Memories of 2011: Motorsport

Thinking back to the first Formula One race of the year in Australia, it seems hard to believe that in-between now and then, a momentous collection of highs & lows, thrills & spills, and bump & grind has completely jammed the calendar year in Motorsport. Despite this, it doesn't require too much of a thought triggered headache to remember such highlights, ranging from the premier heights of the Formula One season, right down to the 'nitty gritty' grass roots Motorsport, both of which I have been lucky enough to have followed almost religiously throughout 2011.

Stuff of Legends: The monstrous
McLaren F1 GT up close and personal. 

 So, I'll start off chronologically, regardless of the fact that I most probably won't maintain such order. In mid-January, the annual Autosport International motor-sport show kicked off the forthcoming season in conventional fashion, at the NEC in Birmingham, of which I was luckily able to attend. With accurately 53764343 stands or cars, bikes and err, brolly dolly's on offer, it's certainly one of my most fond memories from the year, with the chance to meet McLaren-Mercedes driver Jenson Button and F1 commentary god Martin Brundle, only adding to the pleasure of the day. Other specific memories from the day include being up close and personal with the then brand new NGTC specification Toyota Avensis, watching Tiff Needell and touring-car legend Jason Plato p**s about so to speak in Jaguar XKR's, and getting to see in the flesh- well the metal, the amazing McLaren F1 for the first time. Needless to say, I'll be attending again next month!

Quick Solution: McLaren had so little time,
that the diffuser had to be made of titanium
instead of the lighter Carbon-Fibre!

 Coming back to the subject of the Australian Grand Prix, the quite frankly staggering fact that Lewis Hamilton finished second was in my eyes, nothing short of a miracle. Now, by staring at that fact outright, it doesn't sound all that amazing really, considering that Hamilton indeed found himself starting at the rear diffuser of a Red- Bull for the best part of a whole season. Anyway, the gifted reader with a sharp memory will remember that prior to the Austrailian Grand Prix, McLaren-Mercedes were expecting nothing more than a point or two, down to the tragically awful development route the team from Woking had taken with there rear diffuser during pre-season. In fact, at the concluding Pre-Season test, McLaren stood no less than a second shy of the pace setters Red-Bull on average, with yet another fruitless and wasted Pre-Season being ultimately confirmed. However, having scraped an entire winter's worth of development on the rear diffuser, and designed a much more 'Red-Bullish' and simpler design in under a week before going to Oz, McLaren had delivered a master-stroke; one that would see the team pick up 18 points under the banner of Lewis Hamilton, and be re-instated as the best of the rest, which unfortunately, rather become there forte throughout the forthcoming season.

Audi you like that?: Audi regained their
former dominance this year at Le Mans.

 Audi's win at the Le Mans 24 Hours has to be one of the highlight's this year, despite the relatively boring appeal of the race as a whole! Having followed the buil-up to the race, and watched snippets of the race at random intervals in the race, all the talk and figures led to a dominant Peugeot win on their home turf. However, with the French squad suffering numerous break down's and misfortune during the endurance classic, the former kings of the North France circuit reigned once again, with Marcel Fassler crossing the line at the end of 24 hours in the car he shared with the relatively inexperienced pairing of Andre Lotterer and Benoit Treluyer. It may be pretty processional, but theres no denying that Le Mans does have a whiff of magic about it.

Back in Business: WTCC graced
Donington Park for the first time this year.

 On a more regional level, Donington Park has once again been graced with a full programme of events this year, on the back of two difficult years of dealing with abandoned construction work and a lack of any real racing as an ultimate consequence. After circuit owner leased out the circuit on a 25 year deal to the Adroit Group, this year has seen internationally recognised events hosted at the Derbyshire track once again, such as the World Superbike Championship, Superstars International Series, and the World Touring Car Championship. The latter of these is an event I was able to attend, and stands out clearly as a top class day from the past year. Watching the series itself aswell as the equally exciting single seater Auto GP series was merely the icing on the cake, as the chance to meet the worlds finest Touring Car drivers, talk and mingle with team officials, and witness racing once again at the track I consider my own, played a big part in making the day as a whole, one to remember.

Amazing: Jenson put the rest of the F1 field to shame in Canada.

 If you ask any Formula One fan which race this year stood out for them over the course of the season, the resoundingly singular answer will undoubtedly be the Canadian Grand Prix; and I am certainly no different. For me, it wasn't just race which Jenson Button sensationally won from the back of the pack, but a race that finally cemented the Surrey-born ace in the illusive group of superstars within the sport. Sure, Jenson has won a World Championship, kudos given where kudos is deserved, but there has always been a feeling with Jenson that without the dominant Brawn GP, he is no more than an average racer and a very smooth driver. However, having carved his way through the field at an unbelievable rate of knots, and putting his retired, under pressure team mate very much in the shadows, Button came to the fore half way around the last lap of the Grand Prix, having forced the apparently unbreakable Sebastian Vettel into an extremely rare mistake. It epitomised for me, the very reason I love Motorsport. That edge of the seat moment, or moments in Jenson's case, where time seemingly slows down as you breath in and wince at what unravels in front of your eyes. Anyhow, it's not as if I could ever escape the audio clip from my memory of my dad shouting 'Yes! Get in! I told you he was better than Hamilton!'. Just for the record, in the grand scheme of things I still disagree with him on that one.

Awestruck: Rare chance to meet a
legendary machine- 

  On my travels this year, aswell going Donington Park and to the Autosport International Show in Birmingham, I was lucky enough to go to Rockingham Speedway in mid-September to the venue's round of the BTCC. Two highlights in particular stand out from this day: firstly the rise of youngster, rookie, and ferociously fast touring car driver,Frank Wrathall. Now, for those readers that have never had the pleasure of attending a motor sport event, the general rule is that you talk amongst yourselves in the grandstand, and then occasionally applaud an overtaking manoeuvre that universally grabs the attention of the spectators. However, during the second race of the day, fan favourite surged through 30-strong field of some of the nations finest drivers, to within touching distance of the podium in fifth place. By doing so, Wrathall had the main stand at Rockingham on it's feet; applauding and cheering the heroic drive with the occasional air horn being more than welcome for once. A further highlight from the day came from witnessing AJ Foyt Junior's former Penske Racing CART car attack the rarely used oval circuit at Rockingham. It was awesome; a few minutes to witness one of the fastest car's on earth fly around the circuit at full speed, with a facial expression that resembled that of a child in a sweet shop. Just staggering. On top of this, I later found myself in the car's garage (with fully authorised permission of course...), around that machine that nowerdays is looked upon as more of an artefact. I felt blessed, and was privilaged to have seen it both up close and stretching it's V10 Mercedes engined legs at well over 210 mph.

Goodbye/Ciao: Two giants of there
specific disciplines Motorsport.Of course, with 2011, comes a great sense of sadness and remorse at the loss of so many great faces that once graced the sport. Two of the most prolific tragedies came in the form of two active racers, who died doing what they loved, and what they were best at. The deaths of both Dan Wheldon and Marco Simoncelli,  were both events that trigger the memory to ask itself that oh so cliché ridden question: Where was I when I heard? I remember exactly where I was for both. In the tragic case of British Indy Car racer Wheldon, I was greeted with reports of a catastrophic car accident during the season ending Indy Car race at Las Vegas via Twitter, which later was confirmed as a fatal occurance in case of Dan Wheldon. I could honestly write a book on Wheldon's life, achievements, and abundance of talent, or like I already have done- a blog entry, but I doubt I'd be able to do the great man justice. Speaking of a 'great man', Marco Simoncelli was far from one. He was infact, no more than a boy generally speaking. At the tender age of just 24, 'Super Sic' lost life in a horrific accident during the Malaysian Grand Prix on the 23rd October, 2011. Where was I? I was in the back seat of my Step-Dad's car, on my way back home after a weekend in Eastbourne looking at the University campus there as a prospective student. The horror of hearing the horror through the in-car radio haunted me all the way home, for all 4 hours of the journey time. Truth be told, writing about it now, it still does. Wheldon and Simoncelli are just two examples of the many who lost there life this year in and around Motorsport though: former V8 Supercars driver Jason Richards (aged 35), Karting guru Martin Hines (aged 64), and former Sportscar racer Christian Bakkerud (aged 26), are just a few more to mention.

 So despite the raft of fond memories I will take from 2011 and as will others, there is a huge feeling of regret, that one can only help is not replicated again in 2012, or any other forthcoming year.
 None of the less, 2011 has been massive for the sport, so with regards to carrying forward the sports success and dropping the tragedies that have been reluctantly picked up throughout the year, we can only hope for a bigger, better 2012 with many more of fond memories to come!

Happy New Year readers :)

P.S: Feedback comments/selecting the 'follow' option/helping to distribute my work would all be massively appreciated!

A-Z/LCFC/2011

This guy sure hasn't missed an LCFC kick this year.

With the new year edging ever closer, and as the endless number of club/team reviews begin to pile in, I recognised that something a little different would be appropriate to end the year with: A good ole'
A-Z.
  So as the title suggests, I've compiled an A-Z focused on my beloved Leicester City.2011 has been far from  uneventful for Leicester, in the eyes of the clubs players, staff, and fans alike. Needless to say, finding references for each letter became more difficult because of over subscription rather than a lack of potential subjects!

A is for Arrivals
In all seriousness, how can A not be for Arrivals? In the twilight of Sven's fledging time in charge of City, he went a little bit crazy with the money at his disposal, signing no less than twelve players prior to the 2011/12  Seasons get go. Whereas some players have quickly established themselves in the Foxes' ranks, such as David Nugent, Matt Mills, and Lee Peltier, others have floundered on the fringes of first team selection; Right-Back John Pantsil and former Manchester City midfielder Gelson Fernandes, are a few to mention.

B is for Beckford
Continuing on the subject of Summer signings (and lets be honest, I could do this whole A-Z on them), is the highly prolific Striker, Jermaine Beckford. Having cost in excess of £3 million, Beckford has been nothing less than appalling so far this season, squandering numerous chances upon goal, and contributing little to the team as a whole. His start to the campaign has all the hallmarks of a player playing below the level of football that he feels he is capable of. Tell you what, start proving that to people, and you might find yourself back in the big time where you obviously belong.

C is for Cash
Okay I promise this is the last of the money/transfers themes for a while. What is becoming apparent as Nigel Pearson tries to settle in at the helm of Leicester City, is that Sven-Goran Eriksson's summer expenditure was not well planned, with far to many Central Midfielders and not enough players capable of using the flanks effectively being particularly evident. Leicester have at most, two players who can play comfortably out wide in midfield: Lloyd Dyer and Darius Vassell, Oh, and the latter is out injured for the season. Rats.

D is for Defence
Leicester's defence has been a privilege to witness at times this year. Alongside the ridiculously cool headed, strong and boos-like figure of Sol Bamba, the Foxes have had John Pantsil, Lee Peltier, Shaun St,Ledger, and star of the season so far, Paul Konchesky added to the back line. A mix of young promise and experienced heads has ensured that Leicester City's season so far can be judged as nothing worse than satisfactory, with the defence department being bulletproof in pushing away wave after wave of the opponents attacking prows.

E is for Empty Seats
Really having to swallow my pride here, but to be frank, the attendance at the King Power Stadium has been poor this season. With figures very rarely over coming the 25,00 mark, the stadium has looked from my regular perch in the Spion Kop stand as tatty in terms of human spread. Sure, money is tight in the current financial climate, and the club would appear to be be trying different variations on the '2 for 1' cliché, but the basic fact is that a city as big both literally and metaphorically as Leicester, should be pushing the 32,500 capacity limit on a regular basis.

F is for Fazackerley
In many respects, Derek Fazackerley was the fall guy when Eriksson left Leicester City in October of this year. As the title, 'Assistant Manager' suggests, it was Eriksson who pulled the strings whilst Fazackerley had to deal and work around the errors of the Swedish puppet master. With this in mind, plus the basic fact that Leicester were only two points off a play-off place at the time of the parting of parties, I feel that the sacking of a man with a proven knack for scouting talent and bringing out the best in players on the training ground, was perhaps even more harsh than the prolific cancellation of Eriksson's contract by 'mutual consent'... *sacked cough cough*.

G is for Gallagher
If you're at all aware of the Leicester City story so far this season, then the name 'Paul Gallagher' will simply arise sub consciously. I hope you're not asking why, but I'll be nice and clarify: During the visit of Crystal Palace on November 19th this season, Gallagher scored a pair of absolute beauties, of such class that would force the long range shot experts of  John Arne Riise and Cristiano Ronaldo into appreciative submission. The first was a curling effort from the cusp of the 18 yard box which found itself enclosed in the top right corner of the net. Furthermore, the Scotsman's second effort was an absolute screamer: picking up a loose ball 30/25yards out from goal and smashing the ball in an ever rising fashion into the top left of the goalmouth. I can happily state it was the finest moment in being a Leicester City fan so far this season.

H is for Howard
Steve Howard is one of those Marmite players, in the sense that as a fan you either love or hate him. He is to Leicester City what Robbie Savage was to every club he played for: either god or scum. the last year has been hard for Howard, with only a handful of appearances from the bench being the highlight of his playing career underneath Sven Goran Eriksson's leadership. However, since the return of Nigel Pearson, Howard has once again become a regular substitute, often favoured ahead of promising young striker Jeff Schlupp, and even gracing the starting XI as he did against Doncaster in Leicester's most recent game. In my eyes, Howard's lack of genuine footballing quality is overlooked by his gritty determination, tirelessly infectious influence on the team around him, and the rare goal that always brings his fans to the forefront and leaves the haters gasping and begrudgingly admiring him.


I is for Interaction
Within the first three games of this seasons campaign, it was obvious on the eye that the most significant problem within the team was interaction in-between the players. It seemed as if Eriksson's insistence on using both Yuki Abe and Ritchie Wellens as holding midfielders was seriously hampering any real chance creation within the 90 minutes, with little options being offered in terms of play making opportunities. This, teamed with Sven's imposed isolation on Lloyd Dyer from the squad, deprived Leicester of any real goal threat, and seemingly cut lone striker at the time David Nugent, from any direct service. Despite an improvement under Eriksson, it wasn't enough to save his Swedish bacon. As Pearson took over however, things looked on the up, with Dyer back in the squad and Abe thankfully removed, all is beginning to seem well in terms of effective interaction on the pitch.

J is for Jeffrey

Next best thing: Schlupp is already
making waves

The only way is Schlupp! Sorry, been waiting to use that line for months now, ever since Jeffrey Schlupp's first Championship appearance against Reading at home to be exact. In a nutshell, Schlupp would appear to be the best thing to come out of Leicester City's academy since Andy King ( See K), who's continued interest from Premier League clubs and primary spot in the LCFC starting XI speaks volumes about the impact he has had at the club. Having scored a hat-rick in his senior team debut against Rotherham United in the League Cup, 'Schlupp-Puppy' (they just keep coming...) was immediately handed his Championship debut, by appearing off the bench in Leicester's 2-0 home loss to Reading, two games into the season. Since then, Schlupp has made only a handful of appearances, despite scoring in the deeply satisfying 4-0 rout of Derby County at the start of October. It would seem that Schlupp is being simply eased into Championship life, with nothing less than big things being predicted from him in the very near future. Watch this space!

K is for King
King's inclusion on the sub bench in the opening fixture of the season at Coventry City surprised me. Not only because he was in fact, on the substitute bench, but more so because he was still at the club, after months, even years of interest being thrown his way from the heights of the Premier League. As his position on the bench suggested however, the start to the season wasn't easy for King, having seemingly been replaced by new arrivals Danns and Fernandes in the middle of the park. However, as City began to evidently wallow, it was King who was consistently thrown into action, relentlessly showing the fans and management why he has, and still is the very best that Leicester City has to offer. Since his handful of appearances from the bench, King has been thankfully and deservedly reinstated at the heart of the team, with his fantastic blend of attacking and defensive qualities making him one of the very best end-to-end play makers to play outside of the Premier League. Pure, class.

L is for Losing
Despite the best efforts of just about everyone connected with Leicester City Football Club, including myself, it is practically impossible to sugar coat the fact that the Foxes have lost 8 of their 22 games so far this season. With a statistic such as that hanging over the King Power Stadium heading into the traditionally fixture rammed festive period, it's clear to see why our bags of money and lucrative transfer market dealings are not translating into an automatic promotion place. Southampton for example, are the leagues leaders with no more than 4 losses to their name thus far this season. On paper, Leicester of course should have not lost a single game and should have a goal difference of about 145+, but such is the way of the Championship and it's unpredictability, that a goal difference of only 4 is the harsh reality at this crucial stage in the campaign. More consistency please Nigel...

M is for Manager
Oh it has to be, surely? Yes, without at least one managerial shake up every calendar year,  Leicester City just wouldn't be Leicester City. As has been already touched on throughout the A-Z (and shall carry on being touched on), 2011 has seen the disappearance of former Lazio, Manchester City, Mexico and England manager Sven Goran-Eriksson, and the rather majestic return of fans favourite Nigel Pearson. I still don't agree with the sacking of Sven, and I probably never will, but of all the potential gaffers in the frame for the job, appointing such a cult hero as 'Big Nige' was always the favourite. Sure, Martin O'Neil was strongly tipped along with others, but in terms of realism, Pearson was a great signing. Let's just hope the recent run of poor form is the last of it for the remainder of the season...


N is for Nugent
Yes, N most certainly is for David Nugent. Having arrived from the cash strapped Portsmouth F.C in the Summer Transfer Window, Nugent was established as a huge signing for Leicester: Bags of experience in both the Premier League and the Championship, and even at International level (all be it, one cap in a low key friendly against Andorra back in 2007). The hype surrounding the Nugent transfer has so far translated into his on pitch antics, having scored 7 in all competition so far this season. Funnily enough though, his goal tally doesn't even begin to express just how good Nugent is; his work ethic, ability to supply and win balls further down the pitch, aswell as his brilliant finishing, are the collective aspects to what makes David Nugent an utterly class Leicester City player.

O is for Ouch
Generally speaking, Leicester have been rather lucky so far with injuries. Sure, Paul Gallagher missed the best part of a month with an ankle injury, as did David Nugent, but compared to the injury peril at teams such as West Ham United and West Brom, we've had it easy. However,  the most significant 'ouch' of the season goes to Darius Vassell, who after hammering down  a regular first team spot, went off in agony in the Foxes' 3-2 away loss to West Ham back in October. I personally didn't appreciate Vassell being a first player, with his incredible work rate often being foiled by his predictable footballing ability and his lack of stamina. Having lost Darius though, Leicester's lack of width has been further exposed, with service being supplied from the right side of the pitch at a bare minimum. Ignore the cliché, but I guess you don't know what you have until it's gone.

P is for Product
Goals of recent times have become somewhat scarce for Leicester, with plenty of chances being created as per, yet a complete lack of product being the outcome after 90 minutes. This is a tricky one to understand: In terms of build play, we've been fab, even shot wise, we've taken many. However, with only three goals in three games, Leicester have taken only 1 point from a possible 9. Call me conclusive, but I can't help but feel these two statistics are linked...


Q is for Quick
If the F.A offered bonus points for Athletic ability, I can't help but feel Leicester would be terrorising the likes of AC Milan and Manche... , errr Barcalona with the abundance of pace within the Foxes' camp. Players such as Lee Peltier, Paul Konchesky, David Nugent, and primarily Lloyd Dyer, are all players capable of leaving opposition choking on the flicked up grass blades left in their wake. Sub-sidedly, it's no surprise that a fair chunk of City's goals so far this season have been down to this case of high MPH; the second goal against Forest away, the first goal against Bristol City at the KP Stadium, the first in the massacre of Derby... the list well and truly goes on.

R is for Rudkin
On the back of Sven Goran Eriksson's surprise sacking (Have I mentioned it yet?), Leicester conventionally appointed Academy Manager Jon Rudkin and Goalkeeper Coach Mike Stowell as joint Caretaker manager's. In a reign that lasted only three matches, Stowell and Rudkin salvaged a total of 3 points out of a possible 9, winning away at Burnley, losing at home to a very impressive Leeds United side, and losing away against West Ham United, despite an inspired team effort. Now, on paper, the whole '3 from a possible 9' thing doesn't exactly shout 'Promotion!'. However, when you analyse the simple fact that Leeds United and West Ham (who both had/still have fantastic managers) are very much examples of the leagues somewhat bigger teams(winces), thats not at all bad. It's also a statistic that yields two extra points compared to the record that currently sits at Nigel Pearson's feet. New gaffer anyone? No, im joking; don't think I could handle another ill-judged impulse sack. Which leads us nicely

S is for Sven

Swedish So long: It was good(ish) whilst
it lasted, Sven.

Sven Goran-Eriksson. If you haven't heard  that name mentioned at least 1000 time this year in the local and national press, then at least you've heard it about 500 times in this single entry. Anyway, Sven Goran Eriksson. Not by any chance the finest manager to steer the great ship Leicester through the football league, but certainly not the worst (Paulo Sousa, lol). From the signs that emitted from the King Power Stadium, Eriksson's sacking was very much down to impulse. A month or two down the road, the general perception that the Swede's dismissal was total and utter tosh, seems to be being proven. Im a huge fan of Nigel Pearson, but for the love of god: Two points off the Play-Offs? Sacked literally a handful of games after spending in excess of £10 million? Absolute joke. Anyway, rant over, lets move on.

T is for Tunchev
Remember him? Perhaps not if you're not a Leicester City fan, but he's very good. Bulgarian International Centre Back, no nonsense, strong both physically and mentally; the latter of which gives him one over current first choice Central Defender, Matt Mills. So why is he a mystery to regular football in recent times? Well, Aleksandar Tunchev suffered a partial tear to his anterior crucial ligament, which consequently put poor ole 'Tunch' out for no less than two and a half years. However, he's back; and from a personal point of view, should he regain the form he was graced with, he fully deserves his chance back in the first team. Ave' a word Nige.

U is for Underachievement
Story of Leicester's past decade right? Were not sleeping giants as such anymore, but giants who happen to be in a coma, waiting to be brought back the reality of the Premier League. Numerous managerial changes, player transfers, investment and owners have all seen the club do nothing in the way of progress (League One cough cough). However, this season more than any other, promised to be the biggest push for Premier League stardom yet. Sure, it has hardly gone to plan so far, but if there's one thing that makes the Championship such an amazing football league, it's the endless amounts of unpredictability. Bring on 2012.

V is for Vexed 
Yes you're right, I am clutching at straws on this one (I've already mentioned Darius Vassell, curse you bad planning). Anyway, here's a highlight moment from the season so far: Ian Stringer and Alan Young describing  what sounded like a face-off just after half time during the away game against West Ham United,in-between the two most animated players in the Leicester City Dressing Room: Sol Bamba and Ritchie Wellens. I personally found this hilarious, imagine this: A short length, short tempered stocky Englishman squaring up to a 6 foot 3 inch Ivory Coast international defender. As I mentioned previous: hysterical.


W is for Width

Wingman: Dyer provides
well needed width 

One of Leicester City's number one issues this season, has been the complete lack of width with regards to attacking prowess. It appeared to yours truly at the start of the campaign that this was simply down to Sven Goran Eriksson purchasing an influx of Central Midfield talent, rather forgetting the outer edges of the midfield zone. This zonal sense of empathsis translated into the football, as the clear lack of options going forward up the pitch was down to a lack of width and movement in the final third. Since Pearson's appointment, this significant issue would appear to have been eased, with the reinstatement of Lloyd Dyer to the starting XI. However, the issue remains clear and obvious; Dyer is by far not the greatest winger the league has seen by any stretch of ones imagination, but neither is the choice of selection for the wide areas! Dare I mention another dip into the kitty for Leicester City in January?

X is for X-Ray
Well, what else would you do for letter X? Despite the vast number of players brought in over the summer, Paul Gallagher's four game lay-off due to an ankle injury in October certainly wasn't replicable by any means. Gallagher's left foot is undermined at Leicester generally speaking, with most short-sighted fans simply dismissing Gallagher as a 'hit or miss' type player. This is true when referring to his goal scoring record, but Gallagher's left boot is far more valuable for Set-Pieces such as Free-Kicks and Corners, in which he is rather good at. As a result, whilst Gallagher was reluctantly meeting the X-Ray, Leicester were floundering Set-Piece after Set-Piece.

Y is for Yuki
Okay, lets not beat about the bush here: I hate Yuki Abe at Leicester. I say 'at Leicester' because Abe clearly has something very good about his footballing ability, to the point where he is regarded as one of Japan's finest players. However, Abe's first season  and a half performances as a Leicester City player have had all the hallmarks of a player who simply hasn't adjusted to the quick, relentless pace of English Football. This observation of mine makes it very hard for me to feel positive when he makes the Starting XI, as I know full well that within the next 90 odd minutes of football, Abe will be tragically hesitant on the ball, fruitless in play making, and weak tackling-wise. Not sitting on the fence on this one, hopefully in January Abe will be sitting with a one way ticket on the plane back to Japan.

Z is for Zigzag

He's Back: My tip for surprise package for 2012

Not going to lie, im proud of this one: Zigzag represents the pattern of the lines which I saw Martyn Waghorn's Mercedes C-Class park up on before Leicester's last home match against Peterborough United on the 10th of December. I bristled with excitement, for I am not part of the ever growing 'Waghorn hate club' that seemingly crept awkwardly throughout the King Power Stadium last season. The basic fact of the matter is that Martyn Waghorn is an Under-21 England International striker, who is currently entering what will be the cliché ''prime' of his career. So, when Waghorn's performances off the bench last year failed to consistently impress, was it really any surprise? It seems people quickly forget the magic of Waghorn's true form, which undoubtedly significantly contributed to the Foxes' reaching the Play-Off semi-finals in 2010. Having been loaned out to Hull City in the summer, who at the time were managed by Pearson, it looked as 'Waggy' had well and truly turned his back on his once adoring football club. However, as of January 1st, Waghorn is back in Blue, and under his admiring manager Nigel Pearson, as oppose to the neglectful Sven Goran Eriksson. Move aside Beckford....


So that concludes my A-Z of Leicester City, 2011. Hope you enjoyed, would appreciate any feedback comments!

Have a great Christmas and Happy New Year readers!

Farewell Gary Speed

Universally, the world of sport has been brought into emotional turmoil over the past few days, after learning on Sunday morning that  former Welsh International Midfielder and current Wales National Team Coach Gary Speed, had tragically passed away.

 Speed endured an illustrious footballing career which spanned a staggering 22 seasons, having played for Leeds United, Everton, Newcastle United, Bolton Wanderers, and prior to his retirement, Sheffield United. Speed, or 'Speedo' as he was more affectionately known, was the first player to reach a hugely respectable 500 appearances in the Premier League; paying testament to just what an integral part of the midfield set-up Speed was to all of his various employers. After hanging up his boots in the Sheffield United dressing room during 2010, Speed went on to start a career on touchline; firstly coaching at Bramall Lane underneath Keith Blackwell, before taking Blackwell's role on the back of his sacking in October last year. After a mere two months at the helm of The Blades, Speed had done enough to attract the scouring attentions of the Welsh F.A, who consequently appointed Gary Speed as their manager this time last year (December). A run of three out of three wins for his International squad prior to his tragic death, only seeks to ask more questions on just how and why such a great man felt the need and pressure from life to cut short such a promising, prosperous career.

 Speed leaves behind first and foremost a wife and two kids, of whom in his last interview with online magazine FourFourTwo, he stated that meant 'everything' to him and 'cherishes'. Secondary to his initial biological family, comes his family of fans, experts, former players, current players, representatives from other sports that all valued Speed for the true professional that he undoubtedly was, the brilliant performer he undoubtedly was, and the successful manager, who he undoubtedly was evolving into.

  Speed's death is yet another blot on the copybook of Sport in 2011, with fellow stars such as Boxing legend Joe Frazier, Indy 500 winner Dan Wheldon, and the massively talented young Moto GP rider Marco Simoncelli already leaving behind them a deeply saddened and upset world, from all corners of sport alike. One can only help but pray that once Sport has limped to the end of 2011, the plagued events of this year are well and truly put to bed, despite the living memory of Speed and others, still well and truly at large.

R.I.P Gary 'Speedo' Speed

8th September 1969- 27th November 2011

BBC East Midlands Sports Awards 2011

As this blog probably suggests, I am a massive sports fan. So when I was offered the chance to attend the East Midlands Sports Awards earlier this week, I accepted almost sub-consciously. After a fantastic evening at Loughborough University, witnessing some of my localities top sports stars go head to head for various accolades, and intermingling and meeting some of my sporting idols, it's safe to say that that I left with nothing less than smile representative of a kid in a sweet shop.

 With the countdown becoming ever more prevalent, and Loughborough University being the epicentre for Team GB's preparations, it was no surprise to the spectators and VIP's alike that the night featured an Olympic orientated theme. Lisa Dobriskey, 1500 metres gold medallist in the 2006 Commonwealth Games and a former Loughborough University student, kick started the nights ceremony by presenting the 'Manager of the Year Award' to Notts County Gaffer Martin Allen. After joining the Magpies in April this year, Allen confessed himself that the team was nothing more than 'doomed', staring relegation to the basement division of the Football League, League Two, directly in the face. After a number of fantastic results however, Allen rescued County from the daldrums of League One, and so far in the 2011/12 season, his team currently sit in a play-off worthy position.
 Richard Whitehead was another victor of the night; the double leg amputee picked up the gong for Disabled Sports Personality of the year, after a remarkable year in his field, or fields, of Athletics. Having begun a training regime designed to prepare for his primary event of Marathon running, the Brit was controversially frozen out of next Years Paralympics Marathon on the basis that the only events for double amputees above the knee are the 100 and 200 metre sprints. Having had to deal with a cocktail of rage and disappointment, Whitehead switched his attention to the 200 metres; which ultimately yielded him Gold at the IPC Championships in January this year and a guaranteed spot in the Paralympic event next year in London. Having never heard of Whitehead, never mind his amazing story, the remarkable athletes' journey was inspirational. As a runner myself I know that training for a 7 mile race and a 6 mile race are completely different, so for a man already challenged by physical deficiencies, to then go change from a 26 mile event to just 200 metres, is something that strikes me as absolutely awe inspiring.

Take -Off: Loughborough sports student
wows the crowd with 2.20 metres jump.

 In-between the fantastic live entertainment that we were treated to in the form of the High Jump, BMX freestyle, and gynastics, the awards came thick and fast. Other winners from the night came in the form of Wheelchair Basketball phenomenon Maddie Thompson who won Junior Disabled Sports-person, Derby County defender Mark O'Brien who clinched the Brian Clough Breakthrough Award,promising young Cyclist Lucy Garner who picked up Junior Sports-person of the year, and the Coach of the Year award went to the performance director of the now infamously high performance British Cycling organisation, David Brailsford. The nights Special Award, chosen by a series of judges, went to Lee Penfold, a remarkable young local basketball player who has battled autism throughout his life to become a professional Basketball player and on the way to becoming a figure head at the Special Olympics Summer Games held in Leicester, 2009.
 Above and beyond the majority of the award winners however, was the BBC East Midlands Sports Personality of the year, Graeme Swann. After being embedded deep within Andy Flower's England cricket squad ahead of the Ashes series in Australia towards the end of last year, Swann became an instrumental figure; taking no less than 15 wickets come the end of the series, including an astonishing five wicket haul in the second test in Adelaide. Swann furthered his rise to stardom in the Summer this year, after demolishing Sri Lanka in the ODI test series in May, including taking a hugely efficient 7/82  to help England to a clear innings victory. By the end of the Summer and to this current day, Swann is ranked as number one in the ICC ODI Bowlers Rankings; and in doing so becomes the first Englishman to reach such heights of success in the Sport.  Having beaten off stiff competition from fellow England Cricketer and Derby-born Stuart Broad, and the hugely successful Rebecca Adlington, who currently sits on top of the 800 metres freestyle world in women's swimming having won Gold at this years World Championships in Shanghai, China. 

Idol: Pateman picking up
thoroughly deserved
Unsung Hero Award

 From a personal perspective, and despite each of the nights nominees and winners thoroughly deserving a degree of recognition, it was two of the ceremony's awards winners that I paid most respect, attention, and pleasure to. Firstly, the Unsung Hero Award was claimed by Steve Pateman, a gym owner. Despite the relatively low key job title, Pateman's span of employment goes much further than it initially suggests, with the Derbyshire man dedicating his every day to helping children get into Sport via the use of his personally-run gym. During Pateman's tribute video screened to the evening's audience, the hard-work, dedication, joy, passion, and determination by Pateman was clear to see, with his two loves of Boxing and helping the community being prevalent in demonstrating such qualities. During his acceptance speech, I became ever more appreciative of such a sporting hero, who in his own tear jerked words, announced that the best part of what he does is: 'Seeing kids smile after they realise they've achieved something through sport' and 'giving something back to a sport (Boxing) that has given me so much'.  A true inspiration and eye-opener to myself, aswell as anyone else who has a high regard for Sport and Personality as two key aspects to life.

Regions Finest: Alan Birchenall collecting
award with new Leicester City gaffer
Nigel Pearson and LCFC owner
Top Raksriaksorn

  As a through and through disciple of Leicester City, nothing pleased me more so far this year than seeing club ambassador and undisputed legend, Alan Birchenall pick up the thoroughly deserved Lifetime Achievement award. As is unfortunately common knowledge now, things at Leicester City very rarely feature any sense of continuity. Whether it's the manager, the players, the backroom staff, owners... everything has/is/will probably change. Everything, except Alan Birchenall. As a well travelled retired footballer who exploited his initial trade in the 60's and 70's, Birchenall has ever since been at the forefront of everything that is good about Football, and more specifically, Leicester City. 'The Birch' has forever been the link in-between management and fans; providing a bond with both sides that is vital to the beating heart , mind, and soul of the club. Whether it be his stalwart role of presenting pre-match and half time talks on pitch during Leicester City's games, or the expert analysis he provides in droves via local radio programmes ,or the old fashioned 'one on one' with a respecting fan in and around the stadium or down the local pub, no 'fan' or the Foxes' can contemplate Leicester City Football Club without The Birch. These are just a handful of reasons from my personal perspective why Birchenall's award was the highlight of the night; well, second only to my chance to meet the man himself after the ceremony had concluded! Tireless charity work and a 'big influence' in bringing back cult hero Nigel Pearson to Leicester in the words of the man himself, are a few more elaborative argumentative points as to why Alan Birchenall stands as a man who is no less than a role model to every single man and women alike who considers themselves involved in Sport in any shape or form. 

Living Legend: Me (far left) with
'The Birch' (far right).

Big thanks to Dawn Blythe for the photography, and giving me the chance to go to such a special night!

Feel free to leave comments below

Keep Calm and Carry On

Transparency?: Need of clarity at City

With a fair chunk of the 46 game Championship already gone, it's fair to say that Leicester City's on pitch antics have been more than overshadowed by the arrivals and departures at the King Power Stadium. First came the torrent of star player signings, then the shock departure of the calm and collective Swedish Gaffer (some guy called Sven Goran Eriksson), and now the inevitably controversial search for a new man to hold the City ship has also crept into the headlines like a bull in china shop.

Wally with a Brolly: I know you laughed.

 It never seizes to amaze me just how excited people manage to get when it comes to the appointment and sacking of manager. Whether it's the way in which the media makes out that it's the most exciting thing in the world, or the manner in which we all apparently have the only opinion and idea that is valid on who should be the new manager. I love a good headline, don't mistake that, but what has happened to Leicester so far this season in terms of exposure can hardly be seen as 'good'. Calling it anything more than 'embarrassing' is a bit like calling Nottingham Forest's season so far promising and successful. Always did admire Schteve McLaren and his Umbrella...

 Besides clutching at straws by slating our Trent side rivals though, the point remains that in terms of Leicester's season progression, surely it has to ring true in the inexperienced Chairman Mr.Raksriaksorn's ears that the key to keeping our mission to the Premier League on track is to, in the words of tired cliché, keep calm and carry on. Im not for one for minute crying over spilt milk hear, but I think I speak for the majority of clear thinking football fans and Foxes fans when I say that: Sven Goran Eriksson should have never been sacked as Leicester City manager. There's just no logic involved in such a decision, with £10 million pounds pumped into boosting the squad ranks being only 4 points off the automatic promotion spots after eleven games, at what point does a Chairman even contemplate such a thing. Like I mentioned: embarrassing... Anyhow, what is done is done, and the hunt for a new big cheese in the King Power Stadium's home side dug out continues.

Ladsucks: Speculative to say the least.

 With such an reputation, the hunt for a new gaffer at Leicester was never going to be anything less than hilarious. I mean, in such downbeat times for a straight thinking City fan, what is there to do other than laugh? The humour sources directly from the names that have been linked to the job courtesy of the deeply insightful and reliable long term football friends the bookmakers; Carlo Ancelotti, Rafa Benitez, David Beckham; please stop there 'Ladbrokes' and 'William Hill', my sides are hurting! The basic fact of the matter is that as long as Leicester are rooted within the stomach of the Championship division, nothing more or less than a manager who truly understands the Championship and what it requires to escape through the mouth of the league and into the atmospheric Premier League above, is fit for the job. This kind of whittles the speculative list down to only a few names who have been even vaguely associated: Roy Keane? Iain Dowie? Billy Davies? Martin O'Neil even?

 Personally, the key to making such a decision is desecration and care; with the media having such a large influence on the everyday goings on at football clubs in the limelight such as City, a well-guarded series of talks in-between the men who matter in brokering a deal, is paramount; as is the need for a careful final decision. Rushing such a vital appointment would seem ill-judged in the grand scheme of things right now, considering that the Foxes managed a highly respectful 3-1 away victory against Burnley this week under the temporary guide of joint caretaker managers Jon Rudkin and Mike Stowell. Everyone's entitled to their opinion as a fan, but in terms of who should take the job, that's an unknown to everyone outside of the offices within the bowels of the King Power Stadium.

Self Explanatory: Consistency and transparency is all we need.

So, as long as the results don't dramatically deteriorate (like they err, haven't), the most important ideology to remain core at Leicester City should be: Keep Calm and Carry On.

Fergie Funk & Mancini's Moves.

Once again, the sports media is being dominated by politics. Whether it be the maximum whip rule in the world of Horse Racing, the cheating allegations revolving around Wales head coach Warren Gatland in Rugby Union, or the perhaps most documented headline at the moment; the Carlos Tevez affair at Manchester City.

 Like most people, im pretty sick of this side of sport. It has no place, apart from in the House of Commons on BBC News in the daytime, and lets be honest, people get sick of that too. So, I thought I would combine two stories that have also dominated the news this week, but for all the right reasons. 

First up, and away from Sport: the revival of the massively popular 80's/90's music group, The Stone Roses. This news is massive for the music industry, but I'll steer away from getting all sentimental and teary eyed, this is a sports blog after all. Secondly, the big game this weekend. The inter city rivalry coming to a head. The Premier Leagues top two teams; Manchester United against Manchester City. Music and Sport are two massively influential cultural factors in England, but no where is more relevant to this fact than the city of Manchester. Rooney, Cantona, Ronaldo, Schmeichel, Lee... the list goes on of footballing legends who have graced the city. Just as impressive, are the musical talents to emerge from the Lancashire city: Oasis, The Stone Roses, Beady Eye, Ian Brown, etc, etc.

So, to celebrate the amazing talents to have receded from Manchester, and the rise of the city in the year of 2011, I've put together a light hearted piece on how football and music can potentially overlap. In other words, I've sifted through team sheets and music collections in order to dedicate certain songs from musical Mancunian giants to numerous players in the City's two figurehead football teams. This is going to be quite something...

Wayne Rooney

Oasis- Don't Look Back In Anger

After the shambles surrounding Rooney's controversial transfer request this time last year, all is once again well in the Wayne camp. Having rediscovered his form towards the latter stages of last year after being persuaded to stick around in a red shirt, the former Evertonian is peaking again at his very best, having taken 11 goals so far in 11 starts in all competitions so far this season. This gives him not only a 1.0 goal per match ratio, but a valid motive to in the words of Noel and Liam Gallagher,to  'not look back in anger' at his largely torrid 2010/11 campaign. Fitting, don't you think?

Nigel De Jong

Ian Brown- F.E.A.R

Lets not beat about the bush on this one: Nigel De Jong is a tank. Not many players would feel arriving at a fifty against such a player, with his ruthless 'no nonsense' reputation sometimes getting out of hand in previous seasons; for example De Jong's leg breaking tackle which he inflicted on Newcastle player Hatem Ben Arfa during last seasons Man City vs Newcastle United fixture. Personally, I dislike De Jong. I see him as nothing more than a clumsy sizeable defensive midfielder who contributes little to the team other than a real sense of fear. This then links directly to Ian Browns flagship solo song, 'F.E.A.R', which actually stands for 'Fantastic expectations amazing revalations'. I guess these words are fitting not only yo De Jong as an individual, but to the whole Manchester City set up with regards to Carlos Tevez being the key link to the 'amazing revalations' part.

Carlos Tevez

Oasis-Some Might Say

Some might say that Tevez is a self centred, money mad, selfish indulgent individual who cares for little other than his own sensitive happiness. Some might say however, that this isn't the case. That it's much less transparent than that with the reasoning behind Carlos' questionable behaviour being home sickness caused by the thousands of miles that lie between him and his family in Argentina. Personally? I think it's a bit of both. For sure, Tevez has gone about it in completely the wrong manner, and I don't for one second believe that his squirming slippery adviser Kia Joorabchian uttered a word of truth when exclaiming that there was a 'misunderstanding' and a 'language barrier issue' during the Bayern Munich vs Manchester City  fixture earlier this season where Tevez apparently refused to come on as a substitute. On the other hand, Manchester City were tight with regards to selling the Argentine in the Transfer window. They were prepared to sell Tevez, that there is no doubt, but for no less than £40 million pounds to a team outside the Premier League, and a petty £50 million to a team within the English game. More co-operation and gentlemanly actions from both parties could have prevented the eventual hatred towards Tevez from now both Manchester teams, and the different interpretations of the Tevez saga that 'some might say'.

Dimitar Berbatov

Oasis: The Importance Of Being Idle

Dimitar Berbatov is fast becoming the forgotten man at Manchester United. After signing for the Manc giants  over three years ago now, his impact has fell well short of what fans, management and onlookers worldwide were expecting. The main reasoning given by these categories of individuals for his lack of 'umphhh' is precisely that: his lack of on pitch 'umphhh'. Berbatov is one of those forwards who is amazing to watch and behold only when the ball is at his feet. He is a far cry from fellow Premier League strikers such as Fernando Torres and Luis Suarez for example, who's rate of passing and movement in the final third of the pitch is at times outstanding. 'Berba' stand in stark contrast as a player to these two; in fact I wouldn't be surprised if during Sunday's Manchester derby, Ray Winstone doesn't pop up at half time with his now infamous betting stats promoting the odds on 'Berbatov to make an off the ball run'. They'd probably literally stand at 1000/1. It would appear to an educated onlooker then, that Dimitar Berbatov believes in one particular aspect of play: 'the importance of being idle'.

Owen Hargreaves
The Stone Roses: I Wanna Be Adored

After a huge injury lay off courtesy of a crucial knee ligament injury, a dysfunctional international career, and a handful years lurking in the shadows of Manchester United's team ranks, Hargreaves arrived in the Blue half of Manchester over the Summer as a man with a lot to regain and prove. Whether it be his reputation, quality, fitness, or mearly just to prove in front of the fans that his talents in front of a camera expand further than those displayed in his strangely desperate 'fitness proving' videos he posted on You Tube over the summer. One thing for certain, is that Hargreaves has been nothing but unlucky, ever since he moved back to his homeland after a successful number of years playing for German giants Bayern Munich. After years of being injury prone, his release from Manchester United at the end of last season came as little surprise to many, who sincerely believed the players career was over.It wasn't though; Hargreaves joined his former teams inter city rivals over the summer in a surprise move, before going on to criticise the medical staff back at Old Trafford, and score a cracking goal in first appearance for Mancini's squad in the 2-0 win over Birmingham last month. This is significant for two reasons: first and foremost, he has clearly begun to show he is more than up to playing in the World's premier footballing division. Secondly, his scathing attack on the Old Trafford medical team seems a little unrealistic regarding that United are quite possibly the largest football team in the world. Does this mean then that he is trying to promote his allegiance with the Blue army over the Red army? Is he trying to cement his role as a full fledged member of Manchester City? Is he metaphorically screaming out the the Ethiads Stadium: 'I Wanna Be Adored'? Personally, I think that's exactly the case.

David Silva
Oasis: Masterplan

Since the 2011/12 season commenced in laste August, there have been many stand out players within the leagues boundries; Ashley Young's great start to life at Manchester United, Van Persie's conventional electric form, Torres' regained spark, Gareth Bales return from injury... the list really does go on. However, from a personal point of view, the stand out player from the Premier League has been unquestionably David Silva. Last season, Mancini's midfield mystro displayed flashes of brilliance as a play maker, occasionally being unrivalled in his presentation of attacking opportunities. This season thus far, the flashes have gone. So to has the occasional sense of untouchability (is that even a word?); They've been replaced by an air of consistency and touch of magic that has resultingly made him my stand out player so far. His unprecedented magic ability to create personal chances on goal from scratch, and supply crosses & passes to anyone on the pitch with perfect distribution have since made him the perfect central player at the heart of the Manchester City squad. You get the feeling when witnessing Silva this season, that no matter where he is, whether he has the ball or not, whether even his team is in possession or not, that he is constantly orchestrating mental sketches of footballing master plans as an immensely talented and skilled individual, and as a invaluable team player.

Mario Balotelli
The Stone Roses: Fools Gold

Balotelli, in a non-homosexual manner, is a bit of a guilty pleasure. I know I should despise his arrogance, and I know his complete lack of care as an individual should make me boil with anger. But in all honesty, it really doesn't! I guess it's the 'lad' nature to him that obstructs my view on the player, I mean at the end of the day, I am a teenage guy who's idea of a perfect weekend is match day, heavy night out, lie-in, and televised football on Sunday afternoons whilst trying to piece together the events of the night previous over social networking sites. This I imagine is similar to how Mario idolises his weekends to be, with the key difference being that he is pure gold as a footballer and i'm... well i'm not. 'Fools Gold' is the perfect description for Balotelli; yes he did try to do a 360 back heel into the net against LA Galaxy in Pre-Season, and yes he does have very public strops both in play and when leaving the field of the play, much like a moody teenager. But the simple facts are this: the Italian is gold. With elder statesmen Roberto Mancini seemingly placing a guiding arm around his shoulder, and being currently blessed with the statistic of scoring 4 in 4 games, Balotelli is beginning to well and truly confirm his talent and right to play for the Premier League contenders. Referring back to the featured song by The Stone Roses, until someone releases an anthem titled 'Italian wonder kid' , 'Fools Gold' is the perfect song to sum up Mario Balotelli.

So there we have it. My interpretation of how the music and sports scenes in Manchester can cross paths and directly relate to one another. Admittedly, I had thought and considered more links between more Manchester based bands and players, but without seriously clutching at straws, I felt they'd be pretty unfounded and shallow!

Feel free to leave comments below.

Dan Wheldon: What Happened in Vegas...

Sombre Scene: Laps of honour for
the passing of Dan Wheldon, only hours
after he lined up on the starting grid.

Normally when I come to start a blog entry, I start off well; no hesitation, no struggled-for thought, just a torrent of ideas/sentences that I have managed to clump together in my mind prior to clicking on the 'new post' option. The same should have applied for this entry; one on Red Bull Racing recently clinched constructors title, maybe even one based on Sebastian Vettel's win in the Korean Grand Prix yesterday (Sunday). Unfortunately however, these events were overshadowed by much more daunting events across the pond in North America; the tragic loss of home nation Indy Car Racer, Dan Wheldon.

Two times a Winner: Surprising yet
deserving winner of a second Indy 500
Victory earlier this year in June.

I'm not a big Indy Car follower if im honest. I know of the basic principles and figures in the the sport, but nothing in-depth. Nothing, except the career of the now former English racing driver Dan Wheldon. I vividly remember reading numerous race reports, interviews, and features based around Wheldon in copies of Autosport magazines of which I used to collect almost religiously. Dan was a great talent, of that there is no doubt; not many men past or present are in a position to boast not one but two Indy 500 victories, a race that is without doubt one of the few blue riband races on earth, along side the Monaco Grand Prix and the Le Mans 24 Hours events. In addition to these two remarkable victories, the latest of which came only 5 months ago, Wheldon was also crowned an Indy Race League (IRL) champion in the season of 2005, a title he would also have won the following year with the assistance of a mere extra point to topple eventual champion Sam Hornish,Jr's points total (Hornish had more wins that season so won the championship on the race win count back only).

Family Man: Son's Sebastian and Oliver,
and wife Susie Behm shortly after
Indy 500 triumph this year.

Besides the career total of 16 victories in the premier class of open wheel racing in North America, Wheldon's legacy is much more vital than these stats & figures, as he leaves behind him wife Susie Behm, who he married in 2008 after she became his wife from being Wheldon's P.A. Since then, the couple have gone on to produce two sons, of which will grow up now with the pride and feelings of remorse that undoubtedly will come with losing a father figure such as Dan. His parents, Clive & Sue Wheldon, were essentially instrumental in bring Dan up through the fiercely competitive young driver ranks in the U.K in the late nineties, prior to drivers decision to hop continents for financial reasons and embark on  a successful journey through the North American racing scene. Before this move however, Wheldon was learning his trade wheel to wheel with the likes of Jenson Button, Anthony Davidson, and indeed Dario Franchitti, who similarly jumped from Europe to North America. All four were the stars of a generation, with Wheldon perhaps not being the most publicised champion in his home nation, but certainly the most prolific out of the four to date.
It would be nothing but tasteless and twisted to relive the circumstance of Wheldon's death yesterday at such short notice, but what I can say regrettably is that I witnessed live, the death of one of the 21st century's truly great racing drivers. 'a younger brother', 'a part of Indy Car Racing', 'great talent'; three resoundingly short quotes that speak huge volumes from former teammate Dario Franchitti, former team boss Chip Ganassi, and BRDC chairman Derek Warwick, all three of which were at the very heart of Wheldon's career throughout various stages of it's illustrious course.

Great Driver, Family Man, and an idol to millions. Dan Wheldon, misplaced but never lost. 

R.I.P
Dan Wheldon

22 June 1978 - 16 October 2011

Keeping it national and proud.

With the lack of League football this past weekend, the nations sports fans have been some what in limbo, desperately searching for a makeshift alternative. Lets be honest, the England Euro Qualifier against Montenegro on Friday night lived up to its abysmal expectation, and the hugely disappointing Rugby World Cup Semi-Final against France hardly quenched the thirst of English sports fans either.

Look What I've got: Murray's glare
of delight at Japan Open Victory

勝利のボタン: Button Victorious
In his 'second nation'; Japan 

There were some cheers to shout about though: Andy Murray's victory against Rafael Nadal in the Japan Open in Tennis for example, convincing fans and the national media that Murray is indeed a Brit, and not a Scot due to his success. In addition, Jenson Button continued the British Empire ruling in Japan, by taking a fantastic victory of tactics, driving perfection, and pure and utter passion to win the Japanese Grand Prix in the early hours of Sunday Morning (GMT).

  Despite these conquests however, my personal highlight of the sporting weekend wasn't from the Tennis, nor my favoured sport of Formula One. It was however still Motor Sport, but in the form of the British Superbike Championship; where the Championship title decider was being held at the Kent circuit of Brands Hatch. Going into the final race of the weekend, and indeed the Championship,  the series' two leaders on points, Tommy Hill and John Hopkins, were separated by a mere 2 points in the favour of the latter American. With this in mind, I figured that a lack of football and with an early starting Grand Prix race out the way, that this Sunday was was a perfect time for me to become more familiar with a series I have only ever been vaguely in touch with, in it's last race of the 2011 season.

  After watching the final race, the simple fact of the matter was this: It was the best race I have ever seen. Better than the 2008 F1 title decider in Brazil, better than the 2009 Laguna Seca Moto GP race, and certainly better than any race fixture I have witnessed so far this season. Never have I seen such raw determination and bravery; risky tight trajectories, defensive nous of the highest level, and a visually apparent level of desire that I simply have never seen before in any sport. The last lap in particular, was amazing. Edge of the seat, slight noise of gratification, hand pumping action of the most exciting level. A fitting tribute to the amazing talent of the two riders Hopkins and Hill, was that as they crossed the line for the final time, the margin between the two contenders was a ridiculous 0.060; a gap warranting a photo finish, A Championship, after over 25 races, warranting a photo finish. Unbelievable. In fact, that race may have just shifted my allgencies to the BSB series a little closer...

Happy Hill: Stunning Performance

So drawn into the event I was, that as the result became common knowledge to the teams and riders, I felt a tinge of emotion, both for the successful Tommy Hill and the gutted John Hopkins; missing out in the standings by no more than a single point.. The scenes after the race had finished were unforgettable; scenes of raw emotion, tears, cheers, and more than a few life-topping moments in careers. No politics, no PR intervention, no exaggerated media effects. Just pure.