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Make sure you don’t miss a single word of the action only on ROVING-REPORTER.COM for all your latest news, views and comments from roving-reporter.com land.
And don’t forget to log on to my sister websites - the roving-reporter.com myspace.com website at www.myspace.com/realrovingreporter and the roving-reporter.com twitter website at www.twitter.com/ZiRovinReporter for all your latest news, views, pictures and comments from roving-reporter.com land. Just sit back and enjoy the 2017 roving-reporter.com world tour!
ROVING-REPORTER.COM - My news is your news.
Coming up on December 2017
Saturday 9th December 2017
BOXING
JAMES DEGALE Vs CALEB TRUAX IBF WORLD SUPER-MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP & LEE SELBY Vs EDUARDO RAMIREZ IBF WORLD FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Copper Box Arena, Hackney Wick, London, England
Promoter: Frank Warren
Website: https://www.frankwarren.com/
Ticket Information: https://www.seetickets.com/event/world-championship-boxing/queen-elizabeth-olympic-park/1160282 0871 230 7148, 0844 249 1000
Television: BT Sport/BoxNation
Wednesday 13th December 2017
BOXING
KATIE TAYLOR Vs JESSICA MCCASKILL WBA WORLD WOMEN'S LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England
Promoter: Matchroom Boxing
Website: http://www.matchroomboxing.com/
Ticket Information:
Television: Sky Sport
Thursday 14th December 2017 to Tuesday 2nd January 2018
DARTS
WILLIAM HILL PDC WORLD DARTS CHAMPIONSHIPS
Alexander Palace, Wood Green, London, England
PDC Tour event
Promoter: Matchroom Sport/Professional Darts Corporation
Website: http://www.pdc.tv/home
Ticket Information:
Television: Sky Sport
BOXING
JAMES DEGALE Vs CALEB TRUAX IBF WORLD SUPER-MIDDLEWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP & LEE SELBY Vs EDUARDO RAMIREZ IBF WORLD FEATHERWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
Copper Box Arena, Hackney Wick, London, England
Promoter: Frank Warren
Website: https://www.frankwarren.com/
Ticket Information: https://www.seetickets.com/event/world-championship-boxing/queen-elizabeth-olympic-park/1160282 0871 230 7148, 0844 249 1000
Television: BT Sport/BoxNation
Wednesday 13th December 2017
BOXING
KATIE TAYLOR Vs JESSICA MCCASKILL WBA WORLD WOMEN'S LIGHTWEIGHT CHAMPIONSHIP
York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England
Promoter: Matchroom Boxing
Website: http://www.matchroomboxing.com/
Ticket Information:
Television: Sky Sport
Thursday 14th December 2017 to Tuesday 2nd January 2018
DARTS
WILLIAM HILL PDC WORLD DARTS CHAMPIONSHIPS
Alexander Palace, Wood Green, London, England
PDC Tour event
Promoter: Matchroom Sport/Professional Darts Corporation
Website: http://www.pdc.tv/home
Ticket Information:
Television: Sky Sport
Latest News
roving-reporter.com at Gateshead International Stadium, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, England on 22nd June 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: European Athletics Team Championships
Woodford Green's Mark Dry had an extremely frustrating day in the circle during his hammer throw event at European Athletics Team Championships last Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old Scotsman threw a below-par 68.30m for an eleventh place finish while Poland's world student games champion Pawel Fajdek won with a 77.00 effort.
"68.30 was bad, it was well below my season's best and worst throw ever," said a disappointed Dry. "The wind was just howling to my face, it was massively frustrating."
Dry is now looking ahead to competing in UK Championships on July 12 to 14 where he hopes to book his place in Team GB's world championship squad and break the British record (77.54m) which has stood for 29 years by Wolverhampton & Bilston's Martin Girvan.
"I can't stay at throwing 74's for the rest of my career so if I want to move on and break the British record then I have to fix the issues.
"We're working stuff out, new coach (Tore Gustafsson), new situation, everything's changed. Things are going well but I just need to make the changes and I'm working towards the trials.
"I can't see why not I can throw 80, it's doable. Retain the British record beyond that would be fantastic, that's going to be a career goal and not a six month goal."
Athletics/Track & Field: European Athletics Team Championships
Woodford Green's Mark Dry had an extremely frustrating day in the circle during his hammer throw event at European Athletics Team Championships last Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old Scotsman threw a below-par 68.30m for an eleventh place finish while Poland's world student games champion Pawel Fajdek won with a 77.00 effort.
"68.30 was bad, it was well below my season's best and worst throw ever," said a disappointed Dry. "The wind was just howling to my face, it was massively frustrating."
Dry is now looking ahead to competing in UK Championships on July 12 to 14 where he hopes to book his place in Team GB's world championship squad and break the British record (77.54m) which has stood for 29 years by Wolverhampton & Bilston's Martin Girvan.
"I can't stay at throwing 74's for the rest of my career so if I want to move on and break the British record then I have to fix the issues.
"We're working stuff out, new coach (Tore Gustafsson), new situation, everything's changed. Things are going well but I just need to make the changes and I'm working towards the trials.
"I can't see why not I can throw 80, it's doable. Retain the British record beyond that would be fantastic, that's going to be a career goal and not a six month goal."
roving-reporter.com at Gateshead International Stadium, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, England on 22nd June 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: European Athletics Team Championships
Newham & Essex Beagles Asha Philip insists the fast times will come despite posting her slowest so far this season at European Athletics Team Championships last Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 22-year-old Team GB sprint specialist had to contend with a strong headwind in Gateshead during her fourth place finish in the women's 100m which she described like 'having a brick wall in your face'.
The Leytonstone resident clocked a time of 11.78secs, just over half a second slower than her current season's best of 11.36 in Altamonte Springs, USA, while Olesya Povh claimed maximum points for her Ukraine team with 11.51.
"It was alright at the end of the day," said the former world 100m youth champion.
"You're trying to push against this wind but it's was like having a brick wall in your face!
"When the Ukraine girl won it in 11.51 you just knew that your time wasn't going to be any great.
"That's the slowest I ran this season, I've never had a wind like that not for a long while."
And Philip, whose cousins Sasha and Keeden Corbin are England netball international regulars, gave an honest assessment of her season so far: "My first race in America went really well but when I got back home I was ill and ended up in hospital for five days so that set me back.
"I ran 11.5 in Rabat then 11.39 last week so I was back on track as I was in America.
"Coming here in Gateshead I felt in great form, I had the time inside me but hopefully I might get a race next week or the UK trials where I'm hopeful to get a good time there.
Athletics/Track & Field: European Athletics Team Championships
Newham & Essex Beagles Asha Philip insists the fast times will come despite posting her slowest so far this season at European Athletics Team Championships last Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 22-year-old Team GB sprint specialist had to contend with a strong headwind in Gateshead during her fourth place finish in the women's 100m which she described like 'having a brick wall in your face'.
The Leytonstone resident clocked a time of 11.78secs, just over half a second slower than her current season's best of 11.36 in Altamonte Springs, USA, while Olesya Povh claimed maximum points for her Ukraine team with 11.51.
"It was alright at the end of the day," said the former world 100m youth champion.
"You're trying to push against this wind but it's was like having a brick wall in your face!
"When the Ukraine girl won it in 11.51 you just knew that your time wasn't going to be any great.
"That's the slowest I ran this season, I've never had a wind like that not for a long while."
And Philip, whose cousins Sasha and Keeden Corbin are England netball international regulars, gave an honest assessment of her season so far: "My first race in America went really well but when I got back home I was ill and ended up in hospital for five days so that set me back.
"I ran 11.5 in Rabat then 11.39 last week so I was back on track as I was in America.
"Coming here in Gateshead I felt in great form, I had the time inside me but hopefully I might get a race next week or the UK trials where I'm hopeful to get a good time there.
roving-reporter.com at Gateshead International Stadium, Gateshead, Tyne & Wear, England on 22nd June 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: European Athletics Team Championships
Jade Lally is very happy at the way her season is progressing so far this season and insists she is definitely heading towards the right direction, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 26-year-old Great Britain international from Mitcham finished a creditable sixth place in the women’s discus at last weekend’s European Athletics Team Championships in Gateshead.
In her second senior GB appearance, the former Wimbledon Hercules and Sutton & District representative threw a first round 58.73m effort while Mélina Robert-Michon claimed maximum points for her French team with a winning 63.75m.
“It was ok, it was my second best distance this year,” said Lally who now competes for Shaftesbury Barnet Harriers. “With the windy conditions it was on and off.
“It’s good but it’s not quite where it needs to be but it’s coming.”
And Lally, who will next appear at British Grand Prix Diamond League meeting in Birmingham this Sunday, gave an honest assessment of her season so far: “It’s ok, it’s better than last year.
“I thrown further twice this time last year, my confidence and everything was starting to drop at this point so it’s definitely picking up this year.
“Next week I’ve got the Diamond League in Birmingham which should be very cool then a week after that I’ve got a league match then the world trials so it’s all pointing in the right direction, I’ve just have to be patient.”
Tickets for this Sunday’s event are still available by calling 08444 999 999 or via the website: www.britishathletics.org.uk, otherwise catch all the action on BBC2 from 2pm.
Athletics/Track & Field: European Athletics Team Championships
Jade Lally is very happy at the way her season is progressing so far this season and insists she is definitely heading towards the right direction, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 26-year-old Great Britain international from Mitcham finished a creditable sixth place in the women’s discus at last weekend’s European Athletics Team Championships in Gateshead.
In her second senior GB appearance, the former Wimbledon Hercules and Sutton & District representative threw a first round 58.73m effort while Mélina Robert-Michon claimed maximum points for her French team with a winning 63.75m.
“It was ok, it was my second best distance this year,” said Lally who now competes for Shaftesbury Barnet Harriers. “With the windy conditions it was on and off.
“It’s good but it’s not quite where it needs to be but it’s coming.”
And Lally, who will next appear at British Grand Prix Diamond League meeting in Birmingham this Sunday, gave an honest assessment of her season so far: “It’s ok, it’s better than last year.
“I thrown further twice this time last year, my confidence and everything was starting to drop at this point so it’s definitely picking up this year.
“Next week I’ve got the Diamond League in Birmingham which should be very cool then a week after that I’ve got a league match then the world trials so it’s all pointing in the right direction, I’ve just have to be patient.”
Tickets for this Sunday’s event are still available by calling 08444 999 999 or via the website: www.britishathletics.org.uk, otherwise catch all the action on BBC2 from 2pm.
roving-reporter.com preview on 15th June 2013
Tennis: BNP Paribas Tennis Classic
Andrew Castle will once again be turning back the clock and renew his rivalries with some of tennis’s legendary names in BNP Paribas Tennis Classic this week (June 17 to 22) at the prestigious Hurlingham Club, Fulham, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 49-year-old former British number one and television presenter from Balham teams up with 1987 Wimbledon champion Pat Cash in exhibition doubles matches along with popular 2001 Wimbledon winner Goran Ivanisevic, former GB Davis Cup captain Jeremy Bates, three-time grand slam doubles champion Peter McNamara, Henri Leconte, Fabrice Santoro and court jester Mansour Bahrami.
Current top ATP stars Andy Murray, who claimed the AEGON Championships title on Sunday after defeating Marin Cilic in the final, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Tommy Haas and Kei Nishikori will also be appearing in this event as part of their final Wimbledon preparations.
For tickets contact 020 8233 5854.
Tennis: BNP Paribas Tennis Classic
Andrew Castle will once again be turning back the clock and renew his rivalries with some of tennis’s legendary names in BNP Paribas Tennis Classic this week (June 17 to 22) at the prestigious Hurlingham Club, Fulham, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 49-year-old former British number one and television presenter from Balham teams up with 1987 Wimbledon champion Pat Cash in exhibition doubles matches along with popular 2001 Wimbledon winner Goran Ivanisevic, former GB Davis Cup captain Jeremy Bates, three-time grand slam doubles champion Peter McNamara, Henri Leconte, Fabrice Santoro and court jester Mansour Bahrami.
Current top ATP stars Andy Murray, who claimed the AEGON Championships title on Sunday after defeating Marin Cilic in the final, Jo-Wilfried Tsonga, Tommy Haas and Kei Nishikori will also be appearing in this event as part of their final Wimbledon preparations.
For tickets contact 020 8233 5854.
roving-reporter.com at Max-Schmeling-Halle, Prenzlauer Berg, Berlin, Germany on 8th June 2013
Boxing: Marco Huck Vs Ola Afolabi WBO World Cruiserweight Championship
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/ola_afolabi_left_frustrated_as_huck_retains_world_title_1_2232882
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10478786.Afolabi_ends_Huck_rivalry_after_defeat/
Ola Afolabi believes judge Lahcen Oumghar was right to score his third encounter with old foe Marco 'Captain' Huck a draw despite coming up short yet again last Saturday at Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin, Germany, writes Ziad Chaudry.
However the two other ringside judges viewed the contest completely in favour of Serbian-born WBO world cruiserweight title holder with John Madfis marking it an astonishingly bizarre 117-111 - a decision which Afolabi branded as ridiculous - to Deon Dwarte's more respectable 115-113.
The Wembley-born boxer produced a late rally towards the end but it was all too little too late as the tough-teak Berlin-based Huck deservedly retained his mantle for the eleventh successive time.
The result unfortunately condemned 33-year-old Afolabi, 33, to his third defeat in 26 professional outings.
"I blocked a lot of shots but he (Huck) just wouldn't stop going and the best man won," said Afolabi, who is based in Los Angeles.
"He did a good job and was aggressive.
"His style will always give me problems, he threw a lot of shots and he wouldn't stop going.
"The 117-111 decision was ridiculous, even if they give it to him then he (Madfis) should have gave it to him by one point.
"The scoring was a hometown decision so that's what you expect. I tried my best, the judges saw it one way so whatever they say stays.
"But I believe the 114-114 score was the true reflection of the fight.
With the Huck rivalry officially over, Afolabi is now hoping his management team at Klitschko Brother's K2 Promotions can land him another world title shot against either of the three other main title holders - Guillermo Jones (WBA), Krzysztof Włodarczyk (WBC) and Yoan Pablo Hernández (IBF) but knows he will have to get back to winning ways before he can land himself another tilt.
"I just want to work myself up again then see what happens, there is other big names I can fight so whatever K2 says goes," Afolabi continues.
"I just have to go back to the gym and work more on my skills but I'm getting better all the time, comparing where I was eight years ago I am truly proud of myself."
Boxing: Marco Huck Vs Ola Afolabi WBO World Cruiserweight Championship
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/ola_afolabi_left_frustrated_as_huck_retains_world_title_1_2232882
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10478786.Afolabi_ends_Huck_rivalry_after_defeat/
Ola Afolabi believes judge Lahcen Oumghar was right to score his third encounter with old foe Marco 'Captain' Huck a draw despite coming up short yet again last Saturday at Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin, Germany, writes Ziad Chaudry.
However the two other ringside judges viewed the contest completely in favour of Serbian-born WBO world cruiserweight title holder with John Madfis marking it an astonishingly bizarre 117-111 - a decision which Afolabi branded as ridiculous - to Deon Dwarte's more respectable 115-113.
The Wembley-born boxer produced a late rally towards the end but it was all too little too late as the tough-teak Berlin-based Huck deservedly retained his mantle for the eleventh successive time.
The result unfortunately condemned 33-year-old Afolabi, 33, to his third defeat in 26 professional outings.
"I blocked a lot of shots but he (Huck) just wouldn't stop going and the best man won," said Afolabi, who is based in Los Angeles.
"He did a good job and was aggressive.
"His style will always give me problems, he threw a lot of shots and he wouldn't stop going.
"The 117-111 decision was ridiculous, even if they give it to him then he (Madfis) should have gave it to him by one point.
"The scoring was a hometown decision so that's what you expect. I tried my best, the judges saw it one way so whatever they say stays.
"But I believe the 114-114 score was the true reflection of the fight.
With the Huck rivalry officially over, Afolabi is now hoping his management team at Klitschko Brother's K2 Promotions can land him another world title shot against either of the three other main title holders - Guillermo Jones (WBA), Krzysztof Włodarczyk (WBC) and Yoan Pablo Hernández (IBF) but knows he will have to get back to winning ways before he can land himself another tilt.
"I just want to work myself up again then see what happens, there is other big names I can fight so whatever K2 says goes," Afolabi continues.
"I just have to go back to the gym and work more on my skills but I'm getting better all the time, comparing where I was eight years ago I am truly proud of myself."
roving-reporter.com preview on 6th June 2013
Boxing: Marco Huck Vs Ola Afolabi WBO World Cruiserweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10458820.Afolabi_confident_now_is_his_time_against_bitter_rival_Huck/
Ola Afolabi is confident he can make it third time lucky and finally claim the WBO world cruiserweight title off bitter rival Marco 'Käpt'n' Huck, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 33-year-old former Battersea Amateur Boxing club representative continues his on-going feud with the Serbian this Saturday at Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin, Germany knowing full well he has to win in style to avoid experiencing another controversial decision.
A close points defeat in December 2009 followed by a draw last May in Erfurt, Germany which incidentally was his last contest, was even more of an extremely bitter pill to swallow for the South Londoner who is completely focused on beating Berlin-based Huck, 28: "This was my belt, this is my belt and I am coming to finally take it from him (Huck)", said Afolabi, who began preparing for his third encounter with Serbia's eleven-time world title holder back in November at the famous Big Bear resort in California, USA.
"I am not going into the fight looking for a knockout - that would increase the risk of over-pacing during the first few rounds.
"But I see myself stopping Huck early. Regardless of that, I am going to do whatever it takes to leave the ring as the winner.
"I honestly cannot see how I could lose this fight. I have been working too hard on myself and on the tactics. I should already have won the title last year. Now the time has finally come."
Boxing: Marco Huck Vs Ola Afolabi WBO World Cruiserweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10458820.Afolabi_confident_now_is_his_time_against_bitter_rival_Huck/
Ola Afolabi is confident he can make it third time lucky and finally claim the WBO world cruiserweight title off bitter rival Marco 'Käpt'n' Huck, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 33-year-old former Battersea Amateur Boxing club representative continues his on-going feud with the Serbian this Saturday at Max-Schmeling-Halle in Berlin, Germany knowing full well he has to win in style to avoid experiencing another controversial decision.
A close points defeat in December 2009 followed by a draw last May in Erfurt, Germany which incidentally was his last contest, was even more of an extremely bitter pill to swallow for the South Londoner who is completely focused on beating Berlin-based Huck, 28: "This was my belt, this is my belt and I am coming to finally take it from him (Huck)", said Afolabi, who began preparing for his third encounter with Serbia's eleven-time world title holder back in November at the famous Big Bear resort in California, USA.
"I am not going into the fight looking for a knockout - that would increase the risk of over-pacing during the first few rounds.
"But I see myself stopping Huck early. Regardless of that, I am going to do whatever it takes to leave the ring as the winner.
"I honestly cannot see how I could lose this fight. I have been working too hard on myself and on the tactics. I should already have won the title last year. Now the time has finally come."
roving-reporter.com at Roland Garros, Paris, France on 27th May 2013
Tennis: 2013 Roland Garros
Anne Keothavong will now concentrate on preparing for Wimbledon after failing to get into the main draw of Roland Garros, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 29-year-old British number four from Hackney was resoundingly brushed-aside by Czech Republic’s Eva Birnerova in the deciding set of her first-round qualifier on the Parisian red clay last Wednesday, eventually losing 3-6 6-3 6-0.
It was hardly the ideal preparation for the former Kingsland High School pupil who went into the French capital with just one clay court match under her belt, an opening round defeat to Irina Ramialison in Cagnes-Sur-Mer, France.
From the seven tournaments she has played so far this season, GB Federation Cup regular Keothavong, who is currently ranked number 190 in the world, claimed the WTA ITF second-tier Open GDF Suez Seine et Marne hard court indoor event in Croissy-Beaubourg, France after beating Czech Republic’s Sandra Zahlavova in the final 7-6, 6-3.
In fact her tournament victory in the eastern Paris suburbs was the first for nearly seventeen months.
Keothavong is now hoping to string together a good run of results in the British Grass Court season – the annual traditional run up to Wimbledon - which kicks off with AEGON Trophy in Nottingham next week (June 1 – 9) will definitely see her back in the dizzy heights of the world’s top 100.
At last year’s Nottingham event she beat current British number one Laura Robson in round two before going out in the semi-finals to American Coco Vandeweghe.
But Keothavong knows she will have to repeat her 2012 performance in order to go one better as there a strong field to this year’s event.
World number 29 and 2012 Wimbledon quarter-finalist Tamira Paszek from Austria tops the 32 women field which also features Taiwan’s Italian Open doubles winner Su-Wei Hsieh, 2011 winner Eleni Daniilidou along with Keothavong’s British Federation Cup colleagues Elena Baltacha and Johanna Konta.
Tennis: 2013 Roland Garros
Anne Keothavong will now concentrate on preparing for Wimbledon after failing to get into the main draw of Roland Garros, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 29-year-old British number four from Hackney was resoundingly brushed-aside by Czech Republic’s Eva Birnerova in the deciding set of her first-round qualifier on the Parisian red clay last Wednesday, eventually losing 3-6 6-3 6-0.
It was hardly the ideal preparation for the former Kingsland High School pupil who went into the French capital with just one clay court match under her belt, an opening round defeat to Irina Ramialison in Cagnes-Sur-Mer, France.
From the seven tournaments she has played so far this season, GB Federation Cup regular Keothavong, who is currently ranked number 190 in the world, claimed the WTA ITF second-tier Open GDF Suez Seine et Marne hard court indoor event in Croissy-Beaubourg, France after beating Czech Republic’s Sandra Zahlavova in the final 7-6, 6-3.
In fact her tournament victory in the eastern Paris suburbs was the first for nearly seventeen months.
Keothavong is now hoping to string together a good run of results in the British Grass Court season – the annual traditional run up to Wimbledon - which kicks off with AEGON Trophy in Nottingham next week (June 1 – 9) will definitely see her back in the dizzy heights of the world’s top 100.
At last year’s Nottingham event she beat current British number one Laura Robson in round two before going out in the semi-finals to American Coco Vandeweghe.
But Keothavong knows she will have to repeat her 2012 performance in order to go one better as there a strong field to this year’s event.
World number 29 and 2012 Wimbledon quarter-finalist Tamira Paszek from Austria tops the 32 women field which also features Taiwan’s Italian Open doubles winner Su-Wei Hsieh, 2011 winner Eleni Daniilidou along with Keothavong’s British Federation Cup colleagues Elena Baltacha and Johanna Konta.
roving-reporter.com at AVIVA Stadium, Dublin, Republic of Ireland on 18th May 2013
Rugby Union: 2013 Heieken Cup Final: RC Toulon Vs Clermont Auvergne
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10440355.Armitage_is_loving_his_match_winning_performance_in_the_Heineken_Cup/ Delon Armitage described his dramatic match-winning performance in the 2013 Heineken Cup Final on Saturday at AVIVA Stadium, Dublin as ‘a dream come true’, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The former Richmond player scored the vital try which captain Jonny Wilkinson coolly converted fifteen minutes from time to help his star-studded RC Toulon edge red-hot favourites and fellow French Top 14 outfit Clermont Auvergne 16-15.
Overall it was a fantastic day for the Richmond old boys as Delon’s brother Steffon and Andrew Sheridan also played their role in RC Toulon’s historic triumph.
“It was a dream come true,” said the former Richmond College student and England International.
“Obviously we worked really hard all year and it was a dream getting into the Heineken Cup Final.
“We all believe that we could get here and win which is just a great feeling.
“Clermont haven’t lost a game in the whole group stages so they came here as favourites, we knew that but it showed that sometimes defence win games and we defended for long periods of the game.”
And Armitage very sportingly paid tribute to the beaten finalists: “I feel for them because they played all the rugby and they were brilliant,” added the 29-year-old full back.
“They deserved more but we’re happy to be the champions of Europe. We’re just really grateful that we are champions of Europe!”
Armitage could after all end up in a double-winning side as RC Toulon this Saturday face Toulouse for a place in the Top 14 play-off championship final but whatever happens he has enjoyed his first season in the South of France: “To come here (to Toulon) from my first year thinking ‘have I made the right decision leaving England?’ but to win the Heineken Cup in my first year over here is a dream come true.”
Rugby Union: 2013 Heieken Cup Final: RC Toulon Vs Clermont Auvergne
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10440355.Armitage_is_loving_his_match_winning_performance_in_the_Heineken_Cup/ Delon Armitage described his dramatic match-winning performance in the 2013 Heineken Cup Final on Saturday at AVIVA Stadium, Dublin as ‘a dream come true’, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The former Richmond player scored the vital try which captain Jonny Wilkinson coolly converted fifteen minutes from time to help his star-studded RC Toulon edge red-hot favourites and fellow French Top 14 outfit Clermont Auvergne 16-15.
Overall it was a fantastic day for the Richmond old boys as Delon’s brother Steffon and Andrew Sheridan also played their role in RC Toulon’s historic triumph.
“It was a dream come true,” said the former Richmond College student and England International.
“Obviously we worked really hard all year and it was a dream getting into the Heineken Cup Final.
“We all believe that we could get here and win which is just a great feeling.
“Clermont haven’t lost a game in the whole group stages so they came here as favourites, we knew that but it showed that sometimes defence win games and we defended for long periods of the game.”
And Armitage very sportingly paid tribute to the beaten finalists: “I feel for them because they played all the rugby and they were brilliant,” added the 29-year-old full back.
“They deserved more but we’re happy to be the champions of Europe. We’re just really grateful that we are champions of Europe!”
Armitage could after all end up in a double-winning side as RC Toulon this Saturday face Toulouse for a place in the Top 14 play-off championship final but whatever happens he has enjoyed his first season in the South of France: “To come here (to Toulon) from my first year thinking ‘have I made the right decision leaving England?’ but to win the Heineken Cup in my first year over here is a dream come true.”
Roving-reporter.com news on 15th May 2013
Rugby Union: 2013 Heieken Cup Final: RC Toulon Vs Clermont Auvergne
Former Richmond players Delon and Steffon Armitage along with Andrew Sheridan will all be gunning for European glory this Saturday at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The trio will feature in the star-studded RC Toulon outfit as they take on fellow Top 14 side and red hot favourites Clermont Auvergne in the final of European rugby’s premier club competition Heineken Cup.
The Southern French outfit booked their very first Heineken Cup final appearance three weeks ago at Twickenham when England world cup winner Jonny Wilkinson used the full effect of his magical kicking boots to beat Premiership league outfit Saracens 21-12.
Delon Armitage is looking forward to the big day at the Irish capital: “Clermont are a tough team, we’ve played them a few times already this year,” said the 29-year-old full-back.
“The final will be a difficult one but I’m really looking forward to it.”
But towering 6ft 5in Sheridan, 33, who spent his early playing days at The Athletic Ground, has his mind firmly focused on victory this Saturday: “Both sides will be confident of winning on May 18,” said the current England International.
“It’s nice to get to the final but obviously we want to win it.”
Rugby Union: 2013 Heieken Cup Final: RC Toulon Vs Clermont Auvergne
Former Richmond players Delon and Steffon Armitage along with Andrew Sheridan will all be gunning for European glory this Saturday at Aviva Stadium, Dublin, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The trio will feature in the star-studded RC Toulon outfit as they take on fellow Top 14 side and red hot favourites Clermont Auvergne in the final of European rugby’s premier club competition Heineken Cup.
The Southern French outfit booked their very first Heineken Cup final appearance three weeks ago at Twickenham when England world cup winner Jonny Wilkinson used the full effect of his magical kicking boots to beat Premiership league outfit Saracens 21-12.
Delon Armitage is looking forward to the big day at the Irish capital: “Clermont are a tough team, we’ve played them a few times already this year,” said the 29-year-old full-back.
“The final will be a difficult one but I’m really looking forward to it.”
But towering 6ft 5in Sheridan, 33, who spent his early playing days at The Athletic Ground, has his mind firmly focused on victory this Saturday: “Both sides will be confident of winning on May 18,” said the current England International.
“It’s nice to get to the final but obviously we want to win it.”
Roving-reporter.com news on 6th May 2013
Boxing: David Haye
‘The Hayemaker’ David Haye says he was unimpressed with Wladimir Klitschko's one-sided demolition of Francesco Pianeta in Mannheim, Germany on Saturday as the Clapham boxer is hoping to get a rematch with the triple world heavyweight title holder from Ukraine, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 32-year-old former WBA champion, who meets Lebanon’s Manuel Charr in a twelve rounder on June 29 at Manchester Arena, was at ringside working for ESPN to witness his rival claim a fourteenth successful title defence.
"A fight like that, it reminded me of a Mexican piñata!” said Haye, who lost to Klitschko, 37, back in July 2011 in Hamburg. “You hang it up and smack the hell out of it.
"It will hurt his legacy. He won't be remembered like Mike Tyson. He doesn't excite people."
"He can pick whoever he wants and he'll get paid the same. He picks up €5 million and they roll on. It's a great business model. Klitschko could have a barbeque in the ring and he'd get 20,000 come to watch him!
"If he fights me, he makes £15 million. The other option is he fights three of these Pianeta guys and gets £5m per time. It doesn't make business sense to fight me because they know if I land, I knock him out.
"Wladimir beat me fair and square and says he doesn't want to fight me again but he's given others rematches, Tony Thompson got a rematch.
But Haye has strongly hinted that Klitschko’s older brother WBC belt holder Vatili is interested in fighting him: "Vitali said he wants to fight me,” he claims. “Vitali has got more balls than Wladimir, it'll be a more entertaining fight."
Tickets for ‘The Hayemaker is Back: Haye vs. Charr’ are available by calling 0844 847 8000.
Meanwhile former Battersea ABC representative Ola Afolabi will get a third attempt at taking Marco Huck’s WBO World cruiserweight title on June 8 at Max Schmeling Halle, Berlin, Germany.
Boxing: David Haye
‘The Hayemaker’ David Haye says he was unimpressed with Wladimir Klitschko's one-sided demolition of Francesco Pianeta in Mannheim, Germany on Saturday as the Clapham boxer is hoping to get a rematch with the triple world heavyweight title holder from Ukraine, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 32-year-old former WBA champion, who meets Lebanon’s Manuel Charr in a twelve rounder on June 29 at Manchester Arena, was at ringside working for ESPN to witness his rival claim a fourteenth successful title defence.
"A fight like that, it reminded me of a Mexican piñata!” said Haye, who lost to Klitschko, 37, back in July 2011 in Hamburg. “You hang it up and smack the hell out of it.
"It will hurt his legacy. He won't be remembered like Mike Tyson. He doesn't excite people."
"He can pick whoever he wants and he'll get paid the same. He picks up €5 million and they roll on. It's a great business model. Klitschko could have a barbeque in the ring and he'd get 20,000 come to watch him!
"If he fights me, he makes £15 million. The other option is he fights three of these Pianeta guys and gets £5m per time. It doesn't make business sense to fight me because they know if I land, I knock him out.
"Wladimir beat me fair and square and says he doesn't want to fight me again but he's given others rematches, Tony Thompson got a rematch.
But Haye has strongly hinted that Klitschko’s older brother WBC belt holder Vatili is interested in fighting him: "Vitali said he wants to fight me,” he claims. “Vitali has got more balls than Wladimir, it'll be a more entertaining fight."
Tickets for ‘The Hayemaker is Back: Haye vs. Charr’ are available by calling 0844 847 8000.
Meanwhile former Battersea ABC representative Ola Afolabi will get a third attempt at taking Marco Huck’s WBO World cruiserweight title on June 8 at Max Schmeling Halle, Berlin, Germany.
Roving-reporter.com at Twickenham Stadium, Twickenham, Middlesex, England on 28th April 2013
Rugby Union: ERC Heineken Cup Semi-Final: Saracens Vs RC Toulon
Former Richmond players Delon and Steffon Armitage along with Andrew Sheridan will all be hoping for European glory at the Irish capital city of Dublin in three week’s time after helping their star-studded RC Toulon side reach their very first Heineken Cup final last Sunday at Twickenham Stadium, writes Ziad Chaudry.
England world cup winner Jonny Wilkinson used the full effect of his magical kicking boots as he registered all the points for the French outfit who defeated Premiership league leaders Saracens 21-12.
Toulon will meet fellow Top 14 side Clermont Auvergne at Aviva Stadium on May 18 and Delon Armitage is looking forward to the big day, his side’s first ever appearance in European Club rugby’s grand showpiece event: “It was quite a touch game but we deserved it because we really worked hard up front,” said the 29-year-old full-back.
“Clermont are a tough team, we’ve played them a few times already this year but we’re happy we’ve made it. The final will be a difficult one but I’m really looking forward to it.”
And towering 6ft 5in Sheridan, 33, who spent his early playing days at The Athletic Ground, wants to be part of a Heineken Cup winning team come May 18: “Both sides will be confident of winning on May 18,” said the current England International.
“It’s nice to get to the final but obviously we want to win it.”
Former Dulwich school pupil Andrew Sheridan will be hoping for European success at the Irish capital city of Dublin in three week’s time after helping his star-studded RC Toulon side reach their very first Heineken Cup final last Sunday at Twickenham Stadium, writes Ziad Chaudry.
England world cup winner Jonny Wilkinson used the full effect of his magical kicking boots as he registered all the points for the French outfit who defeated Premiership league leaders Saracens 21-12.
Toulon will meet fellow Top 14 side Clermont Auvergne at Aviva Stadium on May 18 and towering 6ft 5in Sheridan is looking forward to the big day, his side’s first ever appearance in European Club rugby’s grand showpiece event: “We are obviously pleased we got through to the final,” said the current England international. “We worked very well as a team and got what we we’re after, a final in Dublin.
“Clermont are a tough team and both sides will be confident of winning on May 18.
“It’s nice to get to the final but obviously we want to win it.”
Rugby Union: ERC Heineken Cup Semi-Final: Saracens Vs RC Toulon
Former Richmond players Delon and Steffon Armitage along with Andrew Sheridan will all be hoping for European glory at the Irish capital city of Dublin in three week’s time after helping their star-studded RC Toulon side reach their very first Heineken Cup final last Sunday at Twickenham Stadium, writes Ziad Chaudry.
England world cup winner Jonny Wilkinson used the full effect of his magical kicking boots as he registered all the points for the French outfit who defeated Premiership league leaders Saracens 21-12.
Toulon will meet fellow Top 14 side Clermont Auvergne at Aviva Stadium on May 18 and Delon Armitage is looking forward to the big day, his side’s first ever appearance in European Club rugby’s grand showpiece event: “It was quite a touch game but we deserved it because we really worked hard up front,” said the 29-year-old full-back.
“Clermont are a tough team, we’ve played them a few times already this year but we’re happy we’ve made it. The final will be a difficult one but I’m really looking forward to it.”
And towering 6ft 5in Sheridan, 33, who spent his early playing days at The Athletic Ground, wants to be part of a Heineken Cup winning team come May 18: “Both sides will be confident of winning on May 18,” said the current England International.
“It’s nice to get to the final but obviously we want to win it.”
Former Dulwich school pupil Andrew Sheridan will be hoping for European success at the Irish capital city of Dublin in three week’s time after helping his star-studded RC Toulon side reach their very first Heineken Cup final last Sunday at Twickenham Stadium, writes Ziad Chaudry.
England world cup winner Jonny Wilkinson used the full effect of his magical kicking boots as he registered all the points for the French outfit who defeated Premiership league leaders Saracens 21-12.
Toulon will meet fellow Top 14 side Clermont Auvergne at Aviva Stadium on May 18 and towering 6ft 5in Sheridan is looking forward to the big day, his side’s first ever appearance in European Club rugby’s grand showpiece event: “We are obviously pleased we got through to the final,” said the current England international. “We worked very well as a team and got what we we’re after, a final in Dublin.
“Clermont are a tough team and both sides will be confident of winning on May 18.
“It’s nice to get to the final but obviously we want to win it.”
Roving-reporter.com at Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield, South Yorkshire, England on 27th April 2013
Boxing: Audley Harrison Vs Deontay Wilder 12 round international heavyweight contest
http://pages.cdn.pagesuite.com/d/b/db3e7d0b-6173-4610-9f71-a7188643303d/page.pdf Audley Harrison admitted he may finally have reached the end of his rollercoaster boxing career, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Big hard-hitting American hope Deontay Wilder immediately closed the chapter on the 41-year-old Kingsbury heavyweight’s on-going world title aspirations once and for all after completing a lethal seventy second demolition job at a packed Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield last Saturday on the undercard of Amir Khan’s big UK comeback win against Julio Diaz.
British champion David Price completed a similar first round job seven months ago on the ‘A-Force’ who went into Saturday’s career-defying contest fresh from scooping his second Prizefighter title.
While Harrison fully acknowledges the fact he will not get any more chances knowing his time in the ring is nearly up the former Strictly Come Dancing contestant is proud of his Olympic and European title achievements including the numerous attempts at winning that world title: "I have to accept that age the age of 41 I'm not going to get many more chances,” he said. “But if it is the end I can be proud of what I've done, winning the Olympic title and European title.
"I've given everything to fight for a world title. I've never given up and I've pushed and pushed and pushed.
"I have got a lot to be proud of, but I have been found wanting on a few occasions and I have to look at myself and accept that.
"I have made a lot of noise and opened a lot of doors on the promotional side.
"I will rue not fighting for a world title but I am happy with what I've achieved. I went from being a nine-year-old in the ghetto to becoming an Olympic gold medallist, but the rest of it just wasn't to be.
"I will go away and think about it. My wife is expecting our baby next week so I will go home and God willing I will celebrate that. I don't think I can continue to put myself and my family through it."
Meanwhile Wembley-born California-based Ola Afolabi will get a third attempt at taking Marco Huck’s WBO World cruiserweight title on June 8 at Max Schmeling Halle, Berlin, Germany.
Boxing: Audley Harrison Vs Deontay Wilder 12 round international heavyweight contest
http://pages.cdn.pagesuite.com/d/b/db3e7d0b-6173-4610-9f71-a7188643303d/page.pdf Audley Harrison admitted he may finally have reached the end of his rollercoaster boxing career, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Big hard-hitting American hope Deontay Wilder immediately closed the chapter on the 41-year-old Kingsbury heavyweight’s on-going world title aspirations once and for all after completing a lethal seventy second demolition job at a packed Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield last Saturday on the undercard of Amir Khan’s big UK comeback win against Julio Diaz.
British champion David Price completed a similar first round job seven months ago on the ‘A-Force’ who went into Saturday’s career-defying contest fresh from scooping his second Prizefighter title.
While Harrison fully acknowledges the fact he will not get any more chances knowing his time in the ring is nearly up the former Strictly Come Dancing contestant is proud of his Olympic and European title achievements including the numerous attempts at winning that world title: "I have to accept that age the age of 41 I'm not going to get many more chances,” he said. “But if it is the end I can be proud of what I've done, winning the Olympic title and European title.
"I've given everything to fight for a world title. I've never given up and I've pushed and pushed and pushed.
"I have got a lot to be proud of, but I have been found wanting on a few occasions and I have to look at myself and accept that.
"I have made a lot of noise and opened a lot of doors on the promotional side.
"I will rue not fighting for a world title but I am happy with what I've achieved. I went from being a nine-year-old in the ghetto to becoming an Olympic gold medallist, but the rest of it just wasn't to be.
"I will go away and think about it. My wife is expecting our baby next week so I will go home and God willing I will celebrate that. I don't think I can continue to put myself and my family through it."
Meanwhile Wembley-born California-based Ola Afolabi will get a third attempt at taking Marco Huck’s WBO World cruiserweight title on June 8 at Max Schmeling Halle, Berlin, Germany.
Roving-reporter.com at London Marathon Media Headquarters, Guoman Tower, London Bridge, London, England on 21st April 2013
Athletics/Road Running: 2013 Virgin London Marathon
http://www.wandsworthguardian.co.uk/sport/10376031.GB_international_Wicks_misses_World_Championships_time_out_at_the_London_marathon/Belgrave Harriers Phil Wicks admits he was disappointed at not reaching the desired world championship qualifying time during the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 28-year-old registered 2:19:07 to finish 15th, well below his best in 2011 of 2:15:38.
But unfortunately his pursue to reach the 2:14:30 world marker did not go according to plan: "I set out at 66.3 was the aim through halfway but ended up going through in 67 then I just lost a lot of time particularly in the last 10k," he said.
"I came out here obviously looking to run that qualifying time."
He could not keep up with Derek Hawkins who was the first British man home in 13th place, clocking 2:16.50: "The two of us were together at six miles when Derek pushed it on from that point," continued Wicks.
"It was a tough race but another one that kind of learned things from.
"The plan was to qualify for the world championships but I just have to refocus on qualifying for next year's Commonwealth Games or European Championships."
Wicks will next race in The Bupa London 10,000 on May 27.
Athletics/Road Running: 2013 Virgin London Marathon
http://www.wandsworthguardian.co.uk/sport/10376031.GB_international_Wicks_misses_World_Championships_time_out_at_the_London_marathon/Belgrave Harriers Phil Wicks admits he was disappointed at not reaching the desired world championship qualifying time during the Virgin London Marathon on Sunday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 28-year-old registered 2:19:07 to finish 15th, well below his best in 2011 of 2:15:38.
But unfortunately his pursue to reach the 2:14:30 world marker did not go according to plan: "I set out at 66.3 was the aim through halfway but ended up going through in 67 then I just lost a lot of time particularly in the last 10k," he said.
"I came out here obviously looking to run that qualifying time."
He could not keep up with Derek Hawkins who was the first British man home in 13th place, clocking 2:16.50: "The two of us were together at six miles when Derek pushed it on from that point," continued Wicks.
"It was a tough race but another one that kind of learned things from.
"The plan was to qualify for the world championships but I just have to refocus on qualifying for next year's Commonwealth Games or European Championships."
Wicks will next race in The Bupa London 10,000 on May 27.
Roving-reporter.com at Wembley Arena, Wembley, London, England on 20th April 2013
Boxing: Dereck Chisora Vs Hector Alfrado Avila 10 round international heavyweight contest
http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/sport/dereck_chisora_eyes_summer_showdown_with_david_price_after_wembley_triumph_1_2164527 Dereck Chisora has his sights firmly set on a summer showdown with fellow domestic heavyweight rival David Price, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 29-year-old former British champion from Finchley made a victorious return to the ring on Saturday at Wembley Arena with a lacklustre ninth round stoppage over Argentina’s Hector Alfredo Avila in his first outing since losing his controversial grudge match to David Haye back in July.
And a frustrated Chisora, who regained his BBBoC licence a few weeks ago, could not properly find his way through an opponent who spent the majority of the contest just covering up and holding: "The guy came to spoil and that made it difficult for me,” he said.
"It's done and now we move on to bigger and better things."
‘Del Boy’, who claimed his 16th win in 20 outings since turning to the paid ranks in 2007, will have to wait before he finally gets his chance at towering 6ft 8in Price as the Liverpudlian has a revenge mission with a much-anticipated rematch with American Tony Thompson on July 6 at his hometown.
"I expect him (Price) to win the rematch and me against him would be a great fight for the summer," continued Chisora, who back in February 2012 made an unsuccessful attempt to take the world WBC title from Ukraine’s Vitali Klitschko,” Chisora added.
"David has nothing to be ashamed of and shouldn't be putting himself down.
“I like David, I don't have any quarrels with him. He's a family man and a cool guy, but this is a business."
But his promoter Frank Warren feels the Finchley needs another warm up contest before he meets the likes of Price and other big name contenders: “Dereck needs another fight then he’ll be ready to fight anybody,” said the 61-year-old from Islington.
“He’s only had 20 fights and when you look at that and with the quality of opposition he has fought over the years then he has had tougher fights than Tyson Fury.”
Boxing: Dereck Chisora Vs Hector Alfrado Avila 10 round international heavyweight contest
http://www.hamhigh.co.uk/sport/dereck_chisora_eyes_summer_showdown_with_david_price_after_wembley_triumph_1_2164527 Dereck Chisora has his sights firmly set on a summer showdown with fellow domestic heavyweight rival David Price, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 29-year-old former British champion from Finchley made a victorious return to the ring on Saturday at Wembley Arena with a lacklustre ninth round stoppage over Argentina’s Hector Alfredo Avila in his first outing since losing his controversial grudge match to David Haye back in July.
And a frustrated Chisora, who regained his BBBoC licence a few weeks ago, could not properly find his way through an opponent who spent the majority of the contest just covering up and holding: "The guy came to spoil and that made it difficult for me,” he said.
"It's done and now we move on to bigger and better things."
‘Del Boy’, who claimed his 16th win in 20 outings since turning to the paid ranks in 2007, will have to wait before he finally gets his chance at towering 6ft 8in Price as the Liverpudlian has a revenge mission with a much-anticipated rematch with American Tony Thompson on July 6 at his hometown.
"I expect him (Price) to win the rematch and me against him would be a great fight for the summer," continued Chisora, who back in February 2012 made an unsuccessful attempt to take the world WBC title from Ukraine’s Vitali Klitschko,” Chisora added.
"David has nothing to be ashamed of and shouldn't be putting himself down.
“I like David, I don't have any quarrels with him. He's a family man and a cool guy, but this is a business."
But his promoter Frank Warren feels the Finchley needs another warm up contest before he meets the likes of Price and other big name contenders: “Dereck needs another fight then he’ll be ready to fight anybody,” said the 61-year-old from Islington.
“He’s only had 20 fights and when you look at that and with the quality of opposition he has fought over the years then he has had tougher fights than Tyson Fury.”
Roving-reporter.com at Wembley Arena, Wembley, London, England on 20th April 2013
Boxing: Steve O'Meara Vs Chas Symonds 6 round light-middleweight contest
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/o_meara_hits_out_at_referee_who_considered_stopping_symonds_fight_1_2166486 Steve O’Meara has slammed referee Robert Williams for twice trying to pull him out during his somewhat frustrating six-round light-middleweight affair with Chas Symonds at Wembley Arena on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
This was due to the former Dale Youth ABC representative suffering cuts on both eyes caused by Symond’s crazy WWE wrestling-style rough-up and playacting tactics during his 58-56 points victory.
And O’Meara, 29, who wanted to impress well in an attempt to gain another Commonwealth or British title shot, admitted he was on panic mode when Williams was trying all he can to end the fight on a cuts stoppage in rounds three and four: “I was pleading with him, I said to him ‘I can see fine ref’ but he wasn’t listening to me,” he said.
“The first person you should ask is the fighter and see if he can see. At least test me rather than telling me I can’t see.
“It didn’t feel like he was on my side at all and he’s meant to be doing what he can for the fighters.
“When the crowd come and pay good money to see you fight, the last thing they want to see a fight stopped on a prematurely cut.
“The referee obviously didn’t seem to give a monkey’s about that and if he’d stopped that fight I would have been really disappointed in him and in boxing in general.”
The West Londoner, who is promoted by Frank Warren, described Saturday’s contest ‘like being in a phantom theatre:’ “I half-panicked and thought there’s no way I was going to let the fight get stopped, so I tried to get him (Symonds) out of there.
“That was probably not the best idea and they weren’t the tactics when I went in there with, but I felt I had to do something.
“I just wanted to get on with the fight and get him out of there but he was spinning round and doing all sorts!
“The only thing I’ll take from that is experience, next time I just got to keep my cool.”
On the undercard of the marathon 14-fight bill Wembley welterweight Gary Corcoran moved to six straight wins after comfortably outpointing Tottenham’s Mark McKray.
This Saturday at Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield, Kingsbury’s Audley Harrison continues his world heavyweight title quest with a 10 rounder against American big hitter Deontay Wilder.
Boxing: Steve O'Meara Vs Chas Symonds 6 round light-middleweight contest
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/o_meara_hits_out_at_referee_who_considered_stopping_symonds_fight_1_2166486 Steve O’Meara has slammed referee Robert Williams for twice trying to pull him out during his somewhat frustrating six-round light-middleweight affair with Chas Symonds at Wembley Arena on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
This was due to the former Dale Youth ABC representative suffering cuts on both eyes caused by Symond’s crazy WWE wrestling-style rough-up and playacting tactics during his 58-56 points victory.
And O’Meara, 29, who wanted to impress well in an attempt to gain another Commonwealth or British title shot, admitted he was on panic mode when Williams was trying all he can to end the fight on a cuts stoppage in rounds three and four: “I was pleading with him, I said to him ‘I can see fine ref’ but he wasn’t listening to me,” he said.
“The first person you should ask is the fighter and see if he can see. At least test me rather than telling me I can’t see.
“It didn’t feel like he was on my side at all and he’s meant to be doing what he can for the fighters.
“When the crowd come and pay good money to see you fight, the last thing they want to see a fight stopped on a prematurely cut.
“The referee obviously didn’t seem to give a monkey’s about that and if he’d stopped that fight I would have been really disappointed in him and in boxing in general.”
The West Londoner, who is promoted by Frank Warren, described Saturday’s contest ‘like being in a phantom theatre:’ “I half-panicked and thought there’s no way I was going to let the fight get stopped, so I tried to get him (Symonds) out of there.
“That was probably not the best idea and they weren’t the tactics when I went in there with, but I felt I had to do something.
“I just wanted to get on with the fight and get him out of there but he was spinning round and doing all sorts!
“The only thing I’ll take from that is experience, next time I just got to keep my cool.”
On the undercard of the marathon 14-fight bill Wembley welterweight Gary Corcoran moved to six straight wins after comfortably outpointing Tottenham’s Mark McKray.
This Saturday at Motorpoint Arena, Sheffield, Kingsbury’s Audley Harrison continues his world heavyweight title quest with a 10 rounder against American big hitter Deontay Wilder.
Roving-reporter.com at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England on 21st March 2013
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Peter McDonagh Southern area welterweight title
Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete believed he had a point to prove after beating Peter McDonagh second time round last Thursday at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The first contest back in September was closely contested but this time it was a far more convincing victory as the 25-year-old from Battersea notched-up a complete 100-90 shutout on referee’s Jeff Hinds scorecard and made a successful defence of his Southern area welterweight title.
Many observers felt Bermondsey-based McDonagh, 35, who stepped in at very short notice after original opponent Darryl Still pulled out due to injury, was robbed of victory in the first encounter however there was no disputes over the decision last Thursday.
And Skeete, who advanced to eleven straight wins since turning to the paid ranks back in October 2010, definitely felt he performed a lot better during the second meeting: “This one was the better win,” said the former Earlsfield ABC representative.
“I changed my tactics in this second fight but I knew he (McDonagh) was going to do the same from the first one so just I dictated the fight throughout.
“I was just smashing the jab through, hitting him with sharp shots and making them count, also my footwork was spot on - that was the key to my victory.
“A lot of people came to me after the fight and said they’ve never seen McDonagh dealt in that sort of way before.”
Skeete’s next contest is pencilled in for June as he continues to move up the British rankings and setting his sights on getting a shot at the British title: “My promoter Francis Warren said I was punch-perfect and promised there will be some good fights out there for me.
“I’m in a very competitive division but it’s all about getting the right fights at the right time.
“I’m in a good position at the moment because there’s talk of fighting for the British title by the end of the year but I know by the end of the year I’ll be fighting for the British title.”
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Peter McDonagh Southern area welterweight title
Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete believed he had a point to prove after beating Peter McDonagh second time round last Thursday at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The first contest back in September was closely contested but this time it was a far more convincing victory as the 25-year-old from Battersea notched-up a complete 100-90 shutout on referee’s Jeff Hinds scorecard and made a successful defence of his Southern area welterweight title.
Many observers felt Bermondsey-based McDonagh, 35, who stepped in at very short notice after original opponent Darryl Still pulled out due to injury, was robbed of victory in the first encounter however there was no disputes over the decision last Thursday.
And Skeete, who advanced to eleven straight wins since turning to the paid ranks back in October 2010, definitely felt he performed a lot better during the second meeting: “This one was the better win,” said the former Earlsfield ABC representative.
“I changed my tactics in this second fight but I knew he (McDonagh) was going to do the same from the first one so just I dictated the fight throughout.
“I was just smashing the jab through, hitting him with sharp shots and making them count, also my footwork was spot on - that was the key to my victory.
“A lot of people came to me after the fight and said they’ve never seen McDonagh dealt in that sort of way before.”
Skeete’s next contest is pencilled in for June as he continues to move up the British rankings and setting his sights on getting a shot at the British title: “My promoter Francis Warren said I was punch-perfect and promised there will be some good fights out there for me.
“I’m in a very competitive division but it’s all about getting the right fights at the right time.
“I’m in a good position at the moment because there’s talk of fighting for the British title by the end of the year but I know by the end of the year I’ll be fighting for the British title.”
Roving-reporter.com preview on 18th March 2013
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Darryl Still Southern area welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10295984.Skeete_ready_for_title_defence/ Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete says he is really looking forward to making his first defence of the Southern area welterweight title this Thursday (March 21) at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The ten-fight unbeaten 25-year-old from Battersea meets former title challenger ‘The Real Deal’ Darryl Still.
Basingstoke-based Still, 32, last fought for the title last April when he was outpointed by Croydon’s Chas Symonds who incidentally went on to relinquish the belt to his bitter local rival Skeete at ExCeL, London Docklands back in December.
“I’m really looking forward to making the first defence of my title,” said former Earlsfield ABC rep Skeete, who on that December evening stopped Symonds inside four rounds.
“Training has gone great and all the hard work has been done so roll on Thursday!”
Topping Frank Warren’s seven fight bill features Billy Joe Saunders defending his British and Commonwealth middleweight title against Matthew Hall.
For tickets call 01992 550888, otherwise watch all the action on BoxNation from 7pm.
Meanwhile Skeete could have another local South London rival in Ahmet ‘Pattycake’ Patterson who is desperate to get hold at his belt.
The 25-year-old from East Dulwich, managed by Frank Maloney, advanced to eight straight professional wins after outpointing Jamaican ‘Mad Max’ Maxwell 80-72 last Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
“I want the Southern area title,” said Patterson. “That’s what I want and that’s what I’m aiming for."
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Darryl Still Southern area welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10295984.Skeete_ready_for_title_defence/ Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete says he is really looking forward to making his first defence of the Southern area welterweight title this Thursday (March 21) at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The ten-fight unbeaten 25-year-old from Battersea meets former title challenger ‘The Real Deal’ Darryl Still.
Basingstoke-based Still, 32, last fought for the title last April when he was outpointed by Croydon’s Chas Symonds who incidentally went on to relinquish the belt to his bitter local rival Skeete at ExCeL, London Docklands back in December.
“I’m really looking forward to making the first defence of my title,” said former Earlsfield ABC rep Skeete, who on that December evening stopped Symonds inside four rounds.
“Training has gone great and all the hard work has been done so roll on Thursday!”
Topping Frank Warren’s seven fight bill features Billy Joe Saunders defending his British and Commonwealth middleweight title against Matthew Hall.
For tickets call 01992 550888, otherwise watch all the action on BoxNation from 7pm.
Meanwhile Skeete could have another local South London rival in Ahmet ‘Pattycake’ Patterson who is desperate to get hold at his belt.
The 25-year-old from East Dulwich, managed by Frank Maloney, advanced to eight straight professional wins after outpointing Jamaican ‘Mad Max’ Maxwell 80-72 last Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
“I want the Southern area title,” said Patterson. “That’s what I want and that’s what I’m aiming for."
Roving-reporter.com at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England on 15th March 2013
Boxing: Ahmet Patterson Vs Max Maxwell 8 round international welterweight contest
Ahmet ‘Pattycake’ Patterson is calling for his promoter Frank Maloney to get him a shot at Bradley Skeete’s Southern area welterweight title, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old from East Dulwich advanced to eight straight professional wins after outpointing Jamaican ‘Mad Max’ Maxwell 80-72 last Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
Skeete, from Battersea, will make the first defence of the Southern area title against Darryl Still this Thursday (March 21) also at York Hall but Patterson is desperate to get hold of it: “I want the Southern area title,” he said. “That’s what I want and that’s what I’m aiming for.
“I’m 25 now so I need to keep moving.”
Boxing: Ahmet Patterson Vs Max Maxwell 8 round international welterweight contest
Ahmet ‘Pattycake’ Patterson is calling for his promoter Frank Maloney to get him a shot at Bradley Skeete’s Southern area welterweight title, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old from East Dulwich advanced to eight straight professional wins after outpointing Jamaican ‘Mad Max’ Maxwell 80-72 last Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
Skeete, from Battersea, will make the first defence of the Southern area title against Darryl Still this Thursday (March 21) also at York Hall but Patterson is desperate to get hold of it: “I want the Southern area title,” he said. “That’s what I want and that’s what I’m aiming for.
“I’m 25 now so I need to keep moving.”
Roving-reporter.com at Wembley Arena, Wembley, London, England on 9th March 2013
Boxing: George Groves Vs Darop German Balmaceda 10 round international super-middleweight contest
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/unbeaten_groves_expects_tougher_test_after_wembley_win_1_1977160 George Groves is expecting his new promoter Eddie Hearn to assign him with a much tougher test on his May 25 outing at o2 Arena following his easy victory on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old world super-middleweight title contender from Hammersmith began his association with Matchroom Boxing all guns blazing by dismantling Argentina’s Dario German Balmaceda in three one-sided rounds at a packed Wembley Arena to register his seventeenth pro success.
And Groves, who was originally been scheduled to meet Mohamed Ali Ndiaye this Saturday at the same venue for the European title before severing ties with previous promoter Frank Warren, had the 28-year-old Cordoba native down in the second before finishing him off with a whacking straight right to the head: “I was starting to land pretty heavily as I was controlling the fight but he (Balmaceda) didn’t have any shots to come in,” said the former Dale Youth ABC representative. “Everything I was attempting to do in the fight was coming off.
“He was hurt but he was just as hurt mentally because I didn’t give him a breather.
“But overall I was happy with the performance and I’ll keep the momentum going.”
But Groves felt this fight was the perfect way to get his focus firmly back in the ring following an uncomfortable last few weeks changing promoters: “I had a tough couple of weeks, a lot was on my mind and lot of chopping and changing but I had to put that to one side obviously to box and that was biggest challenge for me.”
And Groves, who is trained by Adam Booth, is very much looking forward to appearing on the undercard of the eagerly-awaited world title unification clash between Carl Froch and Mikkel Kessler on May 25 at The o2 as he continues his climb towards a dream world title shot: “I always wanted to put on a show, it’s a pay-per-view card so I really want to be in a real big fight, I need a big tough fight.”
Tickets for Warriors’ Call: Froch v Kessler II are available by calling 0844 856 0202 or via www.theo2.co.uk
Boxing: George Groves Vs Darop German Balmaceda 10 round international super-middleweight contest
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/unbeaten_groves_expects_tougher_test_after_wembley_win_1_1977160 George Groves is expecting his new promoter Eddie Hearn to assign him with a much tougher test on his May 25 outing at o2 Arena following his easy victory on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old world super-middleweight title contender from Hammersmith began his association with Matchroom Boxing all guns blazing by dismantling Argentina’s Dario German Balmaceda in three one-sided rounds at a packed Wembley Arena to register his seventeenth pro success.
And Groves, who was originally been scheduled to meet Mohamed Ali Ndiaye this Saturday at the same venue for the European title before severing ties with previous promoter Frank Warren, had the 28-year-old Cordoba native down in the second before finishing him off with a whacking straight right to the head: “I was starting to land pretty heavily as I was controlling the fight but he (Balmaceda) didn’t have any shots to come in,” said the former Dale Youth ABC representative. “Everything I was attempting to do in the fight was coming off.
“He was hurt but he was just as hurt mentally because I didn’t give him a breather.
“But overall I was happy with the performance and I’ll keep the momentum going.”
But Groves felt this fight was the perfect way to get his focus firmly back in the ring following an uncomfortable last few weeks changing promoters: “I had a tough couple of weeks, a lot was on my mind and lot of chopping and changing but I had to put that to one side obviously to box and that was biggest challenge for me.”
And Groves, who is trained by Adam Booth, is very much looking forward to appearing on the undercard of the eagerly-awaited world title unification clash between Carl Froch and Mikkel Kessler on May 25 at The o2 as he continues his climb towards a dream world title shot: “I always wanted to put on a show, it’s a pay-per-view card so I really want to be in a real big fight, I need a big tough fight.”
Tickets for Warriors’ Call: Froch v Kessler II are available by calling 0844 856 0202 or via www.theo2.co.uk
Roving-reporter.com at Wembley Arena, Wembley, London, England on 9th March 2013
Boxing: Danny Connor Vs Chris Evangelou BBBoC Southern Area Light-Welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10284236.Danny__Cassius__Connor_proves_his_point_to_Evangelou__again/ Danny 'Cassius' Connor says he is enjoying the moment of being champion from his local area after repeating his victory against bitter rival Chris Evangelou last Saturday at Wembley Arena, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The likeable 26-year-old from Hackbridge retained his Southern area light-welterweight crown with a ten round 97-93 points decision in the opening Sky Sports live televised card.
Both boxers picked up where they left off from their first bash back in September and Connor had the opportunity to finish off Evangelou during the closing stages of round seven when he twice decked the Enfield man with body shots.
But that hardly mattered as Connor, who improves his record to 8 wins in 14 outings, scored another scalp over his cross-London rival and now looks forward to bigger challenges: "I won the fight pretty clearly the first time we fought but I had to do a better job of it," he said. "Evangelou really and truly hasn't progressed at all, if anything I think he's gone backwards, maybe he should come up and train at our gym!"
"I'm the champ around our area, we've got good fighters around our area - Tom Owen, Lee Owen, Lenny Daws, Ricky Boylan, Tom Williams, Craig Whyatt - so our area is breeding success, we've got so many good fighters around our area but it's nice to be at the moment on top of all of them.
"I'll fight anyone for the British title but I'm a little bit below that at the moment, maybe Curtis Woodhouse or Shayne Singleton for the English title then I'll move on and fight whoever's at British level."
And Connor, who will be appearing in Prizefighter light-welterweight III tournament later in the year probably at York Hall, Bethnal Green, added: "I was glad to get the win and put Hackbridge firmly back on the map!"
Boxing: Danny Connor Vs Chris Evangelou BBBoC Southern Area Light-Welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10284236.Danny__Cassius__Connor_proves_his_point_to_Evangelou__again/ Danny 'Cassius' Connor says he is enjoying the moment of being champion from his local area after repeating his victory against bitter rival Chris Evangelou last Saturday at Wembley Arena, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The likeable 26-year-old from Hackbridge retained his Southern area light-welterweight crown with a ten round 97-93 points decision in the opening Sky Sports live televised card.
Both boxers picked up where they left off from their first bash back in September and Connor had the opportunity to finish off Evangelou during the closing stages of round seven when he twice decked the Enfield man with body shots.
But that hardly mattered as Connor, who improves his record to 8 wins in 14 outings, scored another scalp over his cross-London rival and now looks forward to bigger challenges: "I won the fight pretty clearly the first time we fought but I had to do a better job of it," he said. "Evangelou really and truly hasn't progressed at all, if anything I think he's gone backwards, maybe he should come up and train at our gym!"
"I'm the champ around our area, we've got good fighters around our area - Tom Owen, Lee Owen, Lenny Daws, Ricky Boylan, Tom Williams, Craig Whyatt - so our area is breeding success, we've got so many good fighters around our area but it's nice to be at the moment on top of all of them.
"I'll fight anyone for the British title but I'm a little bit below that at the moment, maybe Curtis Woodhouse or Shayne Singleton for the English title then I'll move on and fight whoever's at British level."
And Connor, who will be appearing in Prizefighter light-welterweight III tournament later in the year probably at York Hall, Bethnal Green, added: "I was glad to get the win and put Hackbridge firmly back on the map!"
Roving-reporter.com preview on 4th March 2013
Boxing: Danny Connor Vs Chris Evangelou BBBoC Southern Area Light-Welterweight title
Danny 'Cassius' Connor is confident he can beat Chris Evangelou again in their Southern area light-welterweight title rematch this Saturday at Wembley Arena, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In their first meeting back in September at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green the 26-year-old from Carshalton, who is managed by Bruce Baker, surprised the local hot favourite round over ten lively rounds to claim a deserved 98-94 success on referee's Ken Curtis scorecard.
However the result did not go down well with Evangelou, 27, nor his supporters but Connor, who has so far won seven of his 13 outings, is determined to score another scalp on the Wood Green man and more importantly prove his September victory was no fluke: "At the end of the day it doesn't matter what anyone thinks because in the record books it says I beat him end of story," he said.
"Evangelou's people are going to say no won because they're his mates and fans, they are entitled to their own opinions but on the night I thought I won.
"I want it so bad and I hope he does want it bad because not only he needs to be 100 percent to win this fight but also to be 100 percent to survive this fight.
"I going to be 100 percent up for this, I'm predicting a stoppage when I fight him this Saturday, I'll guarantee it, you'll wait and see.
The Conner v Evangelou rematch form part of an eight fight bill headlined by Darren Barker's IBF Inter-Continental middleweight title contest with Italian Simone Rotolo. Tickets for the Betfair London's Finest are available by calling Matchroom Boxing on 01277 359900 otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports 1 from 8pm.
Boxing: Danny Connor Vs Chris Evangelou BBBoC Southern Area Light-Welterweight title
Danny 'Cassius' Connor is confident he can beat Chris Evangelou again in their Southern area light-welterweight title rematch this Saturday at Wembley Arena, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In their first meeting back in September at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green the 26-year-old from Carshalton, who is managed by Bruce Baker, surprised the local hot favourite round over ten lively rounds to claim a deserved 98-94 success on referee's Ken Curtis scorecard.
However the result did not go down well with Evangelou, 27, nor his supporters but Connor, who has so far won seven of his 13 outings, is determined to score another scalp on the Wood Green man and more importantly prove his September victory was no fluke: "At the end of the day it doesn't matter what anyone thinks because in the record books it says I beat him end of story," he said.
"Evangelou's people are going to say no won because they're his mates and fans, they are entitled to their own opinions but on the night I thought I won.
"I want it so bad and I hope he does want it bad because not only he needs to be 100 percent to win this fight but also to be 100 percent to survive this fight.
"I going to be 100 percent up for this, I'm predicting a stoppage when I fight him this Saturday, I'll guarantee it, you'll wait and see.
The Conner v Evangelou rematch form part of an eight fight bill headlined by Darren Barker's IBF Inter-Continental middleweight title contest with Italian Simone Rotolo. Tickets for the Betfair London's Finest are available by calling Matchroom Boxing on 01277 359900 otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports 1 from 8pm.
roving-reporter.com at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England on 25th February 2013
Boxing: Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/victorious_audley_harrison_still_aiming_for_another_world_title_shot_1_1959338A rejuvenated but very determined Audley Harrison has given himself until the end of his year to win a world heavyweight title after claiming his second Prizefighter success on Saturday at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 41-year-old from Kingsbury bounced back from last October’s infamous crushing one round defeat to British and Commonwealth champion David Price by proving he still got ‘The A-Force’ factor and his boxing career is far from over after battering American Derric Rossy in two rounds of a one-sided final.
Earlier the 2000 Sydney Olympic super-heavyweight champion, who later revealed he was carrying a cracked rib injury, easily disposed Dane Claus Bertino in one punch before gaining sweet revenge on Belfast’s very first Prizefighter conqueror Martin Rogan.
And despite whatever his fierce army of doubters will say this performance obviously shows Harrison has plenty of heart and desire left in his tank. He vows to carry on until he reaches his ultimate goal of becoming a world champion: “In the shape I’m in and the mentality I’m in if I lose now this will be my last leg but I still think I’m good enough to win a world title,” he said.
“I have no excuses because I’m back mentally and physically.
“I had a cracked rib but I was still able to get through and prove people wrong.
“I’m always proving people wrong and I’ll always do it. I’m still here, the journey’s not over and I’m ready to move forward in my career.
“I will win the world title hopefully by the end of the year but right now I’m going to get back to the gym, settle down with my ribs then get back out there pretty soon.”
But his former promoter Eddie Hearn reckons the Kingsbury man will need to up his level and beat a major big name contender before he can get another crack at a world title: “He (Harrison) needs a big win and prove he can win a 12 round fight at world fringe level before he can talk about a world title,” said the Matchroom Boxing supremo.
“In respective this was probably going to be the last resort for Audley really because I didn’t know what he had left but he has shown again he is at European title level but how far can he go? He’s got a great spirit and he just doesn’t want to give up.”
Boxing: Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/victorious_audley_harrison_still_aiming_for_another_world_title_shot_1_1959338A rejuvenated but very determined Audley Harrison has given himself until the end of his year to win a world heavyweight title after claiming his second Prizefighter success on Saturday at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 41-year-old from Kingsbury bounced back from last October’s infamous crushing one round defeat to British and Commonwealth champion David Price by proving he still got ‘The A-Force’ factor and his boxing career is far from over after battering American Derric Rossy in two rounds of a one-sided final.
Earlier the 2000 Sydney Olympic super-heavyweight champion, who later revealed he was carrying a cracked rib injury, easily disposed Dane Claus Bertino in one punch before gaining sweet revenge on Belfast’s very first Prizefighter conqueror Martin Rogan.
And despite whatever his fierce army of doubters will say this performance obviously shows Harrison has plenty of heart and desire left in his tank. He vows to carry on until he reaches his ultimate goal of becoming a world champion: “In the shape I’m in and the mentality I’m in if I lose now this will be my last leg but I still think I’m good enough to win a world title,” he said.
“I have no excuses because I’m back mentally and physically.
“I had a cracked rib but I was still able to get through and prove people wrong.
“I’m always proving people wrong and I’ll always do it. I’m still here, the journey’s not over and I’m ready to move forward in my career.
“I will win the world title hopefully by the end of the year but right now I’m going to get back to the gym, settle down with my ribs then get back out there pretty soon.”
But his former promoter Eddie Hearn reckons the Kingsbury man will need to up his level and beat a major big name contender before he can get another crack at a world title: “He (Harrison) needs a big win and prove he can win a 12 round fight at world fringe level before he can talk about a world title,” said the Matchroom Boxing supremo.
“In respective this was probably going to be the last resort for Audley really because I didn’t know what he had left but he has shown again he is at European title level but how far can he go? He’s got a great spirit and he just doesn’t want to give up.”
roving-reporter.com preview on 20th February 2013
Boxing: Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/veteran_harrison_hoping_for_last_hurrah_at_prizefighter_1_1945341 Audley Harrison wants to do himself justice to his flaggering boxing career when he attempts to win a second Prizefighter title this Saturday at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Many people thought they saw the last of the ‘The A-Force’ following the crushing 82-second loss to undefeated British and Commonwealth champion David Price last October but the 2000 Olympic super-heavyweight champion from Kingsbury is determined to silence his critics once again and prove his time in the ring is far from over.
The 41-year-old, who won the tournament back in October 2009 after stopping Wembley’s Coleman Barrett inside two rounds, will be joined in the popular eight-man knockout tournament by Belfast taxi driver Martin Rogan, also 41, who beat the North West Londoner on points when the pair met in a ten-rounder back in December 2008.
South London’s Ian Lewison, Americans Travis Walker and Derric Rossy, Denmark’s Claus Bertino, Timo Hoffman from Germany and Poland’s Albert Sosnowski are also eyeing the £32,000 first prize.
Within a year after the Prizefighter success from 2009 Harrison won the European crown then earned a world title fight with bitter rival and then-WBA ruler David Haye: “Winning the Prizefighter back in 2009 was good for me because I went on to win the European title then got a shot at the world title,” he said in a recent interview on talkSPORT.
“But whatever happens on Saturday I just want to go in there, do myself justice and get it out of my system so I can move on with my life, that’s why I’m really grateful to Eddie Hearn and to Matchroom for giving me this opportunity.
“This is my own personal journey. I still feel confident and I still think I can go out there and do myself justice; it’s a personal redemption for me.
“I definitely want to avenge my loss to Martin Rogan in this tournament so I just need to clear up a few things.
“I know I’m coming to the end of boxing, I’m 41 years of age so do you think I’m going to get knocked out again like I did against David Price? Thankfully for me it happened very few and far between in my career but I definitely don’t want to be knocked around like that again.
“I’m still prepared to pay the price, I’m still prepared to train like a champion and still prepared to live like a champion.
“I’m still motivated and dedicate myself to boxing, and to prove myself so I think the results will come.
“It’s only one result for me at Prizefighter to make it worthwhile and that’s to win it.”
Tickets for the Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III are available by calling Matchroom Boxing on 01277 359900, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports 1 from 9pm.
Boxing: Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing/veteran_harrison_hoping_for_last_hurrah_at_prizefighter_1_1945341 Audley Harrison wants to do himself justice to his flaggering boxing career when he attempts to win a second Prizefighter title this Saturday at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Many people thought they saw the last of the ‘The A-Force’ following the crushing 82-second loss to undefeated British and Commonwealth champion David Price last October but the 2000 Olympic super-heavyweight champion from Kingsbury is determined to silence his critics once again and prove his time in the ring is far from over.
The 41-year-old, who won the tournament back in October 2009 after stopping Wembley’s Coleman Barrett inside two rounds, will be joined in the popular eight-man knockout tournament by Belfast taxi driver Martin Rogan, also 41, who beat the North West Londoner on points when the pair met in a ten-rounder back in December 2008.
South London’s Ian Lewison, Americans Travis Walker and Derric Rossy, Denmark’s Claus Bertino, Timo Hoffman from Germany and Poland’s Albert Sosnowski are also eyeing the £32,000 first prize.
Within a year after the Prizefighter success from 2009 Harrison won the European crown then earned a world title fight with bitter rival and then-WBA ruler David Haye: “Winning the Prizefighter back in 2009 was good for me because I went on to win the European title then got a shot at the world title,” he said in a recent interview on talkSPORT.
“But whatever happens on Saturday I just want to go in there, do myself justice and get it out of my system so I can move on with my life, that’s why I’m really grateful to Eddie Hearn and to Matchroom for giving me this opportunity.
“This is my own personal journey. I still feel confident and I still think I can go out there and do myself justice; it’s a personal redemption for me.
“I definitely want to avenge my loss to Martin Rogan in this tournament so I just need to clear up a few things.
“I know I’m coming to the end of boxing, I’m 41 years of age so do you think I’m going to get knocked out again like I did against David Price? Thankfully for me it happened very few and far between in my career but I definitely don’t want to be knocked around like that again.
“I’m still prepared to pay the price, I’m still prepared to train like a champion and still prepared to live like a champion.
“I’m still motivated and dedicate myself to boxing, and to prove myself so I think the results will come.
“It’s only one result for me at Prizefighter to make it worthwhile and that’s to win it.”
Tickets for the Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III are available by calling Matchroom Boxing on 01277 359900, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports 1 from 9pm.
roving-reporter.com preview on 20th February 2013
Boxing: Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III
Ian Lewison goes for International Prizefighter glory this Saturday evening at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 31-year-old from Brixton will be hoping to beat fellow heavyweights 2000 Olympic gold medallist Audley Harrison, former Commonwealth champion Martin Rogan, Americans Travis Walker and Derric Rossy, Denmark’s Claus Bertino, Timo Hoffman from Germany and Poland’s Albert Sosnowski to the £32,000 first prize.
“I know what I am going to do at Prizefighter,” said Lewison. “I’m going in to annihilate my opponents and beat them up!
“It’s a good platform because there are some good names in it and it generates a lot of interest.
“I’ve noticed since the announcement of my name that people have become more aware of who I am.”
Tickets for the Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III are available by calling Matchroom Boxing on 01277 359900, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports 1 from 9pm.
Boxing: Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III
Ian Lewison goes for International Prizefighter glory this Saturday evening at York Hall, Bethnal Green, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 31-year-old from Brixton will be hoping to beat fellow heavyweights 2000 Olympic gold medallist Audley Harrison, former Commonwealth champion Martin Rogan, Americans Travis Walker and Derric Rossy, Denmark’s Claus Bertino, Timo Hoffman from Germany and Poland’s Albert Sosnowski to the £32,000 first prize.
“I know what I am going to do at Prizefighter,” said Lewison. “I’m going in to annihilate my opponents and beat them up!
“It’s a good platform because there are some good names in it and it generates a lot of interest.
“I’ve noticed since the announcement of my name that people have become more aware of who I am.”
Tickets for the Betfair Prizefighter International Heavyweights III are available by calling Matchroom Boxing on 01277 359900, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports 1 from 9pm.
roving-reporter.com at National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, West Midlands, England on 15th February 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: British Athletics Grand Prix
http://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/sport/athletics/i_can_win_european_indoor_medal_claims_beagles_speed_queen_asha_1_1948846
Newham & Essex Beagles comeback kid Asha Philip believes she can win a medal at next month’s European Indoor Championships in Gothenburg, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Just a week after claiming her first UK indoor title, the 22-year-old from Leytonstone was one of four other sprinters to remarkably record a time of 7.21secs despite finishing fifth at British Athletics Grand Prix Women’s 60m sprint in Birmingham on Saturday.
But she was nowhere in reach of in-form Murielle Ahoure from the Ivory Coast who beat Jamaica’s double Olympic 100m champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce into second to register 6.99, the world’s fastest time this year.
Philip, who went third on the domestic all-time list with her 7.15 personal best effort at the UKs in Sheffield, is happy with the way her indoor season has been shaping out despite suffering a mixture of illness and tiredness: “My form has been very good this year,” said the former world 100m youth champion. “But it has been going up-and-down because for the last few weeks I’ve been ill then I felt a bit tired and all that kind of stuff but that happens so I have to work to what I’ve got.
“I just want to work extremely hard and get back to where I want to be.”
Philip, whose cousins Sasha and Kadeen Corbin were involved in England’s tremendous netball test series triumph over Australia last month, is now looking forward to going to the Swedish capital to compete in the Euros with her focus firmly set on a podium finish: “I definitely looking forward to Gothenburg where I’m hoping to perform my best there, I’m definitely sure a medal waiting for me to win.”
Athletics/Track & Field: British Athletics Grand Prix
http://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/sport/athletics/i_can_win_european_indoor_medal_claims_beagles_speed_queen_asha_1_1948846
Newham & Essex Beagles comeback kid Asha Philip believes she can win a medal at next month’s European Indoor Championships in Gothenburg, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Just a week after claiming her first UK indoor title, the 22-year-old from Leytonstone was one of four other sprinters to remarkably record a time of 7.21secs despite finishing fifth at British Athletics Grand Prix Women’s 60m sprint in Birmingham on Saturday.
But she was nowhere in reach of in-form Murielle Ahoure from the Ivory Coast who beat Jamaica’s double Olympic 100m champion Shelly-Ann Fraser-Pryce into second to register 6.99, the world’s fastest time this year.
Philip, who went third on the domestic all-time list with her 7.15 personal best effort at the UKs in Sheffield, is happy with the way her indoor season has been shaping out despite suffering a mixture of illness and tiredness: “My form has been very good this year,” said the former world 100m youth champion. “But it has been going up-and-down because for the last few weeks I’ve been ill then I felt a bit tired and all that kind of stuff but that happens so I have to work to what I’ve got.
“I just want to work extremely hard and get back to where I want to be.”
Philip, whose cousins Sasha and Kadeen Corbin were involved in England’s tremendous netball test series triumph over Australia last month, is now looking forward to going to the Swedish capital to compete in the Euros with her focus firmly set on a podium finish: “I definitely looking forward to Gothenburg where I’m hoping to perform my best there, I’m definitely sure a medal waiting for me to win.”
roving-reporter.com at National Indoor Arena, Birmingham, West Midlands, England on 15th February 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: British Athletics Grand Prix
An extremely disappointed Harry Aikines-Aryeetey described his performance at British Athletics Grand Prix men’s 60m final in Birmingham last Saturday as terrible, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old Sutton & District sprinter finished a lowly seventh with a time of 6.76 seconds, well behind in-form American Michael Rogers who triumphed in a season’s best 6.53.
“I just stumbled,” said Aikines-Aryeetey, the former world youth and junior 100m outdoor champion. “I reacted well but I didn’t really do anything afterwards.
“I just caught the track on my left foot, sent me upwards and that was it really, it was terrible.”
Aikines-Aryeetey has used all of his eleven indoor races as preparation for the forthcoming outdoor season where he will be looking to take the top British men’s 100m runner position off Dwain Chambers.
“I’m not focussing on the indoors but at the end of the day I should still be running under 6.8’s. If I’m really looking towards the outdoors then I know I can produce the times right now.
“It’s just frustrating because things are going really well with a new coach and new set up but I just want to see it on the track, I’m just annoyed I didn’t want to end my indoors like that.
“It’s all about moving forward and unfortunately I haven’t done that during the indoor season.”
Just a week after claiming the UK Indoor title a tired, bruised and battered Dominique Blaize slumped back to earth with a below-par performance at British Athletics Grand Prix IAAF meeting in Birmingham on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
That victory in Sheffield really took its toll on the 25-year-old from New Malden as she posted 6.24m in the women’s long jump.
Fellow Brit Shana Procter was a resounding easy winner with her season’s best 6.78m leap.
Although Blaize enjoyed the occasion of competing in one of the premier indoor athletics meetings on the world calendar the heptathlon specialist admitted she is still feeling the aches and pains from the UK win: “It was just fantastic being here and it was a great opportunity but my body hurts,” said the Kingston & Poly Athletics Club representative. “Big opportunities like that don’t come around very often.
“I feel kind of down but I’m still a bit battered and bruised from last weekend.
“It’s going to be a tough outdoor season but I just have to get back to training and take it from here.”
Athletics/Track & Field: British Athletics Grand Prix
An extremely disappointed Harry Aikines-Aryeetey described his performance at British Athletics Grand Prix men’s 60m final in Birmingham last Saturday as terrible, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old Sutton & District sprinter finished a lowly seventh with a time of 6.76 seconds, well behind in-form American Michael Rogers who triumphed in a season’s best 6.53.
“I just stumbled,” said Aikines-Aryeetey, the former world youth and junior 100m outdoor champion. “I reacted well but I didn’t really do anything afterwards.
“I just caught the track on my left foot, sent me upwards and that was it really, it was terrible.”
Aikines-Aryeetey has used all of his eleven indoor races as preparation for the forthcoming outdoor season where he will be looking to take the top British men’s 100m runner position off Dwain Chambers.
“I’m not focussing on the indoors but at the end of the day I should still be running under 6.8’s. If I’m really looking towards the outdoors then I know I can produce the times right now.
“It’s just frustrating because things are going really well with a new coach and new set up but I just want to see it on the track, I’m just annoyed I didn’t want to end my indoors like that.
“It’s all about moving forward and unfortunately I haven’t done that during the indoor season.”
Just a week after claiming the UK Indoor title a tired, bruised and battered Dominique Blaize slumped back to earth with a below-par performance at British Athletics Grand Prix IAAF meeting in Birmingham on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
That victory in Sheffield really took its toll on the 25-year-old from New Malden as she posted 6.24m in the women’s long jump.
Fellow Brit Shana Procter was a resounding easy winner with her season’s best 6.78m leap.
Although Blaize enjoyed the occasion of competing in one of the premier indoor athletics meetings on the world calendar the heptathlon specialist admitted she is still feeling the aches and pains from the UK win: “It was just fantastic being here and it was a great opportunity but my body hurts,” said the Kingston & Poly Athletics Club representative. “Big opportunities like that don’t come around very often.
“I feel kind of down but I’m still a bit battered and bruised from last weekend.
“It’s going to be a tough outdoor season but I just have to get back to training and take it from here.”
roving-reporter.com at Wembley Arena, Wembley, London, England on 15th February 2013
Mixed Martial Arts: UFC on FUEL TV 7: Jimi Manuwa Vs Cyrille Diabaté 3 round light-heavyweight contest
Croydon’s ‘Poster Boy’ Jimi Manuwa admitted he was disappointed with the way his fight against Cyrille Diabaté ended despite recording another victory at UFC on Fuel TV 7 event last Saturday at Wembley Arena, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 33-year-old light-heavyweight prospect forced the vastly-experienced Frenchman to retire on his stool in sheer agony after the opening round due to a calf injury.
The damage was already done during the opening minutes when Manuwa delivered a couple of effective kicks on Diabaté’s left leg.
"I'm quite disappointed he (Diabaté)had to retire after the first round, it's not the way I would have wanted to win,” said Manuwa, who moves his perfect mixed martial arts fight record to thirteen straight victories.
“I spoke to him after and he said he injured himself but I'm sure I would have won anyway.
“I tried to be sharp as a striker, he's also a good striker, and I'd worked on my wrestling and jui-jitsu”.
And Manuwa who runs his own gym Lion’s Pride MMA in Tamworth Place, Croydon, is now looking forward to taking a much deserved rest from the sport before preparing for his next contest in the octagon as he continues to pursue his dream of becoming Britain’s first UFC champion: “I'm looking forward to a break as I'm having a month off but I'm sure in a few weeks I'll be itching to get back to the gym.”
Mixed Martial Arts: UFC on FUEL TV 7: Jimi Manuwa Vs Cyrille Diabaté 3 round light-heavyweight contest
Croydon’s ‘Poster Boy’ Jimi Manuwa admitted he was disappointed with the way his fight against Cyrille Diabaté ended despite recording another victory at UFC on Fuel TV 7 event last Saturday at Wembley Arena, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 33-year-old light-heavyweight prospect forced the vastly-experienced Frenchman to retire on his stool in sheer agony after the opening round due to a calf injury.
The damage was already done during the opening minutes when Manuwa delivered a couple of effective kicks on Diabaté’s left leg.
"I'm quite disappointed he (Diabaté)had to retire after the first round, it's not the way I would have wanted to win,” said Manuwa, who moves his perfect mixed martial arts fight record to thirteen straight victories.
“I spoke to him after and he said he injured himself but I'm sure I would have won anyway.
“I tried to be sharp as a striker, he's also a good striker, and I'd worked on my wrestling and jui-jitsu”.
And Manuwa who runs his own gym Lion’s Pride MMA in Tamworth Place, Croydon, is now looking forward to taking a much deserved rest from the sport before preparing for his next contest in the octagon as he continues to pursue his dream of becoming Britain’s first UFC champion: “I'm looking forward to a break as I'm having a month off but I'm sure in a few weeks I'll be itching to get back to the gym.”
roving-reporter.com preview on 15th February 2013
Mixed Martial Arts: UFC on FUEL TV 7: Renan Barao Vs Michael McDonald UFC interim bantamweight title
The world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation UFC makes a debut appearance at Wembley Arena this Saturday with interim bantamweight champion Renan Barao expecting to give the local North West London Brazilian community another winning performance, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old Natal native will be looking to extend his impressive eight-year 29 fight winning streak record when he faces rising American star Michael ‘Mayday’ McDonald in this Wembley bill topper.
In his previous UK outing at NIA, Birmingham back in November 2011 the Brazilian impressively choked out charismatic Londoner Brad Pickett in one round.
Since then he claimed the interim 135lbs title last July in Calgary, Canada with a unanimous five round points decision over American Urijah Faber.
Barao is looking forward to fighting again on British soil come Saturday: "I have great memories of the UK,” he said. “The crowd were very respectful and had a great energy.
“I really want the positive energy of the crowd, it's amazing and to have a few more on my side will make a huge difference this time."
‘Poster Boy’ Jimi Manuwa will be one of eight Brits in action at Wembley Arena. The 32-year-old light-heavyweight meets towering 6ft 6in kick-boxing specialist Cyrille ‘The Snake’ Diabaté, 39, from Paris, France.
Manuwa, who is heavily touted as a future champion, has a perfect 12-0 fight record in mixed martial arts and comes to Wembley on a back of an impressive second round stoppage over Californian Kyle Kingsbury last September in Nottingham.
And the South Londoner hopes to produce a similar performance against Diabaté: “Diabaté’s a good striker and also good on the floor so I’m really looking forward to the fight,” said Manuwa who has been training with former UFC light-heavyweight champion and film actor Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson prior to Saturday’s big bout.
“You’re going to see a really exciting fight,” vows Manuwa. “I always finish my fights in style so it won’t be boring when you watch me, I predict a stoppage!”
Tickets for this 12 fight Wembley bill are available by calling 0844 844 0444 or logging on to ufc.com, otherwise catch all the action on ESPN from 8pm.
Mixed Martial Arts: UFC on FUEL TV 7: Renan Barao Vs Michael McDonald UFC interim bantamweight title
The world’s premier mixed martial arts organisation UFC makes a debut appearance at Wembley Arena this Saturday with interim bantamweight champion Renan Barao expecting to give the local North West London Brazilian community another winning performance, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old Natal native will be looking to extend his impressive eight-year 29 fight winning streak record when he faces rising American star Michael ‘Mayday’ McDonald in this Wembley bill topper.
In his previous UK outing at NIA, Birmingham back in November 2011 the Brazilian impressively choked out charismatic Londoner Brad Pickett in one round.
Since then he claimed the interim 135lbs title last July in Calgary, Canada with a unanimous five round points decision over American Urijah Faber.
Barao is looking forward to fighting again on British soil come Saturday: "I have great memories of the UK,” he said. “The crowd were very respectful and had a great energy.
“I really want the positive energy of the crowd, it's amazing and to have a few more on my side will make a huge difference this time."
‘Poster Boy’ Jimi Manuwa will be one of eight Brits in action at Wembley Arena. The 32-year-old light-heavyweight meets towering 6ft 6in kick-boxing specialist Cyrille ‘The Snake’ Diabaté, 39, from Paris, France.
Manuwa, who is heavily touted as a future champion, has a perfect 12-0 fight record in mixed martial arts and comes to Wembley on a back of an impressive second round stoppage over Californian Kyle Kingsbury last September in Nottingham.
And the South Londoner hopes to produce a similar performance against Diabaté: “Diabaté’s a good striker and also good on the floor so I’m really looking forward to the fight,” said Manuwa who has been training with former UFC light-heavyweight champion and film actor Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson prior to Saturday’s big bout.
“You’re going to see a really exciting fight,” vows Manuwa. “I always finish my fights in style so it won’t be boring when you watch me, I predict a stoppage!”
Tickets for this 12 fight Wembley bill are available by calling 0844 844 0444 or logging on to ufc.com, otherwise catch all the action on ESPN from 8pm.
roving-reporter.com preview on 14th February 2013
Mixed Martial Arts: UFC on FUEL TV 7: Jimmy Manuwa Vs Cyrille Diabaté Light-heavyweight contest
http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/10226064.print/ Croydon’s ‘Poster Boy’ Jimi Manuwa believes he can become Britain’s first ever UFC champion, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 32-year-old light-heavyweight prospect re-enters the octagon this Saturday at Wembley Arena this time against towering 6ft 6in kick-boxing specialist Cyrille ‘The Snake’ Diabaté, 39, from Paris, France.
Manuwa, who has a perfect 12-0 fight record in mixed martial arts, opened his UFC account last September at Capital FM Arena, Nottingham with a clinical but impressive second round stoppage over Californian Kyle Kingsbury and hopes to produce a similar performance against the Frenchman: “Diabaté’s a good striker and also good on the floor so I’m really looking forward to the fight,” said the Croydon man who has been training with former UFC light-heavyweight champion and film actor Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson prior to Saturday’s big bout.
“You’re going to see a really exciting fight, I always finish my fights in style so it won’t be boring when you watch me, I predict a stoppage!”
And after fully dominating the UCMMA light-heavyweight division when he made five successful defences of his title Nigerian-born Manuwa made the switch to the lucrative big league UFC organisation where he is now focusing on getting his hands on the belt which is currently held by USA’s Jon Jones.
“I knew the standard would be very high, UFC is the best in the world so you have the best fighters in the world. I expect every fight to be hard but I have my goal and focus on being the best in the world.
“I’m planning to be the best in the world and I can win the world light-heavyweight title but in the meantime I’m just going to take one fight at a time.”
Tickets for this 12 fight Wembley bill are available by calling 0844 844 0444 or logging on to ufc.com, otherwise catch all the action on ESPN from 8pm.
roving-reporter.com news on 12th February 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: 2013 UK Indoor Championships
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/athletics/10225827.Dasaolu_turns_his_attentions_to_the_European_Indoor_Championships/ James Dasaolu has his sights firmly set on a medal at next month’s European Indoor Championships after claiming the UK 60m title last Saturday at EIS, Sheffield, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The in-form 25-year-old 2012 Team GB Olympic Games representative from Croydon booked his ticket to Gothenburg, Sweden after edging out nearest challenger Sutton’s Harry Aikines-Ayreetey to post a lifetime best time of 6.58secs, his third victory in four indoor appearances this season: “I’m really pleased to book my place for Gothenburg,” said a delighted Dasaolu.
“I was a bit worried after my semi-final when I didn’t get a good start but I knew that as long as I got my start right I’d have a really good chance and to get a new PB as well, so I’m happy.
“I want to get a medal at the European Indoor Championships, obviously I’m going to have to go on the lower side of 6.50 but that’s my goal.”
roving-reporter.com news on 12th February 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: 2013 UK Indoor Championships
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10231375.Kingston_star_Blaize_s_a_trail_at_Euro_trials/ Dominique Blaize signed off her short indoor season on a high with a commanding long jump victory at UK Championships and European Trials last Sunday at EIS, Sheffield, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old heptathlon specialist from New Malden posted 6.29m which was more than enough to beat second placed Jade Surman who leapt 6.19m.
Her only other indoor appearance was at British Athletics International Match in Glasgow last month where she finished third behind reigning European indoor champion from Russia Darya Klishina and USA’s Funmi Jimoh with a 6.22m effort: “It was a good series, a lot better than Glasgow, said Blaize who competes for Kingston & Poly Athletics Club. “I still think I’ve got a big jump in me, I haven’t quite worked out my run-up yet so I can change that for outdoors.
“I know it’s in there but there’s certain things I’m doing well in training that I’m not quite doing in competitions yet so it’s back to the drawing board and hopefully come out and it will be there.
“I’m not planning to do any more indoors, I wasn’t planning on doing any indoors at all. I’ll go back and do some hard work and hopefully come out in the summer.”
Mixed Martial Arts: UFC on FUEL TV 7: Jimmy Manuwa Vs Cyrille Diabaté Light-heavyweight contest
http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/10226064.print/ Croydon’s ‘Poster Boy’ Jimi Manuwa believes he can become Britain’s first ever UFC champion, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 32-year-old light-heavyweight prospect re-enters the octagon this Saturday at Wembley Arena this time against towering 6ft 6in kick-boxing specialist Cyrille ‘The Snake’ Diabaté, 39, from Paris, France.
Manuwa, who has a perfect 12-0 fight record in mixed martial arts, opened his UFC account last September at Capital FM Arena, Nottingham with a clinical but impressive second round stoppage over Californian Kyle Kingsbury and hopes to produce a similar performance against the Frenchman: “Diabaté’s a good striker and also good on the floor so I’m really looking forward to the fight,” said the Croydon man who has been training with former UFC light-heavyweight champion and film actor Quinton ‘Rampage’ Jackson prior to Saturday’s big bout.
“You’re going to see a really exciting fight, I always finish my fights in style so it won’t be boring when you watch me, I predict a stoppage!”
And after fully dominating the UCMMA light-heavyweight division when he made five successful defences of his title Nigerian-born Manuwa made the switch to the lucrative big league UFC organisation where he is now focusing on getting his hands on the belt which is currently held by USA’s Jon Jones.
“I knew the standard would be very high, UFC is the best in the world so you have the best fighters in the world. I expect every fight to be hard but I have my goal and focus on being the best in the world.
“I’m planning to be the best in the world and I can win the world light-heavyweight title but in the meantime I’m just going to take one fight at a time.”
Tickets for this 12 fight Wembley bill are available by calling 0844 844 0444 or logging on to ufc.com, otherwise catch all the action on ESPN from 8pm.
roving-reporter.com news on 12th February 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: 2013 UK Indoor Championships
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/athletics/10225827.Dasaolu_turns_his_attentions_to_the_European_Indoor_Championships/ James Dasaolu has his sights firmly set on a medal at next month’s European Indoor Championships after claiming the UK 60m title last Saturday at EIS, Sheffield, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The in-form 25-year-old 2012 Team GB Olympic Games representative from Croydon booked his ticket to Gothenburg, Sweden after edging out nearest challenger Sutton’s Harry Aikines-Ayreetey to post a lifetime best time of 6.58secs, his third victory in four indoor appearances this season: “I’m really pleased to book my place for Gothenburg,” said a delighted Dasaolu.
“I was a bit worried after my semi-final when I didn’t get a good start but I knew that as long as I got my start right I’d have a really good chance and to get a new PB as well, so I’m happy.
“I want to get a medal at the European Indoor Championships, obviously I’m going to have to go on the lower side of 6.50 but that’s my goal.”
roving-reporter.com news on 12th February 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: 2013 UK Indoor Championships
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/10231375.Kingston_star_Blaize_s_a_trail_at_Euro_trials/ Dominique Blaize signed off her short indoor season on a high with a commanding long jump victory at UK Championships and European Trials last Sunday at EIS, Sheffield, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old heptathlon specialist from New Malden posted 6.29m which was more than enough to beat second placed Jade Surman who leapt 6.19m.
Her only other indoor appearance was at British Athletics International Match in Glasgow last month where she finished third behind reigning European indoor champion from Russia Darya Klishina and USA’s Funmi Jimoh with a 6.22m effort: “It was a good series, a lot better than Glasgow, said Blaize who competes for Kingston & Poly Athletics Club. “I still think I’ve got a big jump in me, I haven’t quite worked out my run-up yet so I can change that for outdoors.
“I know it’s in there but there’s certain things I’m doing well in training that I’m not quite doing in competitions yet so it’s back to the drawing board and hopefully come out and it will be there.
“I’m not planning to do any more indoors, I wasn’t planning on doing any indoors at all. I’ll go back and do some hard work and hopefully come out in the summer.”
roving-reporter.com at Emirates Arena, Parkhead, Glasgow, Scotland on 26th January 2013
Athletics/Track & Field: 2013 British Athletics Glasgow International Match
Dominique Bliss was happy to get the experience competing in a high quality women’s long jump field despite finishing a creditable third place at British Athletics Glasgow International Match meeting on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In her first outing of 2013, the 25-year-old heptathlon specialist from New Malden posted a 6.22m leap to finish behind event winner current European indoor champion from Russia Darya Klishina (6.44m) and USA’s Funmi Jimoh (6.34m).
On the night before the event at new state-of-the-art Emirate Arena the former Holy Cross School student revealed the moment when finding out who she will be competing against: “I was looking at the field in my bedroom last night and said oh my god this is quite daunting!
“I didn’t do as bad as I thought I would do.”
“I would have liked to done a bit better but at the same time it was all about getting better and getting more experience.”
And Bliss, who works as a coaching manager for Tolworth-based Sports For Schools added: “I’m looking forward to going back to the drawing board and do lots of work, then go to the UK Trials and see what happens there.”
Dwain Chambers began his quest to reclaim the 60m European Indoor title with an emphatic victory at British Athletics Glasgow International Match meeting on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 34-year-old Belgrave Harriers sprinter easily beat Kim Collins of St Kitts & Nevis and USA’s Mike Rodgers in front of a sold-out Emirates Arena audience to register 6.58secs, the second-fastest time in the world so far this year.
Chambers is confident he can go to Gothenburg, Sweden next month and take back the title from Portugal’s 2011 champion Francis Obikwelu: “The goal is to put up a performance indoors and that involves getting the European title back,” said the Team GB regular.
“I’m going to do my best to achieve that and hopefully that’ll carry me through to greater success throughout the summer.”
Although he was happy with his first outing of 2013 Chambers admits it is early days as there is plenty of work still to be done: “The season’s started very well so I’m very pleased with that.
“But it’s still early days though and I’ve got races in Moscow as well as the national trials where I want to be able to qualify comfortably for the Euros, and hopefully I can go from strength to strength from there onwards.
“I’m always looking longer term too. I’ve still got the enthusiasm to go out there and run, and while the wheels are still spinning as fast as they are I’m going to keep on going.”
Bow's Perri Shakes-Drayton says she was satisfied with her second place finish at British Athletics Glasgow International Match on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In her first 400m race of the season, the 24-year-old Tower Hamlets and Victoria Park Harriers star was closely pipped right to the line by USA's five-time world and Olympic gold-medallist Natasha Hastings.
Hastings recorded a world-leading time 52.11sec to Shakes-Drayton's 52.13, while Yulia Terekhova from Russia was third with 52.85.
"I enjoyed it, I put in a decent run," said Shakes-Drayton, a 4 x 400m relay gold medallist at last year's world indoor championships. "I would have loved to won but it was very close.
"It was good to do something different. I've always been the person in that last spot for the 400m relay, so to be given a chance to prove myself over 400m individual and to run a decent time, I'm please with that."
Athletics/Track & Field: 2013 British Athletics Glasgow International Match
Dominique Bliss was happy to get the experience competing in a high quality women’s long jump field despite finishing a creditable third place at British Athletics Glasgow International Match meeting on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In her first outing of 2013, the 25-year-old heptathlon specialist from New Malden posted a 6.22m leap to finish behind event winner current European indoor champion from Russia Darya Klishina (6.44m) and USA’s Funmi Jimoh (6.34m).
On the night before the event at new state-of-the-art Emirate Arena the former Holy Cross School student revealed the moment when finding out who she will be competing against: “I was looking at the field in my bedroom last night and said oh my god this is quite daunting!
“I didn’t do as bad as I thought I would do.”
“I would have liked to done a bit better but at the same time it was all about getting better and getting more experience.”
And Bliss, who works as a coaching manager for Tolworth-based Sports For Schools added: “I’m looking forward to going back to the drawing board and do lots of work, then go to the UK Trials and see what happens there.”
Dwain Chambers began his quest to reclaim the 60m European Indoor title with an emphatic victory at British Athletics Glasgow International Match meeting on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 34-year-old Belgrave Harriers sprinter easily beat Kim Collins of St Kitts & Nevis and USA’s Mike Rodgers in front of a sold-out Emirates Arena audience to register 6.58secs, the second-fastest time in the world so far this year.
Chambers is confident he can go to Gothenburg, Sweden next month and take back the title from Portugal’s 2011 champion Francis Obikwelu: “The goal is to put up a performance indoors and that involves getting the European title back,” said the Team GB regular.
“I’m going to do my best to achieve that and hopefully that’ll carry me through to greater success throughout the summer.”
Although he was happy with his first outing of 2013 Chambers admits it is early days as there is plenty of work still to be done: “The season’s started very well so I’m very pleased with that.
“But it’s still early days though and I’ve got races in Moscow as well as the national trials where I want to be able to qualify comfortably for the Euros, and hopefully I can go from strength to strength from there onwards.
“I’m always looking longer term too. I’ve still got the enthusiasm to go out there and run, and while the wheels are still spinning as fast as they are I’m going to keep on going.”
Bow's Perri Shakes-Drayton says she was satisfied with her second place finish at British Athletics Glasgow International Match on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In her first 400m race of the season, the 24-year-old Tower Hamlets and Victoria Park Harriers star was closely pipped right to the line by USA's five-time world and Olympic gold-medallist Natasha Hastings.
Hastings recorded a world-leading time 52.11sec to Shakes-Drayton's 52.13, while Yulia Terekhova from Russia was third with 52.85.
"I enjoyed it, I put in a decent run," said Shakes-Drayton, a 4 x 400m relay gold medallist at last year's world indoor championships. "I would have loved to won but it was very close.
"It was good to do something different. I've always been the person in that last spot for the 400m relay, so to be given a chance to prove myself over 400m individual and to run a decent time, I'm please with that."
Roving-reporter.com news on 28th January 2013
Basketball: 2013 NBA All-Star Game
Former Brixton Topcat Luol Deng is set to make his second appearance at the prestigious exhibition bonanza NBA All-Star Game on February 17 at Toyota Center, Houston, USA writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 27-year-old Chicago Bulls star from South Norwood will be joined in the Eastern Conference by Miami Heat team-mates Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, New York Knicks duo of Carmelo Anthony and Tyson Chandler and Kevin Garnett from the Boston Celtics.
At last year’s game Deng featured for just six minutes as a substitute when he sustained a wrist injury.
Both Sky Sports and ESPN will televise the game.
Basketball: 2013 NBA All-Star Game
Former Brixton Topcat Luol Deng is set to make his second appearance at the prestigious exhibition bonanza NBA All-Star Game on February 17 at Toyota Center, Houston, USA writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 27-year-old Chicago Bulls star from South Norwood will be joined in the Eastern Conference by Miami Heat team-mates Dwyane Wade and LeBron James, New York Knicks duo of Carmelo Anthony and Tyson Chandler and Kevin Garnett from the Boston Celtics.
At last year’s game Deng featured for just six minutes as a substitute when he sustained a wrist injury.
Both Sky Sports and ESPN will televise the game.
Roving-reporter.com news on 28th January 2013
Netball: England Vs Australia International Series
http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/10188786.print/ Cheam netball ace Eboni Beckford-Chambers says being involved in England’s historic test series victory over Australia is the best ever in her career so far, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old goal defence specialist was involved in England netball history during the last week as she helped her fellow countrywomen to a very first international ashes series victory over their great sporting rivals from down under.
Scores of 58-53 two weeks ago in Bath, followed by 51-49 last Wednesday at Wembley Arena and Saturday’s 58-51 in Birmingham completed the barnstorming 3-0 series whitewash over the reigning world champions.
In the final game Beckford-Chambers produced an outstanding job on the Diamonds main shooters Catherine Cox, Erin Bell and Susan Pratley.
“Playing in all three games and beating Australia the number one team in the world is definitely one of the highlights of my career,” said the former Wimbledon High School pupil.
“It’s been a long time coming, we’ve been training for this for years and years.
“It’s the best feeling in the world and I’m really proud of the team.
“We showed perseverance throughout which shows the sort of England team we are and what we are building towards.”
Beckford-Chambers will now head down under to spend another season in the lucrative ANZ Championship with Perth-based West Coast Fever: “I’m really lucky enough to be signed again for 2013 season so I’m really looking forward to going over to my ply my trade again.
“I’m only 24 so I’ve got a lot more learn but I want to be the best defender in the world.”
Netball: England Vs Australia International Series
http://www.yourlocalguardian.co.uk/sport/10188786.print/ Cheam netball ace Eboni Beckford-Chambers says being involved in England’s historic test series victory over Australia is the best ever in her career so far, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old goal defence specialist was involved in England netball history during the last week as she helped her fellow countrywomen to a very first international ashes series victory over their great sporting rivals from down under.
Scores of 58-53 two weeks ago in Bath, followed by 51-49 last Wednesday at Wembley Arena and Saturday’s 58-51 in Birmingham completed the barnstorming 3-0 series whitewash over the reigning world champions.
In the final game Beckford-Chambers produced an outstanding job on the Diamonds main shooters Catherine Cox, Erin Bell and Susan Pratley.
“Playing in all three games and beating Australia the number one team in the world is definitely one of the highlights of my career,” said the former Wimbledon High School pupil.
“It’s been a long time coming, we’ve been training for this for years and years.
“It’s the best feeling in the world and I’m really proud of the team.
“We showed perseverance throughout which shows the sort of England team we are and what we are building towards.”
Beckford-Chambers will now head down under to spend another season in the lucrative ANZ Championship with Perth-based West Coast Fever: “I’m really lucky enough to be signed again for 2013 season so I’m really looking forward to going over to my ply my trade again.
“I’m only 24 so I’ve got a lot more learn but I want to be the best defender in the world.”
Roving-reporter.com news on 28th January 2013
Netball: England Vs Australia International Series
Tottenham netball star Kadeen Corbin had her dream of an Australian test series victory come true, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 21-year-old was involved in England netball history during the last week as she along with her elder sister Sasha, both helped her fellow countrywomen to a very first international ashes series victory over their great sporting rivals from down under.
Scores of 58-53 two weeks ago in Bath, followed by 51-49 last Wednesday at Wembley Arena and Saturday’s 58-51 in Birmingham completed the barnstorming 3-0 series whitewash over the reigning world champions.
Corbin, who is related to former world youth 100m champion Asha Philip, was understandably proud to be involved in England netball’s greatest ever triumph especially as this was her first ever game against the Aussies: “I’m over the moon!,” she said,
“To be on court and to win is amazing, the feeling is just too much.
“All I had to do is be composed, play the game how I know play the game and I did that.
“The girls are just amazing and we’ve done it in style, and to be part of this history is amazing”.
And Corbin, who at the Wembley game came on in the second half and scored 13 points, definitely reckons her England team have got all the quality to take over Australia’s mantle as the number one Netball nation in the world: “Of course we can,” she added.
“Next year it’s the Commonwealth Games so we are striving for that for now then we’re striving even more for world champs.
“We can beat them now, we can beat them then so 2015 here we come!”
Netball: England Vs Australia International Series
Tottenham netball star Kadeen Corbin had her dream of an Australian test series victory come true, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 21-year-old was involved in England netball history during the last week as she along with her elder sister Sasha, both helped her fellow countrywomen to a very first international ashes series victory over their great sporting rivals from down under.
Scores of 58-53 two weeks ago in Bath, followed by 51-49 last Wednesday at Wembley Arena and Saturday’s 58-51 in Birmingham completed the barnstorming 3-0 series whitewash over the reigning world champions.
Corbin, who is related to former world youth 100m champion Asha Philip, was understandably proud to be involved in England netball’s greatest ever triumph especially as this was her first ever game against the Aussies: “I’m over the moon!,” she said,
“To be on court and to win is amazing, the feeling is just too much.
“All I had to do is be composed, play the game how I know play the game and I did that.
“The girls are just amazing and we’ve done it in style, and to be part of this history is amazing”.
And Corbin, who at the Wembley game came on in the second half and scored 13 points, definitely reckons her England team have got all the quality to take over Australia’s mantle as the number one Netball nation in the world: “Of course we can,” she added.
“Next year it’s the Commonwealth Games so we are striving for that for now then we’re striving even more for world champs.
“We can beat them now, we can beat them then so 2015 here we come!”
Roving-reporter.com preview on 21st January 2013
Athletics: British Athletics Indoor Match
Yamile Aldama has her sights firmly set on adding the European indoor title to her World crown, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 40-year-old triple jumper from Wembley kicks off her 2013 indoor season campaign this Saturday (January 26) at the newly-built Emirates Arena, Glasgow for the five-team British Athletics International Match.
And the Cuban-born mother of two will be hoping to repeat her success from last year’s meet when she comfortably beat Germany’s Kristin Gierisch and Amanda Smock of USA to register a 14.03m leap at historic Kelvin Hall.
Then a couple of months later in Istanbul, Turkey she achieved her dream ambition by winning the world indoors for Team GB in 14.82m.
During the London Olympics last August Aldama, who won a 1999 World Championship silver medal for Cuba, overcame a shoulder injury to finish fifth behind Kazakhstan's Olga Rypakova, another of the European title contenders in Gothenburg, Sweden come March.
“I really enjoy competing indoors and winning at Glasgow last year was a fantastic experience that set me up for my performance at the World Indoors,” said Aldama, who back in October collected the British Athletics Writers' Association’s 2012 Inspiration award, along with finishing third in British Athlete of the Year behind winner Jessica Ennis and Christine Ohuruogu.
“Hopefully I can perform well again this year and give myself good preparation for the European Indoor Championships in Gothenburg.”
And Aldama, who will represent her husband Andrew’s birth country of Scotland at next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is looking forward to competing at the new state-of-the-art Emirates Arena: “The Emirates Arena looks like a fantastic facility and it’s a great opportunity to be able to compete there.
“It’s always great to jump on home soil and I’m sure the Glasgow crowd will create another brilliant atmosphere and give plenty of support to the British athletes.”
Amongst those Aldama will face north of the border this Saturday is 2005 World champion and double-Commonwealth gold medallist Trecia Smith of Jamaica, who will represent the Commonwealth Select team.
See how Aldama fares by tuning in to BBC1 from 1.30pm.
Athletics: British Athletics Indoor Match
Yamile Aldama has her sights firmly set on adding the European indoor title to her World crown, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 40-year-old triple jumper from Wembley kicks off her 2013 indoor season campaign this Saturday (January 26) at the newly-built Emirates Arena, Glasgow for the five-team British Athletics International Match.
And the Cuban-born mother of two will be hoping to repeat her success from last year’s meet when she comfortably beat Germany’s Kristin Gierisch and Amanda Smock of USA to register a 14.03m leap at historic Kelvin Hall.
Then a couple of months later in Istanbul, Turkey she achieved her dream ambition by winning the world indoors for Team GB in 14.82m.
During the London Olympics last August Aldama, who won a 1999 World Championship silver medal for Cuba, overcame a shoulder injury to finish fifth behind Kazakhstan's Olga Rypakova, another of the European title contenders in Gothenburg, Sweden come March.
“I really enjoy competing indoors and winning at Glasgow last year was a fantastic experience that set me up for my performance at the World Indoors,” said Aldama, who back in October collected the British Athletics Writers' Association’s 2012 Inspiration award, along with finishing third in British Athlete of the Year behind winner Jessica Ennis and Christine Ohuruogu.
“Hopefully I can perform well again this year and give myself good preparation for the European Indoor Championships in Gothenburg.”
And Aldama, who will represent her husband Andrew’s birth country of Scotland at next year’s Commonwealth Games in Glasgow is looking forward to competing at the new state-of-the-art Emirates Arena: “The Emirates Arena looks like a fantastic facility and it’s a great opportunity to be able to compete there.
“It’s always great to jump on home soil and I’m sure the Glasgow crowd will create another brilliant atmosphere and give plenty of support to the British athletes.”
Amongst those Aldama will face north of the border this Saturday is 2005 World champion and double-Commonwealth gold medallist Trecia Smith of Jamaica, who will represent the Commonwealth Select team.
See how Aldama fares by tuning in to BBC1 from 1.30pm.
Roving-reporter.com at The O2, North Greenwich, London, England on 17th January 2013
Basketball: NBA London Live 2013: Detroit Pistons Vs New York Knicks
Detroit Piston’s Jonas Jerebko believes the South London area can produce another NBA player, writes Ziad Chaudry. So far former Brixton Topcats Luol Deng and Eric Boateng have made the move Stateside and rubbed shoulders with the multi-million dollar superstars of NBA basketball.
27-year-old 6ft 9in Deng is currently plying his trade with Chicago Bulls while Boating, 27, had a spell with Denver Nuggets before heading back to Europe.
With a whole host of British players hoping one day to make their mark in NBA Swedish-born Jerebko, who did not feature in his side’s 102-87 loss against New York Knicks at The O2, North Greenwich last Thursday, reckons there is talent in South London but stresses more work is needed to be done: “Everywhere around the northern part of Europe especially England and my country Sweden basketball is strong,” he said. “But it will take more time to get more players from these parts to make their break into the NBA, like myself and Luol Deng.
“It’s all about how much time you put into the game, how much you love the game whether you’re from a rich or poor part of the city. The talent should be there, especially in the South London area, as long as the youth are willing to put the work in to get there.
“It’s a great scene for NBA basketball to be shown in London, there’s a lot of interest here.”
Basketball: NBA London Live 2013: Detroit Pistons Vs New York Knicks
Detroit Piston’s Jonas Jerebko believes the South London area can produce another NBA player, writes Ziad Chaudry. So far former Brixton Topcats Luol Deng and Eric Boateng have made the move Stateside and rubbed shoulders with the multi-million dollar superstars of NBA basketball.
27-year-old 6ft 9in Deng is currently plying his trade with Chicago Bulls while Boating, 27, had a spell with Denver Nuggets before heading back to Europe.
With a whole host of British players hoping one day to make their mark in NBA Swedish-born Jerebko, who did not feature in his side’s 102-87 loss against New York Knicks at The O2, North Greenwich last Thursday, reckons there is talent in South London but stresses more work is needed to be done: “Everywhere around the northern part of Europe especially England and my country Sweden basketball is strong,” he said. “But it will take more time to get more players from these parts to make their break into the NBA, like myself and Luol Deng.
“It’s all about how much time you put into the game, how much you love the game whether you’re from a rich or poor part of the city. The talent should be there, especially in the South London area, as long as the youth are willing to put the work in to get there.
“It’s a great scene for NBA basketball to be shown in London, there’s a lot of interest here.”
Roving-reporter.com at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, London, England on 6th January 2013
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
http://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/sport/stratford_s_hard_hitter_backs_ambitious_plans_to_spice_up_ping_pong_1_1788483 Gavin Rumgay believes Leyton Orient chairman and sports entrepreneur Barry Hearn is the man who can add the darts-factor to Table Tennis and modernise it, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 28-year-old Stratford-based Scot participated in World Championship of Ping Pong at Alexander Palace, Wood Green last weekend as the classic sandpaper hardbats made a re-appearance to the 21st century big stage.
He defeated world Hardbat champion from Nigeria Kazeem Adeleke, German Jurgen Leu and Ireland’s Colum Slevin before ending his gallant run in the televised last 16 to eventual finalist from Nigeria Sule Olaleye.
And Rumgay, who went to the prestigious North London venue on a back of five domestic tournament victories, was more than surprised with his performance especially when he only had five days practise with the old-school hardbat: “I definitely over-achieved by reaching the last 16,” he said. “Winning £1200 was not bad for a couple of days work!
“It was great to have an opportunity to play in tournaments that are not just table tennis but sand paper bats which I really really enjoyed.”
Rumgay, the current British number three who plays for French professional B league club PPC Villeneuvois, is all in favour for Barry Hearn’s ambitious plans of re-vamping and spicing up the hardbat version of tennis table. He feels the player crowd interaction will make the sport more appealing and entertaining: “I can see in the crowd a lot of the big guys from Holland who were really in that darts atmosphere. If we can bring a little bit of that and a little bit of alcohol to the game as well then great.
“Next time we hope the crowd will double but that was good, it was a first shot for Barry Hearn at table tennis and I’m sure he’ll tweak things when this happens again and it will for sure.
“I definitely want to play in more of these tournaments, I can get used to this type of atmosphere.”
Russia’s Maxim Shmyrev scooped the £12,000 first prize after beating Olaleye in a thrilling five setter.
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
http://www.newhamrecorder.co.uk/sport/stratford_s_hard_hitter_backs_ambitious_plans_to_spice_up_ping_pong_1_1788483 Gavin Rumgay believes Leyton Orient chairman and sports entrepreneur Barry Hearn is the man who can add the darts-factor to Table Tennis and modernise it, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 28-year-old Stratford-based Scot participated in World Championship of Ping Pong at Alexander Palace, Wood Green last weekend as the classic sandpaper hardbats made a re-appearance to the 21st century big stage.
He defeated world Hardbat champion from Nigeria Kazeem Adeleke, German Jurgen Leu and Ireland’s Colum Slevin before ending his gallant run in the televised last 16 to eventual finalist from Nigeria Sule Olaleye.
And Rumgay, who went to the prestigious North London venue on a back of five domestic tournament victories, was more than surprised with his performance especially when he only had five days practise with the old-school hardbat: “I definitely over-achieved by reaching the last 16,” he said. “Winning £1200 was not bad for a couple of days work!
“It was great to have an opportunity to play in tournaments that are not just table tennis but sand paper bats which I really really enjoyed.”
Rumgay, the current British number three who plays for French professional B league club PPC Villeneuvois, is all in favour for Barry Hearn’s ambitious plans of re-vamping and spicing up the hardbat version of tennis table. He feels the player crowd interaction will make the sport more appealing and entertaining: “I can see in the crowd a lot of the big guys from Holland who were really in that darts atmosphere. If we can bring a little bit of that and a little bit of alcohol to the game as well then great.
“Next time we hope the crowd will double but that was good, it was a first shot for Barry Hearn at table tennis and I’m sure he’ll tweak things when this happens again and it will for sure.
“I definitely want to play in more of these tournaments, I can get used to this type of atmosphere.”
Russia’s Maxim Shmyrev scooped the £12,000 first prize after beating Olaleye in a thrilling five setter.
Roving-reporter.com at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, London, England on 6th January 2013
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/egle_s_eager_to_feature_in_future_barry_hearn_tournaments_1_1787147 Willesden’s Egle Adomelyte added some real girl power to World Championship of Ping Pong at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green during the weekend, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 23-year-old who coaches youngsters at Capital City Academy through the Greenhouse programme was the only female participant in Barry Hearn’s 64-player innovative sandpaper hardbat tournament and she certainly did not disgrace herself after reaching the last 16.
All of Lithuanian-born Adomelyte matches were televised live on Sky Sport as she defeated renowned Hollywood actor Adoni Maropis, France’s Yoann Labrue and Englishman Jimmy Walsh before losing in a dramatically titanic third set decider to Martin Groenwold of Holland.
But Adomelyte, who pocketed £1200 for getting into the last 16, described her participation as an amazing experience: “I’m so glad I got this far,” she said. “I beat a few good men.
“It was just amazing; I never had such an experience like this before.
“It was a really good tournament especially as I played all my matches on the main televised table.
“I love to participate more in this tournaments, I love playing hardbats.”
She went one round further than her boyfriend Ashley Stokes and Jason Sugrue, both who are also based at Capital City Academy.
Stokes fell to Hungary’s Gergely Urban while Jason Sugrue lost fairly resoundingly to eventual finalist from Nigeria Sule Olaleye.
Kingbury born and bred Sugrue, who got a very late automatic entry to the event due to his previous successes in winning hardbat titles, was more than surprise with his run in the £61,000 event
: “I did not know what to expect but to be honest I was slightly too happy that I already won a grand and I’m on the TV,” said the 2006 British Champion and Wembley & Harrow League regular.
“I didn’t just have that grit between my teeth as I had during the morning of the event or had that fear that I wasn’t going to do well.
“I practised for 20 minutes the night before then turned up here and beat the world number two.
“I used to win most of the hardbat tournaments in London years ago which is why I got a wildcard into this event.”
And Surgue who strongly feels the English Table Tennis Association are not doing enough in moving ahead with the present times is all in favour for Barry Hearn’s ambitious plans of re-vamping and spicing up the sport: “What Barry Hearn does that he makes it razzmatazz and fashionable, I don’t think the ETTA can do that.
“If he (Hearn) invites me back then I’ll definitely come back, this will change table tennis forever.”
Russia’s Maxim Shmyrev scooped the £12,000 first prize after beating Olaleye in a thrilling five setter.
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/egle_s_eager_to_feature_in_future_barry_hearn_tournaments_1_1787147 Willesden’s Egle Adomelyte added some real girl power to World Championship of Ping Pong at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green during the weekend, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 23-year-old who coaches youngsters at Capital City Academy through the Greenhouse programme was the only female participant in Barry Hearn’s 64-player innovative sandpaper hardbat tournament and she certainly did not disgrace herself after reaching the last 16.
All of Lithuanian-born Adomelyte matches were televised live on Sky Sport as she defeated renowned Hollywood actor Adoni Maropis, France’s Yoann Labrue and Englishman Jimmy Walsh before losing in a dramatically titanic third set decider to Martin Groenwold of Holland.
But Adomelyte, who pocketed £1200 for getting into the last 16, described her participation as an amazing experience: “I’m so glad I got this far,” she said. “I beat a few good men.
“It was just amazing; I never had such an experience like this before.
“It was a really good tournament especially as I played all my matches on the main televised table.
“I love to participate more in this tournaments, I love playing hardbats.”
She went one round further than her boyfriend Ashley Stokes and Jason Sugrue, both who are also based at Capital City Academy.
Stokes fell to Hungary’s Gergely Urban while Jason Sugrue lost fairly resoundingly to eventual finalist from Nigeria Sule Olaleye.
Kingbury born and bred Sugrue, who got a very late automatic entry to the event due to his previous successes in winning hardbat titles, was more than surprise with his run in the £61,000 event
: “I did not know what to expect but to be honest I was slightly too happy that I already won a grand and I’m on the TV,” said the 2006 British Champion and Wembley & Harrow League regular.
“I didn’t just have that grit between my teeth as I had during the morning of the event or had that fear that I wasn’t going to do well.
“I practised for 20 minutes the night before then turned up here and beat the world number two.
“I used to win most of the hardbat tournaments in London years ago which is why I got a wildcard into this event.”
And Surgue who strongly feels the English Table Tennis Association are not doing enough in moving ahead with the present times is all in favour for Barry Hearn’s ambitious plans of re-vamping and spicing up the sport: “What Barry Hearn does that he makes it razzmatazz and fashionable, I don’t think the ETTA can do that.
“If he (Hearn) invites me back then I’ll definitely come back, this will change table tennis forever.”
Russia’s Maxim Shmyrev scooped the £12,000 first prize after beating Olaleye in a thrilling five setter.
Roving-reporter.com news on 4th January 2013
Tennis: Anne Keothavong
Former British number one men’s tennis player Jeremy Bates believes Anne Keothavong can break back into the world’s top 100 in 2013, writes Ziad Chaudry.
It has been a real see-saw ding-dong of a 2012 season for the 29-year-old from Hackney who ended her campaign at world number 143 in the WTA rankings despite hovering around the 70 mark in numerous months and suffering a series of niggling injuries after London 2012 event.
Domestically, she is currently the third best British women’s player behind young guns Heather Watson and Laura Robson who both made significant achievements on the tour with their 49 and 53 end of season rankings respectively.
‘Annie K’s’ best performances during 2012 were semi-final appearances in Nassau, Bahamas and the British Summer grass court season opener in Nottingham.
Right-handed specialist Keothavong, who has been a regular in Great Britain Federation Cup team since 2001, rounded off her campaign last month teaming up with big serving Australian legend Mark Philippoussis and faced Heather Watson and former British men’s number one Tim Henman in a special mixed doubles exhibition match held during the Statoil Masters Tennis ATP Champions Tour Legends tournament at prestigious Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington.
Bates, who has been coaching the former Kingsland Secondary School pupil since March 2011, spoke exclusively to Hampstead & Highgate Express about Keothavong’s last twelve months and his desire to help the Hackney girl return back into the dizzy heights of the world’s top 100: “Anne’s been around the 70 mark the whole year but the reason her ranking dropped because at the end of the year she lost a whole bulk of points and since the Olympics she’s had a rough time of injuries and things like that,” said Bates, a former GB Davis Cup captain and winner of one ATP tour title.
“When she pulled out of the Asian trip she missed a lot of tournaments.
“It’s a fact of life if you miss the opportunity to defend your ranking goes down but there’s no question she can get back into the world’s top 100 for sure, I have every confidence in her.”
Keothavong, who back in February 2009 reached a career high world number 48, began her 2013 and build up to the first grand slam of the season Australian Open at Shenzhen Longgang Gemdale Open, China.
She came through the qualifying stages before losing to local girl world number 40 Peng Shuai 6-4, 6-0 in round one on Monday.
Tennis: Anne Keothavong
Former British number one men’s tennis player Jeremy Bates believes Anne Keothavong can break back into the world’s top 100 in 2013, writes Ziad Chaudry.
It has been a real see-saw ding-dong of a 2012 season for the 29-year-old from Hackney who ended her campaign at world number 143 in the WTA rankings despite hovering around the 70 mark in numerous months and suffering a series of niggling injuries after London 2012 event.
Domestically, she is currently the third best British women’s player behind young guns Heather Watson and Laura Robson who both made significant achievements on the tour with their 49 and 53 end of season rankings respectively.
‘Annie K’s’ best performances during 2012 were semi-final appearances in Nassau, Bahamas and the British Summer grass court season opener in Nottingham.
Right-handed specialist Keothavong, who has been a regular in Great Britain Federation Cup team since 2001, rounded off her campaign last month teaming up with big serving Australian legend Mark Philippoussis and faced Heather Watson and former British men’s number one Tim Henman in a special mixed doubles exhibition match held during the Statoil Masters Tennis ATP Champions Tour Legends tournament at prestigious Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington.
Bates, who has been coaching the former Kingsland Secondary School pupil since March 2011, spoke exclusively to Hampstead & Highgate Express about Keothavong’s last twelve months and his desire to help the Hackney girl return back into the dizzy heights of the world’s top 100: “Anne’s been around the 70 mark the whole year but the reason her ranking dropped because at the end of the year she lost a whole bulk of points and since the Olympics she’s had a rough time of injuries and things like that,” said Bates, a former GB Davis Cup captain and winner of one ATP tour title.
“When she pulled out of the Asian trip she missed a lot of tournaments.
“It’s a fact of life if you miss the opportunity to defend your ranking goes down but there’s no question she can get back into the world’s top 100 for sure, I have every confidence in her.”
Keothavong, who back in February 2009 reached a career high world number 48, began her 2013 and build up to the first grand slam of the season Australian Open at Shenzhen Longgang Gemdale Open, China.
She came through the qualifying stages before losing to local girl world number 40 Peng Shuai 6-4, 6-0 in round one on Monday.
Roving-reporter.com preview on 4th January 2013
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
Leyton Orient chairman and sports entrepreneur Barry Hearn believes his latest venture Ping Pong (otherwise known universally as Tennis Tennis) will be the next darts, writes Ziad Chaudry.
This weekend (January 5 and 6) at prestigious Alexander Palace, Wood Green the sport goes back to the traditional roots of playing with classic sandpaper hardbats for inaugural World Championship of Ping Pong.
Stratford-based Scot Gavin Rumgay will hope to beat-off current British number one and London 2012 Olympian Andrew Baggaley, 68-year-old 18-time English closed champion Denis Neale and 61 other hopefuls to the £12,000 first prize.
In the opening round Double Elimination stage Rumsay, 28, the British number three who plays for French professional B league club PPC Villeneuvois is grouped with world Hardbat champion Kazeem Adeleke, Mike Marsden, Jurgen Leu, Gergley Urban, Reginald Kraaijenbring, Joe Kennedy and Patrick Chila.
Hearn himself is looking forward to this weekend’s event: “It’s going back to the purest form of the game with a sandpaper bat,” he said. “There is no spin element, the ball comes off slower and the rallies are more longer.
“You don’t bring in your own bat we’ll give you a bat and when you change ends you use the other blokes bat, that’s how formula one should be!
“This is a straight forward purest game, we’re going back to the roots of the game, its forest Gump time!
“We’ve got the pick of hard bat players; it doesn’t mean to say we’re going to see the names from the Olympics because the sponge bat to me has destroyed the game as a spectator sport.
“The average rally is like three to four shot in a sponge bat game because of the spin element but there is ten to twelve in a hard bat, it’s more aerobic, more athletic and televisual. That’s sounds great so let’s see what happens on January 5 and 6.
“I have no idea what it will look like by the way but the mood is it could be the next darts.”
Tickets, priced at £10 and £20, are available at the venue, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports.
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
Leyton Orient chairman and sports entrepreneur Barry Hearn believes his latest venture Ping Pong (otherwise known universally as Tennis Tennis) will be the next darts, writes Ziad Chaudry.
This weekend (January 5 and 6) at prestigious Alexander Palace, Wood Green the sport goes back to the traditional roots of playing with classic sandpaper hardbats for inaugural World Championship of Ping Pong.
Stratford-based Scot Gavin Rumgay will hope to beat-off current British number one and London 2012 Olympian Andrew Baggaley, 68-year-old 18-time English closed champion Denis Neale and 61 other hopefuls to the £12,000 first prize.
In the opening round Double Elimination stage Rumsay, 28, the British number three who plays for French professional B league club PPC Villeneuvois is grouped with world Hardbat champion Kazeem Adeleke, Mike Marsden, Jurgen Leu, Gergley Urban, Reginald Kraaijenbring, Joe Kennedy and Patrick Chila.
Hearn himself is looking forward to this weekend’s event: “It’s going back to the purest form of the game with a sandpaper bat,” he said. “There is no spin element, the ball comes off slower and the rallies are more longer.
“You don’t bring in your own bat we’ll give you a bat and when you change ends you use the other blokes bat, that’s how formula one should be!
“This is a straight forward purest game, we’re going back to the roots of the game, its forest Gump time!
“We’ve got the pick of hard bat players; it doesn’t mean to say we’re going to see the names from the Olympics because the sponge bat to me has destroyed the game as a spectator sport.
“The average rally is like three to four shot in a sponge bat game because of the spin element but there is ten to twelve in a hard bat, it’s more aerobic, more athletic and televisual. That’s sounds great so let’s see what happens on January 5 and 6.
“I have no idea what it will look like by the way but the mood is it could be the next darts.”
Tickets, priced at £10 and £20, are available at the venue, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports.
Roving-reporter.com preview on 4th January 2013
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/willesden_coach_backs_barry_hearn_s_new_spin_on_table_tennis_1_1758404 Ashley Stokes believes sports entrepreneur Barry Hearn can revolutionize the traditional old school Table Table sport as we all used to know it, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 23-year-old Willesden-based Capital City Academy coach heads to prestigious Alexandra Palace, Wood Green this weekend (January 5 and 6) for Hearn’s latest sporting venture World Championship of Ping Pong.
This event sees the sport going back to the traditional roots of playing with classic sandpaper hardbats, more movement and durable rallies.
Stokes will be hoping to beat-off his fellow Capital City Academy assistant Jason Sugrue, current British number one and London 2012 Olympian Andrew Baggaley, 68-year-old 18-time English closed champion Denis Neale and 60 other hopefuls to the £12,000 first prize.
In the opening round Double Elimination stage Stokes, who first made his name competing in Wembley & Harrow League, is grouped with Richard Gonzales, Peter Musko, Gavin Evans, Marty Hendriksen, Colum Slevin, Luke Carrington and Zolt Sel.
But Stokes himself is quietly talking down his chances as he reckons 2011 world hardbat champion Adeleke Kazeem and his Lithuanian girlfriend Egle Adomelyte, the only female in the £62,000 tournament, could be crowned the very first champion come Sunday evening: “I’m just going to take it one game at a time and see how it goes,” said Stokes who has been coaching at Capital City Academy through local based Greenhouse Charity for 18 months.
“The Nigerians look very very strong especially Adeleke Kazeem who is world hardbat champion last year, also look out for Egle Adomelyte the only female in the tournament.
“Egle is so proud being the only female in the tournament, hopefully with her participation in the tournament she will help get more girls taking up the sport.”
Stokes, who went through a gruelling six-month qualifying campaign to earn his place at Alexandra Palace, is looking forward to playing with the traditional sandpaper hardbats: “It has longer rallies and it’s easier to understand than the spin so what you see is what you get.
“It will be a level playing field for all so there’s a lot more longer matches, it’s definitely much more of a spectator sport with the hard bats.
“With Barry Hearn now involved in our sport, all of us are hoping he can do the same like what he did to darts, snooker, fishing, poker, boxing and get more money, sponsorship and television coverage.
“I’m hopeful I will be playing in many more of these tournaments.”
Tickets, priced at £10 and £20, are available at the venue, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports.
Table Tennis/Ping Pong: 2013 World Championship Of Ping Pong
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/willesden_coach_backs_barry_hearn_s_new_spin_on_table_tennis_1_1758404 Ashley Stokes believes sports entrepreneur Barry Hearn can revolutionize the traditional old school Table Table sport as we all used to know it, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 23-year-old Willesden-based Capital City Academy coach heads to prestigious Alexandra Palace, Wood Green this weekend (January 5 and 6) for Hearn’s latest sporting venture World Championship of Ping Pong.
This event sees the sport going back to the traditional roots of playing with classic sandpaper hardbats, more movement and durable rallies.
Stokes will be hoping to beat-off his fellow Capital City Academy assistant Jason Sugrue, current British number one and London 2012 Olympian Andrew Baggaley, 68-year-old 18-time English closed champion Denis Neale and 60 other hopefuls to the £12,000 first prize.
In the opening round Double Elimination stage Stokes, who first made his name competing in Wembley & Harrow League, is grouped with Richard Gonzales, Peter Musko, Gavin Evans, Marty Hendriksen, Colum Slevin, Luke Carrington and Zolt Sel.
But Stokes himself is quietly talking down his chances as he reckons 2011 world hardbat champion Adeleke Kazeem and his Lithuanian girlfriend Egle Adomelyte, the only female in the £62,000 tournament, could be crowned the very first champion come Sunday evening: “I’m just going to take it one game at a time and see how it goes,” said Stokes who has been coaching at Capital City Academy through local based Greenhouse Charity for 18 months.
“The Nigerians look very very strong especially Adeleke Kazeem who is world hardbat champion last year, also look out for Egle Adomelyte the only female in the tournament.
“Egle is so proud being the only female in the tournament, hopefully with her participation in the tournament she will help get more girls taking up the sport.”
Stokes, who went through a gruelling six-month qualifying campaign to earn his place at Alexandra Palace, is looking forward to playing with the traditional sandpaper hardbats: “It has longer rallies and it’s easier to understand than the spin so what you see is what you get.
“It will be a level playing field for all so there’s a lot more longer matches, it’s definitely much more of a spectator sport with the hard bats.
“With Barry Hearn now involved in our sport, all of us are hoping he can do the same like what he did to darts, snooker, fishing, poker, boxing and get more money, sponsorship and television coverage.
“I’m hopeful I will be playing in many more of these tournaments.”
Tickets, priced at £10 and £20, are available at the venue, otherwise catch all the action on Sky Sports.
Roving-reporter.com at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, London, England on 23rd December 2012
Darts: 2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Darts Championships
Coventry’s Steve Beaton described the moment when he busted on 122 that cost him his chance to take James Wade into a seventh set decider but crucially the match in this 2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Championships second round encounter at Alexandra Palace, London, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The Machine’ lightening was struck again on the 48-year-old as Wade repeated his second round victory from five years ago, this time by 4 legs to 2.
“I thought the treble ten is in but certainly it was not,” said the 1996 BDO World Champion. “Then you got to hit a big single, you stop then ten seconds later Wade was ahead, that’s the way it went.
“It was spits and sparse, we played well but I actually thought I did enough to get in it but to do that at the end it was just one of those things.
“There was no other way I could do it; there was no easy way out, you got to hit a single.
“I think me and Wade proved today how nerves can play a part in this, that’s the game.
“It wasn’t a brilliant game all the way through and I’m sure James will say the same thing, we were both sort of up-and-down but I’ve been practising and been playing brilliant.
Beaton who is world ranked 29 in PDC standings assessed his 2012 season: “I’m practising and playing brilliantly but I now have to take that to the stage.
“I don’t know why it’s so different when I go up there. I don’t if the players I’m playing against or it’s something else, I really don’t know.
“At home the other night I was throwing 10 to 12 180’s in 10-15 minutes but here I couldn’t find one.
“If I can do that at home then there’s no reason I can’t do it here.
‘The Bronze Adonis’ now looks forward to his beloved Coventry City play at MK Dons on December 29 as a guest of the Bedfordshire franchise club: “Me and Adrian Lewis did a darts thing with MK Dons the other weekend and someone at the club happen to mentioned on December 29 Coventry will be there. I thought that would be lovely so I will be there as a guest.
“Obviously MK Dons knew I was a big Coventry fan!
“I’m sure MK won’t be jumping up-and-down when the City score!”
And he gave his thoughts on yesterday’s 1-1 hone draw with Preston North End: “A point’s a point, eight games without a loss so that’s good as anything. At least we are not in the bottom anymore!”
Darts: 2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Darts Championships
Coventry’s Steve Beaton described the moment when he busted on 122 that cost him his chance to take James Wade into a seventh set decider but crucially the match in this 2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Championships second round encounter at Alexandra Palace, London, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The Machine’ lightening was struck again on the 48-year-old as Wade repeated his second round victory from five years ago, this time by 4 legs to 2.
“I thought the treble ten is in but certainly it was not,” said the 1996 BDO World Champion. “Then you got to hit a big single, you stop then ten seconds later Wade was ahead, that’s the way it went.
“It was spits and sparse, we played well but I actually thought I did enough to get in it but to do that at the end it was just one of those things.
“There was no other way I could do it; there was no easy way out, you got to hit a single.
“I think me and Wade proved today how nerves can play a part in this, that’s the game.
“It wasn’t a brilliant game all the way through and I’m sure James will say the same thing, we were both sort of up-and-down but I’ve been practising and been playing brilliant.
Beaton who is world ranked 29 in PDC standings assessed his 2012 season: “I’m practising and playing brilliantly but I now have to take that to the stage.
“I don’t know why it’s so different when I go up there. I don’t if the players I’m playing against or it’s something else, I really don’t know.
“At home the other night I was throwing 10 to 12 180’s in 10-15 minutes but here I couldn’t find one.
“If I can do that at home then there’s no reason I can’t do it here.
‘The Bronze Adonis’ now looks forward to his beloved Coventry City play at MK Dons on December 29 as a guest of the Bedfordshire franchise club: “Me and Adrian Lewis did a darts thing with MK Dons the other weekend and someone at the club happen to mentioned on December 29 Coventry will be there. I thought that would be lovely so I will be there as a guest.
“Obviously MK Dons knew I was a big Coventry fan!
“I’m sure MK won’t be jumping up-and-down when the City score!”
And he gave his thoughts on yesterday’s 1-1 hone draw with Preston North End: “A point’s a point, eight games without a loss so that’s good as anything. At least we are not in the bottom anymore!”
Roving-reporter.com at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, London, England on 19th December 2012
Darts: 2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Darts Championships
2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Darts Championship participant Steve Beaton is happy they way Mark Robins is managing Coventry City since he took over the reigns of the then struggling nPower League One side back in September, writes Ziad Chaudry.
“Robins at the moment has done brilliant,” said the 48-year-old ‘Bronzed Adonis’ who will be watching his beloved Sky Blues take on MK Dons on December 29.
“We are half way but I’m not saying we’ve got a chance of winning the title but you never know we might be in the play-offs.
“But if they keep winning then I’ll keep winning!”
The 1996 BDO world champion whitewashed Australian Kyle Anderson 3 sets to 0 in round one and faces Aldershot’s world number 3 James Wade, 29, tomorrow afternoon at Alexandra Palace for a place in the last 16 facing the winner of Dean Winstanley and Vincent van der Voort.
At the same stage five years ago Wade aka The Machine put out the Coventry man in a seventh set decider: “Me and Wadey will have a good game so whoever’s on top will win.”
This evening Scott ‘Cool Hand’ Rand suffered a crushing 4-0 defeat to the hands of ‘Fleetwood Warrior’ Wes Newton.
In round one the 37-year-old former lorry driver beat his stablemate from Belgium Kim Huybrechts in the fifth set decider of this high energy first rounder but today he found the world number 6 just too hot to handle as the Lancastrian finished with a 99.53 average along with registering five maximums and three 100+ finishes.
Rand who qualified for the two week event by finishing 37th on the 2012 ProTour Order of Merit assessed his season by saying: “It’s been a bad season. I was in a car crash in January where I hurt my elbow quite a lot. It’s taken me about two months ago to start throwing with no pain again but now I am it’s feeling very very good.”
Rand burst into the PDC big time with his fantastic performance at last year’s Cash Converters Players Championship in Doncaster in front of a million ITV4 viewers when he was beaten in the final by Rugby-based Kevin Painter: “They like what they saw, they like the entertainment, that’s why I give it much as I can.”
When asked about his thoughts on the Coventry darts scene as it now looks, Rand definitely reckons it is in great shape full of high-quality players: “There is strength and depth in Coventry. If I look at all the cities in the Midlands Coventry is the one that has the highest quality of darts.
“I practise with three or four players who are worthy of playing on the tour, a couple of them have got tour cards and going to Q-school and expect them to get tour cards so I am going to be in good company.”
Darts: 2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Darts Championships
2013 Ladbrokes PDC World Darts Championship participant Steve Beaton is happy they way Mark Robins is managing Coventry City since he took over the reigns of the then struggling nPower League One side back in September, writes Ziad Chaudry.
“Robins at the moment has done brilliant,” said the 48-year-old ‘Bronzed Adonis’ who will be watching his beloved Sky Blues take on MK Dons on December 29.
“We are half way but I’m not saying we’ve got a chance of winning the title but you never know we might be in the play-offs.
“But if they keep winning then I’ll keep winning!”
The 1996 BDO world champion whitewashed Australian Kyle Anderson 3 sets to 0 in round one and faces Aldershot’s world number 3 James Wade, 29, tomorrow afternoon at Alexandra Palace for a place in the last 16 facing the winner of Dean Winstanley and Vincent van der Voort.
At the same stage five years ago Wade aka The Machine put out the Coventry man in a seventh set decider: “Me and Wadey will have a good game so whoever’s on top will win.”
This evening Scott ‘Cool Hand’ Rand suffered a crushing 4-0 defeat to the hands of ‘Fleetwood Warrior’ Wes Newton.
In round one the 37-year-old former lorry driver beat his stablemate from Belgium Kim Huybrechts in the fifth set decider of this high energy first rounder but today he found the world number 6 just too hot to handle as the Lancastrian finished with a 99.53 average along with registering five maximums and three 100+ finishes.
Rand who qualified for the two week event by finishing 37th on the 2012 ProTour Order of Merit assessed his season by saying: “It’s been a bad season. I was in a car crash in January where I hurt my elbow quite a lot. It’s taken me about two months ago to start throwing with no pain again but now I am it’s feeling very very good.”
Rand burst into the PDC big time with his fantastic performance at last year’s Cash Converters Players Championship in Doncaster in front of a million ITV4 viewers when he was beaten in the final by Rugby-based Kevin Painter: “They like what they saw, they like the entertainment, that’s why I give it much as I can.”
When asked about his thoughts on the Coventry darts scene as it now looks, Rand definitely reckons it is in great shape full of high-quality players: “There is strength and depth in Coventry. If I look at all the cities in the Midlands Coventry is the one that has the highest quality of darts.
“I practise with three or four players who are worthy of playing on the tour, a couple of them have got tour cards and going to Q-school and expect them to get tour cards so I am going to be in good company.”
Roving-reporter.com at ExCeL, London, England on 15th December 2012
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Chas Symonds BBBoC Southern Area Welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/othersport/boxing/10118060._Super__Skeete_wants_big_year_and_English_title_shot/ Battersea's Bradley 'Super' Skeete is predicting a big year for himself in 2013 following his emphatically stylish Southern Area welterweight title victory over bitter South London rival Chas Symonds last Saturday at ExCeL Centre, London Docklands, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old produced a near-effective display throughout to halt Croydon-based Symonds, 30, in four rounds.
Referee Jeff Hinds immediately waved off the contest as soon as the former Earlsfield ABC representative sent the bruised and battered 'Bomber' Symonds to the canvas for the second time.
Skeete, who has now won ten straight outings since turning professional back in October 2010, described his victory over the Croydon man as a 'job well done'. He knew from the moment former title holder Symonds entered the ring he would not cope with his sheer pace and power: "Chas had all the talk before but as soon as he took my jabs and felt my shots he wouldn't get near me so I just knew it was going to be a good night," he commented.
"There was a lot of hype before the fight but I made it very perfectly in all the interviews I done if I can't beat the likes of Chas Symonds then I'll be wasting my time and everybody else's time.
"But I got the job done. I predicted I'll do him in six rounds but I got him out in four so I'm really happy."
And Skeete, who has now moved up to 13th in the British welterweight rankings which is headed by Sheffield's world title contender Kell Brook, issued a stern warning to all his fellow divisional rivals: "Anyone who comes to fight me is going to get picked off and going to get hurt. People are talking about my power and all that but my power is showing, every fight is getting better.
"My last fight was a hard fight with Peter McDonagh who pushed me and a lot of good prospects to the wire; he was a step up preparation to title level.
"Despite winning the Southern Area title I still feel I'm a ten fight novice, I've still got loads more to learn.
"I don't want to rush, I just want to defend the Southern and get some good fights then move on to the English title.
"Next year is going to be a big year for me."
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Chas Symonds BBBoC Southern Area Welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/othersport/boxing/10118060._Super__Skeete_wants_big_year_and_English_title_shot/ Battersea's Bradley 'Super' Skeete is predicting a big year for himself in 2013 following his emphatically stylish Southern Area welterweight title victory over bitter South London rival Chas Symonds last Saturday at ExCeL Centre, London Docklands, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 25-year-old produced a near-effective display throughout to halt Croydon-based Symonds, 30, in four rounds.
Referee Jeff Hinds immediately waved off the contest as soon as the former Earlsfield ABC representative sent the bruised and battered 'Bomber' Symonds to the canvas for the second time.
Skeete, who has now won ten straight outings since turning professional back in October 2010, described his victory over the Croydon man as a 'job well done'. He knew from the moment former title holder Symonds entered the ring he would not cope with his sheer pace and power: "Chas had all the talk before but as soon as he took my jabs and felt my shots he wouldn't get near me so I just knew it was going to be a good night," he commented.
"There was a lot of hype before the fight but I made it very perfectly in all the interviews I done if I can't beat the likes of Chas Symonds then I'll be wasting my time and everybody else's time.
"But I got the job done. I predicted I'll do him in six rounds but I got him out in four so I'm really happy."
And Skeete, who has now moved up to 13th in the British welterweight rankings which is headed by Sheffield's world title contender Kell Brook, issued a stern warning to all his fellow divisional rivals: "Anyone who comes to fight me is going to get picked off and going to get hurt. People are talking about my power and all that but my power is showing, every fight is getting better.
"My last fight was a hard fight with Peter McDonagh who pushed me and a lot of good prospects to the wire; he was a step up preparation to title level.
"Despite winning the Southern Area title I still feel I'm a ten fight novice, I've still got loads more to learn.
"I don't want to rush, I just want to defend the Southern and get some good fights then move on to the English title.
"Next year is going to be a big year for me."
Roving-reporter.com preview on 13th December 2012
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Chas Symonds BBBoC Southern Area Welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/othersport/boxing/10101568._Super__Skeete_prepares_to_take_on_his_capital_rival/ Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete is confident he can beat his bitter South London rival Chas Symonds at ExCel Arena, London Docklands this Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
After months of cancellations and pre-fight verbal exchanges the pair will finally square-off in the ring for the Southern Area welterweight title which is guaranteed to be a real hotly-contested affair.
But Skeete, 25, from Battersea, who has so far succeeded in all of his nine pro outings since entering the paid ranks back in October 2010, generally feels he has the upper edge over Symonds, the defending champion from Croydon: “Of course Symonds will be confident of beating me because he’s the champion and he’s been around for a while but I’m the new kid on the block,” said Skeete, a former Earlsfield ABC representative.
“Symonds has been around for so long and he’s never been past the Southern Area title phase but I’m looking to go much much further than him.”
‘Bomber’ Symonds, 30, last fought back in April when he claimed the Southern Area belt after outpointing Darryl Still at Coronet Theatre, Elephant & Castle.
Skeete added: “And as I said before if I can’t beat Chas Symonds then I’ll be wasting my time but I’m definitely super-confident that I will beat Chas Symonds.”
This bout in one of six title bouts featured in Frank Warren’s final show of the year headlined by Ricky Burn’s WBO World lightweight defence against Jose Ocampo. For tickets contact 07951 336739 or 08442 491000, otherwise catch all the action on BoxNation from 7pm.
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Chas Symonds BBBoC Southern Area Welterweight title
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/othersport/boxing/10101568._Super__Skeete_prepares_to_take_on_his_capital_rival/ Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete is confident he can beat his bitter South London rival Chas Symonds at ExCel Arena, London Docklands this Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
After months of cancellations and pre-fight verbal exchanges the pair will finally square-off in the ring for the Southern Area welterweight title which is guaranteed to be a real hotly-contested affair.
But Skeete, 25, from Battersea, who has so far succeeded in all of his nine pro outings since entering the paid ranks back in October 2010, generally feels he has the upper edge over Symonds, the defending champion from Croydon: “Of course Symonds will be confident of beating me because he’s the champion and he’s been around for a while but I’m the new kid on the block,” said Skeete, a former Earlsfield ABC representative.
“Symonds has been around for so long and he’s never been past the Southern Area title phase but I’m looking to go much much further than him.”
‘Bomber’ Symonds, 30, last fought back in April when he claimed the Southern Area belt after outpointing Darryl Still at Coronet Theatre, Elephant & Castle.
Skeete added: “And as I said before if I can’t beat Chas Symonds then I’ll be wasting my time but I’m definitely super-confident that I will beat Chas Symonds.”
This bout in one of six title bouts featured in Frank Warren’s final show of the year headlined by Ricky Burn’s WBO World lightweight defence against Jose Ocampo. For tickets contact 07951 336739 or 08442 491000, otherwise catch all the action on BoxNation from 7pm.
Roving-reporter.com at Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington, London, England on 9th December 2012
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
Leatherhead’s former British number one tennis player Jeremy Bates felt he had a good and enjoyable week at Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington despite losing both his group matches in Statoil Masters Tennis ATP Champions Tour Legends tournament, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 50-year-old from Leatherhead who has been playing in this ATP Champions Tour end of season grand finale for eight of the last nine years suffered successive straight set defeats to defending champion and seven-time grand slam winner John McEnroe (6-4,6-1) and Frenchman Guy Forgot (6-4, 6-4)
Yet again ‘SuperMac’ McEnroe ruled the roost at Royal Albert Hall comfortably dispatching Forgot and Sweden’s seven-time grand slam champion Mats Wilander en route to retaining his title.
And Bates, who won the 1987 Wimbledon and 1991 Australian Open mixed doubles titles with Jo Durie before retiring from the regular tour in 1996, definitely felt it was no shame losing to the legendary American: “I felt I really played really well against McEnroe,” he said.
“Having seen him destroy Mats Wilander in the final, nothing against Mats but I totally felt a lot better because sometimes when you think you’re playing well and you lose relatively easy you start thinking did I play that badly?
“Mac has beaten all of us pretty convincingly and coming into this tournament he’s beaten Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier and Michael Chang over in the States so it was never a disgrace losing to him.”
Solihull-born Bates also featured in the fun-filled exhibition double event where he teamed-up with Goran Ivanisevic and former fellow GB Davis Cup colleague Andrew Castle.
“I started enjoying playing now out here in Royal Albert Hall at this level with your mates having some fun and competing, I love playing in the ATP Champions Tour.”
Bates, along with McEnroe and Ivanisevic, will feature in next year’s tournament which will run from December 4 to 8 and tickets are already available by calling the 020 7070 4404.
Roving-reporter.com at Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington, London, England on 9th December 2012
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
Andrew Castle hailed his fun-filled week at Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington playing in Statoil Masters Tennis with his fellow ATP Champions Tour colleagues as great, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 48-year-old former British number one tennis player and BBC tennis commentator from Balham participated in all five days of this ATP Champions Tour end of season finale where he teamed up with entertaining French tennis trickster Mansour Bahrami and fellow GB Davis Cup colleague Jeremy Bates.
Castle and his partners played against Peter McNamara, Fabrice Santoro, Wayne Ferreira, Thomas Enqvist and Henri Laconte: “I played every day at Royal Albert Hall with some old friends so it’s been a great week,” said the former GMTV presenter.
“You look up at the old Willis Organ here at Royal Albert Hall and you look around where you couldn’t when you were really playing then you can just absorb the atmosphere, so we’re very lucky and thankful that we are playing here.”
Santoro defeated defending champion Tim Henman to win the Masters title while USA’s seven-time grand slam champion John McEnroe successfully defended his legends title after breezing past Mats Wilander.
Castle, along with McEnroe, Goran Ivanisevic and Henman, will feature in next year’s tournament which will run from December 4 to 8 and tickets are already available by calling the 020 7070 4404.
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
Leatherhead’s former British number one tennis player Jeremy Bates felt he had a good and enjoyable week at Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington despite losing both his group matches in Statoil Masters Tennis ATP Champions Tour Legends tournament, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 50-year-old from Leatherhead who has been playing in this ATP Champions Tour end of season grand finale for eight of the last nine years suffered successive straight set defeats to defending champion and seven-time grand slam winner John McEnroe (6-4,6-1) and Frenchman Guy Forgot (6-4, 6-4)
Yet again ‘SuperMac’ McEnroe ruled the roost at Royal Albert Hall comfortably dispatching Forgot and Sweden’s seven-time grand slam champion Mats Wilander en route to retaining his title.
And Bates, who won the 1987 Wimbledon and 1991 Australian Open mixed doubles titles with Jo Durie before retiring from the regular tour in 1996, definitely felt it was no shame losing to the legendary American: “I felt I really played really well against McEnroe,” he said.
“Having seen him destroy Mats Wilander in the final, nothing against Mats but I totally felt a lot better because sometimes when you think you’re playing well and you lose relatively easy you start thinking did I play that badly?
“Mac has beaten all of us pretty convincingly and coming into this tournament he’s beaten Pete Sampras, Andre Agassi, Jim Courier and Michael Chang over in the States so it was never a disgrace losing to him.”
Solihull-born Bates also featured in the fun-filled exhibition double event where he teamed-up with Goran Ivanisevic and former fellow GB Davis Cup colleague Andrew Castle.
“I started enjoying playing now out here in Royal Albert Hall at this level with your mates having some fun and competing, I love playing in the ATP Champions Tour.”
Bates, along with McEnroe and Ivanisevic, will feature in next year’s tournament which will run from December 4 to 8 and tickets are already available by calling the 020 7070 4404.
Roving-reporter.com at Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington, London, England on 9th December 2012
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
Andrew Castle hailed his fun-filled week at Royal Albert Hall, West Kensington playing in Statoil Masters Tennis with his fellow ATP Champions Tour colleagues as great, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 48-year-old former British number one tennis player and BBC tennis commentator from Balham participated in all five days of this ATP Champions Tour end of season finale where he teamed up with entertaining French tennis trickster Mansour Bahrami and fellow GB Davis Cup colleague Jeremy Bates.
Castle and his partners played against Peter McNamara, Fabrice Santoro, Wayne Ferreira, Thomas Enqvist and Henri Laconte: “I played every day at Royal Albert Hall with some old friends so it’s been a great week,” said the former GMTV presenter.
“You look up at the old Willis Organ here at Royal Albert Hall and you look around where you couldn’t when you were really playing then you can just absorb the atmosphere, so we’re very lucky and thankful that we are playing here.”
Santoro defeated defending champion Tim Henman to win the Masters title while USA’s seven-time grand slam champion John McEnroe successfully defended his legends title after breezing past Mats Wilander.
Castle, along with McEnroe, Goran Ivanisevic and Henman, will feature in next year’s tournament which will run from December 4 to 8 and tickets are already available by calling the 020 7070 4404.
Roving-reporter.com preview on 2nd December 2012
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
Andrew Castle will be one extremely busy man at the prestigiously historic surroundings of Royal Albert Hall this week (December 5 to 9) when he will be both hosting and playing the ATP Champions Tour finale Statoil Masters Tennis, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 48-year-old former British number one tennis player from Balham will be doing his usual pre and post match presentations and also teaming up with French tennis trickster Mansour Bahrami, Peter McNamara from Australia and Sweden's seven time grand slam winner Mats Wilander in the doubles exhibition event.
USA's seven time grand slam champion 'Mr You Cannot Be Serious' John McEnroe defends his legends title in a field which includes Ivan Lendl who this year successfully guided Andy Murray to his first major success US Open, while Goran Ivanisevic and Carlos Moya are the pick of the players hoping to stop Tim Henman from repeating his Masters triumph from last year.
For tickets and information call Royal Albert Hall box office on 020 7070 4404 or log on to: http://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/statoil-masters-tennis/default.aspx otherwise catch all the action on ITV4 from Friday evening.
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
Andrew Castle will be one extremely busy man at the prestigiously historic surroundings of Royal Albert Hall this week (December 5 to 9) when he will be both hosting and playing the ATP Champions Tour finale Statoil Masters Tennis, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 48-year-old former British number one tennis player from Balham will be doing his usual pre and post match presentations and also teaming up with French tennis trickster Mansour Bahrami, Peter McNamara from Australia and Sweden's seven time grand slam winner Mats Wilander in the doubles exhibition event.
USA's seven time grand slam champion 'Mr You Cannot Be Serious' John McEnroe defends his legends title in a field which includes Ivan Lendl who this year successfully guided Andy Murray to his first major success US Open, while Goran Ivanisevic and Carlos Moya are the pick of the players hoping to stop Tim Henman from repeating his Masters triumph from last year.
For tickets and information call Royal Albert Hall box office on 020 7070 4404 or log on to: http://www.royalalberthall.com/tickets/statoil-masters-tennis/default.aspx otherwise catch all the action on ITV4 from Friday evening.
Roving-reporter.com at The O2, North Greenwich, London, England on 11th December 2012
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/tennis/othertennis/10067640.Weybridge_s_Marray_hails_amazing_year/ Weybridge's Jonathan Marray described his week at ATP World Tour Finals as 'amazing' despite bowing out with Frederik Nielsen in the semi-final of the doubles event on Sunday at The O2, North Greenwich, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In their final match as a pairing the 2012 Wimbledon champions lost 6-4 6-3 to Spanish duo Marcel Granollers and Marc Lopez.
Throughout the match the Spaniards seized the decisive break point moments that helped them clinch their spot to the final.
"I'm very disappointed," said Marray, 31, who back in July became the first Briton to win the Wimbledon men's doubles title for 76 years. "Personally I felt like I could have played better.
"We had a lot of chances, a few sudden death deuces but it comes down to playing the big points well. It's the important ones that matter."
But despite the defeat, overall it has been a fantastic year for the Surrey-based so-called journeyman professional who also claimed two ATP Challenger titles to his Grand Slam at SW19.
And Murray is very keen to make a return to The O2 for next year's ATP World Tour Finals: "Playing in front of home crowds, all the razzmatazz, flashing lights - It motivates you to want to come back next year.
"It's been amazing playing here. It's been a fantastic year for British sport, and it's been great to have been a part of it."
Tennis: Statoil Masters Tennis
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/tennis/othertennis/10067640.Weybridge_s_Marray_hails_amazing_year/ Weybridge's Jonathan Marray described his week at ATP World Tour Finals as 'amazing' despite bowing out with Frederik Nielsen in the semi-final of the doubles event on Sunday at The O2, North Greenwich, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In their final match as a pairing the 2012 Wimbledon champions lost 6-4 6-3 to Spanish duo Marcel Granollers and Marc Lopez.
Throughout the match the Spaniards seized the decisive break point moments that helped them clinch their spot to the final.
"I'm very disappointed," said Marray, 31, who back in July became the first Briton to win the Wimbledon men's doubles title for 76 years. "Personally I felt like I could have played better.
"We had a lot of chances, a few sudden death deuces but it comes down to playing the big points well. It's the important ones that matter."
But despite the defeat, overall it has been a fantastic year for the Surrey-based so-called journeyman professional who also claimed two ATP Challenger titles to his Grand Slam at SW19.
And Murray is very keen to make a return to The O2 for next year's ATP World Tour Finals: "Playing in front of home crowds, all the razzmatazz, flashing lights - It motivates you to want to come back next year.
"It's been amazing playing here. It's been a fantastic year for British sport, and it's been great to have been a part of it."
Roving-reporter.com at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England on 2nd November 2012
Boxing: Gary Corcoran Vs Ross Payne 6 round heavyweight contest
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing
/triumphant_corcoran_eyes_slot_on_frank_warren_s_december_show_1_1684499
Trainer Mark Tibbs praised Gary Corcoran for his latest victory on Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green and now wants him to appear on the big Frank Warren December 15 show at London ExCel, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 21-year-old welterweight prospect from Wembley came through his first six round test in blitzing fashion by steam-rolling through hapless Ross Payne in 2.04min of first round to register a fifth straight pro success.
Redhill-based Payne may have came into the ring with a ‘tough guy’ reputation but as Tibbs, who is the son of legendary trainer Mark, explained Corcoran was just too powerful for him: “He (Payne) was tough but Gary hit him very hard,” he said.
“Gary had some fantastic sparring with some world class fight and he has improved in the last three months so I know he’s had some rounds under his belt.
“He’s very strong, his conditioning is unbelievable also his ring craft and he lives the life.
“Gary’s only 21 so he has a long way to go but it’s all there.
“He slips the punches well then the guy crumbled after taking a right hand, he done a fantastic job and I’m over the moon.”
Corcoran, who is the youngest of three boxing brothers – now retired former English super-featherweight champion Billy and Eddie, who is due to fight for Southern Area light middleweight title, gave his thoughts on the stoppage: “He gave it a go but the ref was right to stop it, he was getting hurt bad.”
And Tibbs revealed Corcoran will next return to ring action in January but is hoping promoter Frank Warren will let his protégé appear on the undercard of his massive five fight title bill which also features former Dale Youth ABC star George Groves who defends his Commonwealth super-middleweight belt against vastly experienced Jamaican former Glen Johnson.
“I would like Frank Warren to ring me up Monday morning and say let’s get Gary out December. It will be Gary’s Christmas present if he gets out in December but who knows!”
Meanwhile Wembley’s Kreshnik Qato defends his English middleweight title against Islington’s unbeaten John Ryder on December 8 at Kensington Olympia.
It will be the Albanian Eagle’s first defence of the title which he claimed back in June at ExCel where he outpointed Derbyshire’s Matt Hainy. World title contenders Lee Purdy and Gavin Rees co-top the bill and for tickets contact Matchroom Sport on 01277 359 900.
Boxing: Gary Corcoran Vs Ross Payne 6 round heavyweight contest
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/boxing
/triumphant_corcoran_eyes_slot_on_frank_warren_s_december_show_1_1684499
Trainer Mark Tibbs praised Gary Corcoran for his latest victory on Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green and now wants him to appear on the big Frank Warren December 15 show at London ExCel, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 21-year-old welterweight prospect from Wembley came through his first six round test in blitzing fashion by steam-rolling through hapless Ross Payne in 2.04min of first round to register a fifth straight pro success.
Redhill-based Payne may have came into the ring with a ‘tough guy’ reputation but as Tibbs, who is the son of legendary trainer Mark, explained Corcoran was just too powerful for him: “He (Payne) was tough but Gary hit him very hard,” he said.
“Gary had some fantastic sparring with some world class fight and he has improved in the last three months so I know he’s had some rounds under his belt.
“He’s very strong, his conditioning is unbelievable also his ring craft and he lives the life.
“Gary’s only 21 so he has a long way to go but it’s all there.
“He slips the punches well then the guy crumbled after taking a right hand, he done a fantastic job and I’m over the moon.”
Corcoran, who is the youngest of three boxing brothers – now retired former English super-featherweight champion Billy and Eddie, who is due to fight for Southern Area light middleweight title, gave his thoughts on the stoppage: “He gave it a go but the ref was right to stop it, he was getting hurt bad.”
And Tibbs revealed Corcoran will next return to ring action in January but is hoping promoter Frank Warren will let his protégé appear on the undercard of his massive five fight title bill which also features former Dale Youth ABC star George Groves who defends his Commonwealth super-middleweight belt against vastly experienced Jamaican former Glen Johnson.
“I would like Frank Warren to ring me up Monday morning and say let’s get Gary out December. It will be Gary’s Christmas present if he gets out in December but who knows!”
Meanwhile Wembley’s Kreshnik Qato defends his English middleweight title against Islington’s unbeaten John Ryder on December 8 at Kensington Olympia.
It will be the Albanian Eagle’s first defence of the title which he claimed back in June at ExCel where he outpointed Derbyshire’s Matt Hainy. World title contenders Lee Purdy and Gavin Rees co-top the bill and for tickets contact Matchroom Sport on 01277 359 900.
Roving-reporter.com at Glow, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe, Kent, England on 13th October 2012
Boxing: Dillian Whyte Vs Sandor Balogh 6 round heavyweight contest
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/9993806.Villian_gets_set_for_Big_Bad_John/
Dillian “the Villian” Whyte is more than ready to face his English heavyweight title rival “Big Bad” John McDermott, writes Ziad Chaudry
The 24-year-old from Brixton warmed up for his big December 8 meeting with a four-round stoppage workout over bloated Hungarian Sandor Balogh last Saturday at Glow, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe.
In the fourth round, the slow-paced and very unfit looking Balogh, who was an easy target for Whyte throughout the bout, picked himself up from a left hook knockdown but referee Grant Wallis came to his rescue and wisely halted the bout.
Whyte, who advances to nine straight professional victories, said: “It was a good performance. I didn’t rush, I boxed, used my footwork and took my time.
“I wanted to knock him out but the ref said he was taking a lot of punches and he wasn’t coming on any more.”
On the December 8 clash, which will be held in Liverpool, McDermott confidently reckons he will beat the Brixton man in one round but Whyte says: “Since this fight was made, McDermott has said he’ll stop me in one round but we’ll see. ”
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/othersport/boxing/9984767.Victorious_Daws__can_be_European_champion_/
Lenny Daws "can be European champion" according to Mick Hennessy, after the Morden boxer beat Ville Piispanen for the European Union light-welterweight title on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Hennessy also called Daws's victory over Finland's Piispanen at Glow, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe his best professional performance to date.
The 33-year-old former British champion edged a step closer to securing a shot at the full version of the European title currently held by Russia's Denis Shafikov after seeing off the dangerous tough-teak and former belt holder Piispanen to the full twelve round distance.
Scores of 116-112, 118-110 and 117-112 gave 'Lightening' Daws his 25th pro success in 29 outings.
Hennessy, who also promotes European super-middleweight champion James DeGale, heavyweight sensation Tyson Fury and Chris Eubank Jr, is confident he can secure the Morden man a dream shot at Shafikov's European title: "Before Lenny went into this fight he was number two in European Boxing Union Rankings but this victory should now make him number one.
"He is very close to a European title fight which has been my dream for Lenny. He can be European champion then we'll see where we can go from there because I know he can."
And Hennessy, who has promoted Carshalton-born Daws from the start of his professional career back in April 2003, paid compliments to the very game Helsinki-based Piispanen: "He (Piispanen) was a really hard nut to crack because he really had a real tight defence.
"He was very game, he kept on swinging and had a very dangerous right hand.
"I actually think that was the best performance in Lenny Daws's career. There was something special in Lenny tonight and that's the best he has ever boxed and I'm excited for the future for him."
Boxing: Dillian Whyte Vs Sandor Balogh 6 round heavyweight contest
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/9993806.Villian_gets_set_for_Big_Bad_John/
Dillian “the Villian” Whyte is more than ready to face his English heavyweight title rival “Big Bad” John McDermott, writes Ziad Chaudry
The 24-year-old from Brixton warmed up for his big December 8 meeting with a four-round stoppage workout over bloated Hungarian Sandor Balogh last Saturday at Glow, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe.
In the fourth round, the slow-paced and very unfit looking Balogh, who was an easy target for Whyte throughout the bout, picked himself up from a left hook knockdown but referee Grant Wallis came to his rescue and wisely halted the bout.
Whyte, who advances to nine straight professional victories, said: “It was a good performance. I didn’t rush, I boxed, used my footwork and took my time.
“I wanted to knock him out but the ref said he was taking a lot of punches and he wasn’t coming on any more.”
On the December 8 clash, which will be held in Liverpool, McDermott confidently reckons he will beat the Brixton man in one round but Whyte says: “Since this fight was made, McDermott has said he’ll stop me in one round but we’ll see. ”
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/othersport/boxing/9984767.Victorious_Daws__can_be_European_champion_/
Lenny Daws "can be European champion" according to Mick Hennessy, after the Morden boxer beat Ville Piispanen for the European Union light-welterweight title on Saturday, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Hennessy also called Daws's victory over Finland's Piispanen at Glow, Bluewater Shopping Centre, Greenhithe his best professional performance to date.
The 33-year-old former British champion edged a step closer to securing a shot at the full version of the European title currently held by Russia's Denis Shafikov after seeing off the dangerous tough-teak and former belt holder Piispanen to the full twelve round distance.
Scores of 116-112, 118-110 and 117-112 gave 'Lightening' Daws his 25th pro success in 29 outings.
Hennessy, who also promotes European super-middleweight champion James DeGale, heavyweight sensation Tyson Fury and Chris Eubank Jr, is confident he can secure the Morden man a dream shot at Shafikov's European title: "Before Lenny went into this fight he was number two in European Boxing Union Rankings but this victory should now make him number one.
"He is very close to a European title fight which has been my dream for Lenny. He can be European champion then we'll see where we can go from there because I know he can."
And Hennessy, who has promoted Carshalton-born Daws from the start of his professional career back in April 2003, paid compliments to the very game Helsinki-based Piispanen: "He (Piispanen) was a really hard nut to crack because he really had a real tight defence.
"He was very game, he kept on swinging and had a very dangerous right hand.
"I actually think that was the best performance in Lenny Daws's career. There was something special in Lenny tonight and that's the best he has ever boxed and I'm excited for the future for him."
Roving-reporter.com preview on 13th October 2012
Boxing: Dillian Whyte Vs Sandor Balogh 6 round heavyweight contest
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/9981932.The_Villian_in_the_ring_ready_for_Bluewater_bout/
Streatham heavyweight prospect Dillian 'The Villian' Whyte will be hoping to keep his unbeaten run going when he takes on Sandor Balogh tomorrow (Saturday) at Bluewater.
Since entering the professional boxing ranks back in May 2011, the 24-year-old, who is tipped by many fight game observers as a future world champion, has won all eight of his bouts.
In his last outing three weeks ago, martial arts specialist Whyte stopped Manchester's former British champion Michael Holden in three rounds.
The 10-fight bill at Glow features James Degale MBE defending his European super-middleweight title against Frenchman Hadillah Mohoumadi.
For tickets contact Hennessy Sports box office on 01925 755222 or Ticketmaster on 0844 847 2500, otherwise catch all the action on Channel 5 from 10pm.
Meanwhile East Dulwich welterweight Ahmed 'Pattycake' Patterson made it five straight last Friday at Camden Centre, Kings Cross with a third round stoppage success over Bulgarian Yanbko Marinov.
Boxing: Dillian Whyte Vs Sandor Balogh 6 round heavyweight contest
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/9981932.The_Villian_in_the_ring_ready_for_Bluewater_bout/
Streatham heavyweight prospect Dillian 'The Villian' Whyte will be hoping to keep his unbeaten run going when he takes on Sandor Balogh tomorrow (Saturday) at Bluewater.
Since entering the professional boxing ranks back in May 2011, the 24-year-old, who is tipped by many fight game observers as a future world champion, has won all eight of his bouts.
In his last outing three weeks ago, martial arts specialist Whyte stopped Manchester's former British champion Michael Holden in three rounds.
The 10-fight bill at Glow features James Degale MBE defending his European super-middleweight title against Frenchman Hadillah Mohoumadi.
For tickets contact Hennessy Sports box office on 01925 755222 or Ticketmaster on 0844 847 2500, otherwise catch all the action on Channel 5 from 10pm.
Meanwhile East Dulwich welterweight Ahmed 'Pattycake' Patterson made it five straight last Friday at Camden Centre, Kings Cross with a third round stoppage success over Bulgarian Yanbko Marinov.
Roving-reporter news.com on 7th October 2012
Netball: England Vs Jamaica Test Series
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/9979550.Cheam_netball_star_is_all_set_for_international_Quads/
Eboni Beckford-Chambers says England´s International Netball Test Series victory over Jamaica was the perfect preparation for the massive Quad Series in Australia this week, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old goal defence specialist from Cheam played a vital part in all of England´s three matches in particular the decider at English Institute of Sport, Sheffield, last Wednesday where they toppled The Sunshine Girls 62-58.
Jamaica´s Jhanielle Fowler topscored with an impressive 45 from a possible 46 points while Jo Harten notched up 41 points for the hosts.
Beckford-Chambers, who plays for Australian ANZ Championship side Perth-based West Coast Fever, was pleased with her own personal performance: “I got stronger throughout each performance and building on the work done in previous tests,” she said.
“I felt like I stuck to the tactical plan and combined well with Ama Agbeze to ensure that we turned over as much ball as possible to contribute to the team effort.
“The series was the perfect preparation for the quad series as it allowed those returning from ANZ to reconnect with the existing England players.
“The three tests were mentally and physically demanding which are aspects that we will face and have to endure when we take on Australia and New Zealand.
“But as an England team, we showed that we can perservere, stick to the task and win. What better way to approach a quad series with that unity and belief.
“Over the last couple of years, England have shown that they can compete with Australia and New Zealand at the top level. It will be about putting a game of 60 consistent minutes together in order to achieve the result that we desire.”
England kick off their Quad Series campaign against world number one outfit Australia in Adelaide on October 14.
They then play world number two New Zealand on October 17 before closing the series with South Africa on October 21.
Netball: England Vs Jamaica Test Series
http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/9979550.Cheam_netball_star_is_all_set_for_international_Quads/
Eboni Beckford-Chambers says England´s International Netball Test Series victory over Jamaica was the perfect preparation for the massive Quad Series in Australia this week, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old goal defence specialist from Cheam played a vital part in all of England´s three matches in particular the decider at English Institute of Sport, Sheffield, last Wednesday where they toppled The Sunshine Girls 62-58.
Jamaica´s Jhanielle Fowler topscored with an impressive 45 from a possible 46 points while Jo Harten notched up 41 points for the hosts.
Beckford-Chambers, who plays for Australian ANZ Championship side Perth-based West Coast Fever, was pleased with her own personal performance: “I got stronger throughout each performance and building on the work done in previous tests,” she said.
“I felt like I stuck to the tactical plan and combined well with Ama Agbeze to ensure that we turned over as much ball as possible to contribute to the team effort.
“The series was the perfect preparation for the quad series as it allowed those returning from ANZ to reconnect with the existing England players.
“The three tests were mentally and physically demanding which are aspects that we will face and have to endure when we take on Australia and New Zealand.
“But as an England team, we showed that we can perservere, stick to the task and win. What better way to approach a quad series with that unity and belief.
“Over the last couple of years, England have shown that they can compete with Australia and New Zealand at the top level. It will be about putting a game of 60 consistent minutes together in order to achieve the result that we desire.”
England kick off their Quad Series campaign against world number one outfit Australia in Adelaide on October 14.
They then play world number two New Zealand on October 17 before closing the series with South Africa on October 21.
Roving-reporter.com at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England on 14th September 2012
Boxing: Steve O'Meara Vs Tony Randall 8 round light-middleweight contest
Steve O’Meara reckons his victory over Tony Randall was the perfect way to return to the ring which tunes him up nicely for bigger challenges ahead, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 28-year-old former Dale Youth ABC light-middleweight, who has been out of action for nine months following a March fight cancellation and a mysterious virus, continued his explosive stoppage account with Brummie journeyman Randall being his latest victim to fall on Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
It was only a matter of time before O’Meara, who in this last outing back in December 2011 wiped out Nathan Weise to retain his Southern Area title, finally halted the very durable but game Randall in 1.31 of round three when referee Jeff Hinds very sensibly decided the Birmingham man had enough following a poundering knockdown.
“I felt relaxed out there – I didn’t felt any ring rust,” said O’Meara after his 16th pro career victory. “It was nice to get rid of the illness and get back into the ring.
“He (Randall) took some good shots especially in the first round, I thought I was going to produce another first round stoppage.”
And he paid respect to Randall, an opponent he never underestimated: “He’s only lost to the top boys and some of them he gave a hard night so I wasn’t taking anything for granted.
“It was probably looked upon as a tune-up fight but I knew I still had to go in there and do the job. He was a tough guy and I did very well to get him out there.”
O’Meara strongly feels he has now gone beyond Southern title level and is more than ready to challenge for bigger honours: “I feel I’m beyond Southern title level and I’m now ready to take on the big guns.
“I personally think it’s time to challenge for British title but that’s unlikely to happen before the end of the year because Brian Rose and Matthew Hall are fighting for it.
“But who knows maybe I might get a crack at the English title before the end of the year so that will be perfect, and then get a shot of the British which will be ideal.”
Boxing: Steve O'Meara Vs Tony Randall 8 round light-middleweight contest
Steve O’Meara reckons his victory over Tony Randall was the perfect way to return to the ring which tunes him up nicely for bigger challenges ahead, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 28-year-old former Dale Youth ABC light-middleweight, who has been out of action for nine months following a March fight cancellation and a mysterious virus, continued his explosive stoppage account with Brummie journeyman Randall being his latest victim to fall on Friday at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
It was only a matter of time before O’Meara, who in this last outing back in December 2011 wiped out Nathan Weise to retain his Southern Area title, finally halted the very durable but game Randall in 1.31 of round three when referee Jeff Hinds very sensibly decided the Birmingham man had enough following a poundering knockdown.
“I felt relaxed out there – I didn’t felt any ring rust,” said O’Meara after his 16th pro career victory. “It was nice to get rid of the illness and get back into the ring.
“He (Randall) took some good shots especially in the first round, I thought I was going to produce another first round stoppage.”
And he paid respect to Randall, an opponent he never underestimated: “He’s only lost to the top boys and some of them he gave a hard night so I wasn’t taking anything for granted.
“It was probably looked upon as a tune-up fight but I knew I still had to go in there and do the job. He was a tough guy and I did very well to get him out there.”
O’Meara strongly feels he has now gone beyond Southern title level and is more than ready to challenge for bigger honours: “I feel I’m beyond Southern title level and I’m now ready to take on the big guns.
“I personally think it’s time to challenge for British title but that’s unlikely to happen before the end of the year because Brian Rose and Matthew Hall are fighting for it.
“But who knows maybe I might get a crack at the English title before the end of the year so that will be perfect, and then get a shot of the British which will be ideal.”
Roving-reporter.com at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England on 14th September 2012
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Peter McDonagh BBBoC British Masters Welterweight title
Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete will expect more tougher challenges as he gradually works his way up through the top of the professional boxing ranks, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old from Battersea digged deep to outpoint tough-teak London Irishman Peter McDonagh over ten hard fought rounds to claim his first pro title British Masters welterweight title last Friday evening at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
In a closely contested affair, the former Earlsfield ABC representative dominated during the closing rounds to edge it 97-95 on referee Ken Curtis’s scorecard.
“Peter McDonagh was definitely the toughest test I’ve had so far, it was a good learning experience for me,” said a jubilant Skeete who extends his perfect record to nine wins.
“I expected ten hard rounds and I got ten hard rounds, that’s what I needed and Peter gave me ten hard rounds.
“It was a close fight and I definitely knew I won the fight”.
Skeete now hopes Southern area champion Chas ‘The Bomb’ Symonds will not pull out when they eventually do meet.
Croydon-based Symonds, 30, who won the title back in April at Coronet Theatre, Elephant & Castle after outpointing Basingstoke’s Darryl Still, was due to fight the rising Battersea star last Friday before deciding to pull out just two weeks before.
“Chas Symonds now has to put up and shut up because that’s the fight I’m getting next,” commented Skeete.
“Chas is talking about fighting for the British title but he is so deluded. You’ve got to defend your title and earn to fight for the British title.
Boxing: Bradley Skeete Vs Peter McDonagh BBBoC British Masters Welterweight title
Bradley ‘Super’ Skeete will expect more tougher challenges as he gradually works his way up through the top of the professional boxing ranks, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old from Battersea digged deep to outpoint tough-teak London Irishman Peter McDonagh over ten hard fought rounds to claim his first pro title British Masters welterweight title last Friday evening at York Hall, Bethnal Green.
In a closely contested affair, the former Earlsfield ABC representative dominated during the closing rounds to edge it 97-95 on referee Ken Curtis’s scorecard.
“Peter McDonagh was definitely the toughest test I’ve had so far, it was a good learning experience for me,” said a jubilant Skeete who extends his perfect record to nine wins.
“I expected ten hard rounds and I got ten hard rounds, that’s what I needed and Peter gave me ten hard rounds.
“It was a close fight and I definitely knew I won the fight”.
Skeete now hopes Southern area champion Chas ‘The Bomb’ Symonds will not pull out when they eventually do meet.
Croydon-based Symonds, 30, who won the title back in April at Coronet Theatre, Elephant & Castle after outpointing Basingstoke’s Darryl Still, was due to fight the rising Battersea star last Friday before deciding to pull out just two weeks before.
“Chas Symonds now has to put up and shut up because that’s the fight I’m getting next,” commented Skeete.
“Chas is talking about fighting for the British title but he is so deluded. You’ve got to defend your title and earn to fight for the British title.
Roving-reporter.com at York Hall, Bethnal Green, London, England on 14th September 2012
Boxing: Gary Corcoran Vs Billy Smith 4 round light-middleweight contest
Gary Corcoran has vowed the best is yet to come from him as he prepares to make the big step up to the longer distances, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 21-year-old light-welterweight prospect from Wembley rubber-stamped his fourth pro success at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday evening with a relatively resounding 40-36 points shutout over veteran journeyman Billy Smith,
As the scoreline suggests this was one way traffic. From the first bell former Stowe ABC rep Corcoran easily worked his way around the gritty West Midlander, who incidentally was competing in his 137th contest, with accurate sharp jabs to the head: “I was very pleased with my performance,” said Corcoran. “I stood on my jab; it was one of the ways of getting through Smith.
“I hurt him a few times but I just let him off the hook. Next time I won’t be doing that.
“I didn’t use the body enough but I should use it a bit more. You will see that in my next fight for sure.”
And Corcoran, who trains at TRAD TKO Gym in Canning Town under the guidance of Mark Tibbs, just cannot wait to fight in his first six round contest and is ready and raring to go: “My next fight will be a six rounder so you will definitely see the best of me as I do the longer rounds.”
Meanwhile Corcoran believes his elder brother Eddie will come back to the ring stronger and get the opportunity again to fight for the Southern Area light-middleweight title.
The 26-year-old from Neasden was due to face Kris Agyei-Dua for the vacant mantle on Saturday at York Hall but unfortunately had to pull out due to a back injury.
“Obviously Eddie is disappointed especially with all the recent fights which kept on being off or cancelled,” commented Corcoran. “But hopefully he will get back soon and regain that Southern Area title shot.
“He’s been training good but he keeps getting these injuries. He’ll be back soon for sure and for the better.”
Boxing: Gary Corcoran Vs Billy Smith 4 round light-middleweight contest
Gary Corcoran has vowed the best is yet to come from him as he prepares to make the big step up to the longer distances, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 21-year-old light-welterweight prospect from Wembley rubber-stamped his fourth pro success at York Hall, Bethnal Green on Friday evening with a relatively resounding 40-36 points shutout over veteran journeyman Billy Smith,
As the scoreline suggests this was one way traffic. From the first bell former Stowe ABC rep Corcoran easily worked his way around the gritty West Midlander, who incidentally was competing in his 137th contest, with accurate sharp jabs to the head: “I was very pleased with my performance,” said Corcoran. “I stood on my jab; it was one of the ways of getting through Smith.
“I hurt him a few times but I just let him off the hook. Next time I won’t be doing that.
“I didn’t use the body enough but I should use it a bit more. You will see that in my next fight for sure.”
And Corcoran, who trains at TRAD TKO Gym in Canning Town under the guidance of Mark Tibbs, just cannot wait to fight in his first six round contest and is ready and raring to go: “My next fight will be a six rounder so you will definitely see the best of me as I do the longer rounds.”
Meanwhile Corcoran believes his elder brother Eddie will come back to the ring stronger and get the opportunity again to fight for the Southern Area light-middleweight title.
The 26-year-old from Neasden was due to face Kris Agyei-Dua for the vacant mantle on Saturday at York Hall but unfortunately had to pull out due to a back injury.
“Obviously Eddie is disappointed especially with all the recent fights which kept on being off or cancelled,” commented Corcoran. “But hopefully he will get back soon and regain that Southern Area title shot.
“He’s been training good but he keeps getting these injuries. He’ll be back soon for sure and for the better.”
Roving-reporter.com at Alexandra Palace, Wood Green, London, England on 8th September 2012
Boxing: Danny Connor Vs Chris Evangelou BBBoC Southern Area Light-Welterweight title
Danny 'Cassius' Connor just wants to saviour every moment of being Southern Area light-welterweight champion before making his next move, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 26-year-old from Carshalton claimed a stunning ten round 98-94 points success over local hot favourite Chris 'The Flash' Evangelou, also 26, on Saturday at prestigious Alexandra Palace, Wood Green.
His seventh professional win in 13 outings was fully deserved especially with the high volume work rate he produced throughout this entertaining ten round affair.
Before the bout Connor, who is managed by Bruce Baker, quoted in the official programme that the 'O' on Evangelou's record did not really bother him because records are for DJs! But despite saying those words he has ended the Wood Green man's nine fight unbeaten run.
"I feel so ecstatic, I'm happy, I've never been so happy in my whole life," said a jubilant Connor, who in his last fight won the lightly-regarded British Masters title back in May.
"I thought it was close but I made him (Evangelou) miss a lot. I was powdering my jabs, I was the busier fighter.
"Every now and again he caught me with some good shots but I thought I done more work."
Connor could next fight for either the English or British title but he will be more than happy to give Evangelou a rematch: "I'll give him a rematch because it was close, it could go either way. Let's have it where ever I don't care. Whatever anyone want's to bring I'm ready for it.
"Who knows what will happen next. I'll have a little rest then see what happens. Maybe an English and British title, who knows? I'll take it slow and see how it goes. I'm just going to enjoy the moment being the Southern champ."
Boxing: Danny Connor Vs Chris Evangelou BBBoC Southern Area Light-Welterweight title
Danny 'Cassius' Connor just wants to saviour every moment of being Southern Area light-welterweight champion before making his next move, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 26-year-old from Carshalton claimed a stunning ten round 98-94 points success over local hot favourite Chris 'The Flash' Evangelou, also 26, on Saturday at prestigious Alexandra Palace, Wood Green.
His seventh professional win in 13 outings was fully deserved especially with the high volume work rate he produced throughout this entertaining ten round affair.
Before the bout Connor, who is managed by Bruce Baker, quoted in the official programme that the 'O' on Evangelou's record did not really bother him because records are for DJs! But despite saying those words he has ended the Wood Green man's nine fight unbeaten run.
"I feel so ecstatic, I'm happy, I've never been so happy in my whole life," said a jubilant Connor, who in his last fight won the lightly-regarded British Masters title back in May.
"I thought it was close but I made him (Evangelou) miss a lot. I was powdering my jabs, I was the busier fighter.
"Every now and again he caught me with some good shots but I thought I done more work."
Connor could next fight for either the English or British title but he will be more than happy to give Evangelou a rematch: "I'll give him a rematch because it was close, it could go either way. Let's have it where ever I don't care. Whatever anyone want's to bring I'm ready for it.
"Who knows what will happen next. I'll have a little rest then see what happens. Maybe an English and British title, who knows? I'll take it slow and see how it goes. I'm just going to enjoy the moment being the Southern champ."
Roving-reporter.com at Sportski Park Mladost, Zagreb, Croatia on 5th September 2012
Athletics/Track & Field: Memorijala Borisa Hanžekovića IAAF World Challenge
Croydon Harriers ruled the roost in Zagreb, Croatia last Tuesday as Martyn Rooney and Lawrence Okoye both won their respective events at Hanzekovic Memorial IAAF World Challenge meeting, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Rooney, 25, from Thornton Heath, a London Olympic semi-finalist, enjoyed the pleasure cruising round the one-lap 400m sprint with ease clocking 45.69secs, finishing well ahead of Poland's Marcin Marciniszyn (46.22) and American Duane Solomon (46.39).
"It was fun," he said after winning his fifth race of 2012. "It was an interesting race.
"I was very nervous beforehand but I had an amazing 400m runner (Duane Solomon) in the lane outside - so I made sure I won."
The Crystal Palace FC fanatic then went to the Belgacom Memorial Van Damme IAAF Diamond League event in Brussels, Belgium on Friday where he clocked 45.56 to finish fifth with local favourite Kevin Borlee winning in an impressive 44.75.
Following his disappointment in Berlin last Sunday Okoye bounced back to top form in style and claimed a stunning victory in the final throw of the men's Discus Throw competition. The 20-year-old's 67.25m smashed the 11-year meeting record mark of 66.90 set by Hungary's Robert Fazekas. Eric Cadee (65.67) from Holland and Poland's Piotr Malachowski (65.64) was second and third, respectively.
"After the poor performance in Berlin I wanted to make sure I threw big here and get a good result which I did," said Okoye.
"This big throw has been coming for a long time, it's just all about getting it right on the day. I'm glad it came right today.
"The warm weather conditions here in Zagreb were right for me which did help a lot. It was a good competition, it's a good stadium and the crowd really get involved - so overall it was just perfect."
He ended his excellent season on Friday in Brussels where he threw 64.67 to finish fifth.
Athletics/Track & Field: Memorijala Borisa Hanžekovića IAAF World Challenge
Croydon Harriers ruled the roost in Zagreb, Croatia last Tuesday as Martyn Rooney and Lawrence Okoye both won their respective events at Hanzekovic Memorial IAAF World Challenge meeting, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Rooney, 25, from Thornton Heath, a London Olympic semi-finalist, enjoyed the pleasure cruising round the one-lap 400m sprint with ease clocking 45.69secs, finishing well ahead of Poland's Marcin Marciniszyn (46.22) and American Duane Solomon (46.39).
"It was fun," he said after winning his fifth race of 2012. "It was an interesting race.
"I was very nervous beforehand but I had an amazing 400m runner (Duane Solomon) in the lane outside - so I made sure I won."
The Crystal Palace FC fanatic then went to the Belgacom Memorial Van Damme IAAF Diamond League event in Brussels, Belgium on Friday where he clocked 45.56 to finish fifth with local favourite Kevin Borlee winning in an impressive 44.75.
Following his disappointment in Berlin last Sunday Okoye bounced back to top form in style and claimed a stunning victory in the final throw of the men's Discus Throw competition. The 20-year-old's 67.25m smashed the 11-year meeting record mark of 66.90 set by Hungary's Robert Fazekas. Eric Cadee (65.67) from Holland and Poland's Piotr Malachowski (65.64) was second and third, respectively.
"After the poor performance in Berlin I wanted to make sure I threw big here and get a good result which I did," said Okoye.
"This big throw has been coming for a long time, it's just all about getting it right on the day. I'm glad it came right today.
"The warm weather conditions here in Zagreb were right for me which did help a lot. It was a good competition, it's a good stadium and the crowd really get involved - so overall it was just perfect."
He ended his excellent season on Friday in Brussels where he threw 64.67 to finish fifth.
Roving-reporter.com at Olympic Stadium, Berlin, Germany on 2nd September 2012
Athletics/Track & Field: ISTAF
A rejuvenated Harry Aikines-Aryeetey has inspired to end his topsy-turvy season on a winning note, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old Sutton & District sprinter claimed a moral boosting victory in a men’s 100m B race at ISTAF IAAF World Challenge Meeting on Sunday at the prestigiously historic Olympic Stadium, Berlin, Germany, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Winning in a season’s best time of 10.22secs he led a British clean sweep with Christian Malcolm taking second followed by Coventry Godiva’s 2004 sprint relay Olympic gold medallist Marlon Devonish.
In a season tarnished with injuries and Olympic qualification failure, this victory has got Aikines-Aryeetey back on track and was ecstatic: “This was a real morale boosting victory for me,” he said.
“10.22 is not a world beating time. It’s not the fastest track in the world even the world record was set here.
“Every race I go into is my Olympics right now.
“I could have called it a day after the European Champs when I did my hamstring again but I said nope!
“I’ve had such a mixed year this year with the hamstring, pulled my shin muscles, hurt my back – I haven’t had the emphasis to train this year.”
Besides from recovering from his injury Aikines-Aryeetey has kept himself in tip-top condition whilst the London Olympics were on: “Whilst the Olympics were on I did a personal training course.
“That kept me in good stead and I got some training done so I’m definitely coming back to form.
“There is a few technical issues I need to sort out like my start but my top speed is up there and I’m starting to get that back again.”
Roving-reporter.com at Olympic Stadium, Berlin, Germany on 2nd September 2012
Athletics/Track & Field: ISTAF
Lawrence Okoye is determined to carry on where he left off – to continue his good form into next year, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In his penultimate outing of the season, the 20-year-old Croydon Harrier and London Olympic finalist posted a 62.20m throw in men’s discus at ISTAF IAAF World Challenge Meeting on Sunday at the prestigiously historic Olympic Stadium, Berlin, Germany.
Local favourite and London Olympic champion Robert Harting claimed his 33rd victory this year with his 67.40m while Virgilijus Alekna from Lithuania and Poland’s Piotr Malachowski came second and third, respectively.
“After the 62.60 I’ve had a few bad throws, disc was going all over the place,” said Okoye.
“I’m getting better and better every time I compete but it’s a shame I couldn’t throw better today and keep up with the leaders.
Okoye assessed his year and said: “I’ve done really well this year, especially with the London Olympics but I just want to keep on going and carry on the good form into next year.”
His final competition at Brussels Diamond League event this Friday.
Athletics/Track & Field: ISTAF
A rejuvenated Harry Aikines-Aryeetey has inspired to end his topsy-turvy season on a winning note, writes Ziad Chaudry.
The 24-year-old Sutton & District sprinter claimed a moral boosting victory in a men’s 100m B race at ISTAF IAAF World Challenge Meeting on Sunday at the prestigiously historic Olympic Stadium, Berlin, Germany, writes Ziad Chaudry.
Winning in a season’s best time of 10.22secs he led a British clean sweep with Christian Malcolm taking second followed by Coventry Godiva’s 2004 sprint relay Olympic gold medallist Marlon Devonish.
In a season tarnished with injuries and Olympic qualification failure, this victory has got Aikines-Aryeetey back on track and was ecstatic: “This was a real morale boosting victory for me,” he said.
“10.22 is not a world beating time. It’s not the fastest track in the world even the world record was set here.
“Every race I go into is my Olympics right now.
“I could have called it a day after the European Champs when I did my hamstring again but I said nope!
“I’ve had such a mixed year this year with the hamstring, pulled my shin muscles, hurt my back – I haven’t had the emphasis to train this year.”
Besides from recovering from his injury Aikines-Aryeetey has kept himself in tip-top condition whilst the London Olympics were on: “Whilst the Olympics were on I did a personal training course.
“That kept me in good stead and I got some training done so I’m definitely coming back to form.
“There is a few technical issues I need to sort out like my start but my top speed is up there and I’m starting to get that back again.”
Roving-reporter.com at Olympic Stadium, Berlin, Germany on 2nd September 2012
Athletics/Track & Field: ISTAF
Lawrence Okoye is determined to carry on where he left off – to continue his good form into next year, writes Ziad Chaudry.
In his penultimate outing of the season, the 20-year-old Croydon Harrier and London Olympic finalist posted a 62.20m throw in men’s discus at ISTAF IAAF World Challenge Meeting on Sunday at the prestigiously historic Olympic Stadium, Berlin, Germany.
Local favourite and London Olympic champion Robert Harting claimed his 33rd victory this year with his 67.40m while Virgilijus Alekna from Lithuania and Poland’s Piotr Malachowski came second and third, respectively.
“After the 62.60 I’ve had a few bad throws, disc was going all over the place,” said Okoye.
“I’m getting better and better every time I compete but it’s a shame I couldn’t throw better today and keep up with the leaders.
Okoye assessed his year and said: “I’ve done really well this year, especially with the London Olympics but I just want to keep on going and carry on the good form into next year.”
His final competition at Brussels Diamond League event this Friday.
Roving-reporter.com at Alexander Stadium, Birmingham, West Midlands, England on 26th August 2012
Athletics/Track & Field: Aviva Birmingham Grand Prix: Okoro erases her bad memories of Birmingham http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/athletics/okoro_erases_her_bad_memories_of_birmingham_1_1498213 Marilyn Okoro says she has nothing to prove to British Athletics chief Charles van Commenee following her controversial Olympic snub, writes Ziad Chaudry The 27-year-old 800m specialist from Neasden returned to Birmingham Alexander Stadium on Sunday to the scene of her pre-Olympic Team GB trials disaster that saw her dream London 2012 ticket slipped right out of her hands. And despite achieving the women’s 800m A standard time on six occasions during the last twelve months the current British number one was controversially overlooked by van Commenne and his fellow selectors in favour of third-ranked Lynsey Sharp for London 2012. The memories of that catastrophic June 23 run may have painfully flown back but determinedly strong as she was Okoro, not only gained her trials revenge over Sharp who finished fifth, courageously produced a tactically solid third place effort at Aviva Birmingham Grand Prix with a time of 2:01.96 behind Russia’s recently crowned Olympic champion Mariya Savinova (2:00.40) and Beijing 2008 Olympic winner Pamela Jelimo of Kenya (2:01.43). “I just wanted to show that I can run with these girls,” said Okoro, who earlier in the year won the UK Indoor championships. “I’ve had so much criticism about my tactics so I just got evenly prepared. “It was hard work for me to run but I was happy and strong to hold on to third behind the reigning Olympic champion and former Olympic champion. “I think CVC (Charles van Commenee) had a lot to think about lately so let him keep thinking! “The time didn’t really matter; it was just the performance which was good. I felt strong out there so I can’t complain. “I’ve just got a couple of races left but I just want to build on to a strong finish and on to next year. Okoro will head to Berlin’s Olympic Stadium for ISTAF IAAF Challenge meeting. 
Roving-reporter.com at Alexander Stadium, Birmingham, West Midlands, England on 26th August 2012
Athletics/Track & Field: Aviva Birmingham Grand Prix Croydon Harriers Martyn Rooney has targeted sub-45 seconds time in his final two races of the season, writes Ziad Chaudry. At the Aviva Birmingham Grand Prix IAAF Diamond League event last Sunday, the 25-year-old Thornton Heath resident finished sixth in the men’s 400m clocking 45.69secs. USA’s two-time 400m hurdles Olympic gold medallist Angelo Taylor cruised through the one lap event with a season’s best 44.93 beating Luguelin Santos of Dominican Republic by 0.03 while Belgium’s Jonathan Borlée was third. Rooney, a London Olympic semi-finalist, felt he should have capitalised when he was level with Taylor and Santos during the early part of the race: “It was nice to be involve in the race early on but I didn’t put myself out in that position – but that’s what happens when you get 45.6,” he said. “It’s just a case of getting round and making sure I finish the race under 45 seconds which is pretty much my only aim.” His final two races will be in Zabreg, Croatia (September 4) and Brussels, Belgium (September 7). Also in Birmingham Rooney’s fellow club-mate Lawrence Okoye goes into ISTAF IAAF World Challenge event in Berlin, Germany this Sunday (September 2) full of confidence following his 64.49m effort in men’s discus throw. In a field similar to the London Olympic final a couple of weeks ago, the recently crown Olympic champion from Germany Robert Harting overcame Estonia’s 2008 Olympic gold medallist Gerd Kanter and former double champion Virgilius Alekna of Lithuania to claim a 66.64m victory. “I really gave it my all and I’m very positive,” said Okoye, 20, the current British record holder. “To throw 64.49m in these conditions is pretty good, if I can rest up I’m sure I can get close to my PB if not further. “I’ll rest up for next week and hopefully be much stronger in Berlin next weekend.” Roving-reporter.com at Alexander Stadium, Birmingham, West Midlands, England on 26th August 2012 Athletics/Track & Field: Aviva Birmingham Grand Prix Crystal Palace based US London Olympian and big screen star Jamie Nieto hailed his 2012 as a great season, writes Ziad Chaudry. The 35-year-old, who came fourth at the London Olympics two weeks ago, registered 2.24m in the men’s high jump at Aviva Birmingham Grand Prix IAAF Diamond League event on Sunday. He was well behind Britain’s European champion Robbie Grabarz who claimed the scalp of London Olympic winner from Russia Ivan Ukhaov with a 2.32m clearance. “It was not too bad,” said Seattle-born Nieto. “It’s been a long season and things have really gone well for me this year. “I’m 35 years old but I’ll be 36 in November. Being able to jump against all these guys and going around the world to compete has been great. “I was staying positive throughout the year, my whole goal was to make the US Olympic team and do the best I can do and that what happened. “A lot of people counted me out but you could never cut a veteran out!” Nieto landed a leading role in ‘Baseball's Last Hero: The Roberto Clemente Story’ which will be internationally released in cinemas next year. He says he is enjoying both his careers as a film star and an athletics athlete: “The film business has been going well, I’ve been taking acting classes since 2008 and done five feature films. “I’m also producing my own web story called ‘Blood Brothers’. “I’m so happy that I’m able to find another pastime because I have so much fun acting because it takes me away from the athletics, but having saying that the athletics is so much fun too.” Nieto rounds up his season in Zurich, Switzerland this Friday. 
Roving-reporter.com news on 17th August 2012
Boxing: Streatham Guardian: Connor Keen To Add To His Title Haul http://www.streathamguardian.co.uk/sport/9878623.Connor_keen_to_add_to_his_title_haul/ Carshalton’s ‘Cassius’ Danny Connor steps into the big time at Alexandra Palace next month, when he bids for the vacant Southern area light-welterweight title. The 26-year-old, who faces talented unbeaten Chris Evangelou in Wood Green on September 8, is out to add the Southern crown to the British Masters welterweight belt he won in May against Tyler Goodjohn. That triumph was his sixth pro success in 12 outings, but he will have to raise his game in order to beat Enfield-based Evangelou, who is unbeaten in nine fightsTopping the 10-fight bill at Alexandra Palace features a vacant IBF Inter-Continental middleweight title encounter between former European Champion Darren Barker and Italian Simone Rotolo. For tickets call Matchroom Sport on 01277 359900 or go to matchroomboxing.com. Roving-reporter.com news on 10th August 2012 Boxing: Wandsworth Guardian: Skeete's Title Challenge Battersea welterweight Bradley Skeete will compete for his first professional title on September 14 at York Hall, Bethnal Green when he faces fellow South Londoner and Southern area champion Chas Symonds, writes Ziad Chaudry. The 24-year-old former Earlsfield ABC has impressed since switching to the paid ranks nearly two years ago by winning all of his eight bouts. He earned the right to face Symonds following a first round demolition over Crawley's Ross Payne back in April at Royal Albert Hall. Symonds, from Croydon, regained the title also back in April at Coronet Theatre, Elephant & Castle after outpointing Basingstoke's Darryl Still. Billy Joe Saunders' Commonwealth middleweight title defence against Australian Jarrod Fletcher tops the bill and tickets are available by contacting Frank Warren Promotions on 01992 505 550. |
Roving-reporter.com at MEN Arena, Manchester, Greater Manchester, England on 18th July 2012
Basketball: Tottenham & Wood Green Journal: London 2012: Olympic basketball star’s aiming to inspire Tottenham youth
http://www.tottenhamjournal.co.uk/sport/olympics_2_4562/london_2012_olympic_basketball_star_s_aiming_to_inspire_tottenham_youth_1_1459072Tottenham’s Team GB basketball star Pops Mensah-Bonsu hopes his appearance at London 2012 will inspire local youngsters to take up the sport.
The 6ft 9ins NBA star, who grew up in Tottenham and attended St Thomas More School in Wood Green, top scored in the final warm-up games against Tunisia and Belgium at the weekend, netting 18 points and 21 points respectively.
Team GB lost both matches, having also been beaten 118-78 by the USA at Manchester’s MEN Arena last Thursday.
But Mensah-Bonsu, who represented Haringey in the London Youth Games as a teenager, remains positive about Team GB’s chances at the Olympics – and he is also aware of the bigger picture as he eyes a sporting legacy in his home city.
“I think the future is bright for us,” said the 28-year-old, who has played for the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Hornets and now plies his trade for Turkish outfit Besiktas Milangaz.
“I definitely feel with the potential we have, and the type of team we can be, that we are going to surprise a few people – and the world.
“Coming from the streets of Tottenham I wanted to show my family, friends and younger generation that you can make it.
“The Olympics will be inspiring and hopefully it can motivate some of the younger generation to take up the sport.
“I was a young kid of 13 walking around the streets of Tottenham. Then I began playing basketball and made it to the highest level, so hopefully these kids can be inspired and make it to the same level as me.”
Mensah-Bonsu is one of two Haringey heroes in the Team GB basketball side, alongside captain Drew Sullivan, who also represented the borough in the London Youth Games.
A former 100m and 200m athlete during his school days in north London, 32-year-old Sullivan scored 11 points against the USA last week.
GB start their Olympics campaign against Russia at the Basketball Arena on Sunday (July 29) – and the skipper, who plays for Leicester Riders, is ecstatic to be back playing in his home city.
“I couldn’t ask for any more,” said Sullivan. “I just want to be part of it and to be involved – whether it is going to be a lot or a little.
“Being from London, and being able to represent my country in a London Olympics, is a dream come true.”
GB recently faced Russia twice during a pre-season preparation camp in Houston, Texas, and were defeated on both occasions – but Sullivan believes his side are better prepared for this weekend’s showdown.
“We’ve actually done really well with the very hard schedule we’ve had going into the Olympics,” he said. “Before the USA game we had some really good results. When we played Russia they were a lot further ahead than us in their preparations, so we’ve had some tough games.
“We’ve had a lot of good preparations and game time, so there is a good chance we can get a few surprise results.”
Men’s basketball fixtures (Group B):
Sunday July 29 v Russia (8pm)
Tuesday July 31 v Brazil (4.45pm)
Thursday Aug 2 v Spain (8pm)
Saturday August 4 v Australia (8pm)
Monday August 6 v China (4.45pm)
Top four teams from the group qualify for the quarter-finals
Basketball: Tottenham & Wood Green Journal: London 2012: Olympic basketball star’s aiming to inspire Tottenham youth
http://www.tottenhamjournal.co.uk/sport/olympics_2_4562/london_2012_olympic_basketball_star_s_aiming_to_inspire_tottenham_youth_1_1459072Tottenham’s Team GB basketball star Pops Mensah-Bonsu hopes his appearance at London 2012 will inspire local youngsters to take up the sport.
The 6ft 9ins NBA star, who grew up in Tottenham and attended St Thomas More School in Wood Green, top scored in the final warm-up games against Tunisia and Belgium at the weekend, netting 18 points and 21 points respectively.
Team GB lost both matches, having also been beaten 118-78 by the USA at Manchester’s MEN Arena last Thursday.
But Mensah-Bonsu, who represented Haringey in the London Youth Games as a teenager, remains positive about Team GB’s chances at the Olympics – and he is also aware of the bigger picture as he eyes a sporting legacy in his home city.
“I think the future is bright for us,” said the 28-year-old, who has played for the Dallas Mavericks and New Orleans Hornets and now plies his trade for Turkish outfit Besiktas Milangaz.
“I definitely feel with the potential we have, and the type of team we can be, that we are going to surprise a few people – and the world.
“Coming from the streets of Tottenham I wanted to show my family, friends and younger generation that you can make it.
“The Olympics will be inspiring and hopefully it can motivate some of the younger generation to take up the sport.
“I was a young kid of 13 walking around the streets of Tottenham. Then I began playing basketball and made it to the highest level, so hopefully these kids can be inspired and make it to the same level as me.”
Mensah-Bonsu is one of two Haringey heroes in the Team GB basketball side, alongside captain Drew Sullivan, who also represented the borough in the London Youth Games.
A former 100m and 200m athlete during his school days in north London, 32-year-old Sullivan scored 11 points against the USA last week.
GB start their Olympics campaign against Russia at the Basketball Arena on Sunday (July 29) – and the skipper, who plays for Leicester Riders, is ecstatic to be back playing in his home city.
“I couldn’t ask for any more,” said Sullivan. “I just want to be part of it and to be involved – whether it is going to be a lot or a little.
“Being from London, and being able to represent my country in a London Olympics, is a dream come true.”
GB recently faced Russia twice during a pre-season preparation camp in Houston, Texas, and were defeated on both occasions – but Sullivan believes his side are better prepared for this weekend’s showdown.
“We’ve actually done really well with the very hard schedule we’ve had going into the Olympics,” he said. “Before the USA game we had some really good results. When we played Russia they were a lot further ahead than us in their preparations, so we’ve had some tough games.
“We’ve had a lot of good preparations and game time, so there is a good chance we can get a few surprise results.”
Men’s basketball fixtures (Group B):
Sunday July 29 v Russia (8pm)
Tuesday July 31 v Brazil (4.45pm)
Thursday Aug 2 v Spain (8pm)
Saturday August 4 v Australia (8pm)
Monday August 6 v China (4.45pm)
Top four teams from the group qualify for the quarter-finals
Roving-reporter.com news on 18th July 2012
Cycling: Brent & Kilburn Times: London 2012: ‘Gold or nothing’ for Kilburn star Wiggins
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/london_2012_gold_or_nothing_for_kilburn_star_wiggins_1_1459041
Kilburn hero Bradley Wiggins is targeting ‘gold or nothing’ at the Olympics as he basks in the glory of his Tour de France triumph.
Wiggins became Britain’s very first Tour de France champion on Sunday, completing the 2,173-mile race three minutes and 21 seconds ahead of Team Sky colleague Chris Froome.
The 32-year-old triple Olympic track medallist and former St Augustine’s School pupil said the moment was ‘a dream come true’, and now wants to make the podium at London 2012.
Wiggins competes in the time trial which finishes at Hampton Court on August 1, but first turns his attention to Saturday’s road race, where he will attempt to help Mark Cavendish to glory.
And he admitted celebrations were on hold as he attempts to repeat his remarkable Paris success.
“Everything turns to the Olympics – I’ve got a time trial to try to win. If I’m 100 per cent honest, it’s gold or nothing in London now,” said Wiggins.
“That’s the way I’m treating the next few days. I’ve set a precedent now for performances.
“I can’t sit and say I’ll be happy with a silver, or happy with a bronze.”
Wiggins’ Tour de France triumph completed a fairy-tale story for the man who began his cycling career on the streets of Maida Vale and Kilburn.
He led an historic British one-two as Team Sky colleague Froome, who greatly assisted the Londoner throughout the three weeks to win the first prize of 450,000 Euros, finished a further three minutes and 21 seconds behind, while Liquigas-Cannondale’s Vincenzo Nibali from Italy was third.
An emotional Wiggins, who is level with rowing legend Sir Steve Redgrave as the Briton with the most Olympic medals – six – described the victory as “job done really”.
He added: “I’ve got to get used to going into the history books now, but I’m just trying to take everything in first.
“It’s very surreal at the moment because this type of thing usually happens to other people. You never imagine it happening to yourself.
“I’ve watched the Tour since I was a kid, and all through the Miguel Indurain years. I imagined what winning the Tour would be like, but I never really believed it would happen.”
He now hopes to inspire a new generation of cyclists to follow his lead. He added: “If my win inspires someone else to do that, it would be incredible.”
Cycling: Brent & Kilburn Times: London 2012: ‘Gold or nothing’ for Kilburn star Wiggins
http://www.kilburntimes.co.uk/sport/london_2012_gold_or_nothing_for_kilburn_star_wiggins_1_1459041
Kilburn hero Bradley Wiggins is targeting ‘gold or nothing’ at the Olympics as he basks in the glory of his Tour de France triumph.
Wiggins became Britain’s very first Tour de France champion on Sunday, completing the 2,173-mile race three minutes and 21 seconds ahead of Team Sky colleague Chris Froome.
The 32-year-old triple Olympic track medallist and former St Augustine’s School pupil said the moment was ‘a dream come true’, and now wants to make the podium at London 2012.
Wiggins competes in the time trial which finishes at Hampton Court on August 1, but first turns his attention to Saturday’s road race, where he will attempt to help Mark Cavendish to glory.
And he admitted celebrations were on hold as he attempts to repeat his remarkable Paris success.
“Everything turns to the Olympics – I’ve got a time trial to try to win. If I’m 100 per cent honest, it’s gold or nothing in London now,” said Wiggins.
“That’s the way I’m treating the next few days. I’ve set a precedent now for performances.
“I can’t sit and say I’ll be happy with a silver, or happy with a bronze.”
Wiggins’ Tour de France triumph completed a fairy-tale story for the man who began his cycling career on the streets of Maida Vale and Kilburn.
He led an historic British one-two as Team Sky colleague Froome, who greatly assisted the Londoner throughout the three weeks to win the first prize of 450,000 Euros, finished a further three minutes and 21 seconds behind, while Liquigas-Cannondale’s Vincenzo Nibali from Italy was third.
An emotional Wiggins, who is level with rowing legend Sir Steve Redgrave as the Briton with the most Olympic medals – six – described the victory as “job done really”.
He added: “I’ve got to get used to going into the history books now, but I’m just trying to take everything in first.
“It’s very surreal at the moment because this type of thing usually happens to other people. You never imagine it happening to yourself.
“I’ve watched the Tour since I was a kid, and all through the Miguel Indurain years. I imagined what winning the Tour would be like, but I never really believed it would happen.”
He now hopes to inspire a new generation of cyclists to follow his lead. He added: “If my win inspires someone else to do that, it would be incredible.”
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