Commze

Once of Frank’s life long obsession oriented dreams finally occurred, after an almost eternity of waiting, after all he was a whole nine years old, last year when his uncle took him to a live Philadelphia 76ers basketball game. It was really the greatest evening of Frank’s young life, up to that point. He had been a 76ers fan for as long as he could remember. His mother claims that it was not always his choice because his grandfather was always coming over and propping him up as a baby in front of the television and watching the games with him. However, she didn’t complain too loudly because every time Frank was upset and crying she could prop him up in front of a game and he would be okay. Naturally, his parents collected tapes of 76ers games and had them on hand.

Inadvertently this also contributed to Frank’s obsession. He started memorizing game details, team and player statistics before he was even aware of it. There was simply no way for Frank to grow up and not love basketball and be a loyal lifelong 76er fan. Well, his father was afraid it would all backfire one day and he would actually despise basketball, but his fears were unfounded.

On the evening Frank and his uncle went to the game his uncle thought about surprising him and just showing up there but his mother wouldn’t let him. She explained that Frank would be extremely upset to learn he was going to a game and didn’t have on his Willie Green jersey. So, to make the evening complete, his uncle told him what they would be doing and with both of them in jerseys they enjoyed a cheese steak sandwich before heading to the Wachovia Center. They passed a few of the hotels in Philadelphia and Frank wondered if any of them contained fans for the other team. It was truly a magical evening, one that Frank would never forget.

Serena Williams has been known to wear the same pair of socks throughout an entire tennis tournament.  Will she do this alleged habit/superstition of her for the Australian Open Tennis Championship this year?  Probably, as all players have kooky little pre game and post game rituals that they indulge in.  They will no doubt be fashionable since she has her clothing line now that she designs for.

In fact, fashion (she used to have a line with Puma but switched over to Mike with whom she is currently with) among other things (she has had brief acting stints on shows like Law and Order and in music videos too), such as the money from copious advertisements and fame, were said to be at the root cause of her failure in her match against Madison Keys.  Though it was simply an exhibition game, in addition to her John McEnroe meltdown at the U.S. Open in 2009 over a foot fault in which she physically threatened a judge, some of her former fans have become less enamored of her lately.

However, she is still the number one women’s player in tennis.  She also has two gold medals to put on her credentials, and has won more money than current female players till active in the game.  Perhaps most importantly is that she is a role model for African American girls and the kind of success they can have through focus and hard work.

She plays a high-risk game, staying close to the baseline, and has great volleys, the kind of which her opponents cannot duplicate.  Her sister, Venus, has provided her with a great kind of rivalry that has pushed her onto the higher accomplishments and greater feats.  Perhaps her saavy business sense for fashion and copious deals with companies for advertising is not necessarily a fault showing that she is stretched too things, but a strength showing how far a woman can go and be a success—and in several different ventures.  However, she better show better behavior this year at the Australian Open if she wants to coninue to be a good role model and popular with the crowds.

The New Orleans Saints are the professional football team based in New Orleans, Louisiana. They are one of two major iconic factors of the city, other one being the annual celebration of Mardi Gras. And while these are two of the main aspects of the city that are recognized around the country and even the world they are not the only offerings New Orleans has to share. The Saints, however, one of their own pride and joys. And while many of the guests who stay in one of the New Orleans luxury hotels are there specifically to enjoy the Mardi Gras parades and festival, the Superdome is full of supportive Saints fans.

The Saints and the Superdome itself were the focus of national attention during the 2006 home opener. This sold out game marked the Saints’ return to the Superdome after the horrific damage it suffered during the Hurricane Katrina. This game was also nationally televised and the Saints beat their opponents the Atlanta Falcon’s by a score of 23 to 3. The following year, in 2007, this spectacular event received official recognition by ESPY as one of the best moments in sports. That season they also reached the NFC Championship Game, though they ended up losing to the Chicago Bears.

The team was founded as an expansion team in 1967 and they had a slow time gaining wining seasons and critical recognition. Finally in 2000 they defeated the St. Louis Rams, who were at the time the defending Super Bowl Champions, and earned the Saints their first playoff win. The team has a strong local support base and the New Orleans Saints Hall of Fame was established to encourage continued enthusiasm and sponsorship. It is intended to preserve the history of the franchise and notable memorabilia for generations of loyal fans.

For fans of Jo-Wilifried Tsonga Petsonga, they will have a chance to see him and many more through the US Open sweepstakes that is still happening right now.  Though watching his moves on TV is good, watching this fantastic and rising star in person would prove to be even better.  
 
His history seems to always show a proclivity toward sports.  Didier, his father, moved from the Congolese to France to pursue handball, which perhaps explains his interest in tennis as something evolved from his father. Growing to become a imminent figure in tennis when he crushed four seeded tennis players in the 2008 Australian Open, Jo-Wilifried Tsonga Petsonga has shown great potential to become the top tennis professional in the world ever since.  Not only did he defeat four seeded players, but he also defeated them while he himself was unseeded.  He conquered Rafael Nadal, a player with a world ranking of two when Jo-Wilifried Tsonga Petsonga played him, during the semifinals of the US Australian Open.  He did finally lose to Novak Djokovic.  Though Jo-Wilifried Tsonga Petsonga won the first set of the match, he lost the others.  
 
Other facts that make him a favorite at the US Open are his excellent serves which are full of power but also extreme precision.  Forehands that are on the heavy side also aid in the playing style that has helped him to become 7th in the world in such a short period of time.  His US Open tennis scores are sure to please fans.  He and his friend in fact used to practice the moves and styles of another favorite for the US Open—Andy Roddick. 
 
Employing the serve-and-volley style of play that most players no longer use, he also plays his baseline on the offensive.  Jo-Wilifried Tsonga Petsonga has been credited with having a great, almost intuitive feeling of the tennis net as well.  Another trick he holds up his sleeves is his down the line backhand, which is now widely considered to be one of the greatest among the men’s tennis match ups.  Though clay-court is not his best surface on which to play upon, it is a surface he works on improving his techniques upon.  Perhaps this is one of the few faults of this almost prefect tennis who is a favorite to win.

Once just a small, simple fishing village dating as far back as the 2nd century AD, Singapore’s location eventually made it an integral center of trade. In 1819, Sir Stamford Raffles established a British trading post here, thus putting it under Britain’s rule. However, the Japanese occupied Singapore during World War II, causing the proclamation by Winston Churchill that this was possibly Britain’s biggest defeat. After much struggling and severe diligence and determination, on August 9, 1965, Singapore became an Independent Republic. It is the smallest nation in Southeast Asia and consists of 63 islands. Over the centuries, this small fishing village grew to become a very solid, economically sound, business friendly, import/export driven modern city.

Here in Singapore you will find the term “melting pot” so appropriate. The Chinese, Malay, Indian and Arabic communities make up the majority of the population. So follows, there is a wide mixture of cultures, languages, religions and not to be forgotten, the foods. Ahhh, the delectable foods, with most featuring fresh seafood, vegetables and aromatic spices. Certainly savory enough for the most particular of palettes. Find out about India hotels here

Tourism, not unexpectedly, is one of Singapore’s largest industries, with over 10 million visitors arriving in 2007. A modern, cosmopolitan city is what Singapore is striving for and it seems to be on its mark. It has become well known the world over as a cultural art center to be reckoned with. Stand up comedy has become increasingly popular here. You might want to attend a team sport, such as football, cricket or basketball. Or enjoy one of the many water sports, such as boating or swimming, or the ever-popular scuba diving. Singapore spa resorts are also extremely popular. Visitors can find the calming, Asian tranquility most soothing for overworked bodies and minds. Allow yourself to be pampered and spoiled, refreshed and renewed. You know your body and your inner spirit will thank you.

If you are deciding whether or not to take the kids to the 2009 US Open tournament, you should really think about doing so. The Open has many fun events for kids to participate in and will offer you and your kids a unique bonding experience that you simply cannot get anywhere else. The Arthur Ashe kid’s day takes place on Saturday August 29th, 2009. The day’s events offer the best in tennis and entertainment. First off, you can see some of our favorite players such as Andy Roddick and Maria Sharapova competing in matches so that kids can get an up close look at some of their favorite tennis athletes.

That is the tennis side of the event, there is also going to be some heavy hitters from the entertainment world at the Arthur Ashe kid’s day as well. You can expect appearances from comedian Will Ferrell and former American Idol winner Jordin Sparks. She is set to perform her new single “Battlefield” at the kid’s day.

The even will also allow for autograph sessions with some of the people participating and appearing. So this could be a great chance for you child to meet their favorite tennis player or musician. There is also going to be circus activities at the event including face painting, plate spinning and juggling.

This is a great way to create a unique experience for younger children, since they will not really be focused too much on the US Open tennis scores and more on the experience as a whole. It’s so great that they have opportunities to give children of all ages a unique experience when it comes to tennis. Perhaps it could spark a new hobby for these children and they will pick up a sport that could last them a life time.

I waited an extra half hour this morning while standing in line to get into Wimbledon, because the security status in England was classified at critical. So, I didn’t mind the extra wait. I was told that the All England Club would be taking extra steps to beef up security by the ticket agent when I was ordering my Sports Tickets over the phone. With all the stuff that happened in London and Glasgow, I don’t blame them on bit.

I watch them early this morning put up more concrete barriers in from of gates which looked like that was to prevent vehicles from entering the premises. I heard that everyone without exception had to enter the venue on foot, that included the tennis players themselves. I was hoping while I stood in the security check line, that I’d be able to see one of the players, but I’m sure they had their own special entry point. I think Wimbledon is doing its best so that they can still put on a successful event and keep safe the competitors and the fans. I read that a few days before the event that bomb-sniffing dogs will scour the grounds in search of suspicious scents and that they’ll be here today sniffing all bags at the entry gates. I even saw a helicopter patrol the skies above.

I just hope all this added security won’t effect how the players will play, won’t effect their psyche. I did see Venus Williams being interviewed last night on the television and she didn’t seem upset at all, actually she said she was glad that any and all precautions were being taken by the All England Club. She was surprisingly upbeat. She seemed to echo the sentiments of all the players. We can’t stop living our lives, that’s what the terrorists want, so I’ll put up with waiting a little bit longer to see the best tennis in the world and know that I will be safe doing so.

I was taking the commuter train from Kowloon to Hong Kong’s border with mainland China for a business meeting I had schedule later on in the day, when I ran into some of my old highschool buddies. They were carrying backpacks full of water, sunscreen and snacks. They were going hiking.

I always have known Hong Kong to be the financial center of the world and a mecca for high-end shoppers like me who frequents the Boutique Hotel Hong Kong has plenty of for the tourist and locals. But, my buddies tell me Hong Kong is also a haven of pristine natural beauty. The peaks of it’s mountains beckons them to walk and climb all of them. They said there are countless islands and coves that when ascended will give a spectacular view of the South China Sea.

Since it’s winter here, they don’t have to worry about rain, but sadly, they don’t have to really worry about the sun beating down on them due to the ever-present haze created by the factories located on the mainland. They told me they started hiking basically to have something to do after being in the office, usually on Saturdays while their wife’s went shopping. But, now they regularly schedule personal days off of work to explore more of Hong Kongs beauty.

We arrive at our stop and step out on the platform at Fanling station. Just two stops from the border. My friends give me a look that says ‘drop everything and join us’. I give them a look of ‘maybe someday, maybe someday’, as they are greeted by their guide which whisks them off to where I can only guess. I head off to my scheduled appointment with clients that will keep me in the confines of business buildings with only a glimpse of the outside, and that’s usually more buildings. One day, I will join them. I will.

It’s possibly one of the most better known attractions in South Africa, Kruger National Park. When I was there, I didn’t want to take a tour, I wanted to explore the National Park on my own, so I called up a Car Hire in South Africa and created my own tour. I did some research first, so as not to get lost or be disappointed. I found out the park itself was established in 1898 with a 12 year conservation crusade by Paul Kruger.

The Kruger park spans a vast 2 million hectares of pristine, unspoiled wilderness. Archaeological and historical sites, where early settlers as well as the indigenous Khoi San people camped. Apparently, I will be able to see faint traces that they were there. I could participate in a biking, hiking or walking tour. Even take a 4×4 safari if I choose. Tempting as that is, I’m still taking my car hire. There are routes I can take spanning the entire length of the park and if I choose to do so, I can park the car and take an energetic hike along the Olifants River Backpack Trail.

There are accommodation at the Kruger National Park. Some are state run rest camps which offers luxury tented camps and outdoor showers or I could stay at one of the many gaming lodges. Any of these options will probably be a delight after a long hot day viewing the majesty and splendor of the park. I could relax with a cocktail and watch the African sunset then go inside and sample the local cuisine. I even read where there’s a remote spot where I could golf!  The Skukuza Golf Course offers nine-holes. What a unique experience that would be, to golf in the wilderness of Africa. Without a doubt, my experience in the park will be one I’m sure I’ll never forget.

The city of Melbourne, Australia is the second most dense concentration of population in the country.  Melbourne is located very close to Tasmania, and sits along Australia’s southern coast.  The city’s population has continued to expand, and has been growing along side the Yarra River.  The Port of Phillip has provided the means for trade and commerce during the years, and the industry of tourism has been increasing as well with new resorts, restaurants and luxury hotels, Melbourne has become a vacation destination not only for those from the other cities and villages in Australia, but with international travelers as well.  This city offers a vibrant night life, along with secluded beaches perfect for family activities or those wishing to perfect their skill of surfing.  The mountain range, The Dandenong Ranges, surrounding the city and along the river provide many opportunities for outdoor excursions, be they whale watching cruises in the winter months, or hiking and camping during the warmer months of summer.

The seasons of Australia are as those of the countries of the South hemisphere, with the summer months running from December through February, fall season is March through April, winter season, June through August and Springtime from September through December.  All of Australia is a dry climate, which can make the summer months intensely hot in temperature, and unless one chooses to vacation along the beaches where the temperature remains a bit more consistent, those wishing to spend time inland often choose the other times of the year to visit.  The summer months are perfect of course, for the family holidays on the beaches, or those interested in a variety of water sports such as scuba diving, deep sea fishing, and of course surfing.

However, there are many activities that happen throughout the country during the cooler months of winter.  Many travel to this region to view the migration of the humpback whales, a spectacular experience for those loving marine life, and an incredible feat of nature, as these giant creatures once bordered on extinction.  There is also and extensive winter arts program in many of the hot spots, where theater and music concerts happen on a nightly basis, and the galleries and museums present incredible exhibits, in order to coax those Australians out of their homes on days when the sun happens to not be shining.  In all, every season in the country has something to offer and there is no unappealing time to venture to the country.  All times in Australia, are good times.

The 2010 World Cup will take place in South Africa. This is a major international event and it is considered to be an honor to host it. It will take place between June 11 and July 11 of 2010 and constitutes the first time this major football event has occurred in an African nation. Italy is the current defending champion and will vie hard to preserve the title. There will be many people from all over the world who will fly into South Africa specifically for the event. South Africa five star hotels will likely fill to capacity during the designated month next year, and early reservations are essential to ensure a place to stay.

The World Cup is considered to be one of the most important football events of the year, and probably the very most important. It is extremely competitive and many cultures take their football very seriously. It is not uncommon for fights and arguments to arise with fans, who are passionate about the sport. For some societies this is the defining factor of its country’s honor and world position. This idea is somewhat reminiscent of the origin of the Olympics, and it might be a much better and safer world if all issues were decided on the sports field, rather than the battle field.

This year, the winning trophy is still up for grabs, however previous championships have gone to Italy, Korea, France and the United States of America. Italy won their fourth title in 2006 and their team captain was Cannavaro. In 2002 the championship title went to Korea. In 1998 France was able to beat Brazil and win the award. The United States won it in 1994, which ended a previous 24 year defeat spell. In 1990 Italy won their third championship, and consistently remain to be a strong threat and contender.

Singapore is an incredible urban center that has a diverse cultural and entertainment scene as well as a dynamic history, which is incorporated into its current society. Among the many diverse historic and contemporary options for tourists to explore, they often chose to spend a beautiful day out on one of Singapore’s beautiful golf courses. While golf may not be the first thing a person thinks of when considering Singapore, it is actually perfectly suited for the sport. It is sunny most of the days of the year and its climate provides for golfing opportunities through all the seasons. Also, any golf enthusiast is likely to consider playing opportunities regardless of where they’re going or why. Many of the courses are located near a Singapore hotel resort, which makes for easy access.

It is important to note that most of the courses in and around Singapore do have a dress code. Golf shoes, collared shirts necessary and all golfers should come prepared. As with all countries and cultures, a proper observation of Singaporean custom and etiquette is essential for the well-behaved and respectful guest. Of course it also guarantees a much more convenient and less hassled experience. In addition, tourists should be aware that golfing is extremely popular in Singapore, so many of the courses book quickly and fully. Reservations are usually required so be sure and call for the proper access and availability.

Most of the courses in the Singapore area come with all the necessary accommodations, such as showers, pro shops, bars and restaurants. Tourists can definitely expect to spend a great afternoon at one these courses. Some of them are located at resorts and country clubs, and some are public access. If you happen to be staying at a golf resort, you’re extremely lucky and hopefully will be able to tear yourself away to explore the many aspects of Singapore, including attending a Chinese Opera performance or other local entertainment option.

Robert Von Hagge is a world renown designer of golf courses. He has designed three in Madrid including the Costa Brava, Emporda and the Real Sociedad. He now has a corporation by the same name and serves as its CEO. His father was Ben F. von Hagge and was a close associate of Donald Ross, the famous course architect from Scotland. Von Hagge literally grew up on golf courses and they became his life passion. Tourists often enjoy a day of golf while on vacation and some of the Madrid best hotels have information on those he designed as well as others that are located in city and throughout the area.

Because of his family orientation to the sport and his early life on the courses, Von Hagge had worked in many positions on the course by the time he was 17. He had early experience in the pro shops and served as a caddy. All of these elements of his childhood and youth provided him with great insight into what makes for a spectacular course. He studied at the Purdue University Agricultural School where he majored in landscape architecture. Throughout his career he as designed some of the worlds top and most prestigious courses.

He has designed courses for over 50 cities and some of these include San Francisco, Paris, San Diego, Sydney, Tokyo and of course Madrid. The PGA has had many tournaments on his courses, including the Bosque Real Country Club in Mexico City and Le Golf National in Paris. He has won numerous awards for his designs and his name has become iconic with great courses. The firm continues to great courses throughout the world and has many projects in the works. Golf is an extremely popular sport and many people enjoy playing it regardless of their skill levels.

The various neighborhoods of Singapore, are one of the unique aspects of the culture on the island.  There is rich heritage and a great diversity in that heritage.  While there is this contrast, there is also a blend that is harmonious, be it in the variety of the Singapore restaurants, the architecture, and the arts.  This little island offers the of the Eastern cultures and traditions and the best of the Western as well.  In one tour, one will go from the future, to the past in a single day, from conservative business centers to exotic market places.  One may pass a Hindu or a Chinese Temple, a Muslim Mosque, or a Catholic church all side by side on the same city street.  One may start the day with breakfast as the Singapore Zoo with the orangutans, have afternoon tea at one of the traditional tea houses, and then dress up for a night at the Opera or with the Symphony.  Every day brings something new and different in the city. In the Little India neighborhood, one will feel as though they are truly walking through a smaller version of Goa or Kerela.  The streets are filled with spice shops, palm readers, and the incredible scents flowing out of the kitchens and the restaurants.  Many of the Indians that have immigrated throughout the years live in this enchanting sector.  Little Arabia, (http://www.the-inncrowd.com/littleindiawalk.htm)is filled with mosques, notable the Sultan Mosque which is an architectural wonder.  There are many market places selling everything from vintage Arabic clothing to scarves and jewelry.  This, as in all of the neighborhoods of Singapore, is filled with a variety of options for delicious meals.  The architecture of the Mosque varies incredibly from the style of the Saint Andrew’s Cathedral.  Colonial style is indicative in the spire and the grand white columns.  Then, just down the way is the Renaissance building, the Church of the Good Shepherd, with is the oldest Catholic church throughout Singapore.  All three of these buildings are among those that are most photographed and most admired.

With Rafael Nadal falling from grace a little this season in the French Open in Roland Garros stadium. His knee problems have forced him to listen to his body and take a bit of a break. It’s too bad Rafael Nadal needs a vacation during one of the most important parts of the Grand Slam tennis season.

Roger Federer finally claimed his French Open title this year. It is the only major championship that had eluded him up to that point. But the question remains if that is a real French Open title for Federer. I would think that Federer is excited about his French Open title, but wishes he could have won it with Nadal in the running, although perhaps I’m wrong.

It just conjures up a quote from a silly teen movie “Bring it On.”  In the film, Kirsten Dunst’s character says “ I define best as competing against the best out there and beating them.” Which to say is not really what Federer did. Nadal is the clay court master by far, and a win without a healthy Nadal in the running, is really no win at all.

That is why Wimbledon will be such a turning point for the two tennis rivals. Nadal has taken some time off from other preparation tournaments before Wimbledon in an attempt to rehab his knee. So hopefully he will be in prime condition when he takes the grass courts at Wimbledon.

Although, even with a healthy Nadal, Federer just may be poised to take another Wimbledon title, even with Nadal in the running. The shear fact that he took his first French Open title just may give him the momentum he needs to reclaim his number one in the world ranking.  Federer’s win did nothing to shake up the ATP tennis rankings.

The Singapore Dance company, now under the artistic direction of Janek Schergen, was founded by Goh Soo Khim and Anthony Then.  This is now the premier company of Singapore and one of the most recognized and professional companies throughout all of Southeast Asia.  Comprised of twenty two company members, they perform six different works each year, alternating between the performances in their home at the Esplanade Theater in Singapore, which is conveniently located close to many Singapore hotels, and Fort Canning Green which is the venue for the program Ballet Under the Stars, and the performances around the world.  Their range is vast, performing pieces of traditional ballet, choreographed by some of the most famous choreographers working today, to pieces that are more modern and contemporary.  Throughout the years they have appealed to people of all cultural backgrounds, turning many of those not familiar with the world of dance into true aficionados and supporters.

Through a generous grant from the Government of Singapore, the company is now more than a performing company bringing the finest of work to the audiences of Singapore, they are now conducting an Education program as well as Out Reach programs for those who could otherwise not experience the thrill and excitement of this incredible world of the performing arts.  Many companies throughout the world are taking on Out Reach as more and more arts programs are cut from schools.  SDT regularly travels to schools offering classes to those who are not able to afford to take them otherwise, children as well as adults.  It is an effort to bring dance to as many people as possible in order to spread the discipline, the passion and the beauty of the arts.  They also support a Young Choreographers program, wherein students throughout Singapore and Asia have their talents nurtured and developed.  International travel performances have included Hong Kong, France, the USA,  London and the Philippines.  They are quickly becoming well known internationally, as well as being well loved in their home town of Singapore.

Rowers from across the world are heading to Australia for last-minute training leading up to the Indian Ocean Rowing Race 2009. This pioneer race will be the first competition to cross the Indian Ocean and the first ocean rowing race to take place in the Southern Hemisphere.

Rowers will depart Geraldton, Western Australia on April 19, 2009. The fastest teams may be able to cross the 3,100 nautical miles in under 60 days. However, organizers anticipate that some boats may need over 100 days to reach their destinations.

The race will conclude in glamorous island of Mauritius. Racers, fans, and media will find a number of luxury hotels Mauritius available to celebration the completion of this water marathon.

Racers will compete in teams of pairs, fours, and eights. There will also be a solo class. Solos and Pairs are expected to take the longest to arrive in Mauritius. Some of the Fours and Eights may need only 40 – 50 days to complete the course. Most racers have received extensive corporate sponsorship and have been training for the event for several years. Many teams are also raising money for charity.

Organizers expect about 30 boats to compete and are only providing one support yacht for the race. Racers are expected to have their own water and food and have been warned to prepare for dehydration and sunstroke as well as water hazards such as sharks and waves as high as 60 feet.

The 2008 tennis season has already been filled with excitement. Rafael Nadal won the French Open for the 4th straight year and then he came back to win the Wimbledon just 2 weeks later. The upset against defending champ Roger Federer proved to be one of the best tennis matches in history.

The U.S. Open will be played immediately following the tennis portion of the 2008 Olympics in Beijing, China. The U.S. Open tennis new coverage will most likely show yet another match between Nadal and Federer. But the Olympics will be especially interesting because of the closeness in schedule to the Olympics.

Many players will not get the rest they need and are used to getting in between tournaments. The injuries that were healing will be re-injured and many new injuries will be incurred. Beijing will be interesting to say the least this year.

It looks like Roger Federer is going to win the 2008 Wimbledon tennis tournament. This will be his sixth win and he’ll be able to keep Rafael Nadal from winning. Nadal won this year’s French Open and the French Open is the only Grand Slam tournament that Federer has not won. This is especially ironic because Federer grew up playing on the clay courts in Switzerland.

Nadal has been ranked number two longer than any player in history, as far as I know, and he would like nothing more than to bump Federer out of the coveted first ranked chair. I don’t think it will happen this season but Federer is aging and he will have to retire sometime. I know he wants to win the French Open so he has no regrets but I want him to retire while on top. If he keeps playing he might end up slipping and then he’ll go out in a whimper and not a bang.

Justine Henin has not been talked about much in tennis news. I think she is being let alone because she came back so marvelously after her divorce last year. In fact, her French Open scores were great and she didn’t lose a match that I can remember.

Also, the men’s singles might not end up with Rafa as the champ again because he just lost a match on a clay court in Rome. That will give Roger the opening he needs to secure a win in the French Open 2008.

Overall, this year’s tennis season should be great. The Olympics are coming up so many of the world’s professionals will being in Beijing to represent their respective countries. Also, there have been several upsets so all eyes will be watching.

There was time when a vocation such as teaching golf was considered something to do as a hobby or a side job. With the golf industry now booming the way it is, becoming a full time golf coach or instructor is quite common. Golf is a highly popular sport and there is hardly a city that doesn’t have a municipal golf course; this is in addition to whatever private courses there may be. Golf is played by individuals from all walks of life as a way to relax and keep the mind and body in good shape. Those who play the sport are well known for constantly trying to improve their game using the expertise of instructors.

When an individual finds they have a knack for teaching and a love of golf, they can turn to SDGA to help them create a wonderful career. Not only does an individual reap the benefits of a well-rounded education, so do those who later come under the graduate’s tutelage. If one decides their strengths would be better for a golf career in management, he or she will be glad to know there is an option available along these lines as well.

I love the summertime. My favorite part about the entire season is tennis. I love everything from playing in the sun to comparing this year’s Wimbledon scores to last year’s. In fact, if I can’t watch a specific set then I have to catch the Wimbledon highlights in the evening.

I like to play and think about being one of the star athletes and that I’m going for the third in the Grand Slam season. So few in history have acquired a Grand Slam in one season and I wish I was one of them. I love Wimbledon, especially because it’s played on a grass court.

I wonder if the queen of England ever watches. You do find celebrities there. Tiger Woods is friends with Federer, the two time runner up. I wonder what other celebrities will be there.

Before we know it the tennis season will be upon us again.  Perhaps grandest of all the Grand Slam tennis tournaments is the French Open.

The French Open takes place each year during May 25th through June 8th.  It is held at the Roland Garros stadium in Paris, France.  In fact the French call the tournament the ‘Roland Garros.’  The Tennis Channel offers the latest French Open news.

The clay courts of the French Open can prove to be a great leveller for tennis players.  Winners of the tournament usually specialize in clay courts.  In the 2007 French Open tournament Rafael Nadal from Soain and Justine Henin from Belgium both won for the 3rd time!  That was some achievement!

At the dawn of major sporting events, the events were about just that – major sports teams. In today’s commercialized world, however, sporting events more than a competition between the team playing on the field or court; there is another competition raging all throughout the event. This competition is worth more than just a win or a loss, its about billions of dollars. Corporations use sporting events as platforms to bombard spectators with all sorts of advertising messages. From the names of stadiums to the athlete’s uniform. Even in tennis and golf, sports perceived as pristine and pure allow millions of dollars of advertising. Just walking around Rod Laver stadium during the Australian Open you will notice logos upon logos of corporations “bringing you the…….whatever.”

Hosting a major sporting event in a city or country can greatly increase the the respective location’s surrounding commerce. Glendale, AZ is the host of this year’s Super Bowl, and its surrounding economies (including Phoenix, Scottsdale, etc.) are already feeling the bump in their economy. Everything from hotel’s and restaurants to transportation and entertainment are going to feel the increase in their local commerce centers. On the other side of the globe there is another major sporting event in the Australian Open, taking place in Melbourne. This city down under will no doubt be basking in the warmth of an economic boost.