Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Showing posts with label sports. Show all posts
Wednesday, March 23, 2011
March Madness Update
Now that the Sweet 16 teams have been decided in March Madness I thought that I would show an update of my bracket.
I started the tournament doing really well. My first real upset came with Pittsburgh losing so soon, and then it all kinda fell apart from there. I still have a chance to get a few more points, but its not a winning bracket by any means. Oh well there is always next year!
Friday, March 18, 2011
Let the Madness Begin
Yesterday marked the opening day of March Madness. I am not a huge basketball fan, but there is something about this tournament that makes it really fun and exciting to watch.
I think the draw for me is that anyone can play along. Teams all have a ranking, so you can just pick your favorite teams, highest ranked, or whatever strategy you have. There are always an upset or 2, and usually a Cinderella team that comes through, so anyone can really be a winner!
I had a great day yesterday with my bracket. I went 14/16 on the day. Of the 2 upsets that I had nothing is really going to hurt me that bad.
Obviously I am cheering for K-State to do well again this year. They had a great run last year, and lets hope for a repeat. They ended up in a tough side, and may have to play the #1 team in the country is all goes as I hope.
Lets hope for another great day for me. The next 3 days will be filled with some great basketball!
I think the draw for me is that anyone can play along. Teams all have a ranking, so you can just pick your favorite teams, highest ranked, or whatever strategy you have. There are always an upset or 2, and usually a Cinderella team that comes through, so anyone can really be a winner!
I had a great day yesterday with my bracket. I went 14/16 on the day. Of the 2 upsets that I had nothing is really going to hurt me that bad.
Lets hope for another great day for me. The next 3 days will be filled with some great basketball!
Thursday, August 12, 2010
Alegria
Last night I had the pleasure of going to see Cirque Du Soleil Alegria in Edmonton. It was opening night, and we had been dealing with the group for months now as they are staying in our hotel. 
The show was amazing. These are true artists and masters of their craft. There is a great mix of comedy and true athleticism.
There were a couple of mistakes in the show, and I guess it reinforced how real this all is. One girl fell of her trapez bar. Thank god she was wearing a safety harness. The other time a guy fell off a plank that he was jumping and flipping on.
I love all of the costumes and make-up of the performers in the show. They are so creative and imaginative. It definitely helps to make the show what it is.!
I had 2 favorite parts in the show. The first was a section that was all done on trampolines. The second was the contortionist girls. Wow is it ever amazing how they can move their bodies!
In all the show was amazing! I would highly suggest going if you get the chance. They are in Edmonton for the next 10 days, and it is definitely worth it to see.
The show was amazing. These are true artists and masters of their craft. There is a great mix of comedy and true athleticism.
There were a couple of mistakes in the show, and I guess it reinforced how real this all is. One girl fell of her trapez bar. Thank god she was wearing a safety harness. The other time a guy fell off a plank that he was jumping and flipping on.
I love all of the costumes and make-up of the performers in the show. They are so creative and imaginative. It definitely helps to make the show what it is.!
I had 2 favorite parts in the show. The first was a section that was all done on trampolines. The second was the contortionist girls. Wow is it ever amazing how they can move their bodies!
In all the show was amazing! I would highly suggest going if you get the chance. They are in Edmonton for the next 10 days, and it is definitely worth it to see.
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
World Cup 2010
So the World Cup is just about over. 1 more game and World Cup 2010 will be in the books.... Thank God!!
I don't know about you, but I just don't get the whole soccer thing. I think that it is boring, dry, nonathletic, extremely overrated!
Just think what would happen if a hockey player, or football player fell down and started to cry because he "hurt his ankle"? Suck it up, and either get up and play again or get off the field.
I also think that it has to be one of the slowest, most painful sports to watch. Yes, ok some of the men are extremely good looking, however, the field is so big that you can't even get a close up of them. In some games there is not even any goals scored. At least with hockey, you get to see a few chances, and some good hits in a 1-0 game.
And then there are those stupid horns. I cannot stand those things! Why would someone invent those to start of with and then give them to 20,000 fans to blow during a game.
All I know is that I am extremely thankful that there is only one game left, and it will be another 4 years before I have to hear about soccer.
I don't know about you, but I just don't get the whole soccer thing. I think that it is boring, dry, nonathletic, extremely overrated!
Just think what would happen if a hockey player, or football player fell down and started to cry because he "hurt his ankle"? Suck it up, and either get up and play again or get off the field.
I also think that it has to be one of the slowest, most painful sports to watch. Yes, ok some of the men are extremely good looking, however, the field is so big that you can't even get a close up of them. In some games there is not even any goals scored. At least with hockey, you get to see a few chances, and some good hits in a 1-0 game.
And then there are those stupid horns. I cannot stand those things! Why would someone invent those to start of with and then give them to 20,000 fans to blow during a game.
All I know is that I am extremely thankful that there is only one game left, and it will be another 4 years before I have to hear about soccer.
Wednesday, June 9, 2010
49 Years in the Making
Well I have to say Congrats to the Chiacago Blackhawks. Tonight they won the Stanley Cup with a 4-3 win in overtime agains the Philidelphia Flyers.
It was a great game, and although I am bias, I really do think that Chicago deserved to win. They dominated at home, and were the first team to win on the road. A huge advantage in this series.
Before this series started I predicted that Chicago would win in 6 games, and looks like I was right.
Now people may say that I am a band wagon jumper, however, I have been a Chicago fan since grade 1. My parents were managing McDougall Cattle Station at the time. It was an Angus and Simmental operation.
One day we got a phone call from a guy that was interested in buying some Red Angus cows. Neither mom or dad were home, so I answered the phone, took a message and told the man that my parents would call him back.
Later that night, I told my parents the message and my dad asked me if I knew who the man was that called. I said that his name was Brent Sutter and he said that be lived in Illinois. My dad informed me that Brent Sutter was a hockey player in the NHL and played for the Chicago Blackhawks!
From that moment on Brent became one of my favorite players. Because he played for the Hawks, they naturally became my favorite team, next to the Edmonton Oilers...
Then again last year I had a run in with some Chicago Blackhawks. I was in Calgary at the Westin Hotel on a tour for work. I was looking at the hotel to potentially hold a conference there. While we were walking through the hotel I seen several men who looked familar, but I couldn't put my finger on it. I asked the hotel rep if they got many sports teams staying at the hotel, and she replyed with a "Yes, we actually have one in house right now!". I then knew that it was in fact the Hawks that I was recognizing!
Later that night as I we meeting the hotel rep for drinks, a few of the players were in the lounge as well. We got talking with them and had a really fun night having a few drinks and laughs. They found out that I was staying at the hotel alone, and invited me to have breakfast with them before they left for their morning skate the next day.
Because of Ladd, Kane, Toewes and Byfuglien, my love of the team became even stronger. They have been an easy team to cheer for in the playoffs. Especially since Edmonton has not made it the last couple of years!
So Congrats to the Chicago Blackhawks on another sucessful year. It has been 49 years since you last one the Stanley Cup, so enjoy it!
It was a great game, and although I am bias, I really do think that Chicago deserved to win. They dominated at home, and were the first team to win on the road. A huge advantage in this series.
Before this series started I predicted that Chicago would win in 6 games, and looks like I was right.
Now people may say that I am a band wagon jumper, however, I have been a Chicago fan since grade 1. My parents were managing McDougall Cattle Station at the time. It was an Angus and Simmental operation.
One day we got a phone call from a guy that was interested in buying some Red Angus cows. Neither mom or dad were home, so I answered the phone, took a message and told the man that my parents would call him back.
Later that night, I told my parents the message and my dad asked me if I knew who the man was that called. I said that his name was Brent Sutter and he said that be lived in Illinois. My dad informed me that Brent Sutter was a hockey player in the NHL and played for the Chicago Blackhawks!
From that moment on Brent became one of my favorite players. Because he played for the Hawks, they naturally became my favorite team, next to the Edmonton Oilers...
Then again last year I had a run in with some Chicago Blackhawks. I was in Calgary at the Westin Hotel on a tour for work. I was looking at the hotel to potentially hold a conference there. While we were walking through the hotel I seen several men who looked familar, but I couldn't put my finger on it. I asked the hotel rep if they got many sports teams staying at the hotel, and she replyed with a "Yes, we actually have one in house right now!". I then knew that it was in fact the Hawks that I was recognizing!
Later that night as I we meeting the hotel rep for drinks, a few of the players were in the lounge as well. We got talking with them and had a really fun night having a few drinks and laughs. They found out that I was staying at the hotel alone, and invited me to have breakfast with them before they left for their morning skate the next day.
Because of Ladd, Kane, Toewes and Byfuglien, my love of the team became even stronger. They have been an easy team to cheer for in the playoffs. Especially since Edmonton has not made it the last couple of years!
So Congrats to the Chicago Blackhawks on another sucessful year. It has been 49 years since you last one the Stanley Cup, so enjoy it!
Saturday, May 29, 2010
Stanley Cup Playoffs- Final Round
Ok so that time has come, the last round of the Stanley Cup Playoffs.
We have the Chicago Blackhawsks representing the west and the Philadelphia Flyers from the east.
It should be no surprise that I will be picking and cheering for the Blackhawks to win. They are my #2 team after all (Oilers are and always will be #1).
Although I am picking the Hawks to win, Philly does have a neat story of how they got to the Finals.
We have the Chicago Blackhawsks representing the west and the Philadelphia Flyers from the east.
It should be no surprise that I will be picking and cheering for the Blackhawks to win. They are my #2 team after all (Oilers are and always will be #1).
Although I am picking the Hawks to win, Philly does have a neat story of how they got to the Finals.
- Won in OT to even make it to the playoffs
- Won 4 games in a row in the 2nd round to knock off Boston. This is only the 3rd time in hockey that this has ever happened.
- Defeated the other underdog Montreal in the 3rd round to advance to the Finals.
Tuesday, May 4, 2010
136th Kentucky Derby
I love the Kentucky Derby. There is just something about that first Saturday in May that makes it feel like spring and the excitement of the summer is in the air.
I have a dream to get to the Kentucky Derby one day. I think it would be amazing to get all dressed up and wear a beautiful hat and stroll through the crowd and horses!
This year we thought about going to the Derby, but decided to go to New York instead. Did we ever make a good decision there! It poured the week before the Derby and the track was a mess. It definitely would have not been as much fun, but some people took full advantage of the weather!
And then there was the actual race. There was no real favorite this year, and with the track being sloppy it was wide open.
You sure can tell that this was the beginning of the race....
And that this was the end of the race!
My dad always says that in horse racing it is all about the jockey and this race proved that. The jockey on the winning horse has won the Kentucky Derby the last 3/4 years! That is a pretty impressive feat.
I have a dream to get to the Kentucky Derby one day. I think it would be amazing to get all dressed up and wear a beautiful hat and stroll through the crowd and horses!
This year we thought about going to the Derby, but decided to go to New York instead. Did we ever make a good decision there! It poured the week before the Derby and the track was a mess. It definitely would have not been as much fun, but some people took full advantage of the weather!
And then there was the actual race. There was no real favorite this year, and with the track being sloppy it was wide open.You sure can tell that this was the beginning of the race....
And that this was the end of the race!
My dad always says that in horse racing it is all about the jockey and this race proved that. The jockey on the winning horse has won the Kentucky Derby the last 3/4 years! That is a pretty impressive feat.
Friday, April 30, 2010
Stanley Cup 2010- Round 2
Round 2 of the 2010 Stanley Cup Playoffs started last night. 1/2 of the teams have been knocked out leaving us with 8 teams. Here are my favorites/predictions for this round.
Boston vs. Philadelphia
Ha isn't this funny. The 2 series that I didn't care about are playing each other again... Boston had a good run last year, so lets hope for Philly. Get someone new to the cup final.
Pittsburgh vs. Montreal
Montreal was a true underdog. They played the best team in the NHL in the first round and won! They have a lot of momentum going into this series and their goalies is HOT right now. I am still hoping for Pittsburgh and my future husband Crosby. They had a great run last year to win the cup, so lets try for a repeat performance.
San Jose vs. Detroit
This series got underway last night. These two teams have become playoff rivals. San Jose is the team of recent poor playoff history, and Detroit is the team that seems to do nothing wrong in the playoffs. I like San Jose to win this series, but I definitely see it going to a game 7.
Vancouver vs. Chicago
Ah and my favorite series of all! This is the only series remaining that I will watch the games on TV. I am sure you know my hatred for Vancouver, and my love for Chicago, so it should be no shock that I really want Chicago to win this series. I think that it will be a tough series, but they can do it for sure!
Boston vs. Philadelphia
Ha isn't this funny. The 2 series that I didn't care about are playing each other again... Boston had a good run last year, so lets hope for Philly. Get someone new to the cup final.
Pittsburgh vs. Montreal
Montreal was a true underdog. They played the best team in the NHL in the first round and won! They have a lot of momentum going into this series and their goalies is HOT right now. I am still hoping for Pittsburgh and my future husband Crosby. They had a great run last year to win the cup, so lets try for a repeat performance.
San Jose vs. Detroit
This series got underway last night. These two teams have become playoff rivals. San Jose is the team of recent poor playoff history, and Detroit is the team that seems to do nothing wrong in the playoffs. I like San Jose to win this series, but I definitely see it going to a game 7.
Vancouver vs. Chicago
Ah and my favorite series of all! This is the only series remaining that I will watch the games on TV. I am sure you know my hatred for Vancouver, and my love for Chicago, so it should be no shock that I really want Chicago to win this series. I think that it will be a tough series, but they can do it for sure!
Tuesday, April 20, 2010
Stanley Cup 2010
For the past 10 days the NHL Playoffs have been going on. For those of you not up to date on your NHL, here is a little recap of where things are sitting.
Western Conference
Personally I hope that
As a true Edmonton Oiler fan all I can say is GO LA!! I HATE Vancouver with a passion. And hey why not give a team like LA a chance to go to the 2nd round of the playoffs. There is a ton of Oilers Aluni on the LA team, including my old favorite player Jaret Stoll.
This to is a story of David and Galith.
Eastern Conference
This too is an easy pick for me. I am not a 
Yet another series that I should be cheering for the Canadian team, but I just can’t. Who can cheer against Captain 
Golfing
Almost 2 years ago I started to golf. It was very natural for me as both my parent’s golf, as do most of my family members on my dad’s side.
Now 2 years later, I am gearing up for year #3 of golfing. In that time I have never taken a lesson, but have become pretty good, or what I think is good anyways.
When I started to golf, I was not going to always have to rent clubs, so after my first round I purchased my clubs. As with anything in my life, I didn’t want ugly or the cheapest ones. I traded up my bag, bough a matching glove, tees, balls, everything had to match!
My skills have definitely improved over the years. I no longer cheat when I am playing, and I have taken the foot club (kicking the ball out of the rough) out of my bag. I think it has made me a better player for it.
This year my goal is to do 18 holes. This is something that I have never done before. It is one of my 101 in 1001 to score under 100on 18 holes. I know that doesn’t seem like much, but when you shoot 45-60 in 9 holes, it will be tough.
We also have a work golf tournament that I am gearing up for. I have never played in a tournament so it should be fun! Of course I have no doubt that there will be plenty of booze and laughs along the way. I got tipped of that they had several tequila shot stations throughout the course last year!
I will keep you posted with my golf progress. I am looking to get a new putter so we will see how that improves my game!
Wednesday, March 31, 2010
Way to Go Boys!
Well we knew it was all going to happen, and as of last night it became official.
For the first time in the Edmonton Oiler's history we will have the #1 pick in the NHL entry draft. After an embarrassing season we hoped this would happen. At least something would be salvaged out of the year.
There will be much debate between now and the draft over who the Oilers should take. And please god do not let them trade it away!!
The team needs to do a lot of rebuilding this year. We have a lot of old veterans that need to be moved to another team, and hopefully during the summer we can pick up some great players of high draft picks.
So here is to finishing the season in last place Edmonton! I guess there is no where to go but up next year... and hey at least we are not like Calgary. They too are going to miss the playoffs, but at least something good comes out of us missing them!
For the first time in the Edmonton Oiler's history we will have the #1 pick in the NHL entry draft. After an embarrassing season we hoped this would happen. At least something would be salvaged out of the year.
There will be much debate between now and the draft over who the Oilers should take. And please god do not let them trade it away!!
The team needs to do a lot of rebuilding this year. We have a lot of old veterans that need to be moved to another team, and hopefully during the summer we can pick up some great players of high draft picks.
So here is to finishing the season in last place Edmonton! I guess there is no where to go but up next year... and hey at least we are not like Calgary. They too are going to miss the playoffs, but at least something good comes out of us missing them!
Tuesday, March 16, 2010
Half Mile of Hell
The sport of Chuckwagon racing is not an easy one for anyone. For my friends to the east, and friends to the south, this sport may be unfamiliar to you.
Here is a little video that shows what Chuckwagon racing is.
My family has had the pleasure of being part of this sport for the last 7 or 8 years through our cousin Troy Flad. Troy is a longtime driver on the World Professional Chuckwagon Tour. Each summer they travel around Alberta and BC taking part in meets.
This sport comes from the wild west. The point has always been to load up your wagon, and make it around the track as fast as possible. Over the years some new rules have been put into place, but the theory still remains the same.
As these drivers and their families, along with 15 or more Thoroughbred horses load up and take to the road for 3.5 months. They live a rough life, but love what they do. Many of the drivers are 2nd and 3rd generation drivers, with their children itching to get behind the lines.
To help pay for the expenses along the way drivers are bought to carry a tarp for the company. This tarp becomes part of the wagon, and the company becomes part of the team for the weekend or season. It gives the companies great exposure, and they also have a pretty good time along the way.
I love to not only watch the chuckwagons, but also to ride the horses. Crystal and I still help out where we can. Usually it is taking care of the horses in the barns, or riding an outriding horse up to the track. They can be intimidating animals, but they love what they do as well!
Next time you are in the area and you know that a race is going on, stop in and watch. It really is a wild and crazy sport!
Here is a little video that shows what Chuckwagon racing is.
My family has had the pleasure of being part of this sport for the last 7 or 8 years through our cousin Troy Flad. Troy is a longtime driver on the World Professional Chuckwagon Tour. Each summer they travel around Alberta and BC taking part in meets.
This sport comes from the wild west. The point has always been to load up your wagon, and make it around the track as fast as possible. Over the years some new rules have been put into place, but the theory still remains the same.
As these drivers and their families, along with 15 or more Thoroughbred horses load up and take to the road for 3.5 months. They live a rough life, but love what they do. Many of the drivers are 2nd and 3rd generation drivers, with their children itching to get behind the lines.
To help pay for the expenses along the way drivers are bought to carry a tarp for the company. This tarp becomes part of the wagon, and the company becomes part of the team for the weekend or season. It gives the companies great exposure, and they also have a pretty good time along the way.
I love to not only watch the chuckwagons, but also to ride the horses. Crystal and I still help out where we can. Usually it is taking care of the horses in the barns, or riding an outriding horse up to the track. They can be intimidating animals, but they love what they do as well!
Next time you are in the area and you know that a race is going on, stop in and watch. It really is a wild and crazy sport!
Saturday, February 27, 2010
21st Winter Olympics- Day 16 Recap
I know i keep saying what a day for the Canadians, but today was officially the most successful day for Canadians at a Winter Olympics.
1. Men's Curling
The one thing the Kevin Martin did not have to his list of things won was an Olympic gold medal. That was until today. In a great game this athlete confirmed that he is the best player to have ever played the game, and is only getting better as time goes by.
2. Men's Speed Skating Team Pursuit
Canada continued on its gold medal ways with a second gold of the day. The men were not expected to beat the USA in this race, but did a great job to come out on top. Yet anther way to close out the Long Track Speed Skating at these Olympic games.
3. Men's Parallel Giant Slalom Snowboarding
This is another one of my favorite events at the Olympic games. 2 of these athletes were featured in a CTV show called Over the Bolts prior to the Olympics. The other member of the team was veteran Jasey Jay Anderson. He said going into these Olympics that they would be his last, and what a way to cap it all off with the 3rd gold medal of the day.
Matthew Morison finished 11th and Michael Lambert finished 12. A great showing for all of these athletes.
4. Men's 4 Man Bobsled
The medals kept rolling in this time with a bronze medal in the 4 Man competition. The USA were heavy favorites coming in and they took the gold. Canada's team anchored by Lyndon Rush were ranked #7 in the world, so a bronze medal is amazing for them. This team hold lots of future for the sport in the years to come.
Pierre Lueders finished his bobsleigh career with a 5th place finish. He was the only veteran on the this team, and it was a disappointing finish to this athletes career. However, he did a great thing in training and passing on his knowledge to 3 other young athletes to take the sport over.
Good stories from today
To bad they didnt want to keep these flights
What a way to win
Such a sad day
1. Men's Curling
The one thing the Kevin Martin did not have to his list of things won was an Olympic gold medal. That was until today. In a great game this athlete confirmed that he is the best player to have ever played the game, and is only getting better as time goes by.
2. Men's Speed Skating Team Pursuit
Canada continued on its gold medal ways with a second gold of the day. The men were not expected to beat the USA in this race, but did a great job to come out on top. Yet anther way to close out the Long Track Speed Skating at these Olympic games.
3. Men's Parallel Giant Slalom Snowboarding
This is another one of my favorite events at the Olympic games. 2 of these athletes were featured in a CTV show called Over the Bolts prior to the Olympics. The other member of the team was veteran Jasey Jay Anderson. He said going into these Olympics that they would be his last, and what a way to cap it all off with the 3rd gold medal of the day.
Matthew Morison finished 11th and Michael Lambert finished 12. A great showing for all of these athletes.
4. Men's 4 Man Bobsled
The medals kept rolling in this time with a bronze medal in the 4 Man competition. The USA were heavy favorites coming in and they took the gold. Canada's team anchored by Lyndon Rush were ranked #7 in the world, so a bronze medal is amazing for them. This team hold lots of future for the sport in the years to come.
Pierre Lueders finished his bobsleigh career with a 5th place finish. He was the only veteran on the this team, and it was a disappointing finish to this athletes career. However, he did a great thing in training and passing on his knowledge to 3 other young athletes to take the sport over.
Good stories from today
To bad they didnt want to keep these flights
What a way to win
Such a sad day
Friday, February 26, 2010
21st Winter Olympics:Day 15 Recap
What a day for Canada. We knew that the 2nd week of the Olympics would be Canada's week, but this is just great.
1. Men' Hockey
Everyone wanted a rematch of the Canada vs USA game, and that is exactly what they will get. Sunday these 2 teams will face off for the gold medal.
Slovakia put out a great performance tonight and will play Finland for the bronze medal. This will we Slovakia's best finish ever in the Olympics.
2. Women's Curling
This was a bit of a disappointment with Canada only getting silver. Canada had a chance twice to win the game, and let it slip through her hands. Cheryl Bernard still had a great competition, especially for being a rookie on the International scene. Sweden ended up winning the gold medal, a repeat of 2006.
The bronze medal went to China. These girls live and train in Leduc, so they have a great Canadian connection.
Game recap
3. Men's Short Track 500m
Finally the men got to shine. Tonight was Charles Hamelin's day. This is the best distance for him, and he dominated in this race coming out with a gold medal. Canada also took the bronze by Fransois-Louis Tremblay. We also had a 9th place finish in this race.
Race details
4. Short Track Men's 5000m Relay
The men had a busy night tonight as the same 3 men also competed in the 5000m relay, as well as the other Hamelin brother. The guys had broke Olympic records all afternoon in qualifying, so we knew we would be in good contention.
The race was so close that it came down to a photo finish with Canada winning the gold. These men raced so well today to wrap up the speed skating for the 2010 Olympics!
1. Men' Hockey
Everyone wanted a rematch of the Canada vs USA game, and that is exactly what they will get. Sunday these 2 teams will face off for the gold medal.
Slovakia put out a great performance tonight and will play Finland for the bronze medal. This will we Slovakia's best finish ever in the Olympics.
2. Women's Curling
This was a bit of a disappointment with Canada only getting silver. Canada had a chance twice to win the game, and let it slip through her hands. Cheryl Bernard still had a great competition, especially for being a rookie on the International scene. Sweden ended up winning the gold medal, a repeat of 2006.
The bronze medal went to China. These girls live and train in Leduc, so they have a great Canadian connection.
Game recap
3. Men's Short Track 500m
Finally the men got to shine. Tonight was Charles Hamelin's day. This is the best distance for him, and he dominated in this race coming out with a gold medal. Canada also took the bronze by Fransois-Louis Tremblay. We also had a 9th place finish in this race.
Race details
4. Short Track Men's 5000m Relay
The men had a busy night tonight as the same 3 men also competed in the 5000m relay, as well as the other Hamelin brother. The guys had broke Olympic records all afternoon in qualifying, so we knew we would be in good contention.
The race was so close that it came down to a photo finish with Canada winning the gold. These men raced so well today to wrap up the speed skating for the 2010 Olympics!
Thursday, February 25, 2010
21st Winter Olympics:Day 14 Recap
The women have been setting the example the last couple of days. Hopefully the men can start to come through with some medals.
1. Curling
Both our men and women qualified through to the gold medal games. The women will play tomorrow and the men on saturday. Both teams should have a great shot at gold after dominating though the round robin.
It is almost sad that it is tougher to qualify out of your country, then it is to win an Olympic medal.
2. Women's Figure Skating
The girls have done it again. 3 Olympics in a row Canada has won the gold medal in the Women's Hockey. They put out a dominate performance tonight winning 2-0 against their rivals team USA. I was really happy to see the girls win, as there are 13 veterans on the team, and a good possibility that not many of them will be back for 2014.
The games definetly are slowing down with less qualifying sports and more medaling going on. This weekend will be a big one and a great way to wrap up the games
1. Curling
Both our men and women qualified through to the gold medal games. The women will play tomorrow and the men on saturday. Both teams should have a great shot at gold after dominating though the round robin.
It is almost sad that it is tougher to qualify out of your country, then it is to win an Olympic medal.
2. Women's Figure Skating
What a night for Joannie Rochette. After what is to be expected as one of the worst weeks of her life, she pulled through her loss to win the bronze medal.
The competition was close tonight. The South Korean skater was amazing, and untouchable. She hands down deserved to win the gold medal.
The race came for the bronze and 4th place. To me Joannie is one of the star athletes of the games when you think what she went through and how she performed.
3. Women's HockeyThe girls have done it again. 3 Olympics in a row Canada has won the gold medal in the Women's Hockey. They put out a dominate performance tonight winning 2-0 against their rivals team USA. I was really happy to see the girls win, as there are 13 veterans on the team, and a good possibility that not many of them will be back for 2014.
The games definetly are slowing down with less qualifying sports and more medaling going on. This weekend will be a big one and a great way to wrap up the games
Wednesday, February 24, 2010
21st Winter Olympics:Day 13 Recap
What a day Canada had today. Sunday was coined Super Sunday, but today ended up being Wonderful Wednesday!
1. Women's 2 Man Bobsled
What a great day for the Canadians and the sport of bobsled in our country. Not only did we win gold, but we also won silver! Humphries and Moyse dominated right from run 1 to win the gold. Canada 2 consisting of Upperton and Brown should not be over shadowed. These girls worked hard to continually move up in the standings to win the silver medal.
The Russia team who were the reigning gold medalist, had a really unfortunate spill. It really was to bad, as they were in close contention for a medal.
2. Women's Short Track 3000m Relay
Yes another silver medal. And another woman who won it! The 4 women who pushed through their second race of the day did a great job! After finishing in 3rd place the Canadians were bumped up to silver. The Korean team finished in 1st place but was disqualified and striped of their gold medal.
3. Canada vs Russia Men's Hockey
It was about time that the Canadian men started to play as a team. Tonight it finally happened. Canada shot out with a huge lead to win the game and advance to the next round.
Our goal tending was alright tonight, much better then in was against the Swiss, however, we need to really tighten that up to match the skills of Miller.
Friday is our next day, and what a game it will be!
4. Women's Speed Skating 5000m
Clara Hughes has just had an ok Olympics. She has told the media all along that this would be her last Olympics. That is why tonight was so much more special for her. Clara won the bronze medal in her race tonight.
It was a great way for this athlete to end her Olympics and go out with a bang!
1. Women's 2 Man Bobsled
What a great day for the Canadians and the sport of bobsled in our country. Not only did we win gold, but we also won silver! Humphries and Moyse dominated right from run 1 to win the gold. Canada 2 consisting of Upperton and Brown should not be over shadowed. These girls worked hard to continually move up in the standings to win the silver medal.
The Russia team who were the reigning gold medalist, had a really unfortunate spill. It really was to bad, as they were in close contention for a medal.
2. Women's Short Track 3000m Relay
Yes another silver medal. And another woman who won it! The 4 women who pushed through their second race of the day did a great job! After finishing in 3rd place the Canadians were bumped up to silver. The Korean team finished in 1st place but was disqualified and striped of their gold medal.
3. Canada vs Russia Men's Hockey
It was about time that the Canadian men started to play as a team. Tonight it finally happened. Canada shot out with a huge lead to win the game and advance to the next round.
Our goal tending was alright tonight, much better then in was against the Swiss, however, we need to really tighten that up to match the skills of Miller.
Friday is our next day, and what a game it will be!
4. Women's Speed Skating 5000m
Clara Hughes has just had an ok Olympics. She has told the media all along that this would be her last Olympics. That is why tonight was so much more special for her. Clara won the bronze medal in her race tonight.
It was a great way for this athlete to end her Olympics and go out with a bang!
Thursday, February 18, 2010
21st Winter Olympics:Day 7 Recap
Today was I think one for the most exciting days so far in the games. I know at my house at a few points we had 2 lab tops going as well as a TV to watch all of the sports going on.
Here are a few highlights from the day:
1. Canadian Men's Hockey
In the 2006 Olympics Switzerland beat Canada 2-0 to really derail our hopes of Olympic Gold. Canada has waited 4 years for this rematch to show that we really are the better hockey nation.
Canada jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, and were playing fairly well. All of a sudden Switzerland had tied the game at 2-2. The game went into overtime, and then a shootout. Finally on the 4th shooter Sidney Crosby scored the game winning goal!
This close was way to close for comport and the players know they really need to pick up there socks. Switzerland is a low ranked team in the Olympics. I have to say that their goalie Jonas Hiller played an amazing game, and really kept his team in the game.
There are possibly a few injuries to come out of this game. One of the biggest is Jarome Iginla. He did not play for most of the 3rd period. Watch for his return hopefully for the next game against the USA.
2. Women's Half Pipe
Tonight we got to see the first athlete compete that was featured in the CTV show Over the Bolts. Mercedes Nicoll was the only Canadian to make the finals. She ended up being 6th which was a great result for her.
The other Canadians included Sarah Conrad in 18th and Palmer Taylor in 26th.
3. Skeleton
Skeleton is a different sport in the Olympics as your time is a cumulative score over 4 runs. Tonight both the men and women did the first 2 of 4 runs.
The women put out a strong showing. Current Gold Medalist Mellisa Hollingsworth ended up 3rd for the night. In training runs earlier this week she unofficially broke a track record. Watch for her to come from behind for the win.
The other Canadian women ended up 7th and 13th for the night.
The men also put out a great performance. I will have more on their results tomorrow.
4. Ladies 1000m Speed Skating
The Canadian women really dominated on the track today. Christine Nesbitt was favored for gold going into the race, and she did not disappoint. Nesbitt won Canada our 3rd Gold of the games.
Kristina Groves put out a great performance to be 4th, just 0:06 out of the Bronze medal. Shannon Rempel ended up 21st and Brittany Schussler ended up 25th.
Watch for the Canadian women to dominate again in the 1500m where Canadian skaters are ranked 1, 2, and 5 in the world!
Here are a few highlights from the day:
1. Canadian Men's Hockey
In the 2006 Olympics Switzerland beat Canada 2-0 to really derail our hopes of Olympic Gold. Canada has waited 4 years for this rematch to show that we really are the better hockey nation.
Canada jumped out to an early 2-0 lead, and were playing fairly well. All of a sudden Switzerland had tied the game at 2-2. The game went into overtime, and then a shootout. Finally on the 4th shooter Sidney Crosby scored the game winning goal!
This close was way to close for comport and the players know they really need to pick up there socks. Switzerland is a low ranked team in the Olympics. I have to say that their goalie Jonas Hiller played an amazing game, and really kept his team in the game.
There are possibly a few injuries to come out of this game. One of the biggest is Jarome Iginla. He did not play for most of the 3rd period. Watch for his return hopefully for the next game against the USA.
2. Women's Half Pipe
Tonight we got to see the first athlete compete that was featured in the CTV show Over the Bolts. Mercedes Nicoll was the only Canadian to make the finals. She ended up being 6th which was a great result for her.
The other Canadians included Sarah Conrad in 18th and Palmer Taylor in 26th.
3. Skeleton
Skeleton is a different sport in the Olympics as your time is a cumulative score over 4 runs. Tonight both the men and women did the first 2 of 4 runs.
The women put out a strong showing. Current Gold Medalist Mellisa Hollingsworth ended up 3rd for the night. In training runs earlier this week she unofficially broke a track record. Watch for her to come from behind for the win.
The other Canadian women ended up 7th and 13th for the night.
The men also put out a great performance. I will have more on their results tomorrow.
4. Ladies 1000m Speed Skating
The Canadian women really dominated on the track today. Christine Nesbitt was favored for gold going into the race, and she did not disappoint. Nesbitt won Canada our 3rd Gold of the games.
Kristina Groves put out a great performance to be 4th, just 0:06 out of the Bronze medal. Shannon Rempel ended up 21st and Brittany Schussler ended up 25th.
Watch for the Canadian women to dominate again in the 1500m where Canadian skaters are ranked 1, 2, and 5 in the world!
Wednesday, February 17, 2010
21st Winter Olympics:Day 6 Recap
All I can say is Shaun White! What a day of performances in day 5.
1. Men's Half Pipe
Shaun White is the King of the half pipe once again. He put out a dominate performance tonight to win his second consecutive gold medal. This guy is amazing, and no one even came close to contend with his. Canada had 1 athlete advance to the finals, Justin Lamoureux finished in 7th.
The big disappointment for Canada was Jeff Batchelor who not only failed to qualify for the finals but ended up a disappointing 32nd. Hopefully Batchelor can mature enough for the next Olympics in 2014.
2. Women's Alpine Downhill
Lindsey Vonn was debating whether she would compete due to a shin injury. Personally I think she was just playing with the media. She knew that she would compete all along. After all this is the Olympics!
Lindsy not only competed but she came out with the gold. She put all of the recent controversy about her Sports Illustrated issue, and her injury aside. I was really happy that she as able to win.
3. Men's 1000m Speedskating
I had earlier talked about my following of Jeremy Wotherspoon. Tonight he skated in his final Olympic event ever. He put out a great effort but came up short ending up in 14th place.
I hope that everyone can remember his success in the sport and not focus in on the fact that he as never won an Olympic medal.
4. Ladies 500m Speedskating
Canada had a great showing in the 500m Short Track tonight. We had 3 women who would be contenders for medals. 2 of our women advanced to the finals with Marianne St-Gelais winning the silver medal.
Jessica Gregg finished in 4th and Kalyna Roberge finishing 6th.
Take a look at these great stories again from Fourth Place Medal:
What the blue lines in skiing are for...
The story behind Ovechkins skates
The story behind the Olympic flowers
1. Men's Half Pipe
Shaun White is the King of the half pipe once again. He put out a dominate performance tonight to win his second consecutive gold medal. This guy is amazing, and no one even came close to contend with his. Canada had 1 athlete advance to the finals, Justin Lamoureux finished in 7th.
The big disappointment for Canada was Jeff Batchelor who not only failed to qualify for the finals but ended up a disappointing 32nd. Hopefully Batchelor can mature enough for the next Olympics in 2014.
2. Women's Alpine Downhill
Lindsey Vonn was debating whether she would compete due to a shin injury. Personally I think she was just playing with the media. She knew that she would compete all along. After all this is the Olympics!
Lindsy not only competed but she came out with the gold. She put all of the recent controversy about her Sports Illustrated issue, and her injury aside. I was really happy that she as able to win.
3. Men's 1000m Speedskating
I had earlier talked about my following of Jeremy Wotherspoon. Tonight he skated in his final Olympic event ever. He put out a great effort but came up short ending up in 14th place.
I hope that everyone can remember his success in the sport and not focus in on the fact that he as never won an Olympic medal.
4. Ladies 500m Speedskating
Canada had a great showing in the 500m Short Track tonight. We had 3 women who would be contenders for medals. 2 of our women advanced to the finals with Marianne St-Gelais winning the silver medal.
Jessica Gregg finished in 4th and Kalyna Roberge finishing 6th.
Take a look at these great stories again from Fourth Place Medal:
What the blue lines in skiing are for...
The story behind Ovechkins skates
The story behind the Olympic flowers
Monday, February 15, 2010
21st Winter Olympics:Day 4 Recap
Today offered lots of up and downs for the Canadian team. Here are a few highlights from today's events:
1. Pairs Long Program
The figure skating pairs competition just finished a matter of minutes ago. It was obvious that the Chinese were going to take gold and silver in this competition. I was really hoping for the husband and wife team. They have been 2 time world champions, but had never won a gold medal. They had retired from skating, gotten married and decided to come back to try and win the Olympics.
Last night this team broke the world record in the short program, and tonight broke the world record again in the long program to win the Gold Medal! The Canadians ended up 6th and 9th which was a great performance for these couples.
2. Men's Snow Cross
I think that this is now one of my favorite events in the Winter Olympics. It is a cross between roller derby, snowboarding, and skateboarding. The men do 2 runs in qualifying and then weed it down to 4 men for the finals. Canadian Mike Robertson ended up being edged out and ended up with the silver medal. We had 2 other Canadians competing. Robert Fagan ended up 5th, Drew Neilson was 11th and Francois Boivin was 12th.
3. Men's Alpine Downhill
Canada had 4 men competing in this event. The favored was Manuel Osborne-Paradis as he grew up in North Vancouver and lived on the Wistler hill as a child. Unfortunately, none of our men medaled, but we still had one athlete who put out a great performance. Erik Guay ended up 5th which is the highest placing ever. Manuel Osborne-Paradis ended up 17th, Jan Hudec ended up 25th and Robbue Dixon DNF. These men still have a few more races left later this week.
4. Men's Long Skate 500m
Jeremy Wotherspoon came back for his 4th Olympic games. Back in Elementary school we did a research project on a Winter Olympic sport and I chose speed skating. At that time it was Jeremy's first Olympics, and he was a star on our Long Track Speed Skating team. He came back to try and win the looming Gold medal that is left to complete his decorated skating career.
Tonight we had 4 men competing. Again we did not win a medal but put out some great performances. Our highest placing was Jamie Gregg who ended up 8th. Jeremy Wotherspoon ended up 9th, Mike Ireland 16th, and Kyle Parrott was 21st.
1. Pairs Long Program
The figure skating pairs competition just finished a matter of minutes ago. It was obvious that the Chinese were going to take gold and silver in this competition. I was really hoping for the husband and wife team. They have been 2 time world champions, but had never won a gold medal. They had retired from skating, gotten married and decided to come back to try and win the Olympics.
Last night this team broke the world record in the short program, and tonight broke the world record again in the long program to win the Gold Medal! The Canadians ended up 6th and 9th which was a great performance for these couples.
2. Men's Snow Cross
I think that this is now one of my favorite events in the Winter Olympics. It is a cross between roller derby, snowboarding, and skateboarding. The men do 2 runs in qualifying and then weed it down to 4 men for the finals. Canadian Mike Robertson ended up being edged out and ended up with the silver medal. We had 2 other Canadians competing. Robert Fagan ended up 5th, Drew Neilson was 11th and Francois Boivin was 12th.
3. Men's Alpine Downhill
Canada had 4 men competing in this event. The favored was Manuel Osborne-Paradis as he grew up in North Vancouver and lived on the Wistler hill as a child. Unfortunately, none of our men medaled, but we still had one athlete who put out a great performance. Erik Guay ended up 5th which is the highest placing ever. Manuel Osborne-Paradis ended up 17th, Jan Hudec ended up 25th and Robbue Dixon DNF. These men still have a few more races left later this week.
4. Men's Long Skate 500m
Jeremy Wotherspoon came back for his 4th Olympic games. Back in Elementary school we did a research project on a Winter Olympic sport and I chose speed skating. At that time it was Jeremy's first Olympics, and he was a star on our Long Track Speed Skating team. He came back to try and win the looming Gold medal that is left to complete his decorated skating career.
Tonight we had 4 men competing. Again we did not win a medal but put out some great performances. Our highest placing was Jamie Gregg who ended up 8th. Jeremy Wotherspoon ended up 9th, Mike Ireland 16th, and Kyle Parrott was 21st.
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