Sports & Auto News
Dec 13
The City of Santa Monica ’s First Annual Alternative Car and Transportation Expo promoted the largest presentation ever of electric, hydrogen, natural gas, biodiesel, ethanol and high MPG cars the weekend of December 9th.
Some viewers will be inspired by Ed’s sincerity and his unrelenting efforts to transform his home into a shining eco-friendly example, while others are sure to relate to Rachelle’s desire for a “normal” existence and a new home with more space and less restrictions. In the series, Ed clocks Rachelle’s shower with a stopwatch, amusingly taunting her outside the bathroom door about how many gallons of water she’s wasting.
About HGTV
HGTV is America 's leader in home and lifestyle programming, and is distributed to more than 89 million U.S. households and is one of cable's top- rated networks. HGTV.com is the nation's leading online home and garden destination that attracts an average of 5.2 million unique visitors per month. HGTV owns 33 percent of HGTV Canada and provides much of the Canadian network's daily programming. The network's branded programming also can be seen in 41 other countries and its selected programming is available to service men and women on board Navy ships and through American Forces Radio & Television Service (AFRTS) which services more than 1,000 outlets in over 175 countries. Headquartered in Knoxville, Tenn., with offices in Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Los Angeles, Nashville and New York, HGTV is wholly owned by The E.W. Scripps Company (NYSE:SSP), which also operates Food Network, DIY - Do It Yourself Network, Fine Living and Great American Country.
CONTACT: Anthony Turk at Turk Entertainment Public Relations, 323-934-2727, TurkEntPR@sbcglobal.net.
Dec 12, 2006
The Dallas Cowboys officially revealed the much-anticipated design plans for the team's new stadium during an unveiling event. The new sports and entertainment venue, which will be located in Arlington, Texas, between Dallas and Fort Worth, will become the home of the Dallas Cowboys, the country's most-watched NFL team, beginning in 2009.
The largest NFL stadium ever built is designed to enhance the international Cowboys brand with its modern progressive architecture while incorporating elements of the Texas Stadium Cowboys heritage such as the shape of the roof's opening and the Ring of Honor.
The 2.3 million square-foot stadium will have an approximate capacity of 80,000 and the flexibility to accommodate up to 100,000 fans. The stadium features signature monumental arches, an expansive retractable roof, massive glass retractable end zone doors, a distinguishing canted glass wall, and the world's largest center-hung video board.
"The challenge for us with this new stadium was to innovate, but at the same time never forget to acknowledge tradition," said Jerry Jones, owner and president, Dallas Cowboys. "This new stadium embodies the spirit of the Dallas Cowboys and that starts with the familiar 'hole in the roof'. What we have designed is a building we believe is both architecturally significant and also reflects the emotion and competition that goes on inside."
The stadium is designed by HKS Architects, ranked one of the top-five sport/stadium designers in the world.
"Our goal is to create a venue that lives up to and enhances the celebrated Dallas Cowboys brand," said Bryan Trubey, principal designer, HKS Architects Sports & Entertainment Group. "The new stadium palette of forms and materials create a modern and progressive architectural expression. The overall form of the stadium was developed to create a sense of power and motion. The simplicity of the form is key to its strength as a monumental building."
Key Design Highlights - The stadium features two monumental arches, soaring 320 feet above the playing field, which support a retractable roof. As the longest single span roof structure in the world, each boxed arch is 35 feet wide by 17 feet deep. Weighing 3,255 tons each, these impressive structures span 1,290 feet in length. As one of the first components to be constructed, the arches will form a striking silhouette on the Arlington landscape as sunlight reflects against the metallic surface during the day and a tailored lighting system reflects the form at night. - Designed to be open or closed, depending on weather conditions, the expansive retractable roof is the largest of its kind in the world and measures approximately 661,000 square feet. When closed, the roof encompasses 104 million cubic feet of volume, making it the largest enclosed NFL stadium in the world. The retractable roof is designed specifically to emulate the current Texas Stadium opening which is recognized around the world and allow views inward and outward. Each panel can open or close in 12 minutes. The entire playing field can be seen from directly above. - The stadium features the largest retractable end zone doors in the world. Each has a five-leaf, clear, retractable opening measuring 120 feet high by 180 feet wide. The five 38-foot panels take only 18 minutes to open or close. By using clear glass for the door panels, spectators experience panoramic vistas from within the seating bowl and when circulating through the stadium concourses. Moreover, the operability provides air circulation during game-day and non-game-day events. - One of the most compelling architectural features of the stadium design is the canted glass exterior wall. The 86-foot high glass, curtain-wall surface slopes outwardly at a 14 degree angle to create a luminescent glow day or night. A fritted glass system transitions up the elevation to create a dynamic, ever-changing aesthetic depending on the time of day. At night, a series of internal lights gently wash the glass wall to create a glow across the facade. - Within the seating bowl, Cowboys fans will be provided with a one-of- a-kind feature unlike any other in the world, a center-hung video board. Hanging approximately 110 feet above the field from the roof structure, the innovative video center spans between the 20-yard lines and features four individual boards -- two facing the sidelines and two facing the end zones. The sideline boards measure 180 feet wide by 50 feet tall while those facing the end zones measure 48 feet by 27 feet. All four boards are angled toward the stands for optimal viewing. The stunning combination of these boards will immerse spectators with video imagery, creating a premium on upper level seats and presenting the game in a way never before experienced. - The design includes 200 suites that have been decentralized and are in eight locations distributed across five separate levels of the stadium. The most unique will be the field-level sideline suites for up-close and personal viewing of the games.
The full details of the new stadium can be found at: http://www.dallascowboys.com/ , which will be available following the unveiling event. Over the coming weeks, the Dallas Cowboys plan to add podcast and RSS feed capabilities to the Web site, as well as real-time images of the construction from ground level.
About the Dallas Cowboys
Headquartered in Irving, Texas, the Dallas Cowboys Football Club has won five Super Bowls, eight NFC crowns and 19 Division titles. Founded in 1960, the Cowboys played their homes games in the Cotton Bowl in Dallas, TX, from 1960-1971, moving to Texas Stadium in Irving, TX, mid-way through the 1971 season where they will play through the conclusion of the 2008 season. In his 18th season as the club's Owner and General Manager, Jerry Jones helped direct the team to Super Bowl victories following the 1992, 1993 and 1995 seasons. In 1995, Dallas also became the first team in NFL history to win three Super Bowls in four seasons, while tying the NFL record for most Super Bowl victories by an organization with five. For more information, visit the Dallas Cowboys at http://www.dallascowboys.com/ .
About HKS
The HKS Sports & Entertainment Group, ranked as one of the top-five sport/stadium designers by BD World Architecture, has ushered in a new generation of multi-revenue-generating, world-class facilities. These venues are known for enhancing and leveraging team identity, delivering an exciting fan experience, and serving as destination environments. HKS, Inc., headquartered in Dallas, is among the top-five architectural/engineering firms in the United States, operating from 17 U. S. and worldwide offices
Major League Gaming and AOL Team to Deliver Video Game Content
AOL's Gamedaily Site to Feature Highlights From the Boost Mobile MLG Pro Circuit TV Series, MLG Pro Gamers, Online Tournaments, and More
Partnership Is Key Component of MLG's Multi-Platform Distribution Plan to Package Video Game Competition for the Mass Market
NEW YORK, Dec. 12 -- Major League Gaming (MLG), the world's first professional video game league, and AOL announced today that they have launched a co-branded site on AOL's Gamedaily site - www.gamedaily.com/mlg - featuring MLG professional gaming content. The site will stream highlights from the Boost Mobile MLG Pro Circuit television series after each episode has aired in its entirety on USA Network, as well as feature MLG pro player profiles and blogs, online tournaments and more.
"AOL recognizes that gaming has become a mainstream form of entertainment and a compelling way to connect with young consumers," said Matthew Bromberg, President and COO of MLG. "By teaming up with AOL to cross-promote content, we're making it easier for this audience to find and enjoy gaming content when and where they want it."
A key part of MLG's efforts to bring competitive gaming to the mainstream is a multiplatform distribution plan to reach the elusive young demographic with content anytime and anywhere they want it. The partnership with AOL extends the reach of MLG content beyond the millions reached via USA Network and the mlgpro.com website.
"As part of our ongoing mission to provide the most compelling content available to video game enthusiasts, we are thrilled to partner with MLG to expand our competitive gaming offering and bring their rich content to our millions of users," said Ralph Rivera, Vice President and General Manager, AOL Games.
Gamedaily.com will stream highlights from each of the seven episodes of the Boost Mobile MLG Pro Circuit TV series, which originally air Saturdays at 10:00 a.m. ET/PT on USA Network. AOL will make the show highlights available after the episode is broadcast on USA Network, and for seven days thereafter on a streaming-on-demand basis at www.gamedaily.com/mlg .
In addition, the Gamedaily/MLG co-branded site will also provide other MLG content, including MLG player profiles and information (video, text and photos), links to player blogs on the mlgpro.com website, online tournaments operated by MLG, as well as MLG-branded AOL Instant Messaging (AIM) "Buddy Icons," wallpaper, and other AOL and AIM "Self Expressions."
MLG content will appear throughout the AOL network and AOL content, including previews, reviews, cheats, trailers, downloads, photo galleries and video features, will be available at http://www.mlgpro.com/ .
ABOUT MAJOR LEAGUE GAMING:
MLG is the first professional video game league. By raising video game competition to the level of professional sport, the company is creating a sports media business that provides players, developers, publishers, media partners, and advertisers a unique connection to the video game lifestyle enjoyed by 168 million Americans. With the support of major sponsors, MLG operates a pro tour that makes several stops in major cities across the U.S., exclusively featuring the best gamers in the world. MLG produces a variety of online and broadcast-quality programming that showcases MLG's pros and this exciting new sports entertainment phenomenon. More information can be found at http://www.mlgpro.com/ .
ABOUT AOL GAMES
The top-visited destination on the Web for gaming information, AOL Games houses gaming Web sites that offer exclusive content, programming features and games for every type of player. Games.com provides more than 150 casual and downloadable games from the best game publishers on the Web. AOL's video game destination, GameDaily.com, offers video game news, previews, cheats and original programming such as the interactive "Inside the Game" feature. Visit www.aol.com/games for complete details.
About AOL LLC
AOL is a global Web services company that operates some of the most popular web destinations, offers a comprehensive suite of free software and services, runs the country's largest Internet access business, and provides a full set of advertising solutions. A majority-owned subsidiary of Time Warner Inc., AOL LLC is based in Dulles, Virginia. AOL and its subsidiaries also have operations in Europe, Canada and Asia. Learn more at AOL.com.
Source: Major League Gaming
SIRIUS Taps David Poole and Marty Snider to Host Daily All-NASCAR Morning Show
Renowned experts from print and TV team up to launch daily programming on SIRIUS NASCAR Radio / channel 128 on January 1
SIRIUS NASCAR Radio's "The Morning Drive" will air weekday mornings only on SIRIUS
NEW YORK, Dec. 12 SIRIUS Satellite Radio (NASDAQ:SIRI) , the Official Satellite Radio Partner of NASCAR starting in 2007, announced today that renowned NASCAR beat reporter and columnist David Poole and veteran broadcaster Marty Snider will host a daily talk show, SIRIUS NASCAR Radio's The Morning Drive, exclusively on SIRIUS.
(Logo: http://www.newscom.com/cgi-bin/prnh/19991118/NYTH125 )
Starting January 1, The Morning Drive will air every weekday morning from 7:00-11:00 AM ET exclusively on SIRIUS NASCAR Radio / channel 128, the new 24/7 year-round radio channel dedicated to NASCAR. Snider and Poole will delve into NASCAR's latest news and rumors, interview prominent guests, and take calls from listeners.
"We're thrilled to have Marty and David, two of the most experienced and knowledgeable figures in NASCAR, kick off our daily programming lineup on SIRIUS NASCAR Radio," said Steve Cohen, SIRIUS' Vice President of Sports Programming. "With SIRIUS, listeners across the country will have exclusive access to the insights and opinions of NASCAR experts like these and they'll be able to call in to the show to discuss the topics that are relevant to the fans. Programming like this will make SIRIUS NASCAR Radio a must-have for NASCAR fans."
David Poole is one of the most widely-read and well-respected journalists in the sport. He has covered NASCAR for The Charlotte (NC) Observer for 10 seasons and is a regular contributor to ThatsRacin.com. He is a two-time winner of the George Cunningham Award, given each year to the top writer in the National Motorsports Press Association, and also has won several Associated Press Sports Editors awards for his NASCAR coverage. Poole, a graduate of the University of North Carolina, has also worked at newspapers in Norfolk, VA; Gastonia, NC; and West Palm Beach, FL. Prior to joining SIRIUS he was a regular co-host on PrimeTime with the Packman, a popular afternoon sports talk show in Charlotte. Poole is the author of several books on NASCAR, including Race with Destiny: The Race That Changed NASCAR Forever and Tim Richmond: The Fast Life and Remarkable Times of NASCAR's Top Gun.
"I am very excited about being part of SIRIUS NASCAR Radio because it's going to be the place real fans go to talk about the sport they follow with so much passion," said Poole. "I believe Marty and I can help answer questions fans have about the sport and we're going to share our opinions about what goes on each week, but the show will only be as good as we think it's going to be if the fans share their opinions with us too."
Snider has been broadcasting NASCAR since his days as an undergrad at UNC- Charlotte. In 1998 he started at Turner Sports as a pit reporter for their NASCAR on TNT broadcasts and a year later joined NBC's NASCAR broadcast team. From 1995-2000 he worked as a pit reporter for the Motor Racing Network's (MRN) NASCAR broadcasts. He is also a regular contributor to NASCAR.COM and NBCSports.com as a NASCAR Insider. Snider was CNNSI's NASCAR reporter from 1998-2002, and from 1994-1997 he worked as a reporter and producer for ESPN's "NASCAR Today."
"On The Morning Drive, we'll get to share our inside information with the listeners every day, bringing them closer to the sport and the drivers," said Snider. "SIRIUS is clearly dedicated to being the premier radio destination for NASCAR fans seven days a week. I'm thrilled to be given this opportunity and can't wait to get it started on January 1."
Launching January 1 on SIRIUS' channel 128, SIRIUS NASCAR Radio will provide the most comprehensive, in-depth radio coverage of NASCAR with 24-hour coverage of the sport all year long. SIRIUS NASCAR Radio will be home to every live NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series, NASCAR Busch Series and NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series race, plus exclusive original programming hosted by NASCAR insiders like two-time NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Champion Tony Stewart. With SIRIUS NASCAR Radio, listeners will have access to up-to-the-minute news, expert analysis and exclusive interviews with drivers, team owners, crew members and other NASCAR insiders.
In addition to the live race broadcast, SIRIUS will take fans into the cars and pits by devoting up to 10 additional "Team Talk" channels that will carry driver-to-crew communications during NASCAR NEXTEL Cup Series races. SIRIUS will combine the race broadcast with the driver-to-crew chatter on these channels, allowing fans to follow the overall race call and the in-car audio of a driver on a single channel throughout the race.
All NASCAR content is provided to SIRIUS customers at no additional cost over SIRIUS' monthly subscription fee. For more information visit www.sirius.com.
About SIRIUS
SIRIUS, "The Best Radio on Radio," delivers more than 130 channels of the best programming in all of radio. SIRIUS is the original and only home of 100% commercial free music channels in satellite radio, offering 69 music channels. SIRIUS also delivers 65 channels of sports, news, talk, entertainment, traffic, weather and data. SIRIUS is the Official Satellite Radio Partner of the NFL, NBA and NHL and broadcasts live play-by-play games of the NFL, NBA and NHL. All SIRIUS programming is available for a monthly subscription fee of only $12.95.
SIRIUS Internet Radio (SIR) is a CD-quality, Internet-only version of the SIRIUS radio service, without the use of a radio, for the monthly subscription fee of $12.95. SIR delivers more than 75 channels of talk, entertainment, sports, and 100% commercial free music.
SIRIUS products for the car, truck, home, RV and boat are available in more than 25,000 retail locations, including Best Buy, Circuit City, Crutchfield, Costco, Target, Wal-Mart, Sam's Club, RadioShack and at shop.sirius.com.
SIRIUS radios are offered in vehicles from Audi, Bentley, BMW, Chrysler, Dodge, Ford, Infiniti, Jaguar, Jeep(R), Land Rover, Lexus, Lincoln-Mercury, Mazda, Mercedes-Benz, MINI, Nissan, Rolls Royce, Scion, Toyota, Porsche, Volkswagen, and Volvo. Hertz also offers SIRIUS in its rental cars at major locations around the country.
Click on www.sirius.com to listen to SIRIUS live, or to purchase a SIRIUS radio and subscription.
Any statements that express, or involve discussions as to, expectations, beliefs, plans, objectives, assumptions, future events or performance with respect to SIRIUS Satellite Radio Inc. are not historical facts and may be forward-looking and, accordingly, such statements involve estimates, assumptions and uncertainties which could cause actual results to differ materially from those expressed in any forward-looking statements. Accordingly, any such statements are qualified in their entirety by reference to the factors discussed in our Annual Report on Form 10-K for the year ended December 31, 2005 and Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for the quarters ended June 30, 2006 and September 30, 2006 filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission. Among the key factors that have a direct bearing on our operational results are: our dependence upon third parties, including manufacturers of SIRIUS radios, retailers, automakers and programming partners, our competitive position and any events which affect the useful life of our satellites.
Playboy Picks Hottest Cars of 2007
Top Honors Go to BMW Z4M Coupe
Dec. 8 - What's hot on the road this year? According the Playboy's "2007 Cars of the Year," street-legal speedsters, a hyper-quick hybrid, and a blast from the past that drives circles around the competition.
The cars selected by Playboy were carefully chosen by an expert team of automotive writers who traveled the globe to test drive every new model they could get their hands on. They covered thousands of miles of the windiest, steepest, most challenging roads to sort the best from the rest. The vehicles featured in Playboy's January issue (on newsstands and at http://www.playboydigital.com/ Friday, December 8) include:
BEST TWO-WAY PLAYER: VW Eos Folding metal top opens and closes at the touch of a button BEST SPORTS COUPE: Porsche 911 Turbo The Turbo sprints from zero to 60 in 3.7 seconds BEST SUV: Cadillac Escalade Features a muscular 6.2-liter, 403 hp V8 and smooth six-speed automatic BEST BANG FOR YOUR BUCK: Ford Shelby GT500 Wide-mouth upper and lower grilles, and old-style front air dam, and a rear spoiler BEST PICKUP: Toyota Tundra Five inches wider and 10 inches longer than its predecessor BEST ROADSTER: Saturn Sky Red Line Traction control, a limited slip differential and antiskid technology all come standard. BEST CROSS-DRESSER: Mazda CX-7 Wedge-shaped hatchback with knife-edge grille, 18-inch wheels and chopped roofline THE AL GORE SPECIAL: Lexus GS 450h Sports sedan hybrid combines a 3.5-liter V6 with a high-output electric- drive motor PLAYBOY'S 2007 CAR OF THE YEAR: BMW Z4M Coupe Boasts a 3.2 liter, 330-hp high-performance in-line six cylinder with a six-speed shifter
Source: Playboy
Nitro Funny Car racer Bob Gilbertson will join fellow drag racers Greg Anderson, Jason Line and Steve Johnson at the annual "Stocks For Tots" toy drive in the heart of NASCAR country on Tuesday night, December 12, 2006 from 6-10 PM at the Charles Mack Citizens Center in downtown Mooresville, N.C.
The Unofficial Sport of the Olympic Games
Welcome to the world of Winter Games pin trading.
Pin Trading Popularity
The tradition of Olympic pin trading began in 1896 at the first modern Olympic Games in Athens, Greece with athletes, officials and the media trading colourful identification badges. The first official souvenir pin coincided with the Stockholm 1912 Games.
In 1988, the first Coca-Cola Official Pin Trading Centre at the Calgary Olympic Winter Games was established and saw 17,000 people per day visited the pin trading centre to experience cultures from around the world. And to trade pins. Equally impressive is that in the run-up to the Lillehammer 1994 Games, Norway, with a population of just 4.4 million, purchased 17 million Games pins.
Vancouver 2010 Limited Edition Pins
These highly collectible pins will feature five specific designs with only 2,010 of each being produced. Unique details like enamel-filled cloisonné and cut-out features, as well as backstamps citing limited edition and quantity produced will thrill both the seasoned and beginner collector.
Once these are sold out, that’s it for these particular designs. Fear not - in order to quench the unwavering popularity of pin collecting and trading, different series of limited edition pins will continue to be produced up to and throughout the 2010 Winter Games.
Meet a Pin Trader
Who knew that catching sight of a colleague’s scarf glittering with Olympic pins on his return from the Calgary 1988 Olympic Winter Games would be the start of a journey for Al Falcao - one that would see him becoming a metal-wielding celebrity known as The Pin King.
Hailing from Markham, Ontario, Falcao’s collection of more than 35,000 Olympic pins is arguably one of the largest in the world. Falcao considers himself a trader, not a dealer, and his circle of fellow traders numbers in the thousands, touching every corner of the globe – from Canada to the Czech Republic, from Trinidad to the Philippines, from Norway to Australia.
“I’ve always had a passion for collecting,” says Falcao. “I used to collect stamps, first day covers, license plates.”
When asked what his favourite pin from his collection was, Falcao was quick to answer. “A similar pin for both the Nagano and Lillehammer Games was produced. They’re actual working watches, complete with battery, big hand and small hand, and are just slightly larger than the size of a quarter,” says Falcao. “I like the functionality; that it’s not only a pin, it doubles as a watch.”
Falcao has been to every Olympic Summer and Winter Games since 1992, traveling with his collection of 5,000 – 10,000 pins that he refers to as his traders. Says Falcao, “trading reaches a frenzied pitch about six months before the Games begin and carries over to about three months after. Then it settles down.”
“My goal is to collect one of every pin ever produced,” says Falcao. “It’s my motivation.”
Auto Club: Create a Roadside Emergency Kit for Your Car for Winter Travel
December 07, 2006 -- With the onset of winter holiday travel and the potential for many Southern Californians to travel in areas with snow and ice, the Automobile Club of Southern California reminds motorists that it's important to be prepared for a possible breakdown any time, including while vacationing, and even in a properly maintained vehicle.
According to the Auto Club, it's important for drivers to be prepared for breakdowns or emergencies by outfitting their vehicle with food, water, tools, clothing and other gear in a roadside emergency kit which can aid them should their vehicle become disabled, or they become lost. Properly stocked, an emergency kit will help drivers repair minor breakdowns, or possibly survive, until help arrives.
"Placing several items in an emergency roadside kit in your trunk will help prepare you to handle minor mechanical problems to get yourself back on the road or until the Auto Club or other rescue help arrives," said Steve Mazor, manager of the Auto Club's Automotive Research Center. "These days, it's very helpful to have a fully charged cell phone in your vehicle, along with water, food items, blankets, winter jacket and appropriate foot gear," added Mazor. If traveling to snowy areas, tire chains, and basic tools to affix the chains are also recommended. The Auto Club recommends the following items be included in a basic roadside emergency kit for a vehicle:
Basic Roadside Emergency Kit Checklist: Auto Club or AAA Membership Card (in your wallet) Blanket (a solar blanket is lightweight and retains warmth) Candles (in cold climates) Cell Phone (charged and in vehicle) Small Shovel for digging around tires if stuck First Aid Kit Tire Chains and appropriate tools Tire Pressure Gauge Fire Extinguisher Flares, Warning Triangles or Reflectors Flashlight with Extra Batteries Heavy Gloves, Jacket, and Hat Jack for Tire Changing Jumper Cables Paper Towel, Pencil and Notebook, Rags Quart of Oil and Coolant (specific to your vehicle) Reflective Sun Shade which can reflect sunlight into the vehicle to generate heat Umbrella Water & Food
A's land Piazza, Embree
The Athletics had a productive day at the Winter Meetings on Wednesday, which coincided with the arrival of general manager Billy Beane. He flew in from New York, finalized a deal with free-agent left-hander Alan Embree and moved within a passed physical of securing Mike Piazza for the 2007 season.
Embree is signed, sealed and delivered to the Athletics' already-strong bullpen, and by the end of the week, the gaping designated hitter hole created by the departure of Frank Thomas should be filled by Piazza. Embree signed a two-year contract and Piazza has agreed to a one-year deal for a reported $8 million to $9 million.
When he met with reporters Wednesday afternoon, Beane made sure he didn't say it was a done deal with Piazza, a future Hall of Famer. But the GM left little doubt that one of the most productive offensive catchers in Major League Baseball history would be calling Oakland home next season.
"Hopefully, we can have it done by the end of the week," Beane said. "We're optimistic."
The addition of Piazza to the lineup might not completely make up for the 39 home runs and 114 runs Thomas drove in last season in helping the Athletics win the American League West title and advance to the AL Championship Series. But the numbers Piazza compiled while playing catcher for the San Diego Padres last season at age 37 -- 22 home runs and 68 RBIs -- definitely caught the A's attention.
"We need a right-handed bat and we need one in the middle of the order," Beane said. "A guy like Piazza fits that bill if we are able to bring it to conclusion. We are intrigued by what this guy can do if he just goes out and hits.
"For a guy his age to catch as much as he did, get 400 at-bats and hit 22 home runs, is pretty productive. Assuming he signs with us and gets 150 more at-bats, that extrapolates a pretty good year."
Piazza, a 12-time All-Star, has a .309 career batting average with 419 home runs -- including an all-time best 396 as a catcher -- and 1,291 RBIs.
Asked why he thought Piazza decided to sign with the Athletics over other teams seeking his services -- including the division rival Texas Rangers -- Beane said it could have a lot do with franchise history and potential for continued success.
"He sees that we have been a competitive club and he knows a couple of guys on the team," Beane said. "Mark Kotsay played briefly with him in Florida, for a week or something like that, and I think he sees a good match here. If we sign him, he has a good chance to win at this point of his career.
"Both sides could see where it might work out."
It is believed that Piazza asked for a one-year contract, just in case he doesn't find being a full-time designated hitter to his liking.
"I'm sure he will pick up a glove out of habit, but our pursuit of him was based on him being the DH 99.9 percent of the time," Beane said.
Barring injuries, or something else, Jason Kendall will handle most of the catching duties again in 2007 and Adam Melhuse would be the backup receiver.
The signing of Embree could have an impact in the bullpen and starting rotation.
"That's great news," manager Bob Geren said. "He gives us a good and experienced left-hander in the bullpen and the flexibility" to use another lefty in the rotation.
If Spring Training started today, left-handers Joe Kennedy and Brad Halsey and righty Kirk Saarloos would get first crack at becoming the fifth starter behind Rich Harden, Joe Blanton, Estaban Loaiza and Dan Haren.
Embree, 36, has pitched for eight organizations during his 13-year career, and this past season was one of his best. He had a 4-3 record and 3.27 ERA in 73 relief appearances for the San Diego Padres.
"Being a West Coast guy, the tradition of Oakland, and the team being in [a pennant race] year in and year out regardless of their payroll made it easy for me," Embree said from his home near Portland, Ore. "A competitive team close to home made sense. It seemed like a good fit."
One thing that Beane told Embree during a recent telephone conversation also factored in the decision.
"He talked about an Interleague game we played against the A's and said he didn't like the way I was being used. I had pitched 2 1/3 innings. He told me that he felt there was no sense taking a guy out when he's throwing well. I liked that."
The 73 appearances were a career high for Embree, who has 708 career appearances on his resume.
"Those 73 games were fairly easy for me," he said. "The workload wasn't as much as you'd think. In fact, I do better when I throw in more games. It just keeps me locked in."
Though he was used often, Embree logged just 52 1/3 innings for the Padres.
Exactly how he'll be used by Geren and pitching coach Curt Young will be determined during Spring Training when an 11- or 12-man pitching staff is assembled.
But the way Beane sees it, Embree could be used in several roles, pitching in middle relief at times, being a setup man other times and possibly even closing games when Huston Street needs a breather.
Embree is more than a matchup pitcher, someone Geren would use exclusively against left-handed batters.
"He has been very effective at times against right-handers," Beane said. "I think Embree can pitch anywhere. This is a guy you could see pitch in the ninth inning, the seventh inning or multiple innings. Alan had a great year last year and left-handers are hard to find.
"It's hard not to take advantage of a guy who can impact the starting rotation by pushing someone else in there. We now have an option we didn't have before."
Adding Embree to the pitching staff, and potentially having Piazza under contract very soon, made for a terrific Wednesday.
"Assuming the Piazza deal gets done, we have accomplished a lot," Beane said. "We lost Frank and, assuming we get Piazza, have added a bat to put in the middle of the lineup. We'd still like to add an outfielder that bats right-handed, not necessarily a starter, and anticipate drafting someone tomorrow in the Rule 5 draft."
The A's continue to talk to free-agent outfielder Jay Payton, who led the team in hitting last season with a .296 batting average but had a clause in his contract that prevented the Athletics from offering him salary arbitration. But with the outfield starters set with Nick Swisher in left field, Mark Kotsay in center and Milton Bradley in right, finding enough playing time to keep Payton happy and productive could be difficult.
Alternative Car and Transportation Expo to Feature Opportunities to Drive and Buy Never-Seen-Before Advanced Technology Cars
Free December 9-10 Event to Showcase Ways Car Buyers Can Save Money, Earn Tax Credits
If a cool, new environmental-car is on your holiday wish list, don't miss the groundbreaking Alternative Car and Transportation Expo featuring a chance to ride in and drive new electric, hydrogen, natural gas, biodiesel and ethanol cars never seen before.
The City of Santa Monica will sponsor and host the event, which is the most comprehensive, technologically advanced exposition of alternative fuel and high MPG vehicles ever held.
The Expo, scheduled for December 9-10, is designed to give attendees a first shot at the hottest new environmental cars on the market. Admission to the Expo, as well as numerous seminars and advanced technology displays, will be free. The event will be held at Barker Hangar, located at the Santa Monica Air Center.
An electrifying car rally and opening ceremony including a parade of all participating alternative vehicles will take place at 10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 8. The event will begin at the Santa Monica Pier and end at Barker Hanger and will include actors James Brolin, Alexandra Paul and Ed Begley Jr., as well as a few surprises.
More than 100 alternative fuel vehicles will be showcased at the expo, including hybrid, electric, hydrogen, compressed natural gas, plug-in hybrid, high MPG gasoline, ethanol and biodiesel. Other eco-friendly vehicles—such as Segways, electric skateboards, bicycles, mopeds and two- and three-wheeled scooters—will also be on display. Car manufacturers, alternative and green fuel advocates and public transportation, air quality and energy agencies will showcase and discuss new technologies, viable sustainable fuel alternatives, health solutions, urban planning and renewable energy.
This is an ideal opportunity to view the very cleanest and fuel efficient vehicles, and also a chance to advocate the long-term benefits of public transportation and transit solutions available now to lessen environmental and health concerns we face, said Craig Perkins, environmental and public works director for the City of Santa Monica. “We have viable options available now and this Expo is the ideal forum to share tools with the public to make cleaner transit decisions.â€
Central to the Expos purpose is to show consumers how they can save money and earn tax credits by going green. A main feature of the event will be to give people the opportunity to try-out many of the vehicles on display, some of which will be available for immediate purchase. Attendees can be the first to drive electric or other eco-friendly cars around their neighborhoods.
More than 50 percent of urban trips last less than 10 minutes, and a Neighborhood Electric Vehicle (NEV) is the perfect solution for short trips to work, transit, shopping or school. NEVs are inexpensive, run on electricity, and are easy to park. The Expo will feature several dozen NEV manufacturers.
A wide-ranging selection of environmental, health and alternative fuel seminars will be held throughout the two-day event and will include Assemblymember Fran Pavley, National Center for Smart Growth Professor Reid Ewing and World Council for Renewable Energy Chairperson Angelina Galiteva. Keynote addresses will be provided by former CIA Director R. James Woolsey, author Edwin Black and former head of the California EPA Terry Tamminen.
this Expo is an ideal venue for the public to see first-hand how our health and quality of life do not need to be held hostage to Big Petroleum, said Tamminen, author of Lives per Gallon: The True Cost of our Oil Addition. We now have a range of vehicle options that are far cleaner and more fuel-efficient and help improve the air we breathe and ultimately the lives we lead.
Companies selected to exhibit include traditional car manufactures such as General Motors and American Honda Motor Company, which will have on display its natural gas-powered Civic GX. Less known companies will include Quantum Technologies, Miles Automotive and Zenn Motor Company, which makes a zero-emissions vehicle. Highlights include:
- New car lot: Attendees can put their money where their heart is and immediately make an impact towards reducing gasoline usage by purchasing a new car. Cars will be available to drive and purchase, and used alternative fuel vehicles will be auctioned.
- On-site car conversion: During the event, Left Coast Conversions will replace the internal combustion engine of a 70s era, Triumph with lithium polymer batteries for a range of over 200 miles. California Air Resources Board will sign off on the conversion.
- Alternative fuel sports car debut: Universal Electric Vehicle Corporation will unveil its sleek all-electric, two-seat convertible sports car called the Electrum Spyder. Priced at $69,995, the Spyder can accelerate from 0-60 in under five seconds, and has a range of 300 miles. Expo attendees will be the first ever to see the Spyder.
- Super-high mileage display: The Society of Automotive Engineers will display a special collection of their latest high mileage prototype cars
Event sponsors include Edison, Southern California Gas, Big Blue Bus, Metro, Global Green, Clean Cities, Whole Foods, the Ambrose, Troy Sound Walls and the Santa Monica Pier. Santa Monica, hosting city and a major sponsor of the Expo, has a long history of successfully incorporating alternative fuel vehicles into its daily operations and participating in regional transportation planning efforts to promote sustainability.
Visit the Expo from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 9-10 at Barker Hanger at the Santa Monica Air Center. Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus will operate free shuttles from the Los Angeles Convention Center to the Alt Car event. Admission is free and parking is $5. Learn more at www.altcarexpo.com.
Pioneering Alternative Car and Transportation Expo
Slated for December 9-10 at Santa Monica Air Center
Media Event to Feature Viable Alternative Vehicle and Transportation Options, Ride-and-Drive
WHAT: The largest collection of advanced-technology displays and a wide-range of seminars will highlight the worlds most comprehensive Alternative Car and Transportation Expo (Expo). Car manufacturers, alternative and green fuel advocates and public transportation, air quality and energy agencies will meet in one place to showcase and discuss with the public new technologies, viable sustainable fuel alternatives, health solutions, urban planning and renewable energy.
Central to the Expos purpose is to show consumers how they can save money and earn tax credits by going green. Attendees can try-out many of the alternative fuel vehicles on display—some of which will be available for immediate purchase—including new electric, hydrogen, natural gas, high MPG, biodiesel and ethanol cars never seen before. The Expo will be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. on December 9 & 10 at Barker Hangar at Santa Monica Air Center, 3021 Airport Avenue, Santa Monica. Admission is free. To learn more visit www.altcarexpo.com.
MEDIA Media is invited to test drive vehicles on display at a ride-and-drive pre-event. The
EVENT: event will begin at the Santa Monica Pier with celebrity speaker Ed Begley Jr. and former California EPA Secretary Terry Tamminen and will conclude with a caravan of alternative vehicles to Barker Hanger at the Santa Monica Airport.
WHEN: Media Ride-and-Drive
Santa Monica Pier
10:30 a.m. on Friday, December 8
WHO: Santa Monica, hosting city and a major sponsor of the Expo, has a long history of successfully incorporating alternative fuel vehicles into its daily operations and participating in regional transportation planning efforts to promote sustainability.
Sponsors include Metro, Clean Cities, the Big Blue Bus, California Fuel Cell Partnership, Coalition for Clean Air, Global Green, Union of Concerned Scientists, Physicians for Social Responsibility, L.A. Bike Coalition, Sustainable Works and Environment Now.
Formula D has announced its partnership with the automotive charity, Cars 4 the Cause
(C4TC). C4TC will
have a booth at all Formula D events starting April, 2007 where, for
$1.00, spectators will be able to enter the raffle for a chance to win a
specially modified Nissan 240SX valued at $65,000. All proceeds from the
raffle will be donated to the Global Youth Coalition on HIV/AIDS.(GYCA)
"AIDS is having such a negative effect on young lives," said Program
Director, Roberto Trinidad. "We felt, since so many young people attend
Formula D events, what better way was there to reach them with a message
about a disease which affects our demographic so disproportionately
while showing everyone that young people in the automotive industry care
about what's going on around us enough to do something about it? It's a
chance to fight one of the most devastating diseases of our time with
the extra bonus of possibly winning a really hot car. Why not get
involved?"
"Cars 4 the Cause support to young people working to end HIV and AIDS
in their communities is an investment in the future of the world. Many
people think that the AIDS crisis is over, when in fact over 6,000 young
people are infected every single day by a preventable, treatable
disease. As it destroys families, communities, and national economies, AIDS
is something we can no longer choose to ignore." said program
coordinator for (GYCA) Joya Banerjee.
The C4TC winning ticket will be drawn in October and the winner will be
flown to the 2007 SEMA Show where he or she will be presented with the
ultra-modified 240SX. The goal is to raise $250,000 for AIDS awareness.
If Formula D will not be visiting a city near you, you can support
youth AIDS awareness by entering online at www.cars4thecause.org. The
purchase of a ticket automatically enters you into the raffle.
To get involved contact Roberto Trinidad 404-386-9485
roberto.trinidad@cars4thecause.org
About Formula D
Drifting is a high-skill extreme motorsport where drivers slide their
cars sideways at high speeds through a marked course. In 2003 the
Formula Drift organization was created to bring the sport to American
audiences; this year its Formula D championship series featured more than 50
professional drivers competing in seven events across the country.
Formula D is the category leader for American drifting.
About Global Youth Coalition for HIV/AIDS
GYCA is a youth-led, UNAIDS and UNFPA-supported alliance of 2500 young
leaders and adult allies working in 100 countries worldwide. GYCA was
initiated by young participants of the Barcelona and Bangkok
International AIDS Conferences in 2002 and 2004, and continues to create
opportunities for meaningful participation for young people all over the world.
About Cars 4 The Cause
C4TC is a new model that was created to allow young people to give to
charity and be part of a larger picture. Most youth we talk to these
days say “they don’t give to charity because it doesn’t make a
difference.” Cars 4 the Cause strives to let all youth participate in a high
stakes vehicle raffle to raise monies for a cause that effects the youth.
As the sun sank below Philadelphia's skyline
yesterday, gold helmets shone under the Lincoln Financial Field lights
while the Naval Academy Midshipmen ground out a 26-14 win over the
Black Knights of the Military Academy in the 107th Army-Navy football game.
The Midshipmen's hard-fought victory yesterday before a crowd of 68,000
- including thousands of current and graduated midshipmen, cadets, and
their families -- puts Navy ahead of Army 51-49-7 in the overall series
record and extends the Midshipmen's winning streak to four years.
Coming into the game, the well-calibrated Navy team had committed the
fifth-fewest penalties of NCAA Division I teams this season, and
oddsmakers expected the Midshipmen to beat the Black Knights by almost three
touchdowns. But the firmly-rooted attitude shared by both sides is that
the season begins and ends with the Army-Navy Game.
"It's the biggest game of the year," Frank DeMaro, a spokesman for the
Military Academy, told American Forces Press Service. "It's our bowl
game."
As fans filed into the stands before kickoff, thousands of cadets and
midshipmen marched across the field in perfect matrices and jet engines
roared over spectators' heads leaving mouths agape, as the percussion
sections of the academy marching bands banged the cadence.
First played in 1890, this historic meeting continued through four
wars, and is distinct from other college rivalries. Height and weight
restraints on the academies' incoming class member, including athletic
recruits, make their football lineups look leaner and shorter than those of
non-service schools. And because military training is required at
Annapolis and West Point, the academies are rare examples of schools that
boast cheerleaders trained in both pom-pom technique and hand-to-hand
combat.
The Army-Navy game's camaraderie resonates across the globe, from
alumni reuniting at tailgate parties in the stadium parking lot before
kickoff to deployed forces overseas huddled around televisions with
satellite feeds.
The vital role Army and Navy servicemembers play away from the football
field and bleachers was emphasized in the invocation presented by Navy
chaplain Lt. Cmdr. Richard Bonnet before the game.
"In many ways this game is brother against brother," said Bonnet, "but
when this day is over, our athletes will stand side by side on the
field and our seniors will prepare to take their place alongside those who
protect our precious freedoms around the world."
For Phil Panzarella, a 1979 West Point graduate in Philadelphia for the
game, the Army-Navy rivalry is a rare instance in sports that
encourages cohesion between opponents. "This is one of the few college games
where each team stands at attention for the others' alma mater,"
Panzarella said. "At the end of the game, it's about patriotism and defending
our country and working as one team."
Navy's win guaranteed the 9-3 Midshipmen a post-season bowl game bid
and secures their fourth straight Commander in Chief's Trophy, awarded
annually for the most successful year in athletic competition among the
nation's service academies. The seniors on Navy's football team are the
first in the school's history to go 8-0 in matchups against their Army
and Air Force counterparts.
Cadets, Midshipmen Gear Up for Annual Army-Navy Gridiron Showdown
Thumps from bass drums marked the cadence of
the Army and Navy marching bands and cheerleaders as they made their
rounds through the halls of the Pentagon in the buildup toward the 107th
Army-Navy football game tomorrow.
The processions, today and yesterday, respectively, capped off a week
of celebration building up to the big game at Philadelphia's Lincoln
Financial Field.
The U.S. Naval Academy Midshipmen and U.S. Military Academy Black
Knights will face off tomorrow, continuing a rivalry that dates back to
1890.
The Midshipmen lead the series 50 wins to Army's 49, and will attempt
to extend their three-year winning streak tomorrow.
On the other hand, tomorrow's game represents the final opportunity for
West Point's graduating class to secure the coveted bragging rights
that accompany a victory. The Black Knights are 20-point underdogs going
into the game. If the cadets lose, the class of 2007 will graduate
without having beaten Navy during its four years at the Military Academy.
During the lead-up to the Army-Navy Game, tradition and ritual are
visible across both campuses, and school spirit is running rampant.
Teams of marathon runners from both schools are on their way to
Philadelphia to deliver game balls in time for the 2:30 p.m. kickoff. West
Point's runners left New York last night following the school's "Spirit
Dinner," Frank DeMaro, a spokesman for the academy, told American Forces
Press Service.
Today, a team of midshipman marathoners left Bancroft Hall, on the
academy's Annapolis, Md., campus, en route to Philadelphia, carrying a ball
dedicated to those who have served and continue to serve the nation in
wartime, Naval Academy public affairs officials said.
A full schedule of activities at both schools has boosted enthusiasm
for the upcoming game.
"There's always excitement," DeMaro said. "It's the biggest game of the
year; it's our bowl game."
At West Point, cadets held the annual "Go Engineer" event last night,
pitting the top 20 percent of the corps of cadets against the bottom 20
percent in a game of tackle football. Following the game (in which the
top 20 percent team won), the cadets enjoyed a Spirit Dinner in the
mess hall.
The Naval Academy sponsored its traditional pep rally and bonfire with
fireworks at the academy's Farragut Field Nov. 29. A group of
midshipmen met with the chairman and vice chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff
in the Pentagon yesterday.
Students at both schools said they welcome the festivity and fun
surrounding the annual Army-Navy games. "A midshipman once told me, 'This is
the only week of the year we're allowed to act like college kids,'"
said Frederick Smith, a former Naval Academy instructor.
For alumni, the tradition of the Army-Navy Game -- which emboldens one
academy with a year of bragging rights and deprives the other -- often
runs deeper than the good-natured ribbing between academies.
"It's a chance to see what your military counterparts are made of,"
said Lt. Cmdr. Joe Carpenter, who graduated from the Naval Academy in
1992.
But Carpenter said it also offers a chance for students at the two
schools to share their common values. "There's a greater sense that you are
enjoying a break from reality with other people who have volunteered to
take the difficult task of defending our country," he said.
For Army Lt. Col. Brian Maka, a 1987 West Point graduate, the Army-Navy
Game conjures up fond childhood memories that led him to a military
career. "I wear my (West Point) ring because it was a privilege to go
there and fulfilled my dream as a kid," he said. "And I got that dream
growing up and watching the Army-Navy Game. It resonated with me."
Maka, a Pentagon spokesman, said he's developed close friendships with
many Annapolis graduates during his career and recognizes the similar
experiences they've shared -- experiences he said are unique from those
most Americans have had.
He enjoys the friendly rivalry between the two services, but said that,
ultimately, it doesn't really matter which team wins.
"There's a lot of friendly jabbing and rivalry and trash-talking that
happens," Maka said, "but it's all in good fun. In few other college
games will you see as much mutual respect for each other's schools."
Canada’s Teck Cominco to supply gold, silver and bronze for the medals at Vancouver 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games
Vancouver’s Teck Cominco Limited will be near the heart of every athlete who earns a spot on the podium in 2010 following today’s announcement that it has been selected as an Official Supporter (Mining and Metals Category) for the 2010 Winter Games and exclusive supplier of metals for every gold, silver and bronze medal awarded during the Games.
“Athletes around the world are training to earn the right to stand on the podium in 2010 and Teck Cominco will play a key role in ensuring their medals – the ultimate symbol of athletic excellence – are shining examples of Canada’s mining industry,” said Vancouver 2010 CEO John Furlong.
Teck Cominco’s six-year partnership with the Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) provides sponsorship rights for the 2010 Winter Games, and the Canadian Olympic Teams participating at the Beijing 2008, Vancouver 2010 and London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games. Teck Cominco’s commitment will also involve working with VANOC and the Royal Canadian Mint in the development and production of Olympic and Paralympic medals for 2010.
“Teck Cominco is thrilled to become part of Canada’s Games, and to help welcome the world to Canada and British Columbia in 2010,” said Teck Cominco president and CEO Don Lindsay. “The Olympic and Paralympic medals inspire people everywhere to realize their full potential, in whatever they do. We are proud to supply the gold, silver and bronze for the medals that are the source of so much inspiration for the world.”
“This is a great opportunity for all of us at Teck Cominco to get involved in a once-in-a-lifetime event, and to make a real difference in our own lives and in the lives of others,” added Lindsay. “We are excited to be on the Vancouver 2010 team and to have this opportunity to participate.”
Teck Cominco will also work with the Vancouver Organizing Committee on sustainability initiatives.
“Staging sustainable Games that leave lasting legacies for generations to enjoy is part of VANOC’s vision for 2010 and we are committed to working with partners like Teck Cominco to ensure we are leaders in environmental innovation and footprint reduction,” said Furlong.
“Sustainability is an important feature of our 2010 Winter Games partnership,” added Lindsay. “Teck Cominco is looking forward to working with VANOC to help achieve sustainability legacies for the 2010 Winter Games.”
About Teck Cominco
Teck Cominco is a diversified mining company, headquartered in Vancouver, Canada. Shares are listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange under the symbols TCK.A and TCK.B and on the New York Stock Exchange under the symbol TCK. The company is a world leader in the production of zinc and metallurgical coal and is also a significant producer of copper, gold, indium and other specialty metals. Further information can be found at www.teckcominco.com.
About VANOC
VANOC is responsible for the planning, organizing, financing and staging of the XXI Olympic Winter Games and the X Paralympic Winter Games in 2010. The 2010 Olympic Winter Games will be staged in Vancouver and Whistler from February 12 to 28, 2010. Vancouver and Whistler will host the Paralympic Winter Games from March 12 to 21, 2010.
VANOC's marketing program is focused on securing mutually rewarding partnerships with shared values to generate sufficient revenue to host successful Winter Games in 2010 and to leave a financial legacy for sport. VANOC’s International Partners include Coca-Cola, Atos Origin, GE, McDonald’s, Omega and Visa. VANOC's National Partners are Bell Canada, Hbc, RBC Financial Group, GM Canada, Petro-Canada, and RONA. VANOC’s Official Supporters include the British Columbia Lottery Corporation, the Royal Canadian Mint and Teck Cominco Limited. VANOC’s Official Suppliers are Dow Canada, EPCOR, Haworth Canada, Vincor and Workopolis.
VANOC to consider adding ski cross to 2010 Winter Games sport program
The Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games (VANOC) had previously communicated to the IOC its acceptance in principle of ski cross and the format changes to skeleton and speed skating team pursuit subject to working cooperatively with the IOC and the international sport federations to address any resulting operational and financial impacts.
VANOC will work closely with the IOC and the international sport federations to assess these recommended changes to the 2010 sport program and hopes to reach a recommendation by the end of the year to be formally presented at the January meeting of the VANOC Board of Directors.
“Ski cross at the 2010 Winter Games would be a great and exciting new addition to our sport program,” said Cathy Priestner Allinger, VANOC’s executive vice-president of sport. ”Elite skiers would compete on the biggest stage in the world and spectators would enjoy a fast, entertaining and dynamic competition.”
The ski cross discipline falls within the sport of freestyle skiing and is similar to the highly popular snowboard cross event which successfully debuted at the Torino 2006 Games. The ski cross event features a mass start of four skiers who race against each other through a steep and winding course of rolling terrain. Ski cross competitions will be held on the same course as snowboard cross and the track will require only minor course alterations using snow. Approximately 32 men and 16 women will compete in ski cross at Cypress Mountain.
The format change to skeleton will see athletes increase their competition runs from two to four, while the minor format change to speed skating pursuit will be related to the in-Games qualifying procedure.
Other sport disciplines that were considered but not recommended by the IOC for the 2010 sport program included, curling mixed doubles, biathlon mixed relay, bobsleigh and skeleton team competition, luge team competition, alpine skiing nation team event and women’s ski jumping.
“We have consistently supported the inclusion of women’s ski jumping in the 2010 program and these young women are understandably disappointed with today’s decision,” continued Priestner Allinger. “Their commitment to raising their sport to Olympic calibre is commendable and we encourage them to continue their campaign for inclusion in the 2014 Winter Games program."
Vancouver 2010 Programme – Events and Disciplines
The Executive Board decided to maintain the events included for the first time in Turin (Speed Skating – Team Pursuit, Biathlon – Mass Start, Cross Country Skiing – Team Sprint, and Snowboard – Snowboard Cross) on the programme of the Olympic Winter Games.
In addition, seven proposals to include new events have been studied by the Olympic Programme Commission according to a list of criteria as outlined below:
-Events must have a recognized international standing both numerically and geographically, and have been included at least twice in world and continental championships
-Global public and media interest in a sport must be considered as key elements in the analysis of sports for these are fundamental elements in the success of the Games
-The social value of a sport (e.g. elements of environmental impacts, athletes’ health, education, non-discrimination, fair-play and solidarity), should be considered
-To be considered for admission to the Olympic Programme, a sport must show a direct emphasis on youth and development
-The judging and adjudicating system of a sport must ensure objectivity, fairness and transparency
The EB followed the recommendations of the Olympic Programme Commission and took the following decisions:
- to include – if VANOC also agrees - the event of Ski Cross which meets all the criteria listed above and whose appeal to the youth has grown tremendously over the last year
- not to include the events of Biathlon Mixed Relay, Bobsleigh and Skeleton Team Competition, Luge Team Competition, and Alpine Skiing Nation Team Event as these events would only allow the same athletes already participating in an individual event to take part in another event and win more medals.
- not to include Curling Mixed Doubles and Women Ski Jumping as their development is still in the early stage thus lacking the international spread of participation and technical standard required for an event to be included in the programme.
The EB noted that it would be closely following the development of Women Ski Jumping with a view of its inclusion in future Olympic Games.
Quotas are still under discussion with IFs and will be finalized once the decision on events has been made.
The Rough-and-Tumble World of Ski Cross
And pending final agreement from VANOC (Vancouver Organizing Committee for the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games), the 2010 Winter Games could be the first to feature this wildly exciting event.
Hailing from Lac Beauport, Quebec, internationally- ranked ski cross champion Anik Demers-Wild, is among the best in the world, winning at the X-Games in 2000 and finishing 8th in the 2005 World Championships in Finland.
With skiers reaching speeds of 80 km/h, ski cross makes for an incredible spectator sport. “It’s fast. It’s speedy. It’s action-packed,” says Demers-Wild. “Spectators can watch four skiers at the same time. A race is only about a minute long and spectators can see skiers getting passed and witness the consequences of their mistakes.”
It’s in the Air
Coming from years of racing on the National Alpine Team, Demers-Wild’s enthusiasm for ski cross is infectious. “As an ex-alpine racer, skier cross is such a fun, different event. I raced gates for 20 years and skier cross brought a little more challenge to me than racing gates,” says Demers-Wild. “It requires different skills, different challenges. You have to share the course, get in front, throw in aggression and balance and then add being airborne.” On a typical skier cross course, athletes can find themselves airborne ten times. “I just love to be in the air,” says Demers-Wild.
A Brief Interview with a Champion
VANOC: How did you get started in ski cross?
Demers-Wild: I entered a fun raced called Lord of the Board in Squaw Valley, just for fun. Then in 2000, I raced in the X-Games in Mount Snow, Vermont and won. I was hooked.
VANOC: How do you feel when you’re standing in the start gates, waiting for the go command?
Demers-Wild: Nerve-wracking. It’s like horses in a horse race. There’s a great vibe at the start. There’s so much energy. I’m so amped. The challenge is to channel that into racing energy.
VANOC: What kind of courses do you like?
Demers-Wild: Faster courses, with a nice flow. I like bigger jumps. Because I’ve been in the sport a lot longer than most of my competitors, I’m not intimidated by courses.
VANOC: With the recent announcement that ski cross has been approved by the IOC for inclusion in 2010, how do you feel?
Demers-Wild: Extremely excited. It’s been difficult to see where the sport was going to go. Was it going to be a hit or not or would it progress to the Olympics? It didn’t look like I would be racing in the world cup in Europe due to lack of sponsors but now with this announcement . . .
VANOC: Will you compete in 2010?
Demers-Wild: At 34, I’m getting older. But if I’m in as good shape as I am now and can maintain my current level of training, yes.
VANOC: What do you like to do when you’re not skiing?
Demers-Wild: I play a lot. I compete in paddling outrigger canoes and will be competing in the world sprint championships in Sacramento in 2008. My husband and I also run a business.
