nutella! If I were to find the Imp perhaps I could train him to help me stack the gear...
Now the finish is getting nearer, I am starting to look forward to things that I haven't thought about much before, like fresh fruit and vegetables and a long hot shower. I wonder if I'll be able to lie still for a whole night's sleep?
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 3rd position, 2,050 miles from the finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne, France
“Hello everyone!
I have just woken up as the wind has dropped a little and Roxy has changed motion slightly. The half moon is brightly lighting up the sky and I can see a squall cloud ahead that marks the return of the wind, probably with the strengthening that is forecast. I am ready to change from Solent to Staysail...
I had a bit of a shock just now as there was an EYE staring up at me from the cockpit floor, like in a scary movie! I guessed that it had been ejected in a high-impact collision between fish and boat, and I am sure I will find its owner in the morning. I just don't want to tread on it with bare feet!
The peaceful days of trade wind sailing are soon behind me as I start to have to manoeuvre around and across the Azores high pressure. I am going to need some big energy reserves to do the manoeuvres and stacking required in the next few days. Maybe, when I tack and change the stack, I will find where my Imp has stashed away the head torches, socks, scissors, winch grease and Nutella; well, maybe not the Nutella! If I were to find the Imp perhaps I could train him to help me stack the gear...
Now the finish is getting nearer, I am starting to look forward to things that I haven't thought about much before, like fresh fruit and vegetables and a long hot shower. I wonder if I'll be able to lie still for a whole night's sleep?
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 3rd position, 2,050 miles from the finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne, France
Tennis : CLEAN SWEEP FOR NEW ZEALAND FED CUP TEAM IN ROUND 1
The New Zealand Fed Cup Team made up of Marina Erakovic, Dianne Hollands, Kairangi Vano and Shona Lee have had a successful first day in their 2009 Fed Cup campaign, defeating India 3-0.
Hollands and Erakovic started the day in the singles with convincing straight set wins. Holllands defeated Rushmi Chakravarthi (IND) 6-3 6-0 while Erakovic, playing in the number 1 position, won against Ankita Bhambri (IND) 6-3 6-2.
In the doubles Vano and Erakovic took on Ankita & Sanaa Bhambri (IND) with the kiwis denying India any points in the rubber by taking the match 6-2 6-3.
The New Zealand Fed Cup Team is in Pool A along with India, Indonesia and Uzbekistan.
Hollands and Erakovic started the day in the singles with convincing straight set wins. Holllands defeated Rushmi Chakravarthi (IND) 6-3 6-0 while Erakovic, playing in the number 1 position, won against Ankita Bhambri (IND) 6-3 6-2.
In the doubles Vano and Erakovic took on Ankita & Sanaa Bhambri (IND) with the kiwis denying India any points in the rubber by taking the match 6-2 6-3.
The New Zealand Fed Cup Team is in Pool A along with India, Indonesia and Uzbekistan.
Sailing : PUMA ready for Qingdao In Port Race
New boom has arrived in China
February 4, 2009 – PUMA today confirmed that they are ready for the Qingdao In Port Race this Saturday, February 7th. Whilst other boats in the fleet are fighting to keep themselves in the race, the PUMA Ocean Racing shore crew has worked day and night to ensure PUMA is ready for the third In Port weekend of the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09. Complete with new boom and all structural damage repaired, PUMA’s il mostro was today the first boat to be lifted back into the water and will be on the start line in Fushan Bay, Qingdao, China at 1300 local/0500 GMT/0000 EST on Saturday.
Four boats are expected to compete in the In Port race this weekend; PUMA, Green Dragon, Telefonica Blue and Ericsson 4, all of whom completed leg four of the race and are currently based in Qingdao. In Port racing is comprised of two short 50 minute races, which are designed to show off these incredible racing machines to spectators both on the water and lining the shores of the race village. Both races count for points towards the team’s overall score in the epic nine-month 37,000 mile round the world race. With up to four points to be earned by Saturday’s winner, the In Port racing is set to pull these four boats well ahead of the remainder of the fleet in the overall race standings.
Sailing onboard il mostro for the In Port race will be PUMA’s Ocean Racing team of Ken Read, Skipper; Andrew Cape, Navigator; Justin Ferris, Trimmer; Sidney Gavignet, Trimmer; Jerry Kirby, Bowman; Rob Greenhalgh, Main; Michi Mueller, Grinder/Sewer; Erle Williams, Tactician; Rob Salthouse, Pit; Casey Smith, Bowman; Shannon Falcone, Trimmer/Pit and Joe Fanelli, Grinder. Rick Deppe, PUMA’s Media Specialist will also be onboard providing a live video stream straight from the boat, which can be viewed at www.volvooceanrace.tv in real time on race day.
Skipper Ken Read commented: “This was always going to be a tough stopover for us, with really only a week between the leg finish and the In Port race. After the extremely tough leg we just had here from Singapore, it’s been even harder to get ourselves ready for this weekend. As average temperatures here in Qingdao have been below five degrees, it’s a tough place to work on a boat. But, as always, our shore team have performed miracles. Our new boom arrived on Tuesday, our boat builders have been working hard to clean up a few things inside the boat, we were lifted into the water today [Wednesday] and even hope to get out for a training sail tomorrow and Friday. We’re ramped up and ready to go.”
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
Alongside PUMA’s entry in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA has launched a full range of marine clothing and apparel, from offshore sailing gear to onshore lifestyle fashion. The PUMA Sailing Performance collection was developed and tested by the PUMA Ocean Racing team itself, and is worn by the team throughout the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09. The PUMA Sailing Lifestyle collection takes inspiration from the sport.
February 4, 2009 – PUMA today confirmed that they are ready for the Qingdao In Port Race this Saturday, February 7th. Whilst other boats in the fleet are fighting to keep themselves in the race, the PUMA Ocean Racing shore crew has worked day and night to ensure PUMA is ready for the third In Port weekend of the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09. Complete with new boom and all structural damage repaired, PUMA’s il mostro was today the first boat to be lifted back into the water and will be on the start line in Fushan Bay, Qingdao, China at 1300 local/0500 GMT/0000 EST on Saturday.
Four boats are expected to compete in the In Port race this weekend; PUMA, Green Dragon, Telefonica Blue and Ericsson 4, all of whom completed leg four of the race and are currently based in Qingdao. In Port racing is comprised of two short 50 minute races, which are designed to show off these incredible racing machines to spectators both on the water and lining the shores of the race village. Both races count for points towards the team’s overall score in the epic nine-month 37,000 mile round the world race. With up to four points to be earned by Saturday’s winner, the In Port racing is set to pull these four boats well ahead of the remainder of the fleet in the overall race standings.
Sailing onboard il mostro for the In Port race will be PUMA’s Ocean Racing team of Ken Read, Skipper; Andrew Cape, Navigator; Justin Ferris, Trimmer; Sidney Gavignet, Trimmer; Jerry Kirby, Bowman; Rob Greenhalgh, Main; Michi Mueller, Grinder/Sewer; Erle Williams, Tactician; Rob Salthouse, Pit; Casey Smith, Bowman; Shannon Falcone, Trimmer/Pit and Joe Fanelli, Grinder. Rick Deppe, PUMA’s Media Specialist will also be onboard providing a live video stream straight from the boat, which can be viewed at www.volvooceanrace.tv in real time on race day.
Skipper Ken Read commented: “This was always going to be a tough stopover for us, with really only a week between the leg finish and the In Port race. After the extremely tough leg we just had here from Singapore, it’s been even harder to get ourselves ready for this weekend. As average temperatures here in Qingdao have been below five degrees, it’s a tough place to work on a boat. But, as always, our shore team have performed miracles. Our new boom arrived on Tuesday, our boat builders have been working hard to clean up a few things inside the boat, we were lifted into the water today [Wednesday] and even hope to get out for a training sail tomorrow and Friday. We’re ramped up and ready to go.”
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
Alongside PUMA’s entry in the Volvo Ocean Race, PUMA has launched a full range of marine clothing and apparel, from offshore sailing gear to onshore lifestyle fashion. The PUMA Sailing Performance collection was developed and tested by the PUMA Ocean Racing team itself, and is worn by the team throughout the Volvo Ocean Race 2008-09. The PUMA Sailing Lifestyle collection takes inspiration from the sport.
NRL: Titans duo prove to be Heroes with Hearts
Caption: Titans halfback Brad Davis and outside back Esi Tonga with children from Currumbin Community Special School
Jetstar Gold Coast Titans duo Brad Davis and Esi Tonga today proved to be Heroes with Hearts after spending time with special needs children at the Currumbin Community Special School.
The visit to CCSS was part of the Heroes with Hearts appeal, an initiative aimed at raising awareness and funds for the school which will culminate with a charity gala dinner on Thursday, February 26.
Halfback Davis and rising talent Tonga were only too happy to answer the call from students, donating their time to talk and play with the special needs children at CCSS.
The visit was particularly relevant for Davis, who is a qualified Physical Education teacher and enjoys the chance to get out to schools in between training sessions.
“It’s been great. It’s all about raising awareness for the Heroes with Hearts dinner and trying to get as many people to go in February,’’ said Davis.
“It’s all about having a hero and hopefully their heroes care about them.
“It’s very rewarding, it’s great to come out and spend the day with the kids. They’ve all got smiles on their faces and they’re very enthusiastic.
“Any chance I can get to spend time with the kids I love it and hopefully it’s preparing me for life after footy as well.’’
CCSS caters for about 70 children, ranging in age from 5 through to 18, who either have intellectual or physical disabilities.
CCSS principal Kylie Sargeant said the school was hoping to raise funds in order to enhance facilities for its students.
“The proceeds from the ball will be going to supporting our students and their therapy needs here at Currumbin Community Special School,’’ said Sargeant.
“We provide programs for students with disabilities. To enrol in a special school students need to have an intellectual impairment and some of them have other disabilities as well.
“Physical needs are always challenging for our students and that’s where we are really hoping to raise more funds so we can support those programs for the students.
“The kids are really excited to have the Titans here today. We really appreciate them coming and showing they do have a heart and that they really care for our kids. They’re certainly heroes to us.’’
Rewards4Golf In £1 Million Equipment Giveaway
Rewards4Golf are set to give away more than £1 million of free golf equipment and accessories in 2009 – with golfers signing up to the scheme in droves.
And why wouldn’t they? The innovative scheme is absolutely free to join and sees golfers accrue points for money they spend with various leading high street and online retailers and then redeem these points against a host of golfing rewards.
And since leading golf retailer Direct Golf UK signed up to the scheme as the exclusive golf retail partner at the beginning of the year, the number of sign-ups has increased dramatically.
The Rewards4Golf scheme is completely free, takes just one minute to register and there are no hidden charges for members whatsoever – just fantastic rewards.
Retailers signed up to Rewards4Golf include Tesco, John Lewis, Littlewoods, Currys, Marks & Spencer, Halfords, Superdrug and Amazon. And such is the popularity of the scheme that Direct Golf UK has decided to adopt it as its own exclusive customer loyalty programme as well as becoming a retail partner.
Throughout the course of the year, Rewards4Golf will hand out equipment ranging from a Nike Dri-Fit golf glove or a dozen Titleist ProV1 golf balls to a set of TaylorMade Burner XD irons or a golfing break at Open venue Turnberry.
Colin Whitehead, commercial director at Rewards4Golf, said: “We are absolutely delighted at the number of sign ups so far this year, particularly on the back of our partnership with Direct Golf UK.
“Between all our retail partners we offer something unique in the golf industry and being able to get something for free really captures people’s attention.
“The success now means we are likely to give away in excess of £1 million worth of golfing rewards within the next year, which is a phenomenal figure and shows that golfers really are benefitting from the scheme.
“It really is a no brainer for golfers. It costs absolutely nothing and when you shop with our incredible array of well known retailers you’ll earn points that can be converted into some fantastic golf rewards.”
The scheme, with its innovative technology, means points are automatically collated whenever a registered credit or debit card is used with a participating retailer – meaning the system is both environmentally friendly and hassle-free as there is no need to carry a separate loyalty card.
The system is as secure as online banking and members can be reassured that the only card details Rewards4Golf needs to take in order to award points is the card number – not the cardholder name, expiry date, valid from date or the security code.
Members can earn points by shopping with more than 230 online retailers and around 3000 high street outlets. In addition, they can register up to 15 cards – with 50 bonus points for every card they sign up - to contribute to their points’ tally, so they can even be rewarded when their partner, friends or family shop.
Anyone can sign up to the scheme at www.rewards4golf.com, where they can also browse the huge variety of rewards on offer and see the extensive list of participating retailers. You can view the complete range of products available at Direct Golf UK by visiting the multi-award winning website www.direct-golf.co.uk
And why wouldn’t they? The innovative scheme is absolutely free to join and sees golfers accrue points for money they spend with various leading high street and online retailers and then redeem these points against a host of golfing rewards.
And since leading golf retailer Direct Golf UK signed up to the scheme as the exclusive golf retail partner at the beginning of the year, the number of sign-ups has increased dramatically.
The Rewards4Golf scheme is completely free, takes just one minute to register and there are no hidden charges for members whatsoever – just fantastic rewards.
Retailers signed up to Rewards4Golf include Tesco, John Lewis, Littlewoods, Currys, Marks & Spencer, Halfords, Superdrug and Amazon. And such is the popularity of the scheme that Direct Golf UK has decided to adopt it as its own exclusive customer loyalty programme as well as becoming a retail partner.
Throughout the course of the year, Rewards4Golf will hand out equipment ranging from a Nike Dri-Fit golf glove or a dozen Titleist ProV1 golf balls to a set of TaylorMade Burner XD irons or a golfing break at Open venue Turnberry.
Colin Whitehead, commercial director at Rewards4Golf, said: “We are absolutely delighted at the number of sign ups so far this year, particularly on the back of our partnership with Direct Golf UK.
“Between all our retail partners we offer something unique in the golf industry and being able to get something for free really captures people’s attention.
“The success now means we are likely to give away in excess of £1 million worth of golfing rewards within the next year, which is a phenomenal figure and shows that golfers really are benefitting from the scheme.
“It really is a no brainer for golfers. It costs absolutely nothing and when you shop with our incredible array of well known retailers you’ll earn points that can be converted into some fantastic golf rewards.”
The scheme, with its innovative technology, means points are automatically collated whenever a registered credit or debit card is used with a participating retailer – meaning the system is both environmentally friendly and hassle-free as there is no need to carry a separate loyalty card.
The system is as secure as online banking and members can be reassured that the only card details Rewards4Golf needs to take in order to award points is the card number – not the cardholder name, expiry date, valid from date or the security code.
Members can earn points by shopping with more than 230 online retailers and around 3000 high street outlets. In addition, they can register up to 15 cards – with 50 bonus points for every card they sign up - to contribute to their points’ tally, so they can even be rewarded when their partner, friends or family shop.
Anyone can sign up to the scheme at www.rewards4golf.com, where they can also browse the huge variety of rewards on offer and see the extensive list of participating retailers. You can view the complete range of products available at Direct Golf UK by visiting the multi-award winning website www.direct-golf.co.uk
Football : Saddlers Snap Up Williams
WALSALL Football Club have signed Aston Villa’s Sam Williams on a one-month loan deal subject to Premier League clearance.
The 21 year-old has come through the ranks at Villa Park and has been a regular on the scoresheet for Villa’s reserve team in recent seasons.
He was loaned out to Wrexham for the second half of the 2005/06 season before playing a handful of games on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion during the 2006/07 campaign.
He had a loan spell at Colchester United earlier this season and played against The Saddlers back in November after scoring on his debut for the Essex side.
"We've been working hard behind the scenes to add to the squad and are delighted to have been able to bring Sam in," said manager, Chris Hutchings on his first signing since taking over at the Banks's Stadium. "He's a young and hungry footballer with Premier League pedigree and this is a great opportunity for him to come and get more first-team experience.
"He's played a lot of reserve team football at Villa Park and we're grateful to Villa for letting him come here. He's a hard-working front-man who can link up play and I'm looking forward to working with him."
The club have until noon tomorrow (Saturday) to receive the necessary clearance to allow Williams to make his debut against Leeds United in a League One fixture at the Banks’s Stadium tomorrow afternoon.
The 21 year-old has come through the ranks at Villa Park and has been a regular on the scoresheet for Villa’s reserve team in recent seasons.
He was loaned out to Wrexham for the second half of the 2005/06 season before playing a handful of games on loan at Brighton & Hove Albion during the 2006/07 campaign.
He had a loan spell at Colchester United earlier this season and played against The Saddlers back in November after scoring on his debut for the Essex side.
"We've been working hard behind the scenes to add to the squad and are delighted to have been able to bring Sam in," said manager, Chris Hutchings on his first signing since taking over at the Banks's Stadium. "He's a young and hungry footballer with Premier League pedigree and this is a great opportunity for him to come and get more first-team experience.
"He's played a lot of reserve team football at Villa Park and we're grateful to Villa for letting him come here. He's a hard-working front-man who can link up play and I'm looking forward to working with him."
The club have until noon tomorrow (Saturday) to receive the necessary clearance to allow Williams to make his debut against Leeds United in a League One fixture at the Banks’s Stadium tomorrow afternoon.
Sailing : South Africa’s Shosholoza Topples Alinghi
The biggest upset in the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series came today on Auckland Harbour as South Africa’s Team Shosholoza slam-dunked the reigning America’s Cup winners Alinghi, from Switzerland.
Without a win after three days of racing, the South Africans skippered by Italian match racer Paolo Cian came out with all guns blazing against the Swiss boat helmed by two-time cup winner Ed Baird.
Cian used the favored starboard tack entry to the starting box to engage Baird in a prolonged dialup above the starting line that stretched out over more than three drawn-out minutes. It was a virtuoso performance. The American had the option of tacking away but opted to hold his boat motionless, head to wind in anticipation of an error by his opponent. Cian never blinked and stayed in control until he peeled off to return in a perfectly-timed big sweeping turn below the line to start at speed. Baird was forced to follow nearly three boat lengths astern in his wake.
“It was the classic start that you want to keep in your mind for a long while,” said Cian. “We had the starboard tack advantage. At two minutes they had just one escape for them to roll on top of us and try to extend to the right. They chose to keep it slow.” Cian added that the tide was pushing both boats towards the committee boat and his crew did a great job of executing the turn back to the line.
From there, things went from bad to worse. Alinghi lost time on every leg, especially the bottom of the first spinnaker run where a light patch of breeze and a wind shift cost valuable meters and left Baird’s foredeck crew scrambling to muzzle their spinnaker after rounding the mark. Alinghi was over a kilometre astern and 3m49s away when the South Africans finished.
Conditions were perfect for racing, with bright sunshine, a puffy, shifty and warm north-easterly wind at 14-16 knots, and flat water in the Rangitoto Channel.
In the other races, BMW Oracle Racing defeated Damiani Italia by 52 seconds in a race that was close for the first three legs. The French boat Pataugas K-Challenge put up a good fight and engaged Emirates Team New Zealand for the first weather leg of their race but the Kiwis won by 1m38s. Greek offshore sailor Theodoros Tsoulfas took the helm of the Greek Challenge today to race Britain’s TEAMORIGIN and kept the margin close for two legs before the British pulled away to win by 58s.
At the end of the first round robin, the scores are: Pool A – Emirates Team New Zealand, 4; BMW Oracle Racing, 3; Damiani Italia Challenge, 2; Pataugas K Challenge, 1; China Team, 0. Pool B – TEAMORIGIN, 4; Alinghi, 2; Luna Rossa, 2; Team Shosholoza, 1; Greek Challenge, 0.
After a lay day tomorrow, racing starts again on Thursday in the second round robin. In the Gold Fleet, Alinghi in NZL 84 will race TEAMORIGIN in NZL 92, Damiani Italia Challenge in NZL 84 will race Emirates Team New Zealand in NZL 92 and BMW Oracle Racing in NZL 92 will race Luna Rossa in NZL 84. In the Silver Fleet, Pataugas K-Challenge in USA 87 will race Greek Challenge in USA 98, while Team Shosholoza in USA 87 will race China Team in USA 98.
Without a win after three days of racing, the South Africans skippered by Italian match racer Paolo Cian came out with all guns blazing against the Swiss boat helmed by two-time cup winner Ed Baird.
Cian used the favored starboard tack entry to the starting box to engage Baird in a prolonged dialup above the starting line that stretched out over more than three drawn-out minutes. It was a virtuoso performance. The American had the option of tacking away but opted to hold his boat motionless, head to wind in anticipation of an error by his opponent. Cian never blinked and stayed in control until he peeled off to return in a perfectly-timed big sweeping turn below the line to start at speed. Baird was forced to follow nearly three boat lengths astern in his wake.
“It was the classic start that you want to keep in your mind for a long while,” said Cian. “We had the starboard tack advantage. At two minutes they had just one escape for them to roll on top of us and try to extend to the right. They chose to keep it slow.” Cian added that the tide was pushing both boats towards the committee boat and his crew did a great job of executing the turn back to the line.
From there, things went from bad to worse. Alinghi lost time on every leg, especially the bottom of the first spinnaker run where a light patch of breeze and a wind shift cost valuable meters and left Baird’s foredeck crew scrambling to muzzle their spinnaker after rounding the mark. Alinghi was over a kilometre astern and 3m49s away when the South Africans finished.
Conditions were perfect for racing, with bright sunshine, a puffy, shifty and warm north-easterly wind at 14-16 knots, and flat water in the Rangitoto Channel.
In the other races, BMW Oracle Racing defeated Damiani Italia by 52 seconds in a race that was close for the first three legs. The French boat Pataugas K-Challenge put up a good fight and engaged Emirates Team New Zealand for the first weather leg of their race but the Kiwis won by 1m38s. Greek offshore sailor Theodoros Tsoulfas took the helm of the Greek Challenge today to race Britain’s TEAMORIGIN and kept the margin close for two legs before the British pulled away to win by 58s.
At the end of the first round robin, the scores are: Pool A – Emirates Team New Zealand, 4; BMW Oracle Racing, 3; Damiani Italia Challenge, 2; Pataugas K Challenge, 1; China Team, 0. Pool B – TEAMORIGIN, 4; Alinghi, 2; Luna Rossa, 2; Team Shosholoza, 1; Greek Challenge, 0.
After a lay day tomorrow, racing starts again on Thursday in the second round robin. In the Gold Fleet, Alinghi in NZL 84 will race TEAMORIGIN in NZL 92, Damiani Italia Challenge in NZL 84 will race Emirates Team New Zealand in NZL 92 and BMW Oracle Racing in NZL 92 will race Luna Rossa in NZL 84. In the Silver Fleet, Pataugas K-Challenge in USA 87 will race Greek Challenge in USA 98, while Team Shosholoza in USA 87 will race China Team in USA 98.
Sailing : ISAF publishes Qualification System and Events for 2010 Youth Olympics
The International Sailing Federation (ISAF) has published the qualification system and qualifying events for the sailing competition at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games.
The inaugural Youth Olympic Games (YOG) will be held in Singapore in August 2010 and feature 100 young sailors competing across four sailing events.
Boys Windsurfer - Techno 293
Boys 1 Person Dinghy - Byte CII
Girls Windsurfer - Techno 293
Girls 1 Person Dinghy - Byte CII
The sailing events at Singapore are open to 15-16 year old, so in order to be eligible to compete at the YOG, an athlete must have been born between 1 January 1994 and 31 December 1995.
For each of the four sailing events, there are seven Youth Olympic Qualification Events (YOQE). Competitors qualify their National Olympic Committee (NOC) at a YOQE, and the NOC will then select its competitor for that event.
In order to make the YOG as accessible to as many nations as possible, there is a maximum of one male and one female athlete per NOC for all events.
In addition, the host nation automatically qualifies one male and one female and 14 of the 100 places are reserved as NOC Universality Places to be assigned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Alastair Fox, Events Manager at the ISAF Secretariat, said, 'The Youth Olympic Games is set to be a groundbreaking event and ISAF is delighted to announce details of how countries can qualify for Singapore 2010.
Participation and universality are key themes of the Youth Olympics and ISAF is aiming for 50 nations to compete in the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games.
One of the key priorities for ISAF is to ensure the qualification events are spread across all six continents. The Youth Olympic Games provides a great opportunity for the youth of the world to be inspired by sailing and ISAF will work closely with the Singapore Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee to help showcase our sport.'
The seven YOQE for each event are made up of six Continental Qualification Events and a final World Championship or world qualification event.
At the Continental Qualification Events only nations within that continent will be eligible for YOG Qualification.
The final qualification events will be confirmed and posted on the ISAF website www.sailing.org in February 2009.
Details on the quotas for the maximum number of competitors who can qualify at the World Championship and Continental Qualification Events are available on the ISAF Youth Olympic Games microsite at www.sailing.org/yog.
The qualification events for the sailing events at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games are listed below and also available to view at www.sailing.org/yog.
Continental Qualification Events
Africa
Byte CII (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
TBC
Techno 293 African Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
19-23 December 2009
Asia
Byte CII Asian Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Pattaya, Thailand
Dates TBC
Techno 293 Asian Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Pattaya, Thailand
26 November-4 December 2009
Central & South America
Byte CII South American Youth Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Sao Paulo, Brazil
17-22 January 2010
Techno 293 South American Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
23-30 January 2010
Europe
Byte CII European Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Imperia, Italy
4-7 December 2009
Techno 293 European Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Cadiz, Spain
29 December 2009-3 January 2010
North America & Caribbean
Byte CII Midwinter's / North American Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Cayman Islands
Dates TBC
Techno 293 North American Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
TBC
Oceania
Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events
TBC
Boys & Girls Windsurfer events
TBC
World Championship (World Qualification Events)
Byte CII World (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
TBC
Techno 293 World (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
TBC
Find out more about the Techno 293 windsurfer at www.techno293.org
Find our more about the Byte CII dinghy at www.byteclass.org
The inaugural Youth Olympic Games (YOG) will be held in Singapore in August 2010 and feature 100 young sailors competing across four sailing events.
Boys Windsurfer - Techno 293
Boys 1 Person Dinghy - Byte CII
Girls Windsurfer - Techno 293
Girls 1 Person Dinghy - Byte CII
The sailing events at Singapore are open to 15-16 year old, so in order to be eligible to compete at the YOG, an athlete must have been born between 1 January 1994 and 31 December 1995.
For each of the four sailing events, there are seven Youth Olympic Qualification Events (YOQE). Competitors qualify their National Olympic Committee (NOC) at a YOQE, and the NOC will then select its competitor for that event.
In order to make the YOG as accessible to as many nations as possible, there is a maximum of one male and one female athlete per NOC for all events.
In addition, the host nation automatically qualifies one male and one female and 14 of the 100 places are reserved as NOC Universality Places to be assigned by the International Olympic Committee (IOC).
Alastair Fox, Events Manager at the ISAF Secretariat, said, 'The Youth Olympic Games is set to be a groundbreaking event and ISAF is delighted to announce details of how countries can qualify for Singapore 2010.
Participation and universality are key themes of the Youth Olympics and ISAF is aiming for 50 nations to compete in the Singapore 2010 Youth Olympic Games.
One of the key priorities for ISAF is to ensure the qualification events are spread across all six continents. The Youth Olympic Games provides a great opportunity for the youth of the world to be inspired by sailing and ISAF will work closely with the Singapore Youth Olympic Games Organising Committee to help showcase our sport.'
The seven YOQE for each event are made up of six Continental Qualification Events and a final World Championship or world qualification event.
At the Continental Qualification Events only nations within that continent will be eligible for YOG Qualification.
The final qualification events will be confirmed and posted on the ISAF website www.sailing.org in February 2009.
Details on the quotas for the maximum number of competitors who can qualify at the World Championship and Continental Qualification Events are available on the ISAF Youth Olympic Games microsite at www.sailing.org/yog.
The qualification events for the sailing events at the 2010 Youth Olympic Games are listed below and also available to view at www.sailing.org/yog.
Continental Qualification Events
Africa
Byte CII (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
TBC
Techno 293 African Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Sidi Bou Said, Tunisia
19-23 December 2009
Asia
Byte CII Asian Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Pattaya, Thailand
Dates TBC
Techno 293 Asian Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Pattaya, Thailand
26 November-4 December 2009
Central & South America
Byte CII South American Youth Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Sao Paulo, Brazil
17-22 January 2010
Techno 293 South American Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil
23-30 January 2010
Europe
Byte CII European Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Imperia, Italy
4-7 December 2009
Techno 293 European Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
Cadiz, Spain
29 December 2009-3 January 2010
North America & Caribbean
Byte CII Midwinter's / North American Championship (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
Cayman Islands
Dates TBC
Techno 293 North American Championship (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
TBC
Oceania
Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events
TBC
Boys & Girls Windsurfer events
TBC
World Championship (World Qualification Events)
Byte CII World (Boys & Girls One Person Dinghy events)
TBC
Techno 293 World (Boys & Girls Windsurfer events)
TBC
Find out more about the Techno 293 windsurfer at www.techno293.org
Find our more about the Byte CII dinghy at www.byteclass.org
Cricket : Wagner takes MVP honours in State Shield
Despite being on the losing side in the State Shield final, State Otago Volts bowler Neil Wagner did just enough to dislodge Graham Napier from the top of the State Shield MVP table.
Wagner delivered a dominant performance with the ball in the semi-final, taking 3 wickets for a miserly 11 runs as the Volts skittled the State Canterbury Wizards for just 86. The South African born left arm bowler set the tone for the Volts victory, taking the first three wickets in the Canterbury innings and reducing them to 14 for 3. Wagner was less dominant against the victorious State Northern Knights in the final, but his dismissal of dangerous opener Hamish Marshall had the Knights reeling in the early stages of their innings.
State Otago Volts CEO Ross Dykes believes Wagner’s performances throughout the one day competition were vital in securing the Volts a place in the final. “He swings the ball at a brisk pace and is capable of knocking the top of any side over” says Dykes. “He has deserved his success this year and certainly been assisted by the pressure created at the other end by Mascarenhas, McSkimming, McCullum and Butler”.
Volts players dominate the final State Shield MVP table this season; Butler and Mascharenhas join Wagner in the top 10, alongside teammate and recalled BLACKCAP Craig Cumming.
An excellent innings from Knights left-hander Joseph Yovich in the State Shield final has propelled him into the top ten of the State Shield MVP table for the first time this season. Yovich scored a crucial 78 not out to set up the victory for the State Northern Knights, who beat the Volts by 49 runs to take the title in front of a home crowd.
MVP Top Five at a glance
1 G Napier WGN 236.52
2 N Wagner OTG 220.63
3 E Thompson CD 203.67
4 M Sinclair CD 198.99
5 I Butler OTG 183.37
State Shield Top Five
1 N Wagner OTG 146.02
2 G Napier WGN 145.48
3 I Butler OTG 128.56
4 S Bond CTY 124.88
5 C Cumming OTG 111.66
For overall points tables and to create customised MVP rankings go to: http://www.blackcaps.co.nz/domestic/mvp/points-table.aspx
Wagner delivered a dominant performance with the ball in the semi-final, taking 3 wickets for a miserly 11 runs as the Volts skittled the State Canterbury Wizards for just 86. The South African born left arm bowler set the tone for the Volts victory, taking the first three wickets in the Canterbury innings and reducing them to 14 for 3. Wagner was less dominant against the victorious State Northern Knights in the final, but his dismissal of dangerous opener Hamish Marshall had the Knights reeling in the early stages of their innings.
State Otago Volts CEO Ross Dykes believes Wagner’s performances throughout the one day competition were vital in securing the Volts a place in the final. “He swings the ball at a brisk pace and is capable of knocking the top of any side over” says Dykes. “He has deserved his success this year and certainly been assisted by the pressure created at the other end by Mascarenhas, McSkimming, McCullum and Butler”.
Volts players dominate the final State Shield MVP table this season; Butler and Mascharenhas join Wagner in the top 10, alongside teammate and recalled BLACKCAP Craig Cumming.
An excellent innings from Knights left-hander Joseph Yovich in the State Shield final has propelled him into the top ten of the State Shield MVP table for the first time this season. Yovich scored a crucial 78 not out to set up the victory for the State Northern Knights, who beat the Volts by 49 runs to take the title in front of a home crowd.
MVP Top Five at a glance
1 G Napier WGN 236.52
2 N Wagner OTG 220.63
3 E Thompson CD 203.67
4 M Sinclair CD 198.99
5 I Butler OTG 183.37
State Shield Top Five
1 N Wagner OTG 146.02
2 G Napier WGN 145.48
3 I Butler OTG 128.56
4 S Bond CTY 124.88
5 C Cumming OTG 111.66
For overall points tables and to create customised MVP rankings go to: http://www.blackcaps.co.nz/domestic/mvp/points-table.aspx
Football : This week at Arsenal
On the pitch…
Arsenal extended their unbeaten run to 10 matches - but dropped four Premier League points - with a 1-1 draw at Everton and a 0-0 draw against West Ham. Robin van Persie's superb equaliser rescued a point at Goodison Park and completed an incredible run for the Dutchman - he scored or assisted every Arsenal goal in January. Abou Diaby collected his fifth booking of the season against the Hammers and will miss the North London derby. Elsewhere, the Under-18s strolled into the Youth Cup Quarter-Finals with a 4-0 win at Sunderland.
Off the pitch…
Arsenal emerged from a busy transfer deadline day with a new signing - Russian playmaker Andrey Arshavin. There was mixed injury news for Theo Walcott, Tomas Rosicky and Mikael Silvestre while Eduardo moved closer to a first-team return with an international call-up. Henri Lansbury, Rui Fonte and Paul Rodgers all started or extended loan deals while Ladies star Karen Carney agreed to join Chicago Red Stars. And our FA Cup replay with Cardiff was postponed after Emirates Stadium was hit by heavy snowfall.
Arsenal extended their unbeaten run to 10 matches - but dropped four Premier League points - with a 1-1 draw at Everton and a 0-0 draw against West Ham. Robin van Persie's superb equaliser rescued a point at Goodison Park and completed an incredible run for the Dutchman - he scored or assisted every Arsenal goal in January. Abou Diaby collected his fifth booking of the season against the Hammers and will miss the North London derby. Elsewhere, the Under-18s strolled into the Youth Cup Quarter-Finals with a 4-0 win at Sunderland.
Off the pitch…
Arsenal emerged from a busy transfer deadline day with a new signing - Russian playmaker Andrey Arshavin. There was mixed injury news for Theo Walcott, Tomas Rosicky and Mikael Silvestre while Eduardo moved closer to a first-team return with an international call-up. Henri Lansbury, Rui Fonte and Paul Rodgers all started or extended loan deals while Ladies star Karen Carney agreed to join Chicago Red Stars. And our FA Cup replay with Cardiff was postponed after Emirates Stadium was hit by heavy snowfall.
Tennis : NEW ZEALAND'S FED CUP CAMPAIGN BEGINS
The Fed Cup by BNP Paribas Asia/Oceania Group 1 kicks off today (Wednesday) at the State Tennis Centre in Perth, Australia.
New Zealand has been drawn in Pool A with number one seed Uzbekistan, number four seed India and Indonesia.
Today, the New Zealand team will face India in their first match.
In Pool B the teams are Australia (third seeds), second seeds Chinese Taipei and Thailand.
The NZ team is lead by Marina Erakovic and is joined by Kairangi Vano, Dianne Hollands, Shona Lee and Captain Marcel Vos. Sacha Jones and Ellen Barry were ruled out with injury.
New Zealand take on fourth seeds India today in the first round. NZ need to win their pool to make the final round to play-off for a spot in the World Group II Play-offs.
Wednesday 5th February - Schedule
Group I
Pool A
Uzbekistan v Indonesia
India v New Zealand
Pool B
Chinese Taipei v Thailand
Australia v Korea
Group II
Hong Kong China v Iran
Kazakhstan v Singapore
New Zealand has been drawn in Pool A with number one seed Uzbekistan, number four seed India and Indonesia.
Today, the New Zealand team will face India in their first match.
In Pool B the teams are Australia (third seeds), second seeds Chinese Taipei and Thailand.
The NZ team is lead by Marina Erakovic and is joined by Kairangi Vano, Dianne Hollands, Shona Lee and Captain Marcel Vos. Sacha Jones and Ellen Barry were ruled out with injury.
New Zealand take on fourth seeds India today in the first round. NZ need to win their pool to make the final round to play-off for a spot in the World Group II Play-offs.
Wednesday 5th February - Schedule
Group I
Pool A
Uzbekistan v Indonesia
India v New Zealand
Pool B
Chinese Taipei v Thailand
Australia v Korea
Group II
Hong Kong China v Iran
Kazakhstan v Singapore
sailing : Day 86 onboard Roxy in the Vendée Globe
Sam Davies’ daily log - Scary fish that go bump in the night
“Hello everyone!
The trade winds train continues northwards with Roxy, and it is starting to cool down a bit. I have got out my fleecy blanket to curl up in when I sleep – soon the sea water showers are going to be invigorating!
This morning, as I did the daily flying fish death count and clean-up, I discovered a really scary looking, long fish! He wasn't a flying version, and was probably minding his own business chasing his dinner when his world got churned up and dumped on Roxy's deck. The poor beast got trapped under the outhaul line, and his meal got spared to live another day!
Whoever was destined to be his dinner, however, had a lucky escape. This beast means business: he has a mouthful of very sharp teeth that would make light work of your average little flying fish. I was quite scared picking him up even when he was dead – imagine a "girl with mouse" scenario. I have no idea what kind of fish he is/was: answers on a postcard please!
Tonight, there have been no fish landing yet...maybe the moon helps them see Roxy coming?
I have just crossed paths with a French cruising boat named "Primadonna", who is on passage from Cape Verde to Pointe a Pitre. Luckily I had my radar on as we are also crossing the "Transquadra" fleet. I saw the little blip on my radar cross just a mile and a half from Roxy so I called them up and we had a nice conversation. After I gave them the latest weather information, I found out they have been following the Vendee Globe news on RFI with their BLU!
That was the first time I have spoken to anyone on the VHF since the beginning of the race. They told me they thought Roxy was a ship as they had seen her navigation lights and her huge mast!
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 3rd position, 2,218 miles from the finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne, France
“Hello everyone!
The trade winds train continues northwards with Roxy, and it is starting to cool down a bit. I have got out my fleecy blanket to curl up in when I sleep – soon the sea water showers are going to be invigorating!
This morning, as I did the daily flying fish death count and clean-up, I discovered a really scary looking, long fish! He wasn't a flying version, and was probably minding his own business chasing his dinner when his world got churned up and dumped on Roxy's deck. The poor beast got trapped under the outhaul line, and his meal got spared to live another day!
Whoever was destined to be his dinner, however, had a lucky escape. This beast means business: he has a mouthful of very sharp teeth that would make light work of your average little flying fish. I was quite scared picking him up even when he was dead – imagine a "girl with mouse" scenario. I have no idea what kind of fish he is/was: answers on a postcard please!
Tonight, there have been no fish landing yet...maybe the moon helps them see Roxy coming?
I have just crossed paths with a French cruising boat named "Primadonna", who is on passage from Cape Verde to Pointe a Pitre. Luckily I had my radar on as we are also crossing the "Transquadra" fleet. I saw the little blip on my radar cross just a mile and a half from Roxy so I called them up and we had a nice conversation. After I gave them the latest weather information, I found out they have been following the Vendee Globe news on RFI with their BLU!
That was the first time I have spoken to anyone on the VHF since the beginning of the race. They told me they thought Roxy was a ship as they had seen her navigation lights and her huge mast!
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 3rd position, 2,218 miles from the finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne, France
Sailing : S.Y. Naos confirmed for Millennium Cup
The 105ft cutter rig S.Y. Naos has been confirmed as a Millennium Cup entrant, bringing the total number of confirmed entrants in the event's division one class for superyachts over 100ft to four.
"We're delighted to announce that S.Y. Naos will join S.Y. Janice of Wyoming, S.Y. Thalia and S.Y. Silvertip to sail for the Millennium Cup on Auckland Harbour next week,' says Mark Wightman, chairman of the Millennium Cup Pacific Series organising committee. "And assuming that the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series lay day falls on a suitable day of the Millennium Cup, we'll also see S.Y. Zenji join the others for one of our races."
Like S.Y. Thalia, S.Y. Naos is a Ron Holland Design craft, build by CCYS in Venice in 1992.
"Along with S.Y. Ragtime and the unofficial-but-nonetheless interesting entry of NZL41, one of New Zealand's America's Cup boats from 1995, we are surer than ever this is going to be a great sailing regatta."
"We're very close to confirming one, possibly two more sailing yachts," adds Wightman. "We won't say which ones just yet; let's get the entry details confirmed with the owners and crews first.
"While this Millennium Cup won't have the sheer numbers we saw at our last event in Palma de Mallorca, we're confident the sailing will be no less intense as these fantastic sailing yachts compete in a best of four races regatta for the cup."
"We're delighted to announce that S.Y. Naos will join S.Y. Janice of Wyoming, S.Y. Thalia and S.Y. Silvertip to sail for the Millennium Cup on Auckland Harbour next week,' says Mark Wightman, chairman of the Millennium Cup Pacific Series organising committee. "And assuming that the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series lay day falls on a suitable day of the Millennium Cup, we'll also see S.Y. Zenji join the others for one of our races."
Like S.Y. Thalia, S.Y. Naos is a Ron Holland Design craft, build by CCYS in Venice in 1992.
"Along with S.Y. Ragtime and the unofficial-but-nonetheless interesting entry of NZL41, one of New Zealand's America's Cup boats from 1995, we are surer than ever this is going to be a great sailing regatta."
"We're very close to confirming one, possibly two more sailing yachts," adds Wightman. "We won't say which ones just yet; let's get the entry details confirmed with the owners and crews first.
"While this Millennium Cup won't have the sheer numbers we saw at our last event in Palma de Mallorca, we're confident the sailing will be no less intense as these fantastic sailing yachts compete in a best of four races regatta for the cup."
Cricket : McCullum cleared for Friday's ODI
BLACKCAPS standby wicketkeeper Gareth Hopkins will return home to New Zealand today [Tuesday] after Brendon McCullum was cleared to take full part in Friday's ODI against Australia in Melbourne.
Team manager Lindsay Crocker said McCullum's hip flexor had responded well to treatment since it was injured in training last week. "The muscle was a bit stiff after the match in Perth on Sunday, but the medical team is confident that
Brendon can participate fully in Friday's second ODI," said Crocker.
"It's the selectors' wish that Gareth returns to New Zealand to play in this week's round of State Twenty20 games on Wednesday and Friday. A decision on whether he returns to cover for Brendon over this heavy schedule after Melbourne will be made on Saturday."
Team manager Lindsay Crocker said McCullum's hip flexor had responded well to treatment since it was injured in training last week. "The muscle was a bit stiff after the match in Perth on Sunday, but the medical team is confident that
Brendon can participate fully in Friday's second ODI," said Crocker.
"It's the selectors' wish that Gareth returns to New Zealand to play in this week's round of State Twenty20 games on Wednesday and Friday. A decision on whether he returns to cover for Brendon over this heavy schedule after Melbourne will be made on Saturday."
Sailing : Day 85 onboard Roxy in the Vendée Globe
Sam Davies’ daily log - Disaster as Roxy’s tea-making capacity is compromised
“Well, whilst Mich is busy celebrating his well-deserved victory (don't drink all the champagne - leave us some please!), the race continues for the rest of us out here!
For me and Roxy, it has been another wet and bumpy day of trade wind sailing. The wind is pretty unstable with between 12 and 24 knots, so most of the time is taken up easing the main in the gusts, then trimming back on a few minutes later in the lulls – I just HAVE to be at full speed all the time. I wish Roxy had a nice wide stern with a chine so that she could deal with a bit more mainsheet tension all the time. Oh well, at least the exercise is keeping me busy!
I had a serious gear failure today – my lovely Roxy kettle has broken! Just like the tea cup, its handle has fallen off. Luckily there was no boiling water in it at the time. Unlike the tea cup, the kettle cannot function without a handle, so the tools, drill and spectra lashing all came out. I have done an emergency repair, to be tested shortly when I make some dinner.
Anyway, for an English girl, my onboard tea drinking facilities are now in a shameful state. I hope the Queen doesn't find out!
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 4th position, 2,418 miles from the finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne, France
“Well, whilst Mich is busy celebrating his well-deserved victory (don't drink all the champagne - leave us some please!), the race continues for the rest of us out here!
For me and Roxy, it has been another wet and bumpy day of trade wind sailing. The wind is pretty unstable with between 12 and 24 knots, so most of the time is taken up easing the main in the gusts, then trimming back on a few minutes later in the lulls – I just HAVE to be at full speed all the time. I wish Roxy had a nice wide stern with a chine so that she could deal with a bit more mainsheet tension all the time. Oh well, at least the exercise is keeping me busy!
I had a serious gear failure today – my lovely Roxy kettle has broken! Just like the tea cup, its handle has fallen off. Luckily there was no boiling water in it at the time. Unlike the tea cup, the kettle cannot function without a handle, so the tools, drill and spectra lashing all came out. I have done an emergency repair, to be tested shortly when I make some dinner.
Anyway, for an English girl, my onboard tea drinking facilities are now in a shameful state. I hope the Queen doesn't find out!
S x”
At 1100 UK time, Sam Davies aboard Roxy was in 4th position, 2,418 miles from the finish line in Les Sables d’Olonne, France
A1GP News Round Up
On Monday (26 January) following the Taupo event, and at the request of Ferrari, A1 Teams Ireland and New Zealand completed some additional running to try out a version of the pressurised fuel collector at high ambient temperatures. The data collected will be validated by A1GP Technology in further factory tests to produce a modification for all team cars prior to the A1GP Gauteng event in three weeks’ time.
Team Principal Mark Gallagher: "We were asked to help out with the test and were happy to oblige. Naturally for reasons of fairness we could not use Adam Carroll for this test, nor carry out any performance testing of benefit to the team, but it was very useful for Niall Quinn to get some decent running in the car. It was nice as championship leaders to be asked to assist A1GP and Ferrari with this test and to help them ensure that the superb new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car continues to provide the teams with a strong, reliable package. We’ll focus all our energies on the next race in Gauteng, South Africa. Kyalami is a new track for everyone in A1GP and will be another leap into the unknown.”
A1 Team New Zealand also ran its car in the test, and worked with Ferrari and Magneti Marelli so they could gain a better understanding as to why a small number of cars – including the New Zealand car – were affected by problems during the Taupo event with the drivers’ application of the anti-stall system. New Zealand did not have a rookie driver at the Taupo event, and therefore Jonny Reid undertook the testing.
South Africa is already gearing up for the next event, A1GP Gauteng on 20 - 22 February. As part of the build up the A1GP test car has already arrived in the province from New Zealand last week and was on display at The MPH Show, which also incorporates Top Gear Live, at the Coca-Cola Dome in Johannesburg from January 29 to February 1.
A1GP Village will also be at the Montecasino Piazza from Thursday 12 February to Thursday 19 February with the test car on show from 12 -15 February. Visitors will also get the chance to hear the distinctive notes of the Ferrari engine that propels all the cars on the A1GP grids around the world. The Tyre Change Challenge will also be activated from 12 – 15 February with TW Steel watches also up for grabs on 14 and 15 February. Adventure biker and Supermoto Champion, Brian Capper, will be doing a display in the Piazza over the weekend with other exhibitors including Fantastic Racing, TW Steel, Neo Solutions super cars, a super bike display and EA Sports Need for Speed gaming pods. The A1GP Adrenalin Rush will also be set up for children.
Looking further ahead, tickets for A1GP Algarve, Portugal are now on sale via www.autodromoalgarve.com . The event is due to take place at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, from 10-12 April 2009. Ticket prices vary according to the selected grandstands with children under 12 able to attend the event free-of-charge. For anyone buying tickets before 28 February, there will also be an additional promotion in place with four tickets sold for the price of three.
Congratulations also go out to A1 Team Great Britain’s Danny Watts and his partner Fiona who are proud parents to Joshua Louis, born at 0915 on 15 January 2009.
Ends.
2008/09 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport points standings
Pos A1 Team
Points
1
Ireland
65
2
Switzerland
52
3
Portugal
49
4
France
41
5
Netherlands
38
6
New Zealand
35
7
Malaysia
31
8
Australia
30
9
South Africa
17
10
Great Britain
16
11
USA
16
12
Monaco
9
13
Italy
9
14
India
5
15
Brazil
4
16
Korea
4
17
China
4
18
Lebanon
3
19
Indonesia
0
20
Mexico
0
Next race: A1GP Gauteng, South Africa, 20 – 22 February 2009.
Team Principal Mark Gallagher: "We were asked to help out with the test and were happy to oblige. Naturally for reasons of fairness we could not use Adam Carroll for this test, nor carry out any performance testing of benefit to the team, but it was very useful for Niall Quinn to get some decent running in the car. It was nice as championship leaders to be asked to assist A1GP and Ferrari with this test and to help them ensure that the superb new A1GP Powered by Ferrari car continues to provide the teams with a strong, reliable package. We’ll focus all our energies on the next race in Gauteng, South Africa. Kyalami is a new track for everyone in A1GP and will be another leap into the unknown.”
A1 Team New Zealand also ran its car in the test, and worked with Ferrari and Magneti Marelli so they could gain a better understanding as to why a small number of cars – including the New Zealand car – were affected by problems during the Taupo event with the drivers’ application of the anti-stall system. New Zealand did not have a rookie driver at the Taupo event, and therefore Jonny Reid undertook the testing.
South Africa is already gearing up for the next event, A1GP Gauteng on 20 - 22 February. As part of the build up the A1GP test car has already arrived in the province from New Zealand last week and was on display at The MPH Show, which also incorporates Top Gear Live, at the Coca-Cola Dome in Johannesburg from January 29 to February 1.
A1GP Village will also be at the Montecasino Piazza from Thursday 12 February to Thursday 19 February with the test car on show from 12 -15 February. Visitors will also get the chance to hear the distinctive notes of the Ferrari engine that propels all the cars on the A1GP grids around the world. The Tyre Change Challenge will also be activated from 12 – 15 February with TW Steel watches also up for grabs on 14 and 15 February. Adventure biker and Supermoto Champion, Brian Capper, will be doing a display in the Piazza over the weekend with other exhibitors including Fantastic Racing, TW Steel, Neo Solutions super cars, a super bike display and EA Sports Need for Speed gaming pods. The A1GP Adrenalin Rush will also be set up for children.
Looking further ahead, tickets for A1GP Algarve, Portugal are now on sale via www.autodromoalgarve.com . The event is due to take place at the Autódromo Internacional do Algarve, from 10-12 April 2009. Ticket prices vary according to the selected grandstands with children under 12 able to attend the event free-of-charge. For anyone buying tickets before 28 February, there will also be an additional promotion in place with four tickets sold for the price of three.
Congratulations also go out to A1 Team Great Britain’s Danny Watts and his partner Fiona who are proud parents to Joshua Louis, born at 0915 on 15 January 2009.
Ends.
2008/09 A1GP World Cup of Motorsport points standings
Pos A1 Team
Points
1
Ireland
65
2
Switzerland
52
3
Portugal
49
4
France
41
5
Netherlands
38
6
New Zealand
35
7
Malaysia
31
8
Australia
30
9
South Africa
17
10
Great Britain
16
11
USA
16
12
Monaco
9
13
Italy
9
14
India
5
15
Brazil
4
16
Korea
4
17
China
4
18
Lebanon
3
19
Indonesia
0
20
Mexico
0
Next race: A1GP Gauteng, South Africa, 20 – 22 February 2009.
Tuesday, February 3, 2009
Monday, February 2, 2009
Boating : Sunreef 70 SEAZEN II - Worldwide Premiere
On show at Miami Strictly Sail 2009 ... 12-16 February
See her at Bayside, Berth C6.
Sea trials on 17th February - confirmation required!
Email Ewa Stachurska - ewa@sunreef-yachts.com
Golf : Ria Bintan Course Best in Asia
Ria Bintan Golf Course, located next to Club Med Bintan Island and used by Club Med guests, has been voted ‘Best in Asia 2008’ by Asian Golf Monthly magazine.
World renowned golfer Gary Player describes Ria Bintan as “a player’s gem. Ria Bintan is among the most beautiful and playable courses in the world.”
Kaarin Gaukrodger, Club Med Marketing Manager New Zealand describes Ria Bintan Golf Course as a spectacular ocean and forest course that has always been renowned among the top courses in Asia.
“This award cements what many have consider for sometime, that it is in fact the best course in Asia.” The award is judged on many aspects including beauty and maintenance of the site, course difficulty and member’s feedback. Other services provided are also considered, such as the well appointed clubhouse with ocean views, pro-shop and golf lessons.
Recent awards won by the Ria Bintan Golf Course include:
• Best Golf Course in Indonesia - 2003 - 2007 - Winner (4 consecutive years)
• Best Championship Course in Asia 2007 - 4th Runner up • Best Clubhouse in Asia 2007 - 6th Runner up “Club Med Bintan Island - located just 55 minute ferry ride south-east of Singapore – is one of the most popular resorts in Asia and celebrated its tenth birthday late last year by launching a fresh and up-market new look following an extensive refurbishment,” says Gaukrodger.
Six Month Countdown to Hamilton Island Openings
Hamilton Island is on an exciting six month countdown to the opening of their two new world-class experiences scheduled for mid-2009 - the Peter Thomson designed 18 hole Golf Course and the Hamilton Island Yacht Club.
These initiatives continue on from other recent developments on the Island with the opening of the final stage of qualia, Australia’s newest luxury resort on the Great Barrier Reef, and the extensive refurbishment of the iconic Reef View Hotel.
Hamilton Island Golf Course
The Hamilton Island Golf Course is a 6,083m, par 71 course featuring unparalleled panoramic views of the Whitsunday islands from all 18 holes.
Designer, Peter Thomson AO CBE, is a five times British Open winner with more than 40 years in golf course design. His partner, Ross Perrett is a planner and landscape architect and has designed golf courses for more than 25 years. Working together under the banner of Thomson Perrett, they have established a reputation for high quality golf developments in many countries including Asia, the UK and Australia.
Peter Thomson has already foreshadowed that this will sit alongside the best courses around the world as it has been designed with not only resort guests in mind, but also with a view to challenging the professionals.
The tee complexes have been positioned to take into account the big hitters, as well as club and resort golfers. And the tees that produce shorter distances to the greens have been carefully positioned so that they preserve the challenges of each hole, making them as enjoyable as the long tees to play.
One of the features of the course – and requirements of the environmental planning agents – is the assimilation of the playing area with the native vegetation. The course will provide a stark contrast between the fully manicured greens and fairways, to the hardy and sometimes harsh natural terrain.
Golfers will reach the course by a short five-minute boat ride from Hamilton Island and are expected to come from all over the world once the course opens.
Hamilton Island Yacht Club & Luxury Villas
Hot on the heels of the fourth Sydney to Hobart win for Bob Oatley’s “Wild Oats XI” will be the opening of the new multi-million dollar Hamilton Island Yacht Club and Luxury Villas, developed in partnership with famed yachtsman Iain Murray .
Designed by renowned Australian architect Walter Barda, the Yacht Club features a stunning pre-weathered green copper roof with a distinctively sail like shape.
Hamilton Island CEO Glenn Bourke said the yacht club promises to be the centre of lifestyle and boating and the gateway to the Whitsunday islands and the Great Barrier Reef
The venue will offer state-of-the art facilities for corporate events and weddings, as well as a contemporary restaurant, alfresco bar and casual dining precinct open to the public – all over three levels. Private dining rooms and a wellness facility, including a 25 metre indoor heated pool, will also be available to members.
“Whether it’s for recreation, socialising, relaxing or executive business, the Hamilton Island Yacht Club is destined to become a signature Australian location,” Bourke said.
As part of the complex, a luxury 35 villa resort is being built adjacent to the Hamilton Island Marina . Using natural timbers and sweeping lines, Barda\'s vision for the villas is to capture an informal ambience and beauty that makes the most of the unique setting as they elegantly drape around the Dent Passage waterfront.
In preparation for the openings, General Manager, Michael Saville has been appointed to oversee both the experiences.
Highly credentialed in the hospitality industry, Michael has worked most recently as General Manager of the Q1Resort and Spa on the Gold Coast. Prior to that, Michael has worked with many of the well regarded brands including Peppers, Sebel and Intercontinental. Particularly relevant to the opening of the Golf Course is his experience as General Manager of the Heritage Golf and Country Club in the Yarra Valley, Victoria and the adjacent Sebel Lodge.
Other points of interest
qualia, Australia’s newest world class luxury resort on the Great Barrier Reef, was completed in August 2008 and features 60 pavilions, a gym on the water’s edge, two pools, a stunning library, the six room Spa qualia, a helipad and boutique. A new Executive Chef, Jane-Therese Mulry has recently been appointed to manage the resort’s two stunning restaurants, Pebble Beach and the elegant Long Pavilion
Hamilton Island’s iconic Reef View Hotel has undergone an extensive refurbishment and now includes a new 35m pool, new restaurant, bar and reception area and upgrades to all rooms and suites.
New activities are constantly evolving with the latest offerings including Hamilton Island Quad Bike Adventure Tours and Hamilton Island Jet Ski Tours.
These initiatives continue on from other recent developments on the Island with the opening of the final stage of qualia, Australia’s newest luxury resort on the Great Barrier Reef, and the extensive refurbishment of the iconic Reef View Hotel.
Hamilton Island Golf Course
The Hamilton Island Golf Course is a 6,083m, par 71 course featuring unparalleled panoramic views of the Whitsunday islands from all 18 holes.
Designer, Peter Thomson AO CBE, is a five times British Open winner with more than 40 years in golf course design. His partner, Ross Perrett is a planner and landscape architect and has designed golf courses for more than 25 years. Working together under the banner of Thomson Perrett, they have established a reputation for high quality golf developments in many countries including Asia, the UK and Australia.
Peter Thomson has already foreshadowed that this will sit alongside the best courses around the world as it has been designed with not only resort guests in mind, but also with a view to challenging the professionals.
The tee complexes have been positioned to take into account the big hitters, as well as club and resort golfers. And the tees that produce shorter distances to the greens have been carefully positioned so that they preserve the challenges of each hole, making them as enjoyable as the long tees to play.
One of the features of the course – and requirements of the environmental planning agents – is the assimilation of the playing area with the native vegetation. The course will provide a stark contrast between the fully manicured greens and fairways, to the hardy and sometimes harsh natural terrain.
Golfers will reach the course by a short five-minute boat ride from Hamilton Island and are expected to come from all over the world once the course opens.
Hamilton Island Yacht Club & Luxury Villas
Hot on the heels of the fourth Sydney to Hobart win for Bob Oatley’s “Wild Oats XI” will be the opening of the new multi-million dollar Hamilton Island Yacht Club and Luxury Villas, developed in partnership with famed yachtsman Iain Murray .
Designed by renowned Australian architect Walter Barda, the Yacht Club features a stunning pre-weathered green copper roof with a distinctively sail like shape.
Hamilton Island CEO Glenn Bourke said the yacht club promises to be the centre of lifestyle and boating and the gateway to the Whitsunday islands and the Great Barrier Reef
The venue will offer state-of-the art facilities for corporate events and weddings, as well as a contemporary restaurant, alfresco bar and casual dining precinct open to the public – all over three levels. Private dining rooms and a wellness facility, including a 25 metre indoor heated pool, will also be available to members.
“Whether it’s for recreation, socialising, relaxing or executive business, the Hamilton Island Yacht Club is destined to become a signature Australian location,” Bourke said.
As part of the complex, a luxury 35 villa resort is being built adjacent to the Hamilton Island Marina . Using natural timbers and sweeping lines, Barda\'s vision for the villas is to capture an informal ambience and beauty that makes the most of the unique setting as they elegantly drape around the Dent Passage waterfront.
In preparation for the openings, General Manager, Michael Saville has been appointed to oversee both the experiences.
Highly credentialed in the hospitality industry, Michael has worked most recently as General Manager of the Q1Resort and Spa on the Gold Coast. Prior to that, Michael has worked with many of the well regarded brands including Peppers, Sebel and Intercontinental. Particularly relevant to the opening of the Golf Course is his experience as General Manager of the Heritage Golf and Country Club in the Yarra Valley, Victoria and the adjacent Sebel Lodge.
Other points of interest
qualia, Australia’s newest world class luxury resort on the Great Barrier Reef, was completed in August 2008 and features 60 pavilions, a gym on the water’s edge, two pools, a stunning library, the six room Spa qualia, a helipad and boutique. A new Executive Chef, Jane-Therese Mulry has recently been appointed to manage the resort’s two stunning restaurants, Pebble Beach and the elegant Long Pavilion
Hamilton Island’s iconic Reef View Hotel has undergone an extensive refurbishment and now includes a new 35m pool, new restaurant, bar and reception area and upgrades to all rooms and suites.
New activities are constantly evolving with the latest offerings including Hamilton Island Quad Bike Adventure Tours and Hamilton Island Jet Ski Tours.
Golf : 3 Country Thailand-Vietnam-Cambodia Golf Tour Announced
The Thailand-Vietnam-Cambodia Golf Trail is fast
becoming the worlds most talked about golf tour. Announced just 6 weeks ago by Indochina’s
largest specialist golf travel operator, Golfasian, the golf trail makes it now possible for golf
enthusiasts from around the world to play the premier courses in three of the fastest growing
Asian Tiger countries.
Participating golf courses on the trail include Thai Country Club in Bangkok, venue for Tiger
Woods’ PGA win in 1997, the Montgomerie links Vietnam, Colin Montgomerie’s only golf course
in Asia, and the Angkor Golf resort, a challenging Nick Faldo layout that has already received
acclaim as the best golf course in Cambodia. In additional to golfing, the Thailand-Vietnam-
Cambodia Golf Trail affords visitors the opportunity to visit several world heritage sights
including, Ayutthaya in Thailand, Hoi An in Vietnam, and Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Each
destination is unique in it’s culture, architecture, and history, all dating to the 10th century. Over
the course if the next year the trail will be even further enhances with the opening of several
new golf courses
Mark Siegel, Managing Director of Golfasian said, “The Thailand-Vietnam-Cambodia golf trail is
especially popular in these credit crunch times. Not only is it now possible to golf at the best golf
courses in 3 countries, but the trail costs are much more economical than other similar quality
golf tours around the world.” Siegel went on to day, “Golfers can now enjoy premium golfing at a
fraction of the costs they have been accustomed to in the past.”
Golf is the perfect activity to base a holiday around and this can be seen in the rapidly expanding
and successful business of Golfasian. Golfers who demand more from their holiday than just
excellent golf should consider this one-of-a-kind and affordable golf trail.
For more information contact Golfasian at info@golfasian.com or on the web at
www.golfasian.com.
becoming the worlds most talked about golf tour. Announced just 6 weeks ago by Indochina’s
largest specialist golf travel operator, Golfasian, the golf trail makes it now possible for golf
enthusiasts from around the world to play the premier courses in three of the fastest growing
Asian Tiger countries.
Participating golf courses on the trail include Thai Country Club in Bangkok, venue for Tiger
Woods’ PGA win in 1997, the Montgomerie links Vietnam, Colin Montgomerie’s only golf course
in Asia, and the Angkor Golf resort, a challenging Nick Faldo layout that has already received
acclaim as the best golf course in Cambodia. In additional to golfing, the Thailand-Vietnam-
Cambodia Golf Trail affords visitors the opportunity to visit several world heritage sights
including, Ayutthaya in Thailand, Hoi An in Vietnam, and Angkor Wat in Cambodia. Each
destination is unique in it’s culture, architecture, and history, all dating to the 10th century. Over
the course if the next year the trail will be even further enhances with the opening of several
new golf courses
Mark Siegel, Managing Director of Golfasian said, “The Thailand-Vietnam-Cambodia golf trail is
especially popular in these credit crunch times. Not only is it now possible to golf at the best golf
courses in 3 countries, but the trail costs are much more economical than other similar quality
golf tours around the world.” Siegel went on to day, “Golfers can now enjoy premium golfing at a
fraction of the costs they have been accustomed to in the past.”
Golf is the perfect activity to base a holiday around and this can be seen in the rapidly expanding
and successful business of Golfasian. Golfers who demand more from their holiday than just
excellent golf should consider this one-of-a-kind and affordable golf trail.
For more information contact Golfasian at info@golfasian.com or on the web at
www.golfasian.com.
Cricket : Mark Ramprakash Signs Up For Two More Years With Surrey Cricket
Mark Ramprakash has signed a two year extension to his contract with Surrey County Cricket Club, extending his professional career until 2011.
The batsman, who during the 2008 season became just the 25th person to score one hundred first-class hundreds, has a first-class average of 75.06 for Surrey.
Since joining the Club in 2001 – and scoring 146 on his first-class debut against Kent – Ramprakash, 39, has managed fifty centuries, 37 fifties and totalled 12,085 runs. Whilst at Surrey he has averaged over fifty in seven of his eight seasons – including in 2006 and 2007, when he achieved the incredible feat of averaging more than 100 for two consecutive seasons.
The crowning glory of these statistics came on August 2 last year, when during an LV County Championship match at Headingley Carnegie he notched 106 not out, becoming the 25th man to join the legendary ‘Hundred Hundreds’ club, which includes the likes of Sir Jack Hobbs, Sir Donald Bradman, Sir Vivian Richards and Geoffrey Boycott. Since then Ramprakash has scored three more centuries, putting him on a total of 103.
Speaking after signing his new deal, Ramprakash spoke of his desire to act as a role model and work with the next generation of batsmen to come through the Surrey ranks.
“I have had a fantastic career up until now but still feel like I have much more to give”, he said. “There are a huge amount of runs left in me and I look forward to helping shape a new era of Surrey cricket, both at the crease and in the dressing room.
“Surrey have a number of exciting young batsmen and it’s now down to me and other experienced players at the Club to work with the management team to help them use their talent and succeed in the professional game.”
Chris Adams, Surrey’s recently appointed Professional Cricket Manager added: “Mark’s record in recent years has been simply staggering and I am over the moon that he has decided to extend his career with us.
“Statistics like those he has accumulated throughout his career simply do not lie and I look forward to watching him score thousands more runs and working with him to secure Surrey’s future as a successful Club for many years to come.”
The batsman, who during the 2008 season became just the 25th person to score one hundred first-class hundreds, has a first-class average of 75.06 for Surrey.
Since joining the Club in 2001 – and scoring 146 on his first-class debut against Kent – Ramprakash, 39, has managed fifty centuries, 37 fifties and totalled 12,085 runs. Whilst at Surrey he has averaged over fifty in seven of his eight seasons – including in 2006 and 2007, when he achieved the incredible feat of averaging more than 100 for two consecutive seasons.
The crowning glory of these statistics came on August 2 last year, when during an LV County Championship match at Headingley Carnegie he notched 106 not out, becoming the 25th man to join the legendary ‘Hundred Hundreds’ club, which includes the likes of Sir Jack Hobbs, Sir Donald Bradman, Sir Vivian Richards and Geoffrey Boycott. Since then Ramprakash has scored three more centuries, putting him on a total of 103.
Speaking after signing his new deal, Ramprakash spoke of his desire to act as a role model and work with the next generation of batsmen to come through the Surrey ranks.
“I have had a fantastic career up until now but still feel like I have much more to give”, he said. “There are a huge amount of runs left in me and I look forward to helping shape a new era of Surrey cricket, both at the crease and in the dressing room.
“Surrey have a number of exciting young batsmen and it’s now down to me and other experienced players at the Club to work with the management team to help them use their talent and succeed in the professional game.”
Chris Adams, Surrey’s recently appointed Professional Cricket Manager added: “Mark’s record in recent years has been simply staggering and I am over the moon that he has decided to extend his career with us.
“Statistics like those he has accumulated throughout his career simply do not lie and I look forward to watching him score thousands more runs and working with him to secure Surrey’s future as a successful Club for many years to come.”
Football : Robinson Red Card Rescinded
ALBION'S appeal against Paul Robinson's dismissal in Tuesday's 5-0 defeat by Manchester United has been upheld by the FA.
The Baggies left-back has escaped a three-game ban and is now free to play at Hull on Saturday (ko 3pm).
Robinson was red-carded by referee Rob Styles five minutes before half-time for alleged serious foul play in a challenge with Ji-Sung Park.
But the FA overturned the decision after seeing TV replays.
The Baggies left-back has escaped a three-game ban and is now free to play at Hull on Saturday (ko 3pm).
Robinson was red-carded by referee Rob Styles five minutes before half-time for alleged serious foul play in a challenge with Ji-Sung Park.
But the FA overturned the decision after seeing TV replays.
Equestrian : Silver Shines Through The Mist
South African Champion Trainer Mike De Kock won the Group 3 Al Rashidiya for the third time when stable jockey Kevin Shea steered Silver Mist, through the mist, to win the 1777m turf feature in a driving finish.
The Al Rashidiya is the first grass feature of the 2009 Dubai International Racing Carnival and South Africa have now won four of the last six renewals after Shea took his mount to the front about 200m out.
Third Set and Kirklees chased him home but it was Shea’s moment and he explained: “That was a relief as I had to choose between three of them and am glad I picked this fellow. He picked up well when I won on him a fortnight ago and has done so again tonight.”
UAE Champion Trainer Doug Watson was in double form with Fares and Daragh O’Donohoe making the perfect start to proceedings by winning the opening 1600m Dubal Ingot 1600 dirt handicap, before Dynamic Saint under Ryan Moore won the 2000m Dubal Billet 2000 handicap, also on the dirt.
Watson explained: “I really thought Dynamic Saint would run well and that was a brave effort as he has had to put his head down and battle. Fares we really fancied last week and I am glad we ran him back quickly.”
Ryan Moore went on to complete his own double in the concluding 1600m Dubal Casthouse turf handicap on Herman Brown’s Strategic News whom he produced to lead in the dying strides.
It was a first 2009 winner for the trainer who said: “We thought he would go close and Ryan has timed that perfectly.”
The Dubal Power Dash, the 1000m dirt handicap and shortest race of the Carnival, was won by Change Alley for trainer Ali Rashid Al Raihe under Royston Ffrench.
He was another produced to lead in the dying strides on a night of exciting finishes.
It was a great night for the locally-based trainers with Saeed Bin Suroor and Ted Durcan combining with Age of Reason in the Dubal Plotline Trophy, a 2400m turf handicap and Erwan Charpy and Richard Hills landing the Dubal Trophy, a 1500m turf handicap with Ragheed.
That meant five winners for UAE-based trainers and two for those from South Africa.
The Al Rashidiya is the first grass feature of the 2009 Dubai International Racing Carnival and South Africa have now won four of the last six renewals after Shea took his mount to the front about 200m out.
Third Set and Kirklees chased him home but it was Shea’s moment and he explained: “That was a relief as I had to choose between three of them and am glad I picked this fellow. He picked up well when I won on him a fortnight ago and has done so again tonight.”
UAE Champion Trainer Doug Watson was in double form with Fares and Daragh O’Donohoe making the perfect start to proceedings by winning the opening 1600m Dubal Ingot 1600 dirt handicap, before Dynamic Saint under Ryan Moore won the 2000m Dubal Billet 2000 handicap, also on the dirt.
Watson explained: “I really thought Dynamic Saint would run well and that was a brave effort as he has had to put his head down and battle. Fares we really fancied last week and I am glad we ran him back quickly.”
Ryan Moore went on to complete his own double in the concluding 1600m Dubal Casthouse turf handicap on Herman Brown’s Strategic News whom he produced to lead in the dying strides.
It was a first 2009 winner for the trainer who said: “We thought he would go close and Ryan has timed that perfectly.”
The Dubal Power Dash, the 1000m dirt handicap and shortest race of the Carnival, was won by Change Alley for trainer Ali Rashid Al Raihe under Royston Ffrench.
He was another produced to lead in the dying strides on a night of exciting finishes.
It was a great night for the locally-based trainers with Saeed Bin Suroor and Ted Durcan combining with Age of Reason in the Dubal Plotline Trophy, a 2400m turf handicap and Erwan Charpy and Richard Hills landing the Dubal Trophy, a 1500m turf handicap with Ragheed.
That meant five winners for UAE-based trainers and two for those from South Africa.
Football : Arsenal Players Get Creative
Arsenal Players Get Creative With Artist Gerald Scarfe In Aid Of Teenage Cancer Trust
Gael Clichy, Manuel Almunia and Robin van Persie meet world famous cartoonist to help design a unique Citroën C4
Arsenal players Gael Clichy, Manuel Almunia and Robin van Persie swapped footballs for paintbrushes when they met with world famous cartoonist Gerald Scarfe at Arsenal’s training ground earlier this month.
The unusual meeting took place so that players could share their ideas on what they would like to see on an Arsenal-themed Citroën C4 which will be designed and then raffled to raise money for Arsenal’s Charity of the Season, Teenage Cancer Trust.
The car, generously donated by Arsenal Football Club’s official car supplier, Citroën is to be personally designed by cartoonist Gerald Scarfe with the help of the Arsenal players. Gael, Robin and Manuel shared their thoughts and ideas with Gerald around Club culture, supporters and what they felt it meant to be part of the Club. Supporters can tune into a vodcast of the consultation and interview with Gerald Scarfe via Arsenal.com or iTunes from Monday 13th January.
Welcoming Gerald to the training ground Robin van Persie, whose father is an artist, said: “This is something different for us to be involved in and my ideas were very much centred around the pace of the game and the style of football Arsenal play.
“My father has been inspired in his work by the supporters and I’d like to see this reflected in Gerald’s design too. Gael and Manuel had very different ideas, so I’m looking forward to seeing how he puts all the ideas together to design this unique piece of art. I hope it inspires supporters to keep up their amazing fundraising for Teenage Cancer Trust and I hope they buy lots of tickets to try to win the car!”
Artist, Gerald Scarfe said: “Although it’s a slightly unusual project, I am used to dealing with sportsmen from a distance, but the consultation today gives me the chance to understand exactly what these guys want – I need to make their thoughts work on the car to make it an interesting vehicle for the ultimate Arsenal fan.”
Xavier Duchemin, Managing Director at Citroën UK commented “At Citroën we're delighted to be working with Arsenal and Gerald Scarfe on this project to help raise funds for such a worthwhile charity as the Teenage Cancer Trust.”
The specially designed Citroen C4 will be unveiled in February and will be on show at various locations including Emirates Stadium. Raffle tickets will be available to purchase in person at a number of outlets or via the partnership’s dedicated website www.beagoonerbeagiver.org. from March 2009.
Supporters will give input at a later date about what they would like to find inside the hatchback which can be won by buying a raffle ticket for just £2 from March 2009 with all monies going to the charity dedicated to improving the lives of teenagers with cancer.
Over the course of the season, through the ‘Be A Gooner. Be A Giver.’ campaign, the Gunners aim to raise £300,000 enabling Teenage Cancer Trust to increase its support for teenagers and young adults with cancer in the London area by building a unit within a brand new Day Care Centre at University College Hospital, London.
Arsenal is the first to commit to funding part of Teenage Cancer Trust’s unit in the Day Care Centre. The Club hopes that other organisations will follow their lead, helping the charity to raise a further £1.2million to complete the development of their unit.
The Education Zone will be a dedicated space where those being treated can keep up with their studies and also learn more about their cancer. The zone will include computers and laptops with wireless access, enabling them to contact their school, keep in touch with their friends and even join in with lessons via webcam.
For more information on the partnership or to donate visit: www.beagoonerbeagiver.org.
ABOUT GERALD SCARFE
Gerald Scarfe was born in London. He was asthmatic as a child and spent much time drawing and reading. After a brief period at the Royal College of Art in London, he established himself as a satirical cartoonist, working for Punch magazine and Private Eye during the early sixties. He has had many exhibitions worldwide, including New York, Osaka, Montreal, Los Angeles, Sydney, Melbourne, Chicago and London, and 50 one-man shows. He has designed the sets and costumes for plays, operas and musicals in London, Houston, Los Angeles and Detroit. His film work includes designing and directing the animation for Pink Floyd's The Wall. Scarfe has written and directed many live action and documentary films for BBC and Channel 4 and has published many books of his work. His latest book, Monsters is published in September 2008. Gerald Scarfe has been political cartoonist for the London Sunday Times for 40 years, and has worked for The New Yorker magazine for 14 years. His work regularly appears in many periodicals. Gerald Scarfe received a CBE in 2008.
TEENAGE CANCER TRUST
Each day in the UK, six teenagers will find out they have cancer - that is almost 2,000 new diagnoses every year. These young people often get a raw deal, receiving hospital treatment in inappropriate facilities catering for children or the elderly.
Teenage Cancer Trust focuses on the needs of teenagers and young adults with cancer by providing specialist teenage units in NHS hospitals. As well as state-of-the-art facilities to keep patients occupied during long stays in hospital, the units provide an environment where teenagers can meet others in a similar situation. To date, TCT has built nine units but we need a total of 22 to ensure that every teenager diagnosed with cancer has access to one.
TEENAGE CANCER TRUST’S UNIT WITHIN THE NEW DAY CARE CENTRE
UCLH is developing its plans for a world class cancer centre which will open in 2012. The £100m centre, which will be supported by the UCLH charitable foundation, will house outpatient and chemotherapy care for all major tumour groups and place UCLH at the forefront of cancer care in London and beyond. It will have a welcoming feel and be somewhere that patients and families feel helps them live with cancer not just somewhere they go for treatment. Patients, families and carers will be given top quality educational, social, psychological and complementary therapy support alongside clinical treatment.
The purpose of Teenage Cancer Trust’s unit within the centre at UCLH is to make treatment regimes more flexible and to provide an inspiring and relaxing place for teenagers and young adults to be treated, while keeping patients in hospital for the shortest time possible. Benefiting from the centre will be newly diagnosed patients, those who have relapsed and those who are in remission but need frequent follow up appointments.
Teenage Cancer Trust’s unit will give young patients the opportunity to meet others the same age who are going through a similar experience, enabling them to build friendships and support each other. The unit, like others built by Teenage Cancer Trust around the UK, will be designed and equipped so that teenagers can relax and feel at home in a comfortable environment.
For more information on Teenage Cancer Trust visit www.teenagecancertrust.org
Motoring : They're Going Down Under (Sort Of!)
Whilst it's not exactly down under, the team at Top Gear have confirmed plans to record a series of live programmes in New Zealand; the home of delicious lamb, Lord of the Rings and the Maori.
And whether or not the team has any plans to subject their seemingly indestructible Toyota Hilux to further acts of brutality, whatever they have planned is sure to be a blast.
And whether or not the team has any plans to subject their seemingly indestructible Toyota Hilux to further acts of brutality, whatever they have planned is sure to be a blast.
Motorsport : Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing Announces Driver Adam Jones Will Pair With Dan Eaves
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing has announced that Adam Jones will complete its driver pairing for entry into the 2009 HiQ MSA British Touring Car Championship (BTCC). Adam will join former BTCC Independents Champion and number-one driver Dan Eaves in the first motor- racing team created to run its entire operation carbon zero.
Birmingham-born Jones, 28, returns to the track after a fantastic 2008 season in which he finished 3rd in the independent standings. Adam finished the season in 9th place in the overall Drivers Championship and third in the Independent standings. Highlights of his 2008 season were four 2nd places, two 3rd places and 6 podium positions.
When fans return to Brands Hatch in April for the first round of the BTCC 2009, they will be able to watch out for an exciting season from the strong pairing of the two motorsport professionals. Jones will join Dan Eaves, ex-independent BTCC Champion. Dan holds the record as the only BTCC driver to win all three races on race day.
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing has received much attention since its team title sponsor launch at the Transport Research Laboratory in June 2008, where it confirmed its intention to operate a carbon zero policy, running two Seat Leon's on bio-fuels, minimising its emissions and off- setting any balance.
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing is working with co2balance to implement its zero carbon policy, minimising emissions from its entire operation and offsetting any balance through energy efficiency projects in Africa.
Mark Holland, UK General Manager for title sponsor Cartridge World, said:
"Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing is the only race team in Europe created with the sole intention of showcasing the performance, reliability and environmental advantages of new fuels, technology and ongoing R&D. Our association with the team demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the environment, and provides the company and its franchisees throughout the UK with a platform to demonstrate our mission to prevent millions of empty printer cartridges from being needlessly sent to landfill".
Birmingham-born Jones, 28, returns to the track after a fantastic 2008 season in which he finished 3rd in the independent standings. Adam finished the season in 9th place in the overall Drivers Championship and third in the Independent standings. Highlights of his 2008 season were four 2nd places, two 3rd places and 6 podium positions.
When fans return to Brands Hatch in April for the first round of the BTCC 2009, they will be able to watch out for an exciting season from the strong pairing of the two motorsport professionals. Jones will join Dan Eaves, ex-independent BTCC Champion. Dan holds the record as the only BTCC driver to win all three races on race day.
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing has received much attention since its team title sponsor launch at the Transport Research Laboratory in June 2008, where it confirmed its intention to operate a carbon zero policy, running two Seat Leon's on bio-fuels, minimising its emissions and off- setting any balance.
Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing is working with co2balance to implement its zero carbon policy, minimising emissions from its entire operation and offsetting any balance through energy efficiency projects in Africa.
Mark Holland, UK General Manager for title sponsor Cartridge World, said:
"Cartridge World Carbon Zero Racing is the only race team in Europe created with the sole intention of showcasing the performance, reliability and environmental advantages of new fuels, technology and ongoing R&D. Our association with the team demonstrates our unwavering commitment to the environment, and provides the company and its franchisees throughout the UK with a platform to demonstrate our mission to prevent millions of empty printer cartridges from being needlessly sent to landfill".
Motoring : Old Legends Meet New Heroes At Race Retro
Two-wheeled racers spanning over 50 years will be roaring into Race Retro, the international historic motorsport show, when it accelerates into Stoneleigh Park from 13th to 15th March.
The three-day show will combine the legacy of manufacturers such as Triumph and Norton, with special appearances from the racers who continue to chase championship titles on the circuits today.
A core feature will be a tribute to 50 years of the Triumph Bonneville and racing Triumphs, with an amazing display including the spectacular "Texas Cee-Gar" streamliner, as well as other racing Bonnevilles and racing Triumph models.
Live action will come from the Pre-'65 Motorcycle Trial Demonstration, which returns to Race Retro by popular demand. With action from both solos and sidecars, the course has been created by riders Mick Grant, seven times winner of the Isle of Man TT and Macau Grand Prix winner and trial champion Neil Gaunt.
Mick and Neil will be joined by other celebrity riders, including Steve Parrish and Guy Martin. Steve became a professional motorcycle racer in 1976 at the age of 22, joining Barry Sheene in the Suzuki GP team. In 1978 and 1979, he clinched the British Motor Cycle Championships, joining Yamaha in 1980 before trying his hand at truck racing in the 1980s.
Guy Martin currently races in the world-renowned British Superbike Championship on Honda's legendary Fireblade, a bike tuned to make over 200bhp and travel in excess of 200mph. He also competes - setting record lap times and winning - other races, including the Isle of Man TT, the North West 200, and the Ulster and Macau Grands Prix.
Other motorcycles on display include the Joe Potts Garage Collection, featuring the 1962 500cc JP7 Potts Manx, the final and ultimate development of a Norton by Joe Potts of Bellshill. The bike was built for Bob McIntyre and was first introduced midway through the 1961 season. The JP7 engine was highly developed and had many special features, including Potts high-lift cams, a special crankshaft assembly, a modified drive-side main bearing, and a ported cylinder head. The JP7 Manx Norton was first raced in 1961. One of its notable results with Bob Mac included victory in the 500cc class of the Leinster 200 at Dunboyne and setting a new lap record at 94.74mph.
The JP7 will be joined by the 1958 250cc JP5 Potts Manx, the 1951 150cc Bruce Special and the 1958 250cc DOHC Bruce Velocette, as well as the 1957 Joe Potts Desmo, the 1951 JP 'Universal' Car and anm array of rare pictures, posters and drawings detailing the collection's history.
H&H returns as Race Retro's auction partner with an impressive collection of racing bikes, including Carl Fogarty's 1990 Honda RC30, which won the
F1 TT, the Senior TT and several rounds of the 1990 F1 World Championship, and is estimated to fetch a price of between £32,000 and £36,000.
This is joined by the 1984 EMC 250 used by Australian rider Graeme McGregor to win the IoM Junior TT Race in 1984, setting a new race and lap record at 111.06mph - 11.4 seconds faster than Con Law's record set the previous year!
Other lots available include the ex-Chris Palmer Honda RS125, which won the 2004 TT and Ulster GP, the ex-Joey Dunlop 1990 Honda RS250, raced in the 1990 and 1991 seasons, and the ex-Stephen Cull Yamaha FZR600, winner of the Ulster GP winner and many other races.
Continuing the Irish winning theme is the ex-Robert Dunlop Yamaha Spondon, the F2 Irish Championship winner used for Robert's first North West 200 win and the ex-Gary Cowan Yamaha TZ350, lap record holder at the Ulster GP and winner of many other races.
The show will also feature the Retro Racer and Cafe Racer Concours, with 20 finalists at the show, each hoping to win one of the categories which include Best Race bike (judged on three time spans), Best British, European and Japanese, as well as Best Café Racer.
The Retro Racer categories will be supported by the Road Racing Legends Charity, offering advice on the race bike categories, providing an experienced judging panel, and generously donating the trophies, rosettes and product packs to the awards list. The Café Racer category is supported by Ace Café London and founder Mark Wilsmore will be joined by former road racing legend Mick Grant (winner of seven IoM TT races) and current star road racing rider Guy Martin, to award the prizes at the show.
Entry forms can be downloaded from the Race Retro website at http://www.raceretro.com, or obtained by emailing Race Retro Co-ordinator David Alderson on david@livepromotions.co.uk.
The successful finalists will each receive two free show entry passes per bike displayed, as well as having their bike on show for the duration of the event.
And if all that is not enough, the organisers have reduced adult ticket prices to just £20 for Friday and £15 for Saturday and Sunday when booking in advance and now offer free parking. Children's tickets on Friday are £5, but are then free all weekend. The show is open from 9.30am each day and closes at 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday. To book tickets and for the latest updates, please visit http://www.raceretro.com
The three-day show will combine the legacy of manufacturers such as Triumph and Norton, with special appearances from the racers who continue to chase championship titles on the circuits today.
A core feature will be a tribute to 50 years of the Triumph Bonneville and racing Triumphs, with an amazing display including the spectacular "Texas Cee-Gar" streamliner, as well as other racing Bonnevilles and racing Triumph models.
Live action will come from the Pre-'65 Motorcycle Trial Demonstration, which returns to Race Retro by popular demand. With action from both solos and sidecars, the course has been created by riders Mick Grant, seven times winner of the Isle of Man TT and Macau Grand Prix winner and trial champion Neil Gaunt.
Mick and Neil will be joined by other celebrity riders, including Steve Parrish and Guy Martin. Steve became a professional motorcycle racer in 1976 at the age of 22, joining Barry Sheene in the Suzuki GP team. In 1978 and 1979, he clinched the British Motor Cycle Championships, joining Yamaha in 1980 before trying his hand at truck racing in the 1980s.
Guy Martin currently races in the world-renowned British Superbike Championship on Honda's legendary Fireblade, a bike tuned to make over 200bhp and travel in excess of 200mph. He also competes - setting record lap times and winning - other races, including the Isle of Man TT, the North West 200, and the Ulster and Macau Grands Prix.
Other motorcycles on display include the Joe Potts Garage Collection, featuring the 1962 500cc JP7 Potts Manx, the final and ultimate development of a Norton by Joe Potts of Bellshill. The bike was built for Bob McIntyre and was first introduced midway through the 1961 season. The JP7 engine was highly developed and had many special features, including Potts high-lift cams, a special crankshaft assembly, a modified drive-side main bearing, and a ported cylinder head. The JP7 Manx Norton was first raced in 1961. One of its notable results with Bob Mac included victory in the 500cc class of the Leinster 200 at Dunboyne and setting a new lap record at 94.74mph.
The JP7 will be joined by the 1958 250cc JP5 Potts Manx, the 1951 150cc Bruce Special and the 1958 250cc DOHC Bruce Velocette, as well as the 1957 Joe Potts Desmo, the 1951 JP 'Universal' Car and anm array of rare pictures, posters and drawings detailing the collection's history.
H&H returns as Race Retro's auction partner with an impressive collection of racing bikes, including Carl Fogarty's 1990 Honda RC30, which won the
F1 TT, the Senior TT and several rounds of the 1990 F1 World Championship, and is estimated to fetch a price of between £32,000 and £36,000.
This is joined by the 1984 EMC 250 used by Australian rider Graeme McGregor to win the IoM Junior TT Race in 1984, setting a new race and lap record at 111.06mph - 11.4 seconds faster than Con Law's record set the previous year!
Other lots available include the ex-Chris Palmer Honda RS125, which won the 2004 TT and Ulster GP, the ex-Joey Dunlop 1990 Honda RS250, raced in the 1990 and 1991 seasons, and the ex-Stephen Cull Yamaha FZR600, winner of the Ulster GP winner and many other races.
Continuing the Irish winning theme is the ex-Robert Dunlop Yamaha Spondon, the F2 Irish Championship winner used for Robert's first North West 200 win and the ex-Gary Cowan Yamaha TZ350, lap record holder at the Ulster GP and winner of many other races.
The show will also feature the Retro Racer and Cafe Racer Concours, with 20 finalists at the show, each hoping to win one of the categories which include Best Race bike (judged on three time spans), Best British, European and Japanese, as well as Best Café Racer.
The Retro Racer categories will be supported by the Road Racing Legends Charity, offering advice on the race bike categories, providing an experienced judging panel, and generously donating the trophies, rosettes and product packs to the awards list. The Café Racer category is supported by Ace Café London and founder Mark Wilsmore will be joined by former road racing legend Mick Grant (winner of seven IoM TT races) and current star road racing rider Guy Martin, to award the prizes at the show.
Entry forms can be downloaded from the Race Retro website at http://www.raceretro.com, or obtained by emailing Race Retro Co-ordinator David Alderson on david@livepromotions.co.uk.
The successful finalists will each receive two free show entry passes per bike displayed, as well as having their bike on show for the duration of the event.
And if all that is not enough, the organisers have reduced adult ticket prices to just £20 for Friday and £15 for Saturday and Sunday when booking in advance and now offer free parking. Children's tickets on Friday are £5, but are then free all weekend. The show is open from 9.30am each day and closes at 5.30pm on Friday and Saturday and 4.30pm on Sunday. To book tickets and for the latest updates, please visit http://www.raceretro.com
Motorsport : Wayne Boyd Wins Again!
2008 British Formula Ford Champion and 2008 Formula Ford Festival winner Wayne Boyd celebrated an amazing start to the year having collected two major sports awards in Northern Ireland, the prestigious Belfast Telegraph Young Player of the Year and the Association of Northern Ireland Car Clubs ANICC Driver of the Year.
In recognition of his dominant performances in British motor sport where he won15 races, started from pole 15 times, set 14 fastest laps and stood on the podium 21 times out of 25 starts, Wayne began the week by collecting the Belfast Telegraph Young Player of the Year on Monday night (19th January 2009). Winners of the award are chosen from across all sportin Northern Ireland in recognition of outstanding success during the year. This year Wayne beat off competition from several outstanding athletes including: David Ames (hockey), Paul Stirling (cricket) and Chelsey Wilson (swimming). Previous winners have gone onto become household names in Northern Ireland, such as golfer Rory McIlroy, bike racer Jonathan Rea and snooker player Mark Allen. The award was presented at the annual star-studded Northern Ireland Sports Awards in Belfast.
Less than a week later and Wayne was being honoured again. This time by the Association of Northern Ireland Car Clubs, on Saturday night (24th January 2009) where he was selected as the ANICC Driver of the Year, the premier motor sport award in Northern Ireland. It is rare for this award to be won by a circuit racing driver, especially one so young, and is more usually the reserve of the rallying fraternity. Being selected is an indication of just how highly thought of Wayne is by the motor sport community at home in Northern Ireland. Previous racing driver winners include Eddie Irvine, Adam Carroll and Tim Mullen.
Wayne Boyd said, It's just amazing to win, I was excited to be invited but I never expected to win anything. When I heard my name being called it was such a surprise. I'm blown away by it! It's a big honour that we have been recognised in this way, especially from outside of motor racing. Thanks to my Dad, my sponsors and all the guys at Jamun Racing, it's their award as much as mine. I can't wait now to get back in a race car very soon. Roll on the 2009 F3 race season".
Marine Industry : Formula Cruisers at Auckland Boat Show
The 2009 Auckland International Boat Show is on again in Auckland’s Viaduct Harbour, and this year we are featuring two quite distinct ICON 54’s, showcasing a variety of custom features available to you at Formula Cruisers.
ICON 6; finished in our latest beech and walnut interior is designed for family cruising and relaxed entertaining. New features include the internal stairs, convertible saloon layout and cockpit day head. ICON 6 is available for purchase and immediate delivery.
ICON 7; finished in a gloss, cherry interior, is a serious offshore game fisher, complete with tuna tower, extensive electronics package, and many other custom features. Built to NSW 200 mile offshore survey, she is destined to become a regular face on the Australian game fish circuit in the hands of her experienced, and very keen Australian owner and crew.
We will have a variety of personnel on hand including Grant Senior, our Naval Architect, Rob Brown, our Operations and Technical Manager, and Phil Dudding, our Formula Marine Services Manager responsible for all outwork and refit services.
We look forward to seeing you at the show and discussing how we can be of assistance with all your boating needs.
Best Regards,
Troy Woods
www.formulacruisers.com
sAILING : Dinghy Moves in 80-footers
Competition in the Louis Vuitton Pacific Series took on a new sense of urgency as dusk fell over the Hauraki Gulf this evening and South Africa’s Shosholoza and Italy’s Luna Rossa scrapped like tigers throughout a four-lap race. Think dinghy moves in 80-footers!
The victory honors went to Peter Holmberg skippering Luna Rossa but only after multiple lead changes and two penalties imposed on the South African boat. It was by far the closest race in the first four days of competition in the two-week long international match race for big boats sailed in Auckland’s harbour.
A long delay waiting for suitable wind forced a late start to racing and nightfall was near by the time the Italians and South Africans and had their chance to sail a race that was abandoned yesterday.
A tense pre-start battle led into a close weather leg featuring lead changes and some slow-speed jockeying for position at the weather mark. Cian was first around with an 18 second margin only to be penalized on the run as Holmberg drew level and tried to pass. At the leeward mark Holmberg scraped in by just five seconds ahead of the Italians.
At the second weather mark Cian had the upper hand again and executed a series of downspeed defensive tacks that had the boats crawling above the layline as the Italian skipper looked for an opportunity to land a penalty on Holmberg, a move that would cancel the penalty hanging over his head.
An already tactical race turned bizarre as the boats rounded and neither set spinnakers. Cian was still hunting for a penalty. Holmberg was content to lay back and avoid one. The top half of the last run was a series of jerky S-turns with the big mainsails slamming back and forwards as the skippers feinted and counterpunched. Finally Cian copped a second penalty which meant he had to take the requisite 360-turn to neutralize the first. Holmberg sailed away to win by 1min9sec.
In four other races today, China Team lost to Emirates Team New Zealand after blowing their race start, while Luna Rossa comfortably defeated the Greek Team. BMW Oracle Racing won by 54 seconds over Pataugas K-Challenge and TEAMORIGIN beat Shosholoza by 48 seconds.
With one day’s competition remaining in the first round robin, the scores are: Pool A – Emirates Team New Zealand, 3; Damiani Italia Challenge, 2; BMW Oracle Racing, 2; Pataugas K Challenge, 1; China Team, 0. Pool B – TEAMORIGIN, 3; Alinghi, 2; Luna Rossa, 2; Greek Challenge, 0, Team Shosholoza, 0.
The victory honors went to Peter Holmberg skippering Luna Rossa but only after multiple lead changes and two penalties imposed on the South African boat. It was by far the closest race in the first four days of competition in the two-week long international match race for big boats sailed in Auckland’s harbour.
A long delay waiting for suitable wind forced a late start to racing and nightfall was near by the time the Italians and South Africans and had their chance to sail a race that was abandoned yesterday.
A tense pre-start battle led into a close weather leg featuring lead changes and some slow-speed jockeying for position at the weather mark. Cian was first around with an 18 second margin only to be penalized on the run as Holmberg drew level and tried to pass. At the leeward mark Holmberg scraped in by just five seconds ahead of the Italians.
At the second weather mark Cian had the upper hand again and executed a series of downspeed defensive tacks that had the boats crawling above the layline as the Italian skipper looked for an opportunity to land a penalty on Holmberg, a move that would cancel the penalty hanging over his head.
An already tactical race turned bizarre as the boats rounded and neither set spinnakers. Cian was still hunting for a penalty. Holmberg was content to lay back and avoid one. The top half of the last run was a series of jerky S-turns with the big mainsails slamming back and forwards as the skippers feinted and counterpunched. Finally Cian copped a second penalty which meant he had to take the requisite 360-turn to neutralize the first. Holmberg sailed away to win by 1min9sec.
In four other races today, China Team lost to Emirates Team New Zealand after blowing their race start, while Luna Rossa comfortably defeated the Greek Team. BMW Oracle Racing won by 54 seconds over Pataugas K-Challenge and TEAMORIGIN beat Shosholoza by 48 seconds.
With one day’s competition remaining in the first round robin, the scores are: Pool A – Emirates Team New Zealand, 3; Damiani Italia Challenge, 2; BMW Oracle Racing, 2; Pataugas K Challenge, 1; China Team, 0. Pool B – TEAMORIGIN, 3; Alinghi, 2; Luna Rossa, 2; Greek Challenge, 0, Team Shosholoza, 0.
Sailing : Sawadee.com Regatta 2009, Samui – the 8th Samui International Yacht Regatta
Koh Samui from the 1st-6th June.
A favourite amongst competitive and social sailors, the five-day regatta is one of Asia’s leading sailing events and is also part of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championships. Registrations are already being received, with a full fleet expected from Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai and further a field.
In addition to the competitive sailing, the Sawadee.com Regatta is also about fun parties and is firmly established as a ‘must attend’ regatta on the international sailing circuit. Its headquarters will again be the Centara Grand Beach Resort, Samui, which has been the home of the regatta since its conception and that has now become synonymous with the event.
Callum Laing is the Chairman of the Regatta for the second year “Every year the regatta has gone from strength to strength and we’re really looking forward to a Memorable 2009 event. In 2008 we welcomed over 300 participants from 10 countries And registrations received so far point toward the biggest Samui Regatta to date.
The 2009 regatta will also provide great opportunities for individuals, families and groups to join one of the regatta spectator boats and see these races up close Whilst enjoying the famous Thai hospitality”.
The Regatta will again feature five classes, IRC-1, IRC-2, Cruising, Sports Boats and Multihulls – ensuring that the on-water action is both competitive and fun to watch. In 2008, Ray Roberts and ‘Quantum Racing’ won the IRC-1 Class with Matt Allen and ‘Ichi Ban’ taking the IRC-2 honours. Kipsan Beck and ‘Pornstar’ lifted the trophy in the Sports Boats Class with Andrew Short and ‘Constanza’ securing the top Cruising Class placing. Radab Kanjanayanit and ‘Cedar Swan’ came in first in the Multihull Class.
The skipper receiving the most top placings on the eight regatta Asian circuit will also be crowned Asian Yachting Champion Skipper at the end of the Sawadee.com Regatta. In 2008, it was Quantum Racing’s Ray Roberts that lifted the trophy and wore the coveted ‘Armani Blue Blazer’ that was presented at the fabulous prize giving dinner on the lawns of the Centara Grand Beach Resort at Chaweng Beach.
The 2009 regatta will also play host to the second running of the ‘Samui Junior Sailing Squadron Challenge’ – giving local children from the island the opportunity to be out on the water experiencing the excitement of competitive yacht racing. The challenge is led by John Stall – one of the original founders of the Samui Regatta in 2001. The regatta also provides on-going support to this initiative, contributing 5,000 Thai Baht every month to pay for sailing equipment.
Public tickets will be available for the legendary sailing parties that occur most Evenings during the regatta and that will feature bands and DJ’s from around the world.
Koh Samui, rich with natural resources, white sandy beaches and coral reefs, is the perfect location for an international regatta that not only provides great sailing, but that also supports tourism on the island and helps raise the profile of Thailand as an idyllic and exciting vacation destination. The regatta provides the perfect blend of Thai charm and world-class sailing.
www.samuiregatta.com
A favourite amongst competitive and social sailors, the five-day regatta is one of Asia’s leading sailing events and is also part of the Asian Yachting Grand Prix Championships. Registrations are already being received, with a full fleet expected from Thailand, Australia, New Zealand, Singapore, Hong Kong, Dubai and further a field.
In addition to the competitive sailing, the Sawadee.com Regatta is also about fun parties and is firmly established as a ‘must attend’ regatta on the international sailing circuit. Its headquarters will again be the Centara Grand Beach Resort, Samui, which has been the home of the regatta since its conception and that has now become synonymous with the event.
Callum Laing is the Chairman of the Regatta for the second year “Every year the regatta has gone from strength to strength and we’re really looking forward to a Memorable 2009 event. In 2008 we welcomed over 300 participants from 10 countries And registrations received so far point toward the biggest Samui Regatta to date.
The 2009 regatta will also provide great opportunities for individuals, families and groups to join one of the regatta spectator boats and see these races up close Whilst enjoying the famous Thai hospitality”.
The Regatta will again feature five classes, IRC-1, IRC-2, Cruising, Sports Boats and Multihulls – ensuring that the on-water action is both competitive and fun to watch. In 2008, Ray Roberts and ‘Quantum Racing’ won the IRC-1 Class with Matt Allen and ‘Ichi Ban’ taking the IRC-2 honours. Kipsan Beck and ‘Pornstar’ lifted the trophy in the Sports Boats Class with Andrew Short and ‘Constanza’ securing the top Cruising Class placing. Radab Kanjanayanit and ‘Cedar Swan’ came in first in the Multihull Class.
The skipper receiving the most top placings on the eight regatta Asian circuit will also be crowned Asian Yachting Champion Skipper at the end of the Sawadee.com Regatta. In 2008, it was Quantum Racing’s Ray Roberts that lifted the trophy and wore the coveted ‘Armani Blue Blazer’ that was presented at the fabulous prize giving dinner on the lawns of the Centara Grand Beach Resort at Chaweng Beach.
The 2009 regatta will also play host to the second running of the ‘Samui Junior Sailing Squadron Challenge’ – giving local children from the island the opportunity to be out on the water experiencing the excitement of competitive yacht racing. The challenge is led by John Stall – one of the original founders of the Samui Regatta in 2001. The regatta also provides on-going support to this initiative, contributing 5,000 Thai Baht every month to pay for sailing equipment.
Public tickets will be available for the legendary sailing parties that occur most Evenings during the regatta and that will feature bands and DJ’s from around the world.
Koh Samui, rich with natural resources, white sandy beaches and coral reefs, is the perfect location for an international regatta that not only provides great sailing, but that also supports tourism on the island and helps raise the profile of Thailand as an idyllic and exciting vacation destination. The regatta provides the perfect blend of Thai charm and world-class sailing.
www.samuiregatta.com
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