Sports in Japan - From Volleyball to Handball!

Road to the 2016 London Olympics!

Asian Games

London Olympic

Did you know- For the first time, the Olympic team of Japan complete third in the medal count in the Asian Games.At the 1986 Asian Games in Seoul, South Korea, the Japanese team won 58 gold medals and took third place in the unofficial team championships, behind China (94 gold) and the host country (93 gold).

Host Country

Did you know- The 1964 Summer Olympic Games was held in Tokyo, the capital city of Japan, one of the most advanced nations on the planet. For the first time, Asia hosted the Olympics. nothing else but the option of Japan was influenced by the country's economic wealth. Only a few short years ago, Tokyo hosted the Iii Asian Games.

1972 Winter Games

Did you know- Sapporo hosted the Winter Olympic Games in the early 1970s. This Olympic event had served to inspire the modernization of Sapporo, one of the most beautiful cities in Japan.

Handball

Did you know- At the 1982 Asian Games in New Delhi (India), the men's handball team won the silver medal, only behind the People's Republic of China (gold).

Volleyball

Did you know- In 1964 the First Olympic Championship was won by Japan. By 1972, the Japanese senior men's national team won the second Olympic gold medal of its history in men's volleyball in the Summer Games in Munich, West Germany. In the gold-medal game, they defeated the German Democratic Republic 3-1. Nonetheless, twenty-four years on, at the Asian Olympic Qualification Tournament in the mid-1990s, the men's volleyball team was eliminated and did not qualify for the 1996 Summer Games in the United States. For the first time, it could not compete in the Olympic Volleyball Tournament. Two years ago, however, Japan, the local squad, had won the gold medal at the Hiroshima Asian Games; this team won the country's only Asian gold that decade. In 2002, they secured the bronze medal, behind South Korea (gold) and Iran (silver). Curiously, the most Asian gold medals won by a national squad is seventh by Japan: Tokyo'58, Jakarta'62, Bangkok '66, Bangkok '70, Tehran'74, and New Delhi '82, and Hiroshima'94.

Moscow Olympics

Did you know- The Xxii Olympiad was boycotted by the Japanese government because of the Soviet invasion of Afghanistan.

Asian Cup Football

Did you know- By 1992, the men's Asian Tournament was won Japan. In the gold-medal game, they dethroned title holders Saudi Arabia (1-0). Eight years on, it complete in first place.

Sports in Japan - From Volleyball to Handball!

Athens 1896-London 2012 - Olympic Surprises

Australia & Oceania

Did you know... From 1960 to 1971, Ron Clarke (Australia) set 19 world records in the 5000m, 10,000m and other long-distance races. Unfortunately, Ron has never won an Olympic gold medal. In the mid-1960s, he said, "The effort is not continuous as it has to be in a race. By running fast lap times and then allowing himself time to recover, an athlete is deceiving himself as to his fitness". He is author of two books: "The Unforgiving Minute" (1966) and "The Lonely Breed" (1967).

London 2012

The United States of America

Did you know... The state of Hawaii has won ten gold medals at the Summer Olympics(1896-2008). It has more Olympic gold medals than Thailand, Venezuela, and Lithuania. The Olympic champions are: Tommy Kono ( weightlifting/ two golds,1952 & 1956), Warren Kealoha (swimming/two golds,1920 & 1924 ), Duke Paoa Kahanamouku (aquatics/ three golds, 1912 & 1920), Bryan Ezra Tsumoru Clay (track & field/ one gold medal, 2008), Buster Crabbe (swimming/ one gold medal, 1932), Herman Ronald Frazier (athletics/ one gold medal, 1976).

At the Winter Olympic Games in New York in 1980, the United States men's ice hockey team won the gold medal. While the final match, the U.S. Team scored a major upset over the Soviet Union (or Ussr), which had won the gold medal in Austria '64, France '68, Japan '72 and Austria'76.

American boxer Muhammad Ali -formerly known as Cassius Clay- failed in the Pan American Games trials in 1959, but he won the gold medal in the light heavyweight (81kg/178 lbs) type at the Games of the Xvii Olympiad in Italy in 1960.

South America

Did you know... The Uruguayan men's basketball team superior to rehearse the Western Hemisphere in the Games of the Xxiiird Olympiad in Los Angeles in 1984. A year ago, Uruguay did not compete at the Pan American Games in Venezuela.

At the 1976 Montreal Games, Brazil won only two bronze medals. Joao Carlos de Oliveira, a world-class sportsman, could not win the gold medal in the triple jump. The South American men's soccer team fulfilled, 4th place-Brazil won the Fifa World Cup in 1958, 1962 and 1970.

Venezuela's Rafael Vidal -who spent any years as a pupil in the United States and was graduated from Florida University- earned the bronze medal in the men's 200m butterfly at the 1984 Summer Games in Los Angeles, California.

Europe

Did you know... Kosovo -it is the youngest country on earth- will compete in London 2008. For political reasons, Kosovo could not share in the 2008 Olympic Games in China. This new nation could share in at least ten sports: athletics, boxing, Kayak/canoeing, gymnastics, shooting, swimming, table tennis, tennis, weightlifting, wrestling...

The British basketball teams have superior for the London 2012. Since 1952, the United Kingdom has never played in the Olympic Games, European tournaments, world championships.The British men's basketball team fulfilled, 20th place at the London Summer Olympic Games in 1948.

In Athens 1896, Paul Neumann became the first swimmer from Austria to win a gold medal.

Three Swiss sportswomen participated in the Olympic Games in 1924. It was the first time Switzerland sent sportswomen to the Summer Olympics...

At the 1896 Olympic Games, Greece -host country- won 10 gold medals and took second place in the unofficial team championships.

Central America

Did you know... Guatemala -an anti-Communist state in the 20th century- did not decline to send an Olympic team to the Olympic Games in the Ussr (currently Russia) in 1980. Honduras, Belize and El Salvador -the other anti-Communist nations in Central America- boycotted the 1980 Moscow Olympics...

North America

Did you know... While the 1904 Olympic Games, the Canadian men's soccer team won the global title. The Olympic winners were: Ernest Linton, John Gourley, Albert Johnston, Thomas Taylor, Alexander Hall, William Twaits, Georges Ducker, Robert Lane, John Fraser, Frederick Steep, Gordon McDonald, Albert Henderson.

Caribbean

Did you know... At the Summer Olympic Games in 1904 in Missouri(Usa), Cuba fulfilled, third in the unofficial team standings, behind the United States and Germany. Ramón Fonst earned three gold medals in fencing events.

In 1975, Hasely Crawford -a sprinter from Trinidad & Tobago- earned silver in the 100m at the Pan American Games in Mexico City. Nine months, at the Games of the Xxi Olympiad in Montreal (Canada), Hasely won the 100m event.

Africa

Did you know... Cameroon -a tropical country on the African continent- sent one competitor to the Winter Games in Salt Lake City, Utah. Isaac Menyoli said, "Everything is wonderful. It's like being in a fantasy. I'm happy to rehearse my country".

In Athens 2004, Kirsty Coventry, a roughly unknown swimmer from Zimbabwe, won the gold medal in the women's 200m backstroke. Curiously, she is an American-educated athlete.
Women's 200m backstroke final:
1.Coventry, Kirsty ( Zimbabwe ) gold medal
2.Hoelzer, Margaret ( Usa ) silver medal
3.Nakamura, Rieko ( Japan ) bronze medal
4.Zueva, Anastasia ( Russia )
5.Beisel, Elisabeth ( Usa )
6.Simmonds, Elizabeth ( United Kingdom )
7.Nay, Meagen ( Australia )
8.Hocking, Belinda ( Australia )

Athens 1896-London 2012 - Olympic Surprises

UK at the Olympics

After the Olympics I have rekindled my belief in this nation to perform well at sport. For years I have been struggling to believe in our nation but recently my opinion has changed. This year our performance in the Olympics was incredible, for once we were actually winning medals! We even broke world records! I couldn't believe it I still have to pinch myself to remember that it was real.

In total we managed to capture 19 gold medals, 13 silver medals and 15 bronze. This is the best we have ever done at an Olympic event. Well it has amazed me that is for sure! Normally our Olympic games are troubled with injury and general failure but not this year. This year we actually got involved and got stuck in!

Olympics 2012

Last night I just watched the US open final which featured a British guy by the name of Andy Murray. I had to stop and think for a moment but then I realised that there is a British guy competing in that as well! I can't believe how much sporting success we have had this year! If only we can perform with similar levels in football then we are there!

In order to keep up the global success the UK had at the Olympics we need to start investing into local communities as much as possible. After the recent Olympics in Beijing everyone has the buzz of getting involved with some sport which is great, now the UK needs to deliver back to the public more than ever. I think we can head into London 2012 with a lot of hope and confidence if this years performance is anything to go by. The UK have adopted a "use or lose it" attitude for funding for sports. Although the UK were very successful in many games this year there were plenty which still told the same old story. Judo was an extremely under-performing sport this year which needs a lot of focus and attention over the coming years.

If the government can get things right now the UK will be enjoying far more success than what we have experienced this year for sure. With a bit of luck the UK will soon become a force to be reckoned with on the national sport circuit. There will be enough 2012 glory to go around for other athletes to not have to pretend they are enjoying it!

UK at the Olympics

Lessons Learned at the Beijing and Athens Olympics

If you are planning on heading to the 2012 Summer Olympics in London you will want to go well prepared. Hav ea look at these lessons I learned after trips to both the Athens and Beijing Olympics.

Travel between the Venues Can Take a Long Time

London 2012

Despite the exquisite communication facilities, extra taxis and fewer quarterly traffic on the roads, travelling between the venues in Beijing could sometimes take an hour or more. The city is just so big and some of the venues were extremely spread out which meant long journeys between events. With this in mind, make sure you plan accordingly. Look at the London 2012 venue map in progress and don't book tickets to events that are on opposite sides of the city unless you have a couple of hours in between.

Tickets Can Be Bought and Sold At the Event

If you didn't get an event you surely wanted to go to or if your country is doing surely well and you want to corollary them, just head to the venue an hour early and ask colse to for tickets. In my experiences there are all the time abundance of tickets on offer, especially if you are willing to pay a bit more for them. Likewise, if you want to unload extra tickets, you should be able to do it before the events starts.

Food Inside the Venues is Terrible

In both China and Greece I would have unbelievable the food to be excellent. Sadly and strangely though, it wasn't. Food inside the venues consisted generally of junk food like cookies and chocolate bars. In Athen the only 'real' food options were pizza and hotdogs and, in Beijing, you could buy mysterious self-heating noodle boxes unblemished with a huge amount of plastic packaging, but only at some of the events. Fortunately, beer was cheap!

Dressing Up Makes everything More Fun

In Beijing, my friend and I made sure to get all geared up for each event. If either of our countries (Australia or Canada) weren't competing, we put on our China t-shirts, hats and flag caps and went in maintain of China. It was a huge crowd pleaser and we met loads of cordial locals this way and made our way into abundance of their photo albums, no doubt. So to spice the whole perceive up, come with a good provide of flags, t-shirts, wigs, face paint, funny hats... Whatever you can think of.

Come prepared to Party

The Olympics are all about sports by day and partying at night. If you want to party, you will all the time have somewhere to do it at any hour of the day. It can be tough to keep up with the pace so go prepared for many sleepless nights and a lot of time spent partying with athletes and other fans from all colse to the world.

Bring Some Items to Trade

Olympic fans love to trade things. either it be the ever favorite pins, flags of your home country, hats, shirts, noisemakers, inflatable hockey sticks and kangaroos... It doesn't matter. If you come with things to trade, you will leave with a lot of appealing souvenirs from all colse to the world.

Lessons Learned at the Beijing and Athens Olympics

Update - 2008 Summer Olympics Mens Basketball Qualifiers

The next week will be an exciting and very important one for basketball players in many countries of the world. That is because it is time to decide who the last 3 teams are that will participate in the Mens Basketball tournament in the Beijing Olympics.

The remaining teams that will be completing for sports over the next week at the FIBA World Olympic Qualifying Tournament for Men in Athens Greece are Cameroon, Cape Verde, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Canada, Lebanon, Korea, Greece, Germany, Croatia, Slovenia, and New Zealand. The tournament will go as follows:

Olympics 2012

The teams are divided into 4 groups with 3 teams in each group. Group A contains Brazil, Greece, and Lebanon. Group B contains New Zealand, Cape Verde, and Germany. Group C contains Slovenia, Korea, and Canada. Group D contains Cameroon, Croatia, and Puerto Rico. Each team will play both of the other teams in its group. The winning team will be awarded 2 points while the losing team is awarded 1 point. The top 2 teams in each group will then advance to a single elimination tournament.

The two teams that win the semifinals of the tournament advance to the Olympics. The two teams that lose in the semifinals will play each other and the winner will fill the last spot in the Olympics.

The three teams that advance in the qualifying tournament will join Angola, USA, Argentina, Iran, Russia, Lithuania, Australia, Spain, and China for the Mens Basketball tournament in the 2008 Olympics in Beijing.

Best of luck to all of the participating teams May the best teams advance.

!!Update: The tournament is now over and the teams that advanced the tournament are Greece, Croatia, and Germany!!

Update - 2008 Summer Olympics Mens Basketball Qualifiers

Olympic Sport List - The Most Highly Recognized Sports Events on the Planet

The Olympics are the most highly recognized sports events on the planet. Taking place summer and winter every four years, the Olympics draw huge numbers of spectators and a television audience that is unrivaled.

There are a number of sports on the list that might sound familiar, and others that might be surprising.

Olympics 2012

Olympic Sport List: Summer Water Sports

Aquatics include four separate disciplines - swimming, diving, water polo and synchronized swimming.

Diving has been apart of the Olympics since 1904 when it was introduced at the St. Louis Games. Swimming is an Olympic sport with a great number of events. Since 1912, women have been able to participate. Synchronized swimming is an event that is contested both individually and as a duet. Water Polo has been apart of the Olympics list since 1900; however, women have only been able to participate since the year 2000.

Canoeing is broken into two events - slalom canoeing and flatwater. The boats used for this event include a canoe and a kayak. The kayak can hold between one and four kayakers.

Rowing has a rich Olympic tradition, having been a part of the lineup since 1900; lightweight rowing was introduced to the Olympics in 1996.

Sailing is a popular event that debuted in Paris at the turn of the century. Initially it was a men's sport, made up of 10 events. It took until 1992 for women to become a part of this sport.

Olympic Sport List: Summer Group Sports

Badminton is a fun and exciting sport to watch. It was a late entry into the Olympic world, having first been played in Barcelona in 1992.

Basketball has been a part of the Olympics since 1936.

Field Hockey became an Olympic staple in 1908 and was briefly removed from the list in 1924. In 1928 it was returned when Pakistan and India were champions.

Football, surprisingly, involves both men and women's events. Football has been a part of every Olympiad except for the years 1896 and 1932.

The Chinese have always heavily dominated Table Tennis. There are singles and doubles events and it has been a part of the summer roster since 1988.

Tennis has a long-standing relationship with the Olympics and has been a part of the tradition since 1896.

Volleyball is separated into two distinct disciplines, beach and indoor volleyball.

Olympic Sport List: Summer Individual Games

Archery has been an event since 1900.

Athletics are separated into many events such as relay races, hurdles, various meter races, long and high jumps, pole vaulting, shot put and more. Both men and women are involved in Athletics.

Boxing has been an Olympic event since 1904 and will be open to female contestants starting in the 2012 games.

Cycling is separated into four disciplines: mountain biking, track cycling, BMX and road cycling. Open to both men and women cyclers, this event has been a part of the Olympiad tradition since 1896.

Equestrian include the disciplines Jumping, Eventing and Dressage and has been part of the Olympics since 1900.

Regardless of the event, every Olympic sport requires extreme discipline, endurance and dedication by its participators.

Olympic Sport List - The Most Highly Recognized Sports Events on the Planet

Olympic Facts - 2008 Olympic Football Tournament

Great Britain did not qualify for the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing. It won three Olympic titles: Paris 1900, London 1908 and Stockholm 1912. In 2012, Great Britain will serve as organizer of the Olympic Games.

The Brazilian Olympic football team will go to Beijing looking forward the first gold medal. This team will no doubt be the nucleus of the nation's squad for the 2014 FIFA World Cup. Brazil did not compete in the Olympic football tournament 13 times: Paris 1900, Saint Louis 1904, London 1908, Stockholm 1912, Antwerp 1920, Paris 1924, Amsterdam 1928, Berlin 1936, London 1948, Melbourne 1956, Moscow 1980, Barcelona 1992, Athens 2004.

Olympics 2012

From 1952 to 2004, Hungary has won 5 Olympic medals, including 3 golds. It has more gold medals than Brazil (3), Argentina (3) and Nigeria (1).

The Honduran men's national team will travel to Beijing to attend the Olympics. Honduras will make its first appearance in the Peoples Republic of China. Tegucigalpa does not have full diplomatic relations with Beijing. Honduras won the 2008 CONCACAF Olympic Qualification Tournament in Nashville, Tennessee (USA). This Central American country surprised the world with its triumph...

Belgium has had famous football players: Wilfried van Moer, Raoul Lambert, Ruddy Smidts, Marc Emers, Danny Boffin, Marc Degryse and Marc Wilmost. In 1920, Belgium won the Olympic title.

Cote d'Ivoire -also known as Ivory Coast- qualified for the 2008 Olympics. This African team representing Africa at the 2006 FIFA World Championships in Germany. It is one of the best teams in Africa. "We are one of the few African countries to have an organized youth league. Great players have always come out of the Ivory Coast; I'm thinking of Laurent Pokou in the 1970s; and Youssou Fofana in the 1980s. But now the footballing infrastructure is much better and so many youngsters are getting the right coaching", said Henri Michel (former coach of the Cote d'Ivoire national soccer team). Ivory Coast won the African Cup of Nations in 1992.

Argentina has famous coaches: Cesar Luis Menotti, Carlos Salvador Bilardo, Daniel Passarella, Ramon Diaz, Jose Peckerman, Marcelo Bielsa...

The Serbian men's national team will travel to Beijing for its first Olympics. Football is the most popular sport in Serbia (formerly Serbia & Montenegro).

Mexico did not qualify for the 2008 Olympics. It competed in the Olympic Soccer Tournament 8 times: London 1948, Tokyo 1964, Mexico City 1968, Munich 1972, Montreal 1976, Barcelona 1992, Atlanta 1996, Athens 2004.

The People's Republic of China made its debut at the 1988 Summer Olympic Games in South Korea...

Argentina -FIFA 1978 world champion and junior world champion- boycotted the 1980 Summer Olympics in Moscow. It had won the South American Olympic Football Qualification Tournament. Argentina was replaced by Venezuela.

The Italians are Europe's best hope of reaching the finals. Italy won the gold medal at the 1936 Summer Olympic Games in Berlin. This European country is well known for its great tradition in soccer.

Brazil will have both its soccer teams (women and men) at Beijing 2008.

South Korea will in China to participate in the Olympics. It competed in the Olympic Football Tournament 7 times.

Nigeria is one of the favourites to win the men's Olympic Soccer tournament. The national team won the gold medal at the Centennial Olympic Games in Atlanta, USA. Nigeria defeated Argentina 3-2 and won the Olympic title for the first time. This African country received an invitation to play in the Olympics in 1980 in Moscow (USSR/ currently Russia). Sunnie Ephraim (journalist from Lagos) says: "Qualifying for the Games is one thing; doing well and winning the gold medal as seen in Atlanta, United States 11 years ago is different ball game altogether.

Argentina is one of the hot favorites for the Olympic title. Why? This Latin American country won the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2007(for the second time in a row). Argentina also won the gold medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Athens (Greece). Final standings: 1.Argentina, 2.Paraguay, 3.Italy, 4.Iraq, 5.Mali, 6.South Korea, 7.Australia, 8.Costa Rica. The Argentine team won four matches in the group "C" (Serbia-Montenegro 6-0, Tunisia 2-0, Australia 1-0). In the quarterfinals, Argentina defeating Costa Rica 4-0. In the semifinals, Argentina beat Italy 3-0 and went on to win the final against Paraguay 1-0. The Olympic champions were Mariano Gonzales, Luciano Figueroa, Javier Saviola, German Lux, Wilfredo Caballero, Roberto Ayala, Fabricio Coloccini, Gabriel Heinze, Clemente Rodríguez, Leandro Fernandez, Javier Mascherano, Cristian Gonzalez, Nicolas Medina, Cesar Delgado, Carlos Tevez, Mauro Rosales.

Soccer/ football was first featured at the 1900 Olympic Games.There were nine different champions in the last nine Olympic Games: Poland (Munich 1972), East Germany (Montreal 1976), Czechoslovakia (Moscow 1980), France (Los Angeles 1984), USSR (Seoul 1988), Spain (Barcelona 1992), Nigeria (Atlanta 1996) and Argentina (Athens 2004).

The 1976 Olympic Soccer Tournament were attended by 13 nations: North Korea, Iran, Cuba, Guatemala, Israel, France, Mexico, Canada, Spain, Brazil, USSR/ Soviet Union, Poland and East Germany. Surprisingly, Uruguay -it was replaced by Cuba- did not participate in the 1976 Montreal Olympics. Zambia, Nigeria and Nigeria had withdrawn from the Olympics, due to participation of New Zealand.

In the Beijing 2008 Olympic Football Tournament 16 men's teams will compete in four groups:

Group "A": Argentina (South America/ winner of the previous edition), Cote d'Ivoire (Africa), Australia (Oceania), Serbia (Europe).

Group "B": Holland (Europe), Nigeria (Africa), Japan (Asia), USA.

Group "C": China (host country), New Zealand (Oceania), Brazil (South America), Belgium (Europe).

Group "D": South Korea (Asia), Cameroon (Africa), Honduras (Central America), Italy (Europe).

Olympic Facts - 2008 Olympic Football Tournament

Cheap Hotels for London Olympic Games

Since March 15th you can apply for tickets for the London Olympic Games. This means that population are already going to start searching for cheap hotels. Not all websites will let you book so far in advance. However if you hunt considered or book with the hotels directly you might get yourself a beyond doubt cheap room rate.

There is no guarantee of receiving Olympic Games tickets just because you have applied. Although if you have sent off your application, I would urge you to start reasoning about accommodation. population without Olympic Games tickets will voyage to London just to soak up the atmosphere and they will need cheap hotels too.

London 2012

The Olympic Games takes place in 33 venues in total. The main venues are situated within central London but other venues are placed as far away as Windsor, Essex and Weymouth. Thankfully the 17,000 athletes heading for the London event, will not be finding for cheap hotels. They will be staying in the purpose built athletes village. After the games the athletes community will be transformed into 2800 new homes for east London.

The Olympic Stadium will be the centre of the Summer 2012 Olympics. The stadium will have a capacity of practically 80,000 people. This will make it the third largest stadium in Britain behind Wembley Stadium and Twickenham. After the Olympic games Tottenham Hotspurs and West Ham United are concerned in using the venue for their own stadium. A decision still has to be made.

So where is the best hotel to stay during the Olympic Games? If you are finding for a cheap hotel which is placed near to the Olympic Stadium, you need to be finding for hotels which are placed in the east of London. Holiday Inn is the lawful hotel service providers to London 2012 Olympics. The Holiday Inn Stratford is an ideal choice. The hotel is situated a mere fifteen exiguous walk from the lawful stadium. The hotel is well served by social transport. An underground middle point is situated less than 2 miles away. The chamber provides excellent value for money and is ideal if you are travelling with a family.

If you still want a cheap rate but are finding for something a exiguous more upmarket then think hotels in the Docklands area. Pick from many well known hotels chains such as Marriott, Radisson, Hilton and Crowne Plaza.

Another chamber alternative might be to think booking an apartment. think the Town Hall luxury apartments in Bethnal Green. The apartments are very upmarket but if you book early you might be able to get a cheap rate. The apartments were renovated in 2010. On site facilities include a restaurant, bar, pool, gym and spa.

I beyond doubt hope the London Olympics will give a much needed boost to the British economy. The event is improbable to attract tens of thousands of extra visitors. It looks like the British hoteliers are going to be very successful, even if the British athletes are not!

Cheap Hotels for London Olympic Games

The Olympic Games Bring the World Closer Together and That's a Good Thing!

Not long ago, I was talking with an acquaintance in London about the 2012 Olympic Games, and we both agreed how leading the Olympic Games are from a humanitarian standpoint, as it helps bridge the political, cultural, religious, and theoretical divides. The long-term benefits from both the hosting countries, and the visitors are immense. Surely, these games have had a distinct impact on the world, and our combined histories. But, not all can be said to be so warm and fuzzy as my international acquaintance reminds us;

"That said, however, I believe the cost of hosting the games are exorbitant and not sufficiently communicated to the populace of the bidding cities ahead of the tender process."

London Olympic

Yes, he is speaking of the challenges of cost over runs in London leading up to the 2012 Olympic Games, and the Iocs International Olympic Committee's oversight and rules. Okay so, in hindsight he'd be spoton when addressing concerns Olympic costs and how they work on a capitalistic or free-society, where the citizens pick and vote on issues of national expenditures, taxation, and the like - as those issues have come into more than sufficient controversy over the years.

But, in Dictatorship or Communist countries, well it doesn't matter, as what those in fee say goes, "the state knows best" motif and you can like it or die basically. Okay so, in the capitalist nations bidding on the Olympics, what we need to growth the transparency and facts flow, true accounting upfront. Maybe the Ioc needs to make this an "additional criteria" to the bidding because for them it matters what the host country's citizen has to say.

If the host country's citizens are pissed off then, tourists will not be greeted with the warmth which would have fostered hereafter tour or distinct benefits for trade, political ties, or friendships. Plus, the negative media will be played world-wide, which is not so good either, as it puts a black mark on the event, and hosting country, not to mention the Ioc itself - and hereafter bidding and award decisions. My acquaintance also notes that if hosting the Olympic Games leaves a bad taste in mouth's of the citizen of the hosting country, ultimately this will seriously detract from the Olympic Brand.

Indeed, this is touchy topic, and yet, it is leading for hosting nations and their citizens to address up front. I hope you will please think all this and think on it. You may email me with comments, questions, or concerns as usual.

The Olympic Games Bring the World Closer Together and That's a Good Thing!

London tour - Top Things to Do in London

When in London make sure you don't miss these London highlights.

2012 Olympic Games will be held in London on 27 July-12 Aug 2012, which makes London the first city to hold the Olympic Games three times, having hosted the games previously in 1908 and 1948. The 2012 Paralympic Games will be held on 29 Aug-9 Sept 2012.

London 2012

Original London Sightseeing Tour (Hop-on Hop-off Bus Tour) is an open-top double-decker bus for visitors to enjoy London's most predominant attractions on 3 tour routes. The tours visit Buckingham Palace, Big Ben, The London Dungeon, St Paul's Cathedral, Tower of London, Covent Garden, Ripley's Believe It Or Not, Madame Tussauds, Shakespeare's Globe, The London Eye, London Bridge, London Aquarium, and Westminster Abbey. The Museum Tour gives you easy access to many of London's top Museums, shops and attractions such as Kensington Palace, Natural History Museum, Science Museum, Victoria & Albert Museum, Harrods, Harvey Nichols, Ritz Hotel, Piccadilly Circus, British Museum, Royal Albert Hall, Albert Memorial, & the Princess Diana Memorial Fountain.

Trafalgar square is thought about the centre of London and home to Nelson's Column which was completed in 1843 to commemorate Admiral Nelson's victory over Napoleon off Cape Trafalgar, Spain in 1805. To the north of the square is the National Gallery and to the south-east is Admiralty Arch, built to honour Queen Victoria. Beyond the Arch is The Mall foremost to Buckingham Palace.

Whitehall is the avenue, foremost from Trafalgar square to Parliament Square, lined with government buildings and is the town of British government. Along Whitehall is Downing street, the site of the Prime Minister's home. Further along is Big Ben, the predominant tower clock, the Houses of Parliament and Westminister Abbey setting for royal coronations since 1066 and most recently that of Queen Elizabeth Ii in 1953.

The Tower of London dates from 1078 and was London's primary royal fortress. In the middle ages the Tower of London acted as a royal residence, treasury, mint and a prison. Settled near the Tower Bridge on the Thames River, the Tower is a very favorite tourist attraction where visitors can view the Crown Jewels, the various towers, Armouries, Barracks, Chapel and the tower green where seven people (including two of his wives) were beheaded while the reign of King Henry Viii.

Tower Bridge is the predominant 19th century bridge over the Thames River Settled by the Tower of London. The bridge was an architectural and engineering marvel featuring a drawbridge so tall-masted ships could pass underneath. Tourists can take the Tower Bridge touch to visit the north tower and motor room to learn how the bridge is operated.

Hms Belfast is a large, light cruiser naval ship that was built in Belfast, Ireland and launched in 1938. The Belfast served in many theatres of war while Wwii and the Korean War. The ship is moored on the Thames near the Tower Bridge and open to visitors.

The London Eye is a large Ferris observation wheel Settled on the South Bank of the Thames River giving visitors spectacular views over London.

London Dungeon is a gruesome touch of London's past where visitors can learn about and see reconstructions of executions, the French Guillotine in action, Jack the Ripper's handiwork and various other ingenious methods of torture.

Winston Churchill's Britain at War touch is an educational attraction about World War Ii. Visitors are taken into a reconstruction of an incommunicable middle point and expand straight through rooms displaying wartime themes emerging into a shop that has been destroyed by a bomb.

Shakespeare's Globe & Exhibition is the reconstructed Globe Theatre popularised by William Shakespeare and an exhibition on Elizabethan London.

Buckingham Palace is the lawful London abode of the Queen and the most predominant palace in London. Settled at the end of The Mall, the palace was built in 1803 for the Duke of Buckingham and has been the London home for the royal family since 1837. Open for tours while the summer months only. Changing of the Guard takes place on the forecourt of Buckingham Palace every day at 11.30am while summer and on odd days the rest of the year.

Charles Dickens' House, Settled at 49 Doughty road Wc1, is where he wrote his predominant novels - Oliver Twist, The Pickwick Papers and Nicholas Nickleby.

St Paul's Cathedral was built by Sir Christopher Wren between 1675 and 1710, after the 1666 Great Fire of London. The walkway nearby the base of the dome has such good acoustics that it forms a "Whispering Gallery." The stairs continue to the Stone Gallery and up to the Golden Gallery for one of the best views over central London.

London Imax Cinema is the largest in Europe screening 2-D and 3-D movies and documentaries.

London Aquarium is one of the largest in Europe featuring a wide range of maritime life along with sharks and a coral reef display.

The London Eye, also known as the 'Millenium Wheel', is one of the world's largest Ferris wheels with 32 enclosed gondolas that give visitors spectacular views over the capital. [Operates daily, opposite Big Ben and Houses of Parliament]

Kensington Palace dates from 1605 and has been the home of many royals along with Princess Margaret and Princess Diana. Queen Victoria was born here in 1819. Visitors can take a tour of the State Apartments from 10am to 5pm daily.

Hampton Court Palace was built in 1514 and became the abode of King Henry Viii. The palace has a long history and visitors can tour the stately rooms and get lost in the predominant 300 year old maze.

Madame Tussaud's is the predominant and very favorite wax museum exhibiting movie stars, pop stars, world leaders and the royal family. The Spirit of London taxi ride takes visitors straight through a summary of London's history while the accommodation of Horrors displays the darker side to human nature.

London Planetarium is Settled next to Madame Tussaud's and has wax figures of great scientists as well as a great show of the stars and planets.

As you can see there is a lot to do in London - one visit will not be enough!

London tour - Top Things to Do in London

London 2012 Olympics

London is gearing up as the Olympics 2012 is nearing. Just 17 months left for London to show the world its excellence in hosting the Olympics for the third time. It is an honor for the Brits as the capital city is going to host the Olympic Games after 64 years beating Moscow, New York City, Madrid and Paris.

London is a city that has lots of traveler traffic. And, 2012 is going to be huge! Organizers are pulling out all the stops in preparing and putting on the grand event of 2012 in their capital city. Building in the city, enhancement of transportation, Building and remodeling of hotels, arrangements for easy access to distinct facilities and local establishments for entertainment are lasting at a fast pace to ensure that the 2012 Olympics in London go down in history as one of the best ever!

London 2012

With international travellers heading to London for the Olympics, transportation and chamber is being worked out at utmost importance. access to all parts of the city and also the Uk is enhanced through group and underground transportation. underground vehicle clubs are working to ensure that they can adapt passengers in their vehicles. The grounds and stadiums are undergoing maintenance. Security measures are best set in place visitors and players alike.

With notable attractions throughout the city, visitors can have great time during the breaks they take from watching the games. With 80,000 seats, the tickets for the games are improbable to be sold soon. So, accommodation, trip and tickets are going to be competitive unless planned in advance. Instead of going for extremely costly charges at the last minute, great make arrangements in advance. Plan your agenda and start working on it.

Hotels are getting booked fast. So, make sure you book early for an airport hotel or hotel close to the Olympic Stadium. It's going to be busy between July 27, 2012 and August 12, 2012. So, do not delay. Make a decision to which airport to land, what mode of vehicle to use, where to stay, where to visit for pleasure, where to have appetizing food and shop distinct goods and accessories. London presents to you the best in all ranges. So, you can make your trip more memorable by preplanning your days in London and staying free without any hassles. Get started... London is the ideal place for all expectations...Have your desires fulfilled in London...

London 2012 Olympics

Olympics 2012 - The Best Yet

The Olympics have changed a itsybitsy bit since the first games in 776Bc when a naked cook named Coroebus became the first Olympian by winning the only event scheduled, the Stade which is a race of about 210 yards. Since that historic event the Olympics were held every fours years for over 1200 years only to be abolished in 393Ce by the Christian emperor Theodosios I who believed the Olympics wreaked of Pagan influences. Luckily, 1500 years later a Frenchman by the name of Pierre De Coubertin had the proximity of mind to revitalize and begin a new era for the Olympics.

Since then the games have had their trials and tribulations but they have come to be the moniker of the importance of competitive sports events in fostering pride in one's country. The 2012 Olympics are inescapable to be the best games ever held. The addition of new sports and the technological advancements of bringing the games into every house in the world will make the games one of the most watched events in history. Being able to take part in cheering on the Olympians gives population throughout the world excitement and wonder watching the competitors give their all and push their talents and their bodies to the ultimate test.

London 2012

The originators of the Olympics back in 776 Bc would be proud of where the games have gone. The basic installation is the same to push athletes to their max, but the games themselves have come to be an international harbinger of good will. Sure, there are occasionally spats between countries where one country or someone else has withdrawn or is banned from attending, but broad it has been a good natured way for countries to compete against each other for fun and fascination. The games have been the stuff dreams are made of for those who are good sufficient to compete.

You can bet that even as you read this, preparations are already being made in London for the 2012 Olympic games. And, that is someone else thing the Olympic games offer, their host cities always get an economic boost from the games and come to be a part of competitive athletic history. The Olympic grounds of any country come to be permanent reminders of these remarkable historical events steeped in challenge and victory. Londoners are already ramped up and excited about hosting the world and showing off their city to all the athletes and fans. Soon it will be here. Come on the 2012 Olympics, I cant wait!

Olympics 2012 - The Best Yet

Hotels in Central London Are Consistently Maintaining the inheritance of British Crown

London is the oldest city which is constantly maintaining its glorifying history. Practically thousand years ago from the era of commercial revolution, London has been maintaining its identification as global trade centre which can be seen today in form of its diversified society. Approximately, 300 languages are spoken and 50 non-indigenous communities are living there and hence it is known as 'city of cities'. Even today, it is the prime centre for finance, education, law, accountancy and so on.

Today, millions of visitors like students, lawyers, businessmen and many more are coming to London and it is clear to understand that dissimilar people have dissimilar budgets for the tour. Students may have lesser funds than a businessman. Every person wants to stay close to the place where they want to visit. Hence, central London hotels are the first choice for everyone. Central London is close to varied celebrated destinations like St. Paul's cathedral, tower of London, Tower Bridge, house of parliament, Buckingham palace and many more. These are prime tourist centers and Practically all tourists come to these places. Top museums and galleries are also situated in this area like Madame Tussaud's, the British museum, the national gallery and so on. All hotels in central London are perfectly aware with the need of tourists. So they offer collection of alternates.

London 2012

These hotels offer exquisite value for money. Up-to-date statistical reports recommend that London tourism is earning Practically £15 billion every year. Cozy-comfort room with amazing cuisine in the hotels is one of the key factors of rapidly growing London tourism.

2012 Olympic is a very special event and hotels in central London are also gearing up to welcome millions of first time visitors. They are thought about to make very special and memorable visit of all visitors with their world class services.

Central London hotels are representing the heritage of London. It gives the feel of royal and rich culture of great London to its visitors. Five or seven star hotels are right on ready to mesmerize their customers and if one can not afford it than funds hotels are also gearing up for mesmerizing them with the low cost and best services.

Many headquarters of dissimilar business organizations are based in central London. So central London hotels are automatically become the centre of attraction to those tourists who are coming here with business purposes. These hotels are also ready to supply them the best seminar rooms and frequent shuttle services to all business locations. business trips are very tedious and these hotels understand it perfectly. Hence, they offer all possible facilities of recreation to supply special yoga facilities and spa services. These services are also available for other tourist with the cheap price.

London tourism is rapidly growing and in effect it may be the estimate one tourist hub up to 2012 Olympic and central London will remain the key spot due to its prime location. If central London hotels could mesmerize and drive first time visitors to come again and again then it would be exquisite success for them.

Hotels in Central London Are Consistently Maintaining the inheritance of British Crown

Sports in Bermuda - The World's Smallest Olympic Island!

Road to London 2012!

Brian Wellman

London 2012

Did you know- By 1992,Brian Wellman of Bermuda came in fifth place in the men's triple jump at the Xxv Olympic Games in Barcelona (Spain). His execution made him the Island's most excellent athlete. In the next Olympiad, he was one of the world's six best triple jumpers.

Debbie Jones

Did you know- By the mid-1970s,the Island's sprinter Debbie Jones took first place in the women's 100m, ahead of Ela Cabrejas (Cuba) and Lelith Hodges (Jamaica), at the Central American and Caribbean Tournament in San Juan de Puerto Rico.

Football

Did you know- By 1967, the men's soccer team from Bermuda was runner-up at the 5th Pan American Games in Winnipeg, Manitoba (Canada), behind only Mexico (gold medal).

Jennifer Fisher

Did you know- By the mid-1990s, Jennifer Fisher closed in sixth in the 800m (2:05.62) and seventh in the 1500m (4:29,77) in the Pan American Games in Mar del Plata, Argentina.

Mexico 1975

Did you know- By October 1975, the Island sent 14 athletes, four of them were women, to Mexico City to compete in the Vii Pan American Games. Curiously, the national team was one of the smallest delegations in the international Games. They competed in athletics (11), boxing (1), and pilotage (2). Ironically, Clarence Hills, the Island's most respected athlete, did not go to Mexico.

Montreal 1976

Did you know- 1976 was a extra year for Bermuda. Why? That year Bermuda had its first (and only) Olympic medal in history, ahead of Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Burma and a host of nations. By July 1976, the Island's boxer Clarence Hills won a bronze medal at the Montreal Summer Olympics. Ironically he did not compete at the 1975 Pan American Games in the United Mexican States, the most leading pre-Olympic event in the Americas. Like Gina Swaison (1979 Miss World) and Jennifer Smith (former Prime Minister),Mr Hills is a hero in Bermuda,a gorgeous island settled in the Atlantic North.

Munich 1972

Did you know- The Island sent a team of 11 athletes to Munich (Germany) to participate in the Summer Olympics in August and September 1972. Bermuda - one of the world's most carport and peaceful islands-competed in three Olympic sports: boxing (1), rowing (1), and pilotage (9).

Pan American Games

Did you know- Toward the end of the 1950s, Bermuda made its Pan American debut when it sent an Olympic team to the Pan American Games in Chicago (Usa).

Softball

Did you know- The women's softball team of Bermuda won the right to compete in the 1974 World Championship in Stratford, Usa.

Spain 1992

Did you know- By the early 1990s,Bermuda's athlete Clarence Saunders took fifth place in the men's high jump in the Games of the Xxv Olympiad in Barcelona (Spain). Together with Brian Wellman (triple jump), he was one of Bermuda's most popular athletes in the late 1980s and early 1990s.

Sports

Did you know- the most popular sports in the Island are soccer, cricket, softball, equestrian, athletics, sailing, and swimming.

Sydney 2000

Did you know- Lee White and Peter Bromby (sailing) came in fourth place in the Games of the 27th Olympiad in Australia.

Sports in Bermuda - The World's Smallest Olympic Island!

Sports & Women - The Peruvian Volleyball Team!

Road to London 2012!

1986 Goodwill Games

London Olympic

Did you know- At the 1986 Goodwill Games in Moscow, Ussr (now Russia), the women's volleyball squad, led by its world-class player Cecilia Tait Villacorta, came close to winning the gold medal. In the final, Peru (South American champion) lost 3-0 to the Soviet Union (Olympic gold medal in 1980). The Ussr and Peru were followed by America (bronze medal), Japan, North Korea, Czechoslovakia, East Germany, West Germany, in that order. The Peruvian volleyball team included 14 athletes: Cecilia Tait (1.82m), Rosa García (1.74m), Denisse Fajardo (1.71m), Gina Torrealba (1.74m), Natalia Malaga (1.71m), Sonia Heredia (1.74m), Luisa Cervera (1.74m), Gabriela Pérez del Solar (1.94m), Miriam Gallardo (1.80m), Cecilia Arostegui (1.76m), Sonia Ayaucam (1.75m), Miriam Lazo (1.71m), Margarita Delgado (1.76m), and Katherine Horny (1.84m). Toward the end of 1986, surprisingly, the Peruvian team fulfilled, third -- ahead of East Germany, Ussr, and Brazil-- in the Women's Volleyball World Cup in Prague, Czechoslovakia. On the other hand, Peru's athlete Denisse Fajardo, who played in Europe, was named one of the most excellent players.

Pan American Games

Did you know- The women's volleyball team of Peru picked up a silver medal in the 7th Pan American Games, which were held in Mexico City in October 1975. That year they also won the South American Championship in Asunción (Paraguay). In the final match, Peru beat Brazil. The Peruvian players were Mercedes Gónzales, Gaby Cardenas, Teresa Nuñez, Irma Cordero, Ana Cecilia Carrillo, Esperanza Hogan, Delia Córdero, Juana Flores, Luisa Fuentes, Ana Maria Ramirez, Maria Cervera, and Maruja Ostolaza.

Peru Vs Puerto Rico

Did you know- In October 1975, Peru routed Puerto Rico 3-0 (15-0, 15-8, 15-1). At that time, the women's volleyball squad of Puerto Rico was one of the 10 best teams in the Americas. Thirty-four years later, Puerto Rico beat Peru 3-0 (25-17, 15-19, 25-23).In that year, by 2009, Peru was one of the seven best teams in the continent of the Americas. In 2002, the Puerto Rican team came in 12th place in the global event, among 24 teams; meanwhile the Peruvian women's team did not grand for the 2002 World Championships.

Gabriela Pérez del Solar Cuculiza

Did you know- By 1993, the women's volleyball team of Peru, led by Gabriela Pérez del Solar Cuculiza, defeated Brazil (4th place in the Olympic Games in 1992) 3-1 and won the South American Tournament. Meanwhile, Pérez del Solar was named the tournament's most critical player. Under coach Man Bok Park's faithful training, she became one of the world's best volleyball players between 1985 and 1993.

Sports & Women - The Peruvian Volleyball Team!

Tokyo Bid For The 2016 Olympic Games

Despite Chicago being carefully the front-runner for the 2016 summer Olympics, the city of Tokyo in Japan is distinct that they will gather the athletic spectacle. Their reliance and hopes are placed in manufacture a bid for the 'compact' games; all the venues will be within a six mile radius. Athletes will be housed in the customary village, composing of five high-rise buildings, and a 100,000 seat Stadium set on the Tokyo waterfront will be the feature of the bid.

On Friday 14th September, one day after the deadline for submitting formal applications passed, the Ioc announced that it had received applications from the cities of: Chicago, Baku (Azerbajan), Doha (Qatar), Madrid (Spain), Prague (Czech Republic), Rio de Janeiro (Brazil) and Tokyo.

London Olympic

The Japanese capital's bid is being led by exuberant nationalist Shintaro Ishihara who used the Olympic bid as a key choice manifesto item while running for his third term in April's elections. Now that he has successfully been re-elected the Olympic bid is in full flow. The flamboyant politician and president of the 2016 Olympic bid said: "winning the bid will be no easy task, but Tokyo is carefully to demonstrate its quality to successfully host the games, and will vigorously promote the bid campaign with the full withhold of the government and the public."

However, Shiro Asana who lost out in the choice to Ishihara is not so convinced that hosting the 2106 games in such a good idea. He said: "My concerns are with the cost and timings. I don't believe that the Ioc will wish to return to Asia so soon after the Beijing games. That's why it is too risky to spend any valuable sums on any bid at this point." In what may sound like bitter words after losing out to his political rival, Asana at his press consulation in a hotel in Tokyo added: "this has more to do with Ishihara's ego than attractive Japan's youth, as he claims."

Despite Asana's fears about cost, under the Olympic plans only two new competition venues are specifically slated to be built for the games, and Japan's central government has offered to pay half the total building costs.

However, Tokyo is still carefully an exterior bet to host the games. Even though the city boasts the valuable estimate of existing venues, many were used in the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games and will need thorough and high-priced renovation; something that the Japanese government will not help with. Plus, there is the Ishihara factor to declare with; even though he may be beloved in his homeland many of his comments have angered his neighbours in Asia, and he is unlikely to win any withhold for the games from them.

Tokyo Bid For The 2016 Olympic Games

Olympic Facts - 2008 Olympic Baseball Tournament

Did you know...

Twelve nations have considerable for the Olympic Baseball Tournament in Beijing : The People's Republic of China (host country), Cuba (Olympic champion), Canada, South Korea, Taiwan, Holland (European champion), Japan (Asian champion) and the United States (world champion).

London 2012

From 1992 to 2004, 15 teams have played at least one men's Olympic baseball tournament: Australia (Atlanta'1996, Sydney'2000, Athens'2004), Canada (Athens' 2004), Taiwan/Chinese Taipei (Barcelona'1992 & Athens'2004), Cuba (Barcelona'1992, Atlanta'1996, Sydney'2000, Athens'2004), Dominican Republic (Barcelona'1992), Greece (Athens'2004), Italy (Barcelona'1992, Atlanta'1996, Sydney'2000, Athens'2004), Japan (Barcelona'1992, Atlanta'1996, Sydney'2000, Athens'2004), South Korea / Republic of Korea ( Atlanta'1996 & Sydney 2000), Holland / Netherlands (Atlanta'1996, Sydney'2000, Athens'2004), Nicaragua (Atlanta'1996), Puerto Rico (Barcelona'1992), South Africa (Sydney'2000), Spain (Barcelona'1992) and the United States (Barcelona'1992, Atlanta'1996, Sydney'2000).

The United States is determined a beloved to win the Olympic title. Why? This North American country won the gold medal at the 2007 World Championships. It also won the gold medal at the 2006 American Olympic Qualification  in Havana, Cuba. In 2008, the Usa baseball team defeated Cuba 4-1 for the second time at the Baseball Tournament in Haarlem (Holland). The American Olympic players are: Stephen Strasburg, Mike Minor, Brett Anderson, Jeff Steven, Colby Rasmus, Brandon Knight, Jake Arrieta,Trevor Cahill, Geno Espineli, Kevin Jepsen, Mike Koplove, Neal Blaine, Casey Weathers, Richard Clayton, Mattheew Brown, Mike Hesman, Matt La Porta, Dexter Fowler.

Baseball will not be on the Olympic agenda in London '2012...

The Puerto Rican national baseball team did not qualify for the Olympic Games in China. This Caribbean island  has more international titles than Nicaragua, Japan and Taiwan. For example, Puerto Rico won the World Cup in 1951. Furthermore, it is the birthplace of Roberto Clemente, one of the best players in the history.

Cuba -national sport - considerable for the Olympic Games in Bejing. But there is disappointment with the current level of the national team. Many Cubans believe that Cuba will not be an Olympic champion.Why? This Caribbean nation did not win the Baseball Tournament in Haarlem (Holland). From 2006 to 2008, Cuba has lost any games against the United States. Certainly, Cuba is not beloved to win the Olympic title. However, Fidel Alejandro Castro Ruz - old dictator of the Cuban revolution- wrote: "The fanatics were upset due to the hard setback on Sunday (when Cuba lost the title in Holland). But the sword says it all:fanatics!. They forget that our team is now in South Korea, a country where we do not even have an embassy. There, our athletes continue to train. Anyway, they are not the ones who deserve the strongest criticisms. They will be taking part in the Olympic Games that will be held on the other side of the world, where sleeping hours and life pace are different. They have an intense agenda of corporeal training with a view to the last presentation of this sport at the Olympics..."

This sport was a demonstration sport at the 1984 Summer Olympics.  Players from 8 countries participated: Italy, Dominican Republic, Taiwan, Usa, Canada, Nicaragua, Japan and South Korea.

Canada won the bronze medal at the 1999 Pan American Games.

This sport was a demonstration sport at the 1988 Summer Olympic Games in Seoul (South Korea). Final standings:

1.United States
2.Japan
3.Puerto Rico
4.South Korea
5.Canada
6.Australia
7.Netherlands
8.Chinese Taipei

From 1992 to 2007, many Cuban baseball players have defected: Osvaldo Fernandez Rodriguez (Olympic gold medalist, 1992), Orlando Hernadez Pedroso (Olympic gold medalist, 1992), Luis Rolando Arrojo Avila (Olympic gold medalist, 1992), Jose Ariel Contreras Camejo (Olympic gold medalist, 1996) and Alexei Ramirez Rodriguez (Olympic gold medalist, 2004)....

Chinese-Taipei won the gold medal at the 2006 Asian Games in Doha, Qatar.

Australia did not qualify for the Olympic Games in the People's Republic of China. This country won the silver medal at the 2004 Olympic Games in Greece. The silver medalists were:Rodney van Buizen, Craig Anderson, Thomas Bride, Jeff Williams, Gleen Williams, Adrian Burnside, Gavin Fingleson, Paul Gonzalez, Nick Kimpton, Brendan Kingman, Craig Lewis, Trent Oeltjen, Graeme Lloyd, David Nilsson, Ben Wigmore, Andre Utting, Dick Thompson, Brett Tamburrino, Phil Stockman, John Stephens, Ryan Rowland Smith, Brett Roneberg, Chris Oxspring, Wayne Ough.

The Japan national team won the bronze medal at the 2007 World Cup in Taiwan.

The United States won the gold medal at the 2000 Olympic Games in Sydney (Australia). Final standings:

1.Usa
2.Cuba (silver medal)
3.South Korea (bronze medal)
4.Japan
5.Holland
6:Italy
7.Australia
8.South Africa

Olympic Facts - 2008 Olympic Baseball Tournament

Ancient Olympia - The Original Venue of the Olympic Games

Olympia is an ancient sanctuary in the prefecture of Elis Peloponnese. A magnificent archaeological site, the sanctuary has been inhabited since prehistoric times, and in the 10th century B.C, the area became a religious center for the worship of Zeus and Hera, the chief couple of the Olympian gods. The sanctuary was also the site of the Olympic Games held in honor of Zeus from the 8th century BC till the 3rd century AD, when the Byzantine Emperor Theodosius decided to stop them as a pagan practice.

The sacred region of Olympia enclosed a number of buildings arranged without any particular form or order. Within the sacred enclosure, are situated the temples dedicated to Zeus and Hera. Built around 450 BC, the temple of Zeus occupied the most important position among the local and pan-Hellenic deities. The statue of Zeus, a magnificent piece of art sculpted by the 5th century sculptor, painter and architect Phedias, used to stand to a height of 43 feet and this was the most impressive statue in the ancient world. Unfortunately, not a part of this statue survives today and we know about it from narrations of ancient travellers. It is said that Phedias took about twelve years to complete it. The head of Zeus was adorned with a sculpted wreath of olive sprays, and he would hold in his right hand an ivory and gold figure of Nike, the goddess of victory. In his left hand, there was a scepter with an eagle perched on top. This statue was located in the temple of Zeus, the god who was honored during the Olympic Games.

Olympics 2012

To the east of the sanctuary was the Hippodrome, an immense oval structure used as a stadium where horse and chariot racing were held. Although very little remains of the hippodrome, scholars who have reconstructed the stadium from ancient texts and manuscripts, feel that the structure covered a total length of 1200 meters, and the track was perhaps lapped 3-12 times depending on the type of competition.

To the northern side of Olympia is located the Doric temple of Hera, wife of Zeus and the most important of the Greek female deities. The temple was destroyed in an earthquake in the 4th century AD and its ruins can be seen today. To the north of the sanctuary, lies the Prytaneion, the residence of priests and magistrates. It was also the venue for feasts and celebrations for the winners of the Olympic Games. It was here that the early Olympic flames burnt. The only structure on the sacred sanctuary dedicated to a human is the Philippeion, a circular memorial of ivory and gold, which had once housed the statues of the family of Philip II of Macedonia.

All the archeological treasures that have been excavated on the ancient site of Olympia are housed in the Archaeological Museum right next to the site. Ancient pediments, rare statues, terracotta, bronzes, a fine collection of artifacts from the Olympic Games, as well as other exhibits of immense historical significance dating from the prehistoric to the Roman period stand out in this very interesting and well-labeled museum.

Ancient Olympia - The Original Venue of the Olympic Games

The London 2012 Olympics

The city of London has been seeing send to hosting the 30th Olympic Games since beating out their rival, Paris, to be awarded the event. They were awarded the games on July 6th, 2005 beating out Moscow, New York, Madrid and then finally Paris in the last round. London will become the first to host the Summer Games three times and, while the Games in Beijing are a hard one to follow, London is working hard at putting its own stamp on the event.

The London 2012 Olympics will take place between July 27th and August 12th, 2012. The Games are anticipated to attract thousands of tourists in a city that is already favorite with visitors and crammed with it's own locals. In preparation, London is revamping their transportation principles in order to be able to cope with the influx. Improvements to the transportation network were key in winning the bid and the goal of Olympic organizers is to have 100% of spectators arriving by social vehicle and 80% of athletes a short 20 limited commute from their event.

London Olympic

The London 2012 Olympic venues will be a mix of old and new facilities, along with some historic London landmarks. Anxious not to repeat the Millennium Dome mistake, organizers have been sure to include plans for downsizing venues for use in the future and some will be temporary or moved to a new location after the Games.

The London Olympics have not been without controversy, the major issue being financing. A funds of £5.3 billion was announced for the building of infrastructure and venues for the Games and a added £1.7 billion has been earmarked for the regeneration of the Lower Lea Valley where much of the Games is to be held. Assorted other costs are anticipated to add a added £2.7 billion to the budget. With the amount of money being spent, there are many vocal anti-Olympics groups.

The logo has also been a source of controversy due to the poor response it has received along with the amount spent on it. The fact that the logo, that favorite notion says sucks, cost £400,000 has angered a lot of people.

Tickets are due to go on sale in the spring of 2011 with an estimated 8 million tickets ready for the Olympics and 1.5 million for the Paralympics. The London Olympics will highlight 26 sports and 38 disciplines with baseball and softball being dropped from the Games 2 days after London was awarded the bid. Women's boxing will be an event for the first time.

The London 2012 Olympics are being touted as the eco-friendly Games, and a lot is being done to assure that they are environmentally friend and sustainable. The city's waterways are being regenerated and a large amount of parkland is being set aside for visitors to explore.

London is a splendid city with a lot to offer any visitor, even when the Olympics aren't on. The Summer Olympics is sure to bring with it a splendid atmosphere and bring London's multicultural residents together while still maintaining a cordial rivalry. London is sure to be a great host for one of the world's premier events.

The London 2012 Olympics

London 2012 Olympics Will Bring Out London's Best

While London always has its doors open for visitors, the Summer Olympics 2012 will have the city's tourism engine in high gear. If you have ever considered England as a vacation destination, this will be the opening of a lifetime to see how adept the Brits are at putting on grand events. So, mark your calendar, get your tickets and pack your bags.

Since London is already one of the most visited cities on the planet, organizers are anticipating and preparing for a immense turnout. The British are well known for their concentration to information and there is no doubt that the Olympic venues, accommodations and communication facilities will impress the multitudes of tourists. Also, hundreds of local establishments will offer extra entertainment opportunities.

London 2012

Naturally, the town stage will be the gigantic 80,000 seat Olympic Stadium. This is the central location where many of the games will be held, as well as the gala opening and conclusion ceremonies. In addition, numerous athletic events will take place all around town, giving visitors plenty of opportunities to see a collection of sites in this historic city while taking in the games.

London is ideally great for hosting the games, having plenty of existing facilities available face the main stadium and many of these spots are famed attractions in themselves. For example, Wembley Stadium will welcome football fans and Wimbledon,of course, will host Olympic tennis. famed Hyde Park will feature triathlon events, while Earl's Court will lend space for volleyball.

Likewise, sightseers will be treated to competitions at the Lord's Cricket Ground, the Royal Artillery Barracks and Regent's Park. Greenwich Park, the Horse Guards Parade and scenic Hadleigh Farm will also supply settings for a collection of events. These are all famed sites on the lists of quarterly travelers and will be all the more festive during the games.

As anyone who has visited London knows, there are many accommodations options available and these will indeed be ramped up for the games. In expanding to hotels that fit nearly any budget, there will be hostels, apartments and houses for rent to give guests a place to lay their heads.

Special concentration will also be given to communication needs for interesting millions of citizen around the city. The famed black cabs will be out in force and the airport, rail and bus systems will be operating at peak capacity. Those who have a opening to visit during the games will indeed feel scenic London at its liveliest.

The Summer Olympics 2012 in London promises to be one of the premier sporting extravaganzas of the century. However, the opening will gift a splendid opening for everyone, fans and non-fans alike, as London rolls out the red floor covering to visitors from around the world.

London 2012 Olympics Will Bring Out London's Best

2012 London Olympic Games Controversy and Economic Realities

It seems as always the 2012 Olympic Games which will be hosted in London are not without a wee controversy. This should be anticipated by any host nation staging such a heavy event with such profound historical implications. The other day I was discussing all this with a Londoner, and a well known controversial blogger, one who refuses to go the way of the quiet and article mass media reporters and commentators.

Yes, I speak of Josh Aggars who agreed to be interviewed by me. When I asked Josh about one of the most controversial topics of London today, he writes; "Ok well why don't we start with something topical like the Olympics and see where we get to. I was mental a title like "Hosting the Olympics is of no possible value to the host city". Discuss!"

London 2012

Ah Ha! Just as anticipated Aggars once again refuses to sit tight and stick to the easy controversies such as the Anti-Average Mustard Committee, who requires Grey Poupon on their French Deli Sandwiches, and refuses to accept anything but the top grade mustard. No, Josh tells it like he is and challenges the status quo with all the chaos and controversy they themselves so dutifully love to sweep under their carpets. Okay and to Joshua Aggars comments I say;

Well, I wouldn't say there is "No" possible value, but I would say generally speaking (historically) it has been overstated by the hosting country's local economic development associations, politicians, governments, tourist boards, and insiders using all sorts of propaganda, Pr, publicity, and promotion. Also, the drawbacks have also been understated, as well as the unintended consequences; security costs, risks of terrorist event, outbreaks, and devaluation of property after the games.

Further, I'd like to say I am very Pro-Olympics! I think it brings the world together, unites humans, celebrates the best "we" can be together, and it prevents future conflicts by arrival together in world-wide games. This opens communication and it allows all of us to sense triumph over adversity and thus, strengthens the whole of world community as well as each personel human. It's a good thing, but that doesn't mean the hosting country will reap the rewards of the billions in outlay for the Olympic Village, or that the tourism will pay for it all and put their city or nation back on the world-wide map.

Often countries and cities have all to lose and wee to gain especially in the short term. Over the long-haul, they must deal with the real estate's economic fallout issues of those properties. I mean in reality what are they actually good for other than the Olympics? Now then, it seems that the National pride, ego, and credit even if temporary does inspire countries to bid on having the right to host the Olympic Games.

We should continue to retain the Olympic Games because it highlights sportsmanship, perseverance, force of character, commitment, competition, will, and human intent - and all that is good about human beings. We should duplicate the whole of contests, and have the Olympic Games every two-years in my opinon. Why, because we have more countries participating and more athletes - and it will keep us closer, as our world is forced to recognize our separate cultures, and address the conflicts or politics, economics, human rights, resources, religion, etc. I thus, remain Pro-Olympics, we all should.

The Olympic Games should be looked at as an venture in peace, humanity, and history, not just as a piece of real estate or an economic fiasco/bonanza. There is just more to it than that. But you know what - Josh Aggars brings up a very important point, and I knew he would. So, please reconsider all this.

2012 London Olympic Games Controversy and Economic Realities

Home change for the 2012 London Olympics

The London Olympics may still seem some time away but hundreds of hotel rooms are already fully booked and rooms that are still ready are often hiked up at overly inflated prices.

However, if you are intending to visit the Uk there is no good room than staying in a real London home. Home Base Holidays is a reputable, long-established London-based home replacement business that for over 25 years has helped to arrange thousands of home swap vacations. With a huge range of Uk homes, from city central 1-beds all the way to historic castles in the countryside, you're sure to find something that fits your needs. Oh and don't forget... Home replacement means free accommodation!

London Olympic

In expanding to the Olympics London is also host to the first-rate tennis tournament, Wimbledon. It is also home to some of the worlds most predominant attractions - visit the Crown Jewels and learn the infamous history of the Tower of London, walk in the footsteps of the notorious Jack The Ripper, or see if the Queen is home at Buckingham Palace... Followed by a spot of shopping at the gloriously decadent Harrods agency store. You're sure to find something for you in England's capital city.

If you are a Londoner but the Olympics is just not your cup of tea - you too might want to reconsider a home exchange. Offer your home during the Olympics and you could have your pick of thousands of wonderful home swap vacations worldwide.

Visit Home Base Holidays to view their home swap offers in London and throughout the world!

Home change for the 2012 London Olympics

The London Olympics - manufacture It Happen

Building an Olympic Games is no mean feat. It's not just a matter of erecting a few stadia and swimming pools. There are all sorts of infrastructure and vehicle facilities to create, as well as a inheritance to leave for underprivileged areas. And a lot of the London Olympics site is on contaminated land which has first to be cleaned up before any building work can begin.

The task for the 2012 London Olympics is so huge that the building Skills Network currently believes that the scheme will need to attract a additional 182,000 builders to be ready on time. This includes a range of trades, for example 13,000 more bricklayers and 15,000 extra plumbers. Workers will be needed in 2011 in particular. That will be the most labour oppressive time, in the run up to the Games.

London 2012

In total the Csn believes 2.8 million building workers will need to be working in the Uk as a whole as we arrival 2012. This outline includes 122,000 bricklayers, 161,000 decorators, 211,000 electricians and 189,000 plumbers. While the Olympic settlement is going up other projects will need to carry on - there are always new hospitals, schools, roads, homes and other buildings to be built and it can't all stop for the Olympics.

To achieve this, a lot of migrant workers from overseas will be relied upon but there are also assorted training schemes being set up to attract habitancy into the trades. These comprise the National Skills Academy for building which aims to train habitancy on-site on large building projects, with building firms taking the lead and deciding which skills gaps need to be addressed. There are other training schemes available too, and the Government has highlighted the need to encourage women into the industry.

Of policy hosting the Olympics means providing sporting facilities on a huge scale. The Olympic Stadium will be a bowl with seating for 80,000 people. It will be the heart of the event, hosting the opportunity and closing ceremonies and all athletics competitions. Then there will be an aquatics centre where swimming, synchronised swimming, diving, water polo and the contemporary pentathlon will take place, with a total capacity of 22,500 seats. Next, the velodrome which will have room for 6,000 spectators and additional arenas for fencing, hockey, handball and basketball. Together they will have seating for a additional 48,000 people.

Its plan that up to 180,000 spectators will visit the Games daily so its not only the venues, but the infrastructure that will have to be ready. vehicle links, numerous walkways and footbridges and loop roads need to be built. And of policy everybody will want to eat, be entertained, buy their Olympics souvenirs and if essential get medical attention, so catering and other facilities are also being constructed.

One issue that's of famous importance to athletes is being near their sporting venue. The Olympic village, which will house 17,000 people, aims to ensure that nobody is more than twenty minutes from their stadium or arena, minimising wasteful trip time for sportsmen and officials. But not only will it house competitors, it will also have shops, restaurants, medical and media facilities, leisure facilities and open spaces for habitancy to relax in. Every apartment will have internet way and lifts and will be used later for much needed housing in the area.

There will be 7.7 million tickets on sale for the London Olympics and the aim is to get as many spectators as potential to arrive at venues by public transport, cycling and on foot. This will involve a huge whole of logistical work. For example the plan is to have a 7 minuscule train link in the middle of central London and the Olympic Park.

The Olympics should be a spectacular, event - a showpiece for British sport but also for British building work. The Olympic settlement will become an internationally recognised location in a hitherto neglected area - that alone may encourage many to become builders and help make it happen.

The London Olympics - manufacture It Happen

Colombia - Women & Sports!

Road to London 2012!

Ximena Restrepo Gaviria

Olympics 2012

Did you know- By the early 1990s, Colombia's sprinter Ximena Restrepo Gaviria caused a sensation when she earned a bronze medal in the women's 400m at the Summer Games in the Spaniard city of Barcelona. She is one of the few Hispanic sprinters to win an Olympic medal. Inspired by Juana Mosquera and Eucaris Caicedo, she won many international events in America, South America and Europe during the years from 1985 and 1992. In that time, Colombia's Olympic ambassador Restrepo Gaviria was the toast of the Latin American sporting community.By September 1988, she came in 34th place, ahead of Joyce Odhiambo (Kenya, Africa) and Gaily Dube (Zimbabwe, Africa), in the women's 200m in the Summer Games in South Korea, among 51 athletes. After her retirement from the national team, South America's sprinters were never as successful again at the Summer Olympic Games.

Alicia Mora Romero

Did you know- By 2004, the nation's athlete Alicia Mora Romero came in fifth place in the women's 49-kilogram category at the Olympic Taekwondo Tournament in Athens (Greece).

Leidy Yessenia Solis

Did you know- Weightlifter Leidy Yessenia Solis, 17, won the gold medal in the women's 69-kilogram category at the Junior World Championships in Prague (Czech Republic) in 2007. Since then, she should be a medal contender in the 2012 London Olympics.

Olga Lucia Angulo

Did you know- At the 1970 Central American and Caribbean Games in Panama City, Colombia's swimmer Olga Lucia Angulo won two gold medals.

Basketball

Did you know- Colombia hosted the Women's Basketball World Championship in the mid-1970s. Despite having one of the best basketball players in Latin America, Sofia Nieto, the local team lost all six of its matches. At that year, they came in sixth place in the 7th Pan American Games, behind America, Mexico, Cuba, Brazil, and Canada. During the Games in the United Mexican States, Colombia beat El Salvador 96-59. Nine years later, surprisingly, Colombia defeated Brazil 62-51 and won the South American Championship. By 1983, the team of Brazil had won the bronze medal in women's basketball at the 9th Pan American Games in Venezuela. The South American winners, under the direction of Guillermo Moreno Rumie, were Consuelo Aristazabal, Maria de Jesús Arizala, Gloria Gomez, Elizabeth Hinestroza, Irene Lamprea, Miriam León, Norma Lozano, Margarita Marti, Patricia Ordoñez, Gloria Ortiz, Yaneth Torijano, and Monica Villasmil. The women's basketball squad of Colombia is the sixth South American team to win the Continental Tournament, after Chile (1946), Argentina (1948), Paraguay (1952), Brazil (1954), and Peru (1977).

Colombia - Women & Sports!

Sports in Angola - Interesting Facts & Figures!

Road to London 2012!

Barcelona 1992

Olympics 2012

Did you know- Between July 25 and August 9, 1992, the Angolan Olympic Committee, sent 29 athletes to the Summer Games in Barcelona, Spain. The African nation competed in seven sports: basketball (11), boxing (1), roller hockey (11), judo (4), swimming (3), sailing (3), and track & field (6).

Basketball

Did you know- Basketball is very popular because basketball is a traditional sport with a long history in the African nation. Curiously, from the 1980s to the 2000s, Angola -a war-torn nation -- boasted one of the best basketball teams in the Third World. By 1992, the Angolan squad came in 10th place, among 12 teams, in theMen's Olympic Games Basketball Tournament in Barcelona (Spain). Eight years ago, they had won the silver medal in the Under-20 African Championship. By 1987, against all odds, Angola -a Portuguese-speaking republic located in southern Africa-- won the gold medal in men's basketball at the African Games in Nairobi (Kenya). Before 1987, the men's basketball squad of Angola had placed 20th in the World Championships in Spain. In the Spanish city of Ferrol, the Africans were the most popular basketball players; there Angola had defeated Australia 74-69. In addition to this, the country -one of the least-developed states in Africa-finished 13th in the universal competition in South America in the early 1990s. By 1996, it placed 11th in the Games of the XXVI Olympiad in Atlanta, Georgia (US).

Football

Did you know- Angola's first major international success came at the FIFA World Cup in 2006. During that global event, the men's football squad came in 23rd place, between Croatia (Europe) and Tunisia (North Africa). The best players were Flavio da Silva Amado, Joao Ricardo Pereira dos Santos Batalha, and Fabrice Alcebiades Maieco, in that order.

Los Angeles 1984

Did you know- The Angolan Olympic Committee, under pressure from Cuba and the Soviet Union, boycotted the 1984 Summer Games in the Los Angeles, California, USA. Four years ago, Angola made its Olympic debut in the Games of the XXII Olympiad in Moscow, USSR (present-day Russia). On the other hand, Angola is one of the youngest members of the Olympic family.

Men's Handball

Did you know- The men's handball team came in 15th place at the Under-20 World Championships.

Sports

Did you know- The most popular sports are soccer, athletics, basketball, roller hockey, and handball.

Women's Handball

Did you know- The national squad came in seventh place in women's handball at the 1996 Summer Games in the United States of America. During that international event, Angola, under coach Alberto Junior's tutelage, defeated America (host nation) 24-23. The country also qualified for the Sydney Olympics in 2000. By the 1990s, the women's handball team from Angola competed in five world championships (1990, 1993, 1995, 1997, and 1999). At the 1997 World Cup, the national delegation placed 15th, ahead of Japan, South Korea, and Canada.

Sports in Angola - Interesting Facts & Figures!

Construction Topic - Can The Olympic Stadium of the 2012 London Games Be Converted?

When hosting cities put on the Olympic Games, they often have left incredible facilities that go unused, however if things are properly planned in advance this doesn't need to happen. Unfortunately, in hindsight it has. In reviewing the 2012 Olympic Games in London a huge stadium and facilities will be built, but it looks as if it may be torn down afterwards and rebuilt on the same footprint to be later used for soccer, which is a major national sport of course in England.

One concept is to elevate the stands and add additional tiers of seats - more rows and boxes, etc. My acquaintance there in England explained to me that: "This was discussed at length at the start of the design process but football was rejected at that time as being a potential post games occupant. As such the stadium was never designed with movable stands in mind and cannot be retro fitted, without considerable additional expense, to accommodate such a solution as is available at the Stade de France in Paris."

Olympics 2012

Indeed, now that's a problem, a real waste, well maybe they could dig down another layer for the future soccer field, maybe after this is all completed? Or here is a an interesting idea; maybe we can invent a new sport? Ha ha ha.

Either way, that facility must not remain unoccupied and to tear down a stadium that cost 10s of billions to construct is unthinkable, that level of waste is unacceptable, especially now when the population is paying for the economic crisis, one they were not necessarily party to creating. Besides that think of the destruction of history, after all, the Olympic Games are where human history is often made! Still, my acquaintance has noted some of the other challenges with converting the stadium to soccer (Football in England's vocabulary).

When clubs are relegated from the Premier League to the Championship attendance levels can drop considerably as the standard of football on offer is significantly reduced. A lot of 'fair weather' fans disappear from regular attendance and only the hard core regulars remain. In addition West Ham has always been situated in one of the most deprived areas of London and as such have always been affected by prevailing economic conditions.

No one said such a challenge was going to be easy to overcome, but that doesn't mean it cannot be conquered. And if the area changes its economic standing through proper re-development, perhaps the stadium and surrounding facilities could become an anchor of sorts to further economic growth moving forward.

However, if the architects, planners, and construction strategies are in place, these things can be worked out in advance, if not, history will likely repeat in England, with unused facilities slowly deteriorating into real estate waste! Please consider all this.

Construction Topic - Can The Olympic Stadium of the 2012 London Games Be Converted?

Sports in Indonesia - From Badminton to Soccer!

Road to the 2012 London Olympics!

Summer Olympics

London Olympic

Did you know- By 1980, Indonesia -as Thailand, Singapore and other anti-Marxists states - boycotted the Summer Olympics in the Soviet Union. The 1980 Moscow Olympic was boycotted by the Indonesian rule, under the dictatorship of Suharto (1967-1998) in protest the Russian invasion of Afghanistan. Also that, Jakarta had not polite ties with the Ussr. After this event, it competed in the next Olympics.

Badminton

Did you know- At the 1990 Asian Games in Beijing (People's Republic of China), the Olympic team of Indonesia done 7th in the medal count, with 30 medals (3 gold, 6 silver, 21 bronze), behind China, South Korea, Japan, North Korea, Iran, and Pakistan. After all those foremost results, Indonesia - a nation with about 15 percent of the world's Muslims-- competed in the 25th Olympiad in Barcelona (Spain), where Alan Budi Kusama and Susi Susanti, both national heroes in Jakarta (the capital city of Indonesia), won gold medals in badminton, one of the most favorite sports in Southeast Asia, together with football and sepak takraw. In Europe, the Asian nation placed 24th in the medal count. Four years later, at the 1996 Atlanta Games, Indonesia took 41st place in the unofficial team championships. Once again, the country earned medals in badminton: Rey Mainaky and Ricky Subagja won the Olympic title in the men's doubles.

Asian Games

Did you know- By the mid-1960s, Indonesia won the right to host the V Asian Games. For political reasons, the country's dictator Achmed Sukarno refused to allow Israel and Taiwan to compete in the Asian Games.

Volleyball

Did you know- In the Fivb World Tournament in the early 1980s, the women's volleyball team had a tough championship: On September 13, 1982 Peru -the host nation's team-- beat Indonesia 3-0 (15-2, 15-0, 15-3). In the next day, Indonesia lost 3-0 (15-2, 15-7, 15-6) to Canada. Subsequently, Indonesia defeated Nigeria (African champion) 3-0 (15-8, 15-6, 15-7). Finally, Indonesia beat Chile 3-2 and came in 21st place out of 23 teams. It was the first time the national team had participated at the Fivb World Championships.

Football

Did you know- By the late 1950s, the host country's team done third place, after Taiwan and South Korea, in the Asian Games of Jakarta. It was the first time the national team had won a medal.

2008 Beijing Olympics

Did you know- At the 2008 Summer Olympics in the People's Republic of China, the Indonesian team done 42nd in the medal count, with five medals (1 gold, 1 silver, and 3 bronze). The Asian nation had sent 24 champs to Beijing.

Sports in Indonesia - From Badminton to Soccer!

finding chamber for the London 2012 Olympics

The Olympic Games which are to be held in the city of London in 2012 is the largest sporting event that the Uk has ever seen. The event will see thousands upon thousands of citizen visiting the city to see many of the world's best athletes compete for the best sporting accolade on earth, so seeing accommodation in the city during this period could be difficult. Below are some tips on how to get around this. Book as early as possible - If you intend on visiting London for the Olympic Games you should try and book your accommodation as early as possible in order to avoid a last minuscule rush and roughly confident disappointment. Take the time to correlate prices on the Internet as this is where you will find the best deals.

Consider staying covering of the city centre - The hotels in the city centre are likely to be heavily oversubscribed and also very expensive, so consider staying further out and travelling in for the events. This is likely to save you money wide and improve your chances of seeing accommodation. Staying in around cities and towns along with in Reading and Brighton can be worth considering. If you are based in a hotel close to the train or bus center in a place such as Reading, getting to the Olympics venue might not take you any longer than if you were on the other side of London from the main site.

London 2012

Consider which events you will be attending - The assorted Olympic events are spread around, so you should consider where the venue is that you will be attending and, for convenience purposes, attempt to book a hotel which is whether in the area or has good links to it. Planning ahead could save you a lot of time and hassle. If you are staying in central London, try and grab a hotel near the venue you have tickets for, before they are booked out. consider attending also the idea of attending an event such as the Olympics football in Cardiff and Newcastle. Tickets and accommodation will both be much easier to acquire.

Check for cancellations - If, as the games approach, you find yourself still without accommodation, it is worth ringing hotels on the day that you wish accommodation in order to see if any cancellations have been made. You could even invite to go on a list to be contacted should cancellations be made. Also you might want to dig out that old address book and befriend some of those citizen you haven't talked to in years and who live in London.

finding chamber for the London 2012 Olympics

Qatar Getting Ready - Eying the 2016 Olympics

Qatar, host of the 15th Asian held on Dec. 1-15, is progressively getting dressed up for the sporting event.

Qatar was preparing the Games for the last two years. All infrastructures are now ready for the games. Besides roads are being widened, some buildings are also getting redesigned or renovated, while some are demolished to make room for new ones. The Qataris want to prepare the perfect games. On Oct. 8th. The Asian Games Committee launch the start of the Doha Asian Games Torch Relay procession at the Doha Golf Club. The torch will travel through fifteen countries, covering a distance of 55,000 kilometres, or about 30,000 miles, in 55 days, a record for the longest ever Asian Games Torch Relay procession in the Asian games history. The torch will make stops in India, Korea, the Philippines, Japan, China, Indonesia, Thailand, Iran, Oman, the UAE, Kuwait and Bahrain. The torch will be carried by around 3,500 torch-bearers and will finally culminate its journey when it enters the state-of-the-art Khalifa Stadium on Dec. 1, 2006.

Olympics 2012

In fact Qatar, with a budget of .8 billion, has been heavily preparing the Asian Games because the Qatar Olympic association is eyeing another event: the 2016 Olympics. Therefore the Asian games' failure or success may determine their chance to host the Olympics. For a long time Qatari leaders have been focusing on making Qatar the sports capital of the Middle East. The bottom line of the Qatari leaders has been that with the hosting of the games Qatar will be able to bring in tourists which they prefer to call "sports tourism". Qatar is hoping for an increase of tourism starting in 2009, the same time as when the new Doha airport would be ready.

Qatar also planned to make best use of the sports infrastructure which is being constructed for the games. For instance the eleven new state-of-the-art stadiums would be utilized throughout the year for the football league. In addition, the athlete village built at a cost of 0 million would be handed over to Hamad hospital and would provide for lodging and other facilities for the nurses and guests at the hospital. The Qatari leaders also want to turn Hamad hospital into the leading health care centre in the region.

Qatar Getting Ready - Eying the 2016 Olympics

Powering The London Olympic Games

The creation and implementation of a successful Olympic games goes far beyond the stadium stands and swimming pool walls, it branches out from the athlete's village and in to the surrounding communities. The success of such an event lies as firmly on its impact on the outer environment as it does on the games themselves.

In order to kick-start and maintain such a glorious event, a myriad of operational implications must be considered at great length, and addressed in meticulous detail. From the construction of civil amenities and public transport solutions, to concerns of power production and sustainability, the list of factors to be taken into account is extensive.

Olympics 2012

For the London games in 2012, construction has began on a variety of arenas, bridges and other essential facilities. The creation of an efficient infrastructure is one of the most important factors in the success of the 2012 Olympics, and will play a significant role in determining the legacy of these games in the aftermath of the event.

In preparation for the London Olympics, great emphasis has been placed on the importance of an effective, coherent energy and power strategy. Organisers have constructed (or are in the process of constructing) a Pumping Station, Primary Substation, and Energy Centre, all with the purpose of supplying essential utilities for the event.

The Completion of the Primary Substation in October 2009 means that building work from thereon-in would not rely so heavily on the usage of temporary generator rental. However, it is known that such temporary power supplies will be used for 39 venues in 7 locations for the duration of the games, from London to Glasgow.

Temporary power will play a crucial part in a variety of energy requirements as demanded by field-of-play lighting, camera equipment, and the International Broadcasting Centre. The latter is a crucial component for the delivery of the Olympics experience to millions of viewers across the globe.

In total, it is believed that the games will be the greenest event in Olympic history. Through sustainable design methods and the use of environmentally friendly biomass technologies, London 2012 promises not only to help preserve the environment during the event, but also aims to deliver a lasting legacy in the form of on of the largest urban parks created in Europe in the past 150 years.

Powering The London Olympic Games

Katie Price and the London 2012 Olympics

Katie Price - a.k.a. Jordan to compete in the Olympics 2012?

Katie Price is still aiming high with her sights set on competitive in the Olympics. Whilst attending Olympia horse show in London, where she was promoting her new equestrian clothing and horse wear range Kp clothing, Katie divulged her keen interest in competitive at Dressage in the 2012 games in her television interview.

London Olympic

Katie has had a lifelong passion and interest in horses and took up riding at the age of 7. Her enthusiasm has been demonstrated straight through her children's book series 'Perfect Ponies'. It seems her dream of the Olympics in 2012 may not be so far away. Katie has been successful at a estimate of business ventures, since starting out as a glamour model. Her husband Peter Andre bought her a horse for her 30th birthday named 'glamour girl', who reportedly has Olympic potential and may take Katie to the Olympics in 2012. Katie's debut in competitive dressage saw her finishing an impressive 6th place back in the summer. More recently Katie demonstrated dressage to music at the Horse of the Year Show.

It seems that Katie's determination and drive that has proved her to be hugely successful in so many other areas, may again be the fuel for her Olympic dream to come true. She has reported to have been sticking to her oppressive dressage training and even commented that she has got a six pack as she has been training so hard. Watch this space and we may be seeing Katie Price a.k.a. Jordan following in the footsteps of Zara Phillips, in time for the Olympic games 2012.

Katie Price and the London 2012 Olympics

Get Ready For London Olympics 2012

The Olympic Games in London may be over a year away, but now is the time to start mental about getting your hands on some of the most indispensable tickets of the year. With tickets available from the 15th March 2011, you will need to be quick to ensure your seat at one of the many games' venues.

With building well under way, and many venues nearing completion, there is a growing buzz in the atmosphere surrounding the upcoming event. Surrounded by the new structures erected for the purpose of the games is the Olympic Stadium, the Velodrome, and the Lee Valley White Water Centre. The latter is the first entirely new London 2012 arena to be completed.

London Olympic

The games will kick-off on the 25th July at the Millennium Stadium in Cardiff, where two of the Women's first football matches will take place. Four supplementary matches will take place on the same day nearby the country, with two at Coventry Stadium and two at Hampden Park in Glasgow.

Football will dominate the first two days, before the valid chance ceremony on the 27th July within the impressive Olympic Stadium. The event continues for 2 weeks, advent to a climactic close on the 12th August.

A total of 10.8 million tickets will be available for the period of the games. Those seeing to gain their marker to one of the world's many sporting events should register their interest as soon as possible. In addition to the tickets themselves, it is also worthwhile giving some serious belief to other aspects such as room and transport.

With thousands of spectators anticipated to attend the games every day, hotels and transport will be pushed to the limit, so get your Olympic Games arrangements sorted sooner rather than later.

The earlier such arrangements are organised the better, as the request for hotels in London will be remarkable for the period of the London Olympics. Furthermore, getting to and from the capital - and surrounding regions involved in the games - should also be near the top of visitors' to do lists. Although inner city travel will be optimised for the events, getting to the heart of the games is something which should be arranged well before July 2012.

Get Ready For London Olympics 2012