By Arnoldo Watson
 In this article I write about some of the most famous British sporting events which take place on a yearly basis. My name is Steve Hill from Birmingham and I love to watch most sports especially football, tennis, snooker, horse racing and cricket.
I am currently looking forward to the Fifa World Cup and the winter cricket Ashes tour to Australia. These are sporting events which are not played on an annual basis but are every four years in respect of the football world cup and normally every two years for the ashes series.
Horse racing has two massive sporting events in its yearly calender, the Grand National and the Derby. The Grand National has to be my favourite out of these two as it is normally packed full of incidents as it is a jumping race and there is much more of a chance for the outsiders in the race. There is normally forty horses in this race which itself makes it an exciting race and spectacle. The race takes place at Aintree which is situated in Liverpool.
The Derby
is also famous throughout the world and is a flat race. This race which is run over the Epsom downs racecourse and features some of the best racehorses from around the world.
The FA Cup of football is one of my favourite sporting events of the year. Some people may argue that it has lost some of its glamour in recent years but I would have to disagree. This year as an example one of the so called lesser teams in West Ham United managed to reach the final and were in my opinion very unlucky not to win the trophy. It has to be said however that in general one of the big four teams does normally win this cup, these teams are Manchester United, Liverpool, Chelsea and Arsenal.
The British Grand Prix in formula one is another great event from the British sporting calender. This out of all the events that I am going to write about is probably my least favourite, but is still worth a watch even for someone like myself who is not exactly a motor racing fan. In years gone by when drivers such as Nigel Mansell were racing this event was far more exciting. Nowadays with no serious British contenders, it has in my eyes lost part of its appeal. I am sure however that many other true motor sport observers would disagree with me.
The Wimbledon Tennis Championships are always of interest to somebody like myself as I love to not only watch this sport but I also love to play the odd game of tennis as well. Over the last ten years Tim Henman has given the Brits something to shout about and he has put in some stirling performances under the maximum amount of pressure. It is a great shame that he could not quite manage to go all the way and win the tournament. With a new kid on the block in the form of Andrew Murray, this event will continue to offer thrills and spills for British tennis fans.
In golf there is the British Open. This tournament is not as exciting as The Ryder Cup which takes place every two years but it is still very exciting to watch and there is always a live prospect of a British winner. Watch out for a young golfer called Luke Donald over the next few years as I think he is due some big tournament victories.
These are just a few of many great sporting events held each year in Britain. I have mentioned some of my favourites, I hope you find these tournaments as exciting as I do.
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Attending a Field Hockey Camp
By Erwin Pope
 Field hockey is a popular sport that has female athletes all over the country scrambling to learn more. For girls who are very serious about the sport and learning to perfect their moves on the field, there are plenty of field hockey camp opportunities available.
Generally held on college campuses where field hockey is played, these camps are designed to give potential high school and college level players and current ones, too, a serious crash course in training. Offering lots of practice time and special clinics, these camps can be ideal for anyone who wants to learn more about the sport or learn to become better at it.
Field hockey camp offerings generally come in one of two ways: residential and non-residential. The residential camps tend to cost a little more, but offer lodging, generally, on the hosting college campus. This means girls won't need to be driven to and from camp each day. Non-residential camps are designed for nearby players who can easily make it to daily sessions.
Camps of this nature can do a number of things for potential and current players, including:
* Skill development. This is the ultimate setting for field hockey skill development. With an opportunity for some serious one-on-one attention from qualified coaches, these camps and clinics can take a player and help push her towards her goals.
* Camaraderie. These camps are wonderful for developing friendships among girls who have a passion for the sport in their hearts.
* Discipline. These camps are not for the weak at heart. The idea here is to help serious players hone their skills. Those who are not willing to work shouldn't apply.
* Scholarship potential. While field hockey is played in high school, it tends to be a big college-level sport. Girls who want to earn scholarships need to show they have the right stuff on the fields. These camps can help them hone the skills to do just that.
* Specialized training. Many of these camps offer special training and clinics for certain positions. There are even all-day camps for goalies only, due to the special skills of this position.
Girls and their parents will find field hockey camps tend to be available at most institutions that field their own teams. From private high school campuses, public schools and even colleges, these camps are favorite summertime activities for many. Before signing on, it's a good idea to make sure the following is understood:
* Qualifications. Find out who will teach the clinics and what their qualifications are for doing so. Some camps offer high school coaches, others feature college level and beyond.
* Minimum requirements. Some of these camps are designed for advanced players. Make sure the requirements are understood before signing on.
* Session set up. It's a good idea to be clear on whether a camp is a day one or a residential course.
Field hockey camp can be a great way to help players advance their skills during intense training sessions. While they are a lot of work, many say they're a whole lot of fun, too.
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The Beginnings of the Houston Rockets
By Giuseppe Mathis
 The Rockets, along with the Seattle SuperSonics, entered the NBA in 1967 as an expansion team based in San Diego. They selected Pat Riley with their first draft pick in 1967. They went on to produce a then-NBA record 67-loss season.
In 1968 the Rockets won the coin toss versus the Baltimore Bullets, giving them the first overall pick in the 1968 NBA Draft. They selected Elvin "the Big E" Hayes from the University of Houston. Hayes led the team to the franchise's first ever playoff appearance in 1969. The Rockets lost in the Western divisional semi-final to the Atlanta Hawks two games to four in a best-of-seven series.
The 1970 NBA Draft brought Calvin Murphy and Rudy Tomjanovich to the Rockets - both significant to the franchise after their playing careers were over.
Coached by Jack McMahon and Alex Hannum, the Rockets tallied a 119-209 record over their tenure in San Diego.
In 1971, real estate broker Wayne Duddleston and banker Billy Goldberg bought the franchise for $5.6 million and relocated the team from San Diego, where fans were more disposed to the Los Angeles Lakers than the Rockets. The Rockets originally had been named for San Diego slogan, "A City in Motion," but with the move to Houston their name took on even greater relevance. Houston is home to the Lyndon B. Johnson Space Center and Mission Control, which received national attention during Project Apollo.
The Rockets began playing at various venues in Houston, including the Astrodome, AstroHall, and Hofheinz Pavilion. They also played games at HemisFair Arena in San Antonio and in Waco. However, fan support was weak in the football and baseball-dominated city, and the Rockets averaged less than 5000 fans per game during their first Houston season. It was mused that the local churches in Waco drew more attendance than the Rockets.
Before the start of the 1971 season, Coach Alex Hannum left for the Denver Nuggets of the American Basketball Association. Tex Winter was hired as the new coach shortly before the team was sold. Coach Winter applied a triple-post offensive system that contrasted with the offensive style to which Hayes was accustomed. Houston soon traded Hayes to the Baltimore Bullets for Jack Marin. Lack of success did little to capture the city's attention, and in the Spring of 1973, following the Rockets 10th straight loss, Winter was relieved of his duties.
In 1975, with Coach Johnny Egan's guidance and Tomjanovich, Murphy, and Mike Newlin leading the way, the Rockets made their first appearance in the playoffs since arriving in Houston. The Rockets defeated the New York Knicks (led by Walt Frazier and Earl Monroe) in the first round, but lost to the Boston Celtics in the Eastern Conference Semi-finals.
At the start of the 1977 season, the Rockets negotiated a trade with the Buffalo Braves to acquire Moses Malone, who as a high school star made the unprecedented decision of bypassing college basketball to sign on as a professional with the Utah Stars of the ABA in 1974. The Rockets defeated the Washington Bullets in the 1977 Eastern Conference semi-final, but lost to the Philadelphia 76ers in the Conference Finals. Malone made an impressive showing against Washington's Elvin Hayes and waning star Wes Unseld.
On December 9, 1977, in a game against the Los Angeles Lakers, Kevin Kunnert got into a fight with the Lakers' Kermit Washington. As Tomjanovich approached the altercation, Washington turned and threw a punch, landing squarely in the face of an approaching Tomjanovich, causing extensive structural damage to his cranium. The shocking scene became the defining moment of the Rockets' 1977-78 season as well as the playing careers of Tomjanovich and Washington. Tomjanovich spent the next five months in rehabilitation and returned to appear in the 1978 All-Star Game. A book by John Feinstein recording the events surrounding this event and the different paths that Tomjanovich and Washington have taken since that day is entitled "The Punch."
Malone received the 1979 MVP Award. Not exceptionally big or quick, he used footwork and positioning to become a successful center in the NBA. Malone, Murphy, and Tomjanovich all played in the 1979 NBA All-Star Game. Rick Barry was signed for the 1979 season from the Golden State Warriors in exchange for John Lucas. Barry averaged a modest 13.5 points and set a new NBA record, posting a .947 free-throw percentage for the season. He would play one more year for the Rockets before retiring in 1980.
The Rockets went 47-35 in 1978-79, Nissalke's last season as coach. They finished second in the Central Division, losing two straight to Atlanta in a best-of-three first-round series.
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How To Plan For A Fun And Safe Camping Trip
By Carlton Payne
 campin,g camping gear, camping equipment
Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and bring the family together. There are many places you can go to hike, canoe or sightsee. Having the correct camping gear will help make your experience more fun and ensure you are not caught in situations without the proper equipment. Before embarking on your trip, make a list of all supplies you need to ensure everything is packed and ready to go.
Sleeping Arrangements
Decide whether you want to rent an RV, pop-up camper, or use a tent. Using a tent is a fun and inexpensive way to get back to nature. Tents are available at most sporting good stores and can also be found at discount stores. They are easy to set up and are a great way to spend a bit of time bonding when you first get to the camp area. Choose tents that are water resistant, but also bring along a large waterproof tarp to hang over the tent in case there is a lot of rain. Get sleeping bags that are warm and the right size to comfortably fit the individual. Sleeping mats, air mattresses, or folding cots that go under the bag are ways to make sleeping more comfortable. If you opt for an RV or camper, these can be a bit pricier but will better protect you from the elements and will also provide other amenities such as beds, a stove and a refrigerator.
Attire and Food
Do not pack a lot of clothing as space is limited. Choose warm, water resistant clothing and good shoes or hiking boots. Pack several pairs of socks and bring both cool and warm weather clothing even if you are camping in summer. It often gets chilly in the evening. Make sure you have hats and sunglasses to protect you from the sun. Bring coolers to store food and beverages. Pack plenty of water and snacks such as trail mix that will give you energy and are easy to eat.
Supplies
Backpacks will help carry food and water during trips outside the camping areas. Do not pack them too heavily as you may be wearing them for long periods of time. Pack a compass so you can gauge where you are in case you get lost. A flashlight is helpful in case of an emergency or to see at night. Make sure to pack any cookware needed for campfire meals. A tripod that goes over your campfire is a great cooking tool, and the best pans for cooking over a campfire are cast iron. Cast iron is heavy though. If you are going to be doing a lot of hiking and are going to be carrying all your gear, purchase a lightweight cooking vessel. A Swiss Army knife can be handy for many tasks including cutting twigs for a fire or roasting marshmallows. Waterproof matches will help light fires and can be used even if it is rainy. A walking stick can be useful on hikes to help ascend steep slopes and combat fatigue.
Safety
Bring sunscreen and insect repellant to protect you from sun and pests. Apply often for maximum protection. Depending on where you will be camping, you may want to invest in bear spray. This is similar to pepper spray for people but is more powerful. A first aid kit is essential and should never be forgotten. Make sure it is fully supplied. These are available pre-made at many sporting good stores and can also be found in pharmacies. You should also carry plenty of rope. A cellular phone may not always get reception but it is advisable to have one just in case.
Camping is a fun way to spend quality family time. Always make sure you are prepared for emergencies and changes in climate. Keep the bulk of supplies at your campsite and take only what is needed, including emergency supplies, on short treks. Use backpacks to carry food, water and first aid items.
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Training Aids That Improve Your Golf Game
By Arnoldo Watson
 Golf is undoubtedly one of the world's most rewarding and frustrating sports. The serenity and beauty of a golf course on a sunny day belies the tension that can creep into a round when we're not hitting our best. While the concentration that the game requires is often the perfect antidote to the stress of work and life responsibilities, there are times when the safe haven of 18 holes feels more like seven levels of the netherworld. Unfortunately, most of us don't have access to a personal golf coach or trainer, and we're forced to work out the kinks in our game on our own. Thankfully, though, there are golf clubs and training aids that can help get us back into the swing. Here are some of the most popular:
Full Swing Trainers - There are several types of full swing trainers, but among the most popular is a hinged driver that gives you immediate feedback and helps you overcome slices and hooks. Another popular system involves a swing hoop and weighted club that creates the perfect golf swing. The idea is that you can adjust your swing until you gain control and can hit consistently. In the process, you strengthen the muscles specifically used in golf and build muscle memory, so that you'll more instinctively hit the ball straight when you're out on the course.
Stance Trainers - Stance trainers focus on both sets of extremities: the legs and the arms. Many golfers underestimate the importance of the right stance in powerful, consistent hitting. Trainers that focus on the legs and feet generally work by restricting lateral movement and keeping the feet from spinning out. One popular stance trainer for the arms focuses on keeping the trailing arm from closing more than 90 degrees, while another connects the arm to the body in order to help the arm fold correctly. Both assist by keeping your golf clubs in position to achieve the proper downswing. There are also trainers that help position the wrist and hand for delayed hits, greater accuracy, and more consistency.
Putting Aids - There are a variety of training aids available to help you increase your putting accuracy. In addition to the mats that are meant to mimic greens, there are putting braces, lasers that mount to the putter's shaft, and trainers that have guidance rails to ensure that your stroke is smooth and straight. Some of the most intriguing new digital devices that read greens so that you'll know how they break and can adjust your stroke accordingly.
And Even More - In addition to the types of training aids mentioned, there is a vast array of products available that can help you with tempo, alignment, balance, weight transfer, swing analysis, and release.
Although training aids can be tremendously helpful in working out the kinks in your game, the importance of good equipment can't be underestimated. A good set of golf clubs will help you play your best, but if you can't afford a new set, you can always opt for brand name pre-owned golf clubs. Used golf clubs often come with a certification and warranty, so you can be assured of their quality. The right golf shoes can make a significant difference in your positioning and consistency, and the comfort of the right golf apparel and golf accessories allow you to keep your mind on the game.
In the end, the right golf clubs and training aids accomplish the same goal: taking the frustration out of the game and putting the enjoyment back in.
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