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Thursday, August 28, 2008
Phelps Watch
Are you having Phelps withdrawal? Well, you can watch him host Saturday Night Live on September 13th and see if he has any sort of sense of humor (I'm betting he does). I mean, no one can be worse than when Nancy Kerrigan hosted, right?
Are you having Phelps withdrawal? Well, you can watch him host Saturday Night Live on September 13th and see if he has any sort of sense of humor (I'm betting he does). I mean, no one can be worse than when Nancy Kerrigan hosted, right?
Wednesday, August 27, 2008
And Then It Was Over
At least there's the US Open to watch compulsively. And in case you haven't had enough of Misty May-Treanor, you can watch her on "Dancing with the Stars" this fall. No joke.
At least there's the US Open to watch compulsively. And in case you haven't had enough of Misty May-Treanor, you can watch her on "Dancing with the Stars" this fall. No joke.
Sunday, August 24, 2008
Medal Round Update III
The US Men's teams came to represent, dammit! We won the gold in basketball and in volleyball! Yay! We lost the water polo gold, but really, who cares about water polo?
Oh, and guess who did NOT win the last diving gold medal? That's right! China lost the 8th and final diving medal in men's platform diving to Australia! Aussie Aussie Oy Oy Oy!
The US Men's teams came to represent, dammit! We won the gold in basketball and in volleyball! Yay! We lost the water polo gold, but really, who cares about water polo?
Oh, and guess who did NOT win the last diving gold medal? That's right! China lost the 8th and final diving medal in men's platform diving to Australia! Aussie Aussie Oy Oy Oy!
Saturday, August 23, 2008
The Strange World of Tae Kwan Do
In the martial art of Taekwondo, US Lopez siblings won all of our medals, a silver and 2 bronze.
Also, Afghanistan's only ever Olympic medal came in this sport as well. The winner has been given a new house by his government. Other countries who won medals in Taekwondo include Iran, Turkey, Canada, and the Dominican Republic. It would seem that this Asian art is quite universal.
And in the strangest story from the world of Taekwondo is one where Cuban fighter Matos was disqualified for taking too long during an injury time out. In frustration, he kicked the referee in the head! He has now been banned from the sport and from the Olympics. I always thought the first rule of martial arts was to NOT kick a referee in the head. Shows you what I know.
There are some pics from the attack here.
In the martial art of Taekwondo, US Lopez siblings won all of our medals, a silver and 2 bronze.
Also, Afghanistan's only ever Olympic medal came in this sport as well. The winner has been given a new house by his government. Other countries who won medals in Taekwondo include Iran, Turkey, Canada, and the Dominican Republic. It would seem that this Asian art is quite universal.
And in the strangest story from the world of Taekwondo is one where Cuban fighter Matos was disqualified for taking too long during an injury time out. In frustration, he kicked the referee in the head! He has now been banned from the sport and from the Olympics. I always thought the first rule of martial arts was to NOT kick a referee in the head. Shows you what I know.
There are some pics from the attack here.
Medal Round Update II
The US Women lost the gold medal volleyball match against the Brazilians, but will still bring home some very pretty silver! The US men go for the gold against the Brazilians later today (10pm Mountain).
Of course, the US Women won the basketball gold. There was no question about that. Congrats ladies! The men go for the gold at 12:30am Mountain.
Even though we were demolished by the Cuba baseball team, Cuba then lost to South Korea. Meanwhile, our men beat Japan for the bronze medal.
On the track, after the disasterous 4X100 relay for both men and women, the US 4X400 relay team brought home the gold, both women's and men's! Great job!
The US Women lost the gold medal volleyball match against the Brazilians, but will still bring home some very pretty silver! The US men go for the gold against the Brazilians later today (10pm Mountain).
Of course, the US Women won the basketball gold. There was no question about that. Congrats ladies! The men go for the gold at 12:30am Mountain.
Even though we were demolished by the Cuba baseball team, Cuba then lost to South Korea. Meanwhile, our men beat Japan for the bronze medal.
On the track, after the disasterous 4X100 relay for both men and women, the US 4X400 relay team brought home the gold, both women's and men's! Great job!
Friday, August 22, 2008
Medal Round Update
The US Women lost the gold medal water polo match, but end up with the silver!
Dallhauser and Rogers claim the gold in beach volleyball in an excellent match against Brazil. (however, I have a bone to pick with NBC. They said the match would be commercial free, but then had commercials between the 2nd and 3rd set.)
We were CRUSHED by Cuba in baseball in a semifinal match, 10-2. Now they will go on to the gold medal game against South Korea and we will play in the bronze medal game against Japan.
The US Women lost the gold medal water polo match, but end up with the silver!
Dallhauser and Rogers claim the gold in beach volleyball in an excellent match against Brazil. (however, I have a bone to pick with NBC. They said the match would be commercial free, but then had commercials between the 2nd and 3rd set.)
We were CRUSHED by Cuba in baseball in a semifinal match, 10-2. Now they will go on to the gold medal game against South Korea and we will play in the bronze medal game against Japan.
Thursday, August 21, 2008
And the Gold Medal Winner is...
US Women are going for the gold in both water polo and indoor volleyball. We sure seem to have great women teams!
Good luck ladies!
US Women are going for the gold in both water polo and indoor volleyball. We sure seem to have great women teams!
Good luck ladies!
Golden Girls
The US women's soccer team won gold in Beijing. Iin a hard fought game against Brazil, the US won 1-0. It is their third gold in 4 Olympics.
The US women's soccer team won gold in Beijing. Iin a hard fought game against Brazil, the US won 1-0. It is their third gold in 4 Olympics.
A Shocker!
Japan beat our women in softball for Olympic gold! Even Bustos couldn't make the game any closer than 3-1 although she did hit a home run.
With softball not in the 2012 London Olympics, Japan will remain the defending Olympic champions in softball for at least 8 years.
Japan beat our women in softball for Olympic gold! Even Bustos couldn't make the game any closer than 3-1 although she did hit a home run.
With softball not in the 2012 London Olympics, Japan will remain the defending Olympic champions in softball for at least 8 years.
Now This is Just Pitiful
While certain athletes have failed doping tests during these Olympics, it has now been brought to light that four of the horses used in the Equestrian events have failed drug tests! The horses belong to riders from Ireland, Norway, Brazil, and Germany.
Now come on people! It's one thing to take banned substances yourself, but to give them to your horse? That's low.
While certain athletes have failed doping tests during these Olympics, it has now been brought to light that four of the horses used in the Equestrian events have failed drug tests! The horses belong to riders from Ireland, Norway, Brazil, and Germany.
Now come on people! It's one thing to take banned substances yourself, but to give them to your horse? That's low.
And the Golds Keep Coming!
Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor won over their Chinese opponents even through the driving rain! They won in 2 straight sets.
After the match, May spread some of her mother's ashes onto the court, just as she did 4 years ago in Athens. My question is, isn't there some sort of law against throwing human remains onto volleyball courts?
Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor won over their Chinese opponents even through the driving rain! They won in 2 straight sets.
After the match, May spread some of her mother's ashes onto the court, just as she did 4 years ago in Athens. My question is, isn't there some sort of law against throwing human remains onto volleyball courts?
Wednesday, August 20, 2008
Beach Volleyball
Both the US men's and women's volleyball teams are going for gold. After an initial loss, Todd Rogers and Philip Dalhausser clinched a spot for the big event after beating Georgia today. (Actually, the members of this Georgia team are Brazilians to get around the rule that any country can send only two teams.)
The amazing team of Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor will play for gold on Thursday. So far they have not been beaten in over 100 matches world-wide. They will be playing a team from the host country. Good luck ladies!
Both the US men's and women's volleyball teams are going for gold. After an initial loss, Todd Rogers and Philip Dalhausser clinched a spot for the big event after beating Georgia today. (Actually, the members of this Georgia team are Brazilians to get around the rule that any country can send only two teams.)
The amazing team of Kerri Walsh and Misty May-Treanor will play for gold on Thursday. So far they have not been beaten in over 100 matches world-wide. They will be playing a team from the host country. Good luck ladies!
Softball
Thanks to a 3 run homer in the 9th inning against Japan, the US women go on to the gold medal game (as if anyone thought otherwise). What's more surprising than them getting to the gold medal game is that they had a game that went 9 innings! Most of their games are called after 5 innings due to the "mercy" rule.
UPDATE: The gold medal game will be against Japan, as they beat Australia in the bronze medal game. Do you think they will be out to even the score? You bet they will! Should be a great game! The game will be played at 630pm Thursday Beijing time.
Thanks to a 3 run homer in the 9th inning against Japan, the US women go on to the gold medal game (as if anyone thought otherwise). What's more surprising than them getting to the gold medal game is that they had a game that went 9 innings! Most of their games are called after 5 innings due to the "mercy" rule.
UPDATE: The gold medal game will be against Japan, as they beat Australia in the bronze medal game. Do you think they will be out to even the score? You bet they will! Should be a great game! The game will be played at 630pm Thursday Beijing time.
Yet More Gymnastics
Congrats to Shawn for winning the gold medal on the beam. Nastia also did an excellent job winning silver.
And did you see Horton on High Bar? That was a crazy-exciting routine! Congrats on your silver!
Congrats to Shawn for winning the gold medal on the beam. Nastia also did an excellent job winning silver.
And did you see Horton on High Bar? That was a crazy-exciting routine! Congrats on your silver!
Monday, August 18, 2008
Women's Gymnastics Con't
I don't want to be a spoiler but I do want to alert you to what seems to be a HUGE controversy. Make sure to watch Nastia tonight on uneven bars and pay close attention to her score...
UPDATE: See what I mean? Nastia was totally robbed of the gold on unevens. That tie-breaking rule is totally random. Bah!
I don't want to be a spoiler but I do want to alert you to what seems to be a HUGE controversy. Make sure to watch Nastia tonight on uneven bars and pay close attention to her score...
UPDATE: See what I mean? Nastia was totally robbed of the gold on unevens. That tie-breaking rule is totally random. Bah!
Women's Gymnastics
Congrats to Shawn Johnson, who won silver, and Nastia Leukin, who won bronze, on the floor apparatus Sunday.
Watch for Nastia to compete on uneven bars tonight (Monday).
Congrats to Shawn Johnson, who won silver, and Nastia Leukin, who won bronze, on the floor apparatus Sunday.
Watch for Nastia to compete on uneven bars tonight (Monday).
Bad Sportsmanship
Swedish wrestler Ara Abrahamian decided he deserved the gold medal instead of his bronze. After receiving his medal, he took it off and placed it on the middle of the wrestling mat. He has since been stripped of the medal (that technically he stripped off himself) and disqualified from the Beijing Olympics.
The IOC said that the Olympics does not allow any demonstrations and that they demand respoect for all Olympic athletes. Abrahamian broke both these rules of the Olympic charter and had to go.
The IOC claims, "Any disruption by any athlete, in particular a medalist, is in itself an insult to the other athletes and to the Olympic Movement. It is also contrary to the spirit of fair play."
Swedish wrestler Ara Abrahamian decided he deserved the gold medal instead of his bronze. After receiving his medal, he took it off and placed it on the middle of the wrestling mat. He has since been stripped of the medal (that technically he stripped off himself) and disqualified from the Beijing Olympics.
The IOC said that the Olympics does not allow any demonstrations and that they demand respoect for all Olympic athletes. Abrahamian broke both these rules of the Olympic charter and had to go.
The IOC claims, "Any disruption by any athlete, in particular a medalist, is in itself an insult to the other athletes and to the Olympic Movement. It is also contrary to the spirit of fair play."
Sunday, August 17, 2008
USA Women's Basketball
The US Women's basketball team ended pool play with a 5-0 record. Now comes the medal round with US meeting Korea tomorrow.
Australia also ended pool play 5-0. It should be a great game when our ladies meet the Ozzies.
The US Women's basketball team ended pool play with a 5-0 record. Now comes the medal round with US meeting Korea tomorrow.
Australia also ended pool play 5-0. It should be a great game when our ladies meet the Ozzies.
Tennis Finals
Congratulations to the Williams sisters for winning the women's doubles. (I didn't have a doubt.) It was quite a decisive win of 6-2, 6-0 over the Spanish team.
Congrats to Elena Dementieva for winning women's singles against countryman Dinara Safina.
On the men's side Rafael Nadal SMOKED his Chilean opponent 6-3, 7-6, 6-3.
Congratulations to the Williams sisters for winning the women's doubles. (I didn't have a doubt.) It was quite a decisive win of 6-2, 6-0 over the Spanish team.
Congrats to Elena Dementieva for winning women's singles against countryman Dinara Safina.
On the men's side Rafael Nadal SMOKED his Chilean opponent 6-3, 7-6, 6-3.
Phelps Watch
He did it! He won the eighth gold medal at these games that started on 08/08/08. Without a doubt, he is part fish. How else do you explain it?
He did it! He won the eighth gold medal at these games that started on 08/08/08. Without a doubt, he is part fish. How else do you explain it?
One One-Hundredth of a Second Part II
That's by how much the great Dara Torres lost her individual gold medal by. The 41 year old had to settle for silver and did so gracefully. She also won a silver in a relay later so in total, she won 3 silvers in her last Olympics. Congrats Dara! Maybe we will see your daughter swim in another 12 years or so.
That's by how much the great Dara Torres lost her individual gold medal by. The 41 year old had to settle for silver and did so gracefully. She also won a silver in a relay later so in total, she won 3 silvers in her last Olympics. Congrats Dara! Maybe we will see your daughter swim in another 12 years or so.
Saturday, August 16, 2008
More Tennis
The Bryan brothers got the silver medal in Men's doubles. Considering that Federer was on the winning end of that game, I'd say the Bryans did a very good job.
James Blake lost the bronze medal game to Novak Djokovic from Serbia. Nadal is still in the running for the gold.
The Williams sisters are out of singles but are in the hunt for doubles gold which takes place tomorrow.
The Bryan brothers got the silver medal in Men's doubles. Considering that Federer was on the winning end of that game, I'd say the Bryans did a very good job.
James Blake lost the bronze medal game to Novak Djokovic from Serbia. Nadal is still in the running for the gold.
The Williams sisters are out of singles but are in the hunt for doubles gold which takes place tomorrow.
Live! From New York!
So it turns out that the studio where Saturday Night Live is shot is now divvied up into small broadcasting booths. NBC gets live HD feed from China and the broadcasters do the play by play stateside. They are not trying to be sneaky about it. When I was watching Women's softball last night, they were very honest about the fact that the broadcasters were in NY. The broadcasters claim it feels different not being there and being only able to show exactly what's on the feed but all in all it seems to be working well.
Sports being called from the US include archery, badminton, baseball, equestrian, fencing, field hockey, handball, shooting, soccer, softball, table tennis, tennis and weight lifting.
So it turns out that the studio where Saturday Night Live is shot is now divvied up into small broadcasting booths. NBC gets live HD feed from China and the broadcasters do the play by play stateside. They are not trying to be sneaky about it. When I was watching Women's softball last night, they were very honest about the fact that the broadcasters were in NY. The broadcasters claim it feels different not being there and being only able to show exactly what's on the feed but all in all it seems to be working well.
Sports being called from the US include archery, badminton, baseball, equestrian, fencing, field hockey, handball, shooting, soccer, softball, table tennis, tennis and weight lifting.
Welcome Back Coach McCutcheon
Volleyball coach McCutcheon, whose father-in-law was killed in Beijing, is back with his team who are currently undefeated. It must so emotional for all involved. I wish them the best of luck.
Volleyball coach McCutcheon, whose father-in-law was killed in Beijing, is back with his team who are currently undefeated. It must so emotional for all involved. I wish them the best of luck.
Friday, August 15, 2008
One One-Hundredth of a Second
that's by how much Michael Phelps won his 7th gold medal. He did not lead for any part of the race but still somehow touched the wall first, and that's all that really counts. With this win in the 100 meter Butterfly, Phelps has now matched Mark Spitz's 1972 record of 7 gold medals in a single Olympics. And yes, he broke the past Olympic record.
There's one race left for him on Sunday. If he wins that, he will surely claim the title of most awesome Olympian!
that's by how much Michael Phelps won his 7th gold medal. He did not lead for any part of the race but still somehow touched the wall first, and that's all that really counts. With this win in the 100 meter Butterfly, Phelps has now matched Mark Spitz's 1972 record of 7 gold medals in a single Olympics. And yes, he broke the past Olympic record.
There's one race left for him on Sunday. If he wins that, he will surely claim the title of most awesome Olympian!
Women's Gymnastics
Congratulation to Nastia and Shaun for coming in first and second in Gymnastics All Around! Both women scored above a 16 on balance beam and put on a wonderful show during the Olympics. You still have time to see them during the apparatus finals this weekend.
Congratulation to Nastia and Shaun for coming in first and second in Gymnastics All Around! Both women scored above a 16 on balance beam and put on a wonderful show during the Olympics. You still have time to see them during the apparatus finals this weekend.
Thursday, August 14, 2008
Phelps Watch
Michael Phelps won yet another gold in the 200-meter individual medley, the 6th gold for Phelps in these Olympics. Of course, he broke yet another world and Olympic record in the process. Woohoo!
Michael Phelps won yet another gold in the 200-meter individual medley, the 6th gold for Phelps in these Olympics. Of course, he broke yet another world and Olympic record in the process. Woohoo!
Seriously...
Can anyone understand Bela Karolyi speak? They need to subtitle that man.
Can anyone understand Bela Karolyi speak? They need to subtitle that man.
Tennis News
James Blake, of the US, beat the number one seeded male player today when he beat Roger Federer in 2 sets! Blake now goes on to the semi-finals.
In other news, both Williams lost today. Venus lost to Chinese player Li Na while Serena lost to Russia's Elena Dementieva. The Williams sisters are still in the Olympics playing doubles, which they won 4 years ago.
James Blake, of the US, beat the number one seeded male player today when he beat Roger Federer in 2 sets! Blake now goes on to the semi-finals.
In other news, both Williams lost today. Venus lost to Chinese player Li Na while Serena lost to Russia's Elena Dementieva. The Williams sisters are still in the Olympics playing doubles, which they won 4 years ago.
Tuesday, August 12, 2008
Phelps Watch
The Men's swim team won another gold, the 5th for Phelps. Of course, they broke the WR and OR.
The Men's swim team won another gold, the 5th for Phelps. Of course, they broke the WR and OR.
Women's Gymnastics
US Women's Gymnastics team won the silver medal tonight after a tough match against China. In the end, China's awesome bars routine is what did us in. Still, it was a fabulous meet.
Next up is individual all-around.
US Women's Gymnastics team won the silver medal tonight after a tough match against China. In the end, China's awesome bars routine is what did us in. Still, it was a fabulous meet.
Next up is individual all-around.
Phelps Watch
Michael did it again! He won gold and broke a world record in the Butterfly 200m. He's now won more Olympic gold medals than any other athlete in history! Stay tuned! He has another final tonight...
Michael did it again! He won gold and broke a world record in the Butterfly 200m. He's now won more Olympic gold medals than any other athlete in history! Stay tuned! He has another final tonight...
And This is Why Baseball and Softball Will Not Be At The Next Olympics...
The US Women's softball team beat Argentina 11-0. The mercy rule was in play or it probably would be worse. Apparently since we slaughter so many teams in softball and baseball, you will not be seeing these games in the 2012 Olympics in London. There is not competition out there that is on par with us. Too bad. I always do like to watch Jennie Finch.
The US Women's softball team beat Argentina 11-0. The mercy rule was in play or it probably would be worse. Apparently since we slaughter so many teams in softball and baseball, you will not be seeing these games in the 2012 Olympics in London. There is not competition out there that is on par with us. Too bad. I always do like to watch Jennie Finch.
Men's Gymnastics
Even with a third of the team now staffed by alternates, the US Men's gymnastics team brought home the bronze. Alternates Raj and Sasha definitely helped the team with Sasha bringing home the highest pommel horse routine and Raj scoring above a 16 on his vault. Good going guys!
Even with a third of the team now staffed by alternates, the US Men's gymnastics team brought home the bronze. Alternates Raj and Sasha definitely helped the team with Sasha bringing home the highest pommel horse routine and Raj scoring above a 16 on his vault. Good going guys!
Monday, August 11, 2008
Phelps Watch
In what is becoming almost routine, Phelps won his third gold while breaking world and Olympic records in the process. Tonight it was the gold in the 200 Freestyle.
Finally! An athlete who's living up to his hype!
In what is becoming almost routine, Phelps won his third gold while breaking world and Olympic records in the process. Tonight it was the gold in the 200 Freestyle.
Finally! An athlete who's living up to his hype!
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Phelps Watch
Phelps got his second gold today in the Men's 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay. He was actually the second slowest swimmer on the team. I think he's saving some energy for those other 6 races.
Oh yeah, they broke the World and Olympic records in the process.
Phelps got his second gold today in the Men's 4 x 100m Freestyle Relay. He was actually the second slowest swimmer on the team. I think he's saving some energy for those other 6 races.
Oh yeah, they broke the World and Olympic records in the process.
Update on American Stabbing
As I'm sure you've heard, U.S. men's volleyball coach Hugh McCutcheon's father-in-law was killed and his mother-in-law seriously wounded when a distraught Chinese citizen stabbed them in Beijing. McCutcheon did not coach the volleyball game last night. The assistant coach took over to bring in the win for the US. McCutcheon's future with the team is uncertain.
As I'm sure you've heard, U.S. men's volleyball coach Hugh McCutcheon's father-in-law was killed and his mother-in-law seriously wounded when a distraught Chinese citizen stabbed them in Beijing. McCutcheon did not coach the volleyball game last night. The assistant coach took over to bring in the win for the US. McCutcheon's future with the team is uncertain.
More Tennis News
The number one women's seed, Ana Ivanovic, has pulled out due to a thumb injury. She will be replaced by Jelena Jankovic. Women's tennis sure is having its share of hits at these Olympics.
In some good news, James Blake won his match today, one of the few matches played due to rain. Go James!
The number one women's seed, Ana Ivanovic, has pulled out due to a thumb injury. She will be replaced by Jelena Jankovic. Women's tennis sure is having its share of hits at these Olympics.
In some good news, James Blake won his match today, one of the few matches played due to rain. Go James!
Remember Athens?
According to one of the Greek Women's beach volleyball players, the beautiful stadium that was used for beach volleyball there has fallen into disrepair. The stadium is fenced off and the sand is gone. The Greek team was hoping to practice there for these Olympics but it wasn't to be. The land was recently purchased but no plans for the arena have been made public.
According to one of the Greek Women's beach volleyball players, the beautiful stadium that was used for beach volleyball there has fallen into disrepair. The stadium is fenced off and the sand is gone. The Greek team was hoping to practice there for these Olympics but it wasn't to be. The land was recently purchased but no plans for the arena have been made public.
Team USA Dominates
The US Men's basketball team were out for blood today trouncing Yao Ming's Chinese team 101-70. The game was closer than that score would indicate until the second half when the NBA stars decided it was time to take the Chinese to school. Hopefully they can keep the momentum up.
The US Men's basketball team were out for blood today trouncing Yao Ming's Chinese team 101-70. The game was closer than that score would indicate until the second half when the NBA stars decided it was time to take the Chinese to school. Hopefully they can keep the momentum up.
Saturday, August 09, 2008
1 Down, 7 To Go
Michael Phelps won is first gold in his first try during the 400m IM. Oh yeah, he also broke his own world record. No big. ;)
Michael Phelps won is first gold in his first try during the 400m IM. Oh yeah, he also broke his own world record. No big. ;)
Holy Cow!
An American in Beijing to watch the Olympic games was stabbed to death by a Chinese citizen who then killed himself by jumping from a tower. An American woman was also stabbed in the attack. The couple are family members of an indoor Men's volleyball team. Officials think this was just a random act of violence, not the start of some terrorist plot.
An American in Beijing to watch the Olympic games was stabbed to death by a Chinese citizen who then killed himself by jumping from a tower. An American woman was also stabbed in the attack. The couple are family members of an indoor Men's volleyball team. Officials think this was just a random act of violence, not the start of some terrorist plot.
Friday, August 08, 2008
Saturday's Medal Events
The gold will start to flow tomorrow in Cycling, Fencing, Judo, Shooting, and Weight Lifting.
In prime time (which is Sunday in China) you can see Phelps and Torres swimming, men's gymnastics and beach volleyball.
If that's not enough, NBC is actually broadcasting about 8 hours all day long. Bon appetit!
The gold will start to flow tomorrow in Cycling, Fencing, Judo, Shooting, and Weight Lifting.
In prime time (which is Sunday in China) you can see Phelps and Torres swimming, men's gymnastics and beach volleyball.
If that's not enough, NBC is actually broadcasting about 8 hours all day long. Bon appetit!
Tennis Update
Past Olympic gold medal winner Lindsey Davenport has pulled out of singles tennis at the Olympics due to a nagging knee injury. She still may play doubles but the thought of playing up to 11 matches was a bit much for her.
Just for the record, Maria Sharapova, Mary Pierce and Amelie Mauresmo also will not participate in the Beijing games.
Past Olympic gold medal winner Lindsey Davenport has pulled out of singles tennis at the Olympics due to a nagging knee injury. She still may play doubles but the thought of playing up to 11 matches was a bit much for her.
Just for the record, Maria Sharapova, Mary Pierce and Amelie Mauresmo also will not participate in the Beijing games.
Thursday, August 07, 2008
Beijing air pollution
Latest BBC air particle reading
191 micrograms per cubic meter
World Health Organization target = 50
2nd Hamm Out
Morgan Hamm, Paul's twin brother, also withdrew from the Olympics due to an ankle injury. Thus ends the Hamm era. While it's sad to see these affable young men leave the sport in such a way, it does open the door for alternate Alexander Artemev. Good luck Alexander!
Beijing air pollution
Latest BBC air particle reading
186 micrograms per cubic meter
World Health Organization target = 50
Wednesday, August 06, 2008
Conundrum
Mike and I (OK, really only Mike) are getting inquiries regarding advertising on this site. However, I personally am turned off by advertising on blogs and I first told Mike no. But then he brought up the fact that we could donate all proceeds to a pro-Tibet organization. Now that interests me. So...
I want your opinion. What do you think about 1) advertising on a blog site and 2) if there were advertising here, donating the funds to a pro-Tibet organization?
Mike and I (OK, really only Mike) are getting inquiries regarding advertising on this site. However, I personally am turned off by advertising on blogs and I first told Mike no. But then he brought up the fact that we could donate all proceeds to a pro-Tibet organization. Now that interests me. So...
I want your opinion. What do you think about 1) advertising on a blog site and 2) if there were advertising here, donating the funds to a pro-Tibet organization?
Tuesday, August 05, 2008
Olympics Start Tomorrow!
Yes, I said tomorrow, Wednesday, 8/6/08. There are so many soccer games that need to be played that the Women's soccer (or football for you non-Yanks) will start tomorrow. Games to be played are:
Argentina vs Canada, China vs Sweden, Germany vs Brazil, North Korea vs Nigeria, Japan vs New Zealand, and Norway vs US.
The US game can be watched in rerun (i.e. not live) on Universal HD (I have no idea what that means). It looks like no actual Olympic coverage will be shown on NBC and the affiliated stations (MSNBC, CNBC, USA, etc.) until the opening ceremonies. That just shows you how important women's soccer is to the sports world.
Good luck girls!
UPDATE 3pm 8/6/08 - The US women lost to Norway, 2-0. :(
Yes, I said tomorrow, Wednesday, 8/6/08. There are so many soccer games that need to be played that the Women's soccer (or football for you non-Yanks) will start tomorrow. Games to be played are:
Argentina vs Canada, China vs Sweden, Germany vs Brazil, North Korea vs Nigeria, Japan vs New Zealand, and Norway vs US.
The US game can be watched in rerun (i.e. not live) on Universal HD (I have no idea what that means). It looks like no actual Olympic coverage will be shown on NBC and the affiliated stations (MSNBC, CNBC, USA, etc.) until the opening ceremonies. That just shows you how important women's soccer is to the sports world.
Good luck girls!
UPDATE 3pm 8/6/08 - The US women lost to Norway, 2-0. :(
Sunday, August 03, 2008
Tennis Preview
Sharapova will miss both the Olympics and the US Open after tearing some tendons in her shoulder. On the women's side you can still watch the Williams sisters and Davenport.
Do NOT discount Chinese player Jie Zhang. She is a very exciting player who gave the Williams sisters some tough matches at Wimbledon.
On the men's side for the US, there is James Blake, always a fun player to watch, the Bryan brothers, usually seeded #1 in mens doubles play, and Robbi Ginepri.
Sharapova will miss both the Olympics and the US Open after tearing some tendons in her shoulder. On the women's side you can still watch the Williams sisters and Davenport.
Do NOT discount Chinese player Jie Zhang. She is a very exciting player who gave the Williams sisters some tough matches at Wimbledon.
On the men's side for the US, there is James Blake, always a fun player to watch, the Bryan brothers, usually seeded #1 in mens doubles play, and Robbi Ginepri.
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
Iraq In, Hamm Out
Iraq athletes are being allowed to participate in the Beijing games after some last minute negotiations that included both German and Chinese help. Not all Iraqi athletes will be able to participate due to the passing of some deadlines for the rosters. However, the rowing team was told today that even though their deadline has passed, they will still be able to compete. The track and field team of 2 from Iraq will also compete in the games.
Iraq athletes are being allowed to participate in the Beijing games after some last minute negotiations that included both German and Chinese help. Not all Iraqi athletes will be able to participate due to the passing of some deadlines for the rosters. However, the rowing team was told today that even though their deadline has passed, they will still be able to compete. The track and field team of 2 from Iraq will also compete in the games.
And in a huge blow to the US gymnastics team, Paul Hamm's broken hand and torn rotator cuff will keep him out of the games. He is replaced by Raj Bhavsar. Good luck Raj! I'll be rooting for you!
Thursday, July 24, 2008
Iraq Banned from Beijing Olympics
Due to what is being called government interference, the approximately 7 athletes that planned to compete from Iraq are now going to have to watch the Olympics like the rest of us...from home.
Due to what is being called government interference, the approximately 7 athletes that planned to compete from Iraq are now going to have to watch the Olympics like the rest of us...from home.
Tuesday, June 10, 2008
Beijing Olympics
This is a tough one for me. I'm not a fan of the Chinese gov't but want to support our athletes. I love the gymnastics and diving. Also the women's softball is fun to watch.
I'm assuming once the games begin I'll be all over it. We'll see...
This is a tough one for me. I'm not a fan of the Chinese gov't but want to support our athletes. I love the gymnastics and diving. Also the women's softball is fun to watch.
I'm assuming once the games begin I'll be all over it. We'll see...
Saturday, February 25, 2006
Most Hype EVER!
Bode Miller will leave Torino with exactly NO medals. He disqualified today 18 seconds out of the gate to end his chase for 5 medals emptyhanded. Ligety also DQed after missing a gate.
Bode Miller will leave Torino with exactly NO medals. He disqualified today 18 seconds out of the gate to end his chase for 5 medals emptyhanded. Ligety also DQed after missing a gate.
Friday, February 24, 2006
First Medal EVER!
Congratulations to the US Men's curling team! They just won the bronze, which is the first curling medal ever for the US! Very exciting!
The US women didn't make it to the medal round but played much better than their record would lead you to beleive. They lost more than one game in extra ends (the equivalent of overtime in Curling).
Congratulations to the US Men's curling team! They just won the bronze, which is the first curling medal ever for the US! Very exciting!
The US women didn't make it to the medal round but played much better than their record would lead you to beleive. They lost more than one game in extra ends (the equivalent of overtime in Curling).
Thursday, February 23, 2006
Guess Who Fell?
Sasha Cohen fell twice during her long program today knocking her off the top of the podium. Irina didn't make it up there either. As is becoming typical with these games, those expected to win aren't doing it. The winner is Japanese Shizuka Arakawa. Cohen wins silver and Slutskaya wins bronze. Other Americans fared well. Kimmie Meissner came in 6th and Emily Hughes came in 7th.
At least the Russians didn't win ALL of the Figure Skating golds, as was expected. All performances will be shown tonight on NBC.
Sasha Cohen fell twice during her long program today knocking her off the top of the podium. Irina didn't make it up there either. As is becoming typical with these games, those expected to win aren't doing it. The winner is Japanese Shizuka Arakawa. Cohen wins silver and Slutskaya wins bronze. Other Americans fared well. Kimmie Meissner came in 6th and Emily Hughes came in 7th.
At least the Russians didn't win ALL of the Figure Skating golds, as was expected. All performances will be shown tonight on NBC.
Davis Pulls Out
Davis will not participate in the 10,000 meter race tomorrow. All that has been reported is that a reason for his withdrawal would be made available later today. Hmmm...
Davis will not participate in the 10,000 meter race tomorrow. All that has been reported is that a reason for his withdrawal would be made available later today. Hmmm...
It's Looking a Bit Brighter Today
We already have a bronze today in Women's Snowboarding! And we still have decent shots in Women's Figure Skating and Men's Aerials. Go USA!
We already have a bronze today in Women's Snowboarding! And we still have decent shots in Women's Figure Skating and Men's Aerials. Go USA!
Wednesday, February 22, 2006
No Medals Today
The Men's Hockey Team is out of the medal round while our Men's Curling team go for bronze on Friday after losing to Canada today. No medals for us in Women's Arials. No medal in Women's slalom...you get the picture. Hopefully the story will be different tomorrow night after the women's figure skating event.
The Men's Hockey Team is out of the medal round while our Men's Curling team go for bronze on Friday after losing to Canada today. No medals for us in Women's Arials. No medal in Women's slalom...you get the picture. Hopefully the story will be different tomorrow night after the women's figure skating event.
Tuesday, February 21, 2006
Sasha's On Top!
I personally would not have placed a bet on this but Sasha Cohen is ahead of Slutskya after the short program...by only 0.03 of a point! Kimmie Meissner is 5th and Emily Hughes is 7th. The long program is scheduled for Thursday night.
So, I'm starting a pool...who thinks Sasha can do it and who thinks she's going to implode like she's done many times before?
I personally would not have placed a bet on this but Sasha Cohen is ahead of Slutskya after the short program...by only 0.03 of a point! Kimmie Meissner is 5th and Emily Hughes is 7th. The long program is scheduled for Thursday night.
So, I'm starting a pool...who thinks Sasha can do it and who thinks she's going to implode like she's done many times before?
More Figure Skating
After the stunning silver medal finish by our Ice Dancing pair, the women take the ice tonight. Sasha Cohen was a no-show for practice this morning, citing the fact that she skates last tonight and needs to stay "fresh" for the competition. Interesting choice. I wonder how it will play out tonight!
After the stunning silver medal finish by our Ice Dancing pair, the women take the ice tonight. Sasha Cohen was a no-show for practice this morning, citing the fact that she skates last tonight and needs to stay "fresh" for the competition. Interesting choice. I wonder how it will play out tonight!
Monday, February 20, 2006
US Women's Hockey
At the end of the second period, it's 4-0, US over Finland for the bronze medal. I think it's fair to say they will win the bronze. It's a medal, just not the color they were expecting.
At the end of the second period, it's 4-0, US over Finland for the bronze medal. I think it's fair to say they will win the bronze. It's a medal, just not the color they were expecting.
Miller Report
Bode Miller did participate in the Giant Slalom and does finish, just not on the medal stand. Looks like he ends up tied for 6th. Ligety and Rahlves did not finish.
Bode Miller did participate in the Giant Slalom and does finish, just not on the medal stand. Looks like he ends up tied for 6th. Ligety and Rahlves did not finish.
