With the Brian Clough film -The Damned United - being released last week, I thought I would let you know what I thought of the novel it is based on.
The story is centred on the forty-four days Clough spent as the manager of Leeds United Football Club.
The book is pieced together in a good way. The story frequently shifts from Clough's present (Leeds '73) to parts of his past, specifically his managerial placements at Derby County and Brighton & Hove Albion. The narrative threads well together as, by the end of the novel, the full story is told and the chronicled past manages to catch up with the present.
David Peace wrote the Leeds part of the novel in the style of Clough himself and, while I was reading it, all I could think of was his voice playing in my head. The other portion of the novel came across as Clough's conscience or something as the authorial voice would address Clough as 'you' throughout these parts of the book.
This way of telling the Brian Clough story adds a dimension to his character. On one hand you see the arrogant and confident man whilst on the other you can view his insecurities.
One of the things you must take into account when reading this is it is a piece of fiction despite how much research and fact has been put in writing this.
The problem is working out what happened and what didn't. Clough was such a character that you can never know for sure.
I hope to see the film soon. If the book is anything to go by, it will be interesting.
Tuesday, March 31, 2009
Monday, March 30, 2009
One Week To Go
At the time this is posted, we'll have exactly one week until WrestleMania XXV.
And I don't care.
Will this mood change by 12am on Monday 6th April?
Stay tuned.
And I don't care.
Will this mood change by 12am on Monday 6th April?
Stay tuned.
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Why Bet?
The post I did about Paul Merson a few days ago may came across as hypocritical on my part as I was disgusted with the way a gambling addict was endorsing a gambling product.
The possible contradiction on my part may have been because it could have mistakenly seen as a sentiment against gambling. That was not my intention when I wrote what I did. The intent was to convey the double standard set by the ex-footballer. Remember, this is the guy who profited from his addictions by publishing his autobiography - Rock Bottom -and is now profiting from the industry that almost ruined him
Merson was the hypocrite, not me.
I'm not addicted to gambling, either.
I occasionally get asked what do I get out of gambling and it's often a difficult question to answer.
If you had asked me earlier this decade, I would have given you a different reply as to what I would now.
Nowadays, I just do it for a laugh. There's just something about trying to win and being right that empowers me.
I put quite a bit of time reading stats and working on my own spreadsheets and being able to put a tick on the bit of paper next to my selection is the biggest reward.
Like I said - if you had asked me a number of years ago, it would have been a completely different story and could have been a scary one at that.
Back then - if I lost, I would try and chase that win. I've learnt that it's often best to take it on the chin and fight another day. I learnt the hard way and am a better gambler because of it.
I've set a limit to how much I spend each week, it's the best way to guarantee there will be another day to fight back.
We're only talking a few pounds with me, anyway. It's not like I am some high roller from Las Vegas or anything.
With that being said - it is always best to keep to your limit and enjoy yourself.
Anything else and it's a slippery slope to ruin.
The possible contradiction on my part may have been because it could have mistakenly seen as a sentiment against gambling. That was not my intention when I wrote what I did. The intent was to convey the double standard set by the ex-footballer. Remember, this is the guy who profited from his addictions by publishing his autobiography - Rock Bottom -and is now profiting from the industry that almost ruined him
Merson was the hypocrite, not me.
I'm not addicted to gambling, either.
I occasionally get asked what do I get out of gambling and it's often a difficult question to answer.
If you had asked me earlier this decade, I would have given you a different reply as to what I would now.
Nowadays, I just do it for a laugh. There's just something about trying to win and being right that empowers me.
I put quite a bit of time reading stats and working on my own spreadsheets and being able to put a tick on the bit of paper next to my selection is the biggest reward.
Like I said - if you had asked me a number of years ago, it would have been a completely different story and could have been a scary one at that.
Back then - if I lost, I would try and chase that win. I've learnt that it's often best to take it on the chin and fight another day. I learnt the hard way and am a better gambler because of it.
I've set a limit to how much I spend each week, it's the best way to guarantee there will be another day to fight back.
We're only talking a few pounds with me, anyway. It's not like I am some high roller from Las Vegas or anything.
With that being said - it is always best to keep to your limit and enjoy yourself.
Anything else and it's a slippery slope to ruin.
Saturday, March 28, 2009
Rocky Toys : Part II
So, without further ado - here it is.
Yes, the toymakers decided to release a toy of the meat that Rocky uses as a punchbag in the first film
I have seen plenty of crazy toys over the years but this one wins hands down.
I'm afraid to wonder what else the toy industry can come up with.
Friday, March 27, 2009
Rocky Toys : Part I
There seems to be a collector demand for toys associated with the Rocky movies. This is incredible seeing as it has been over thirty years since the first movie was released.
I remember back in the eighties when I was a fan of the films that there were figures out. I didn't have any myself but these newer types that are out are quite intriguing. Don't get me wrong - I wouldn't buy any, I just find them interesting to view.
Take a look to the toy on the left. This is from the scene in Rocky II where Rocky and Apollo Creed are being wheeled into the hospital after the fight from the first movie.
To the right is a toy from the most recent Rocky movie. It is of the real-life boxing ring announcer, Michael Buffer.
Here we have figures from the fourth installment of the franchise with Apollo Creed and the Russian, Ivan Drago.
I had to throw this one in as well.
Here is the toy from Rocky III which features Hulk Hogan. He played the character of Thunderlips in the movie and is celebrated in this double pack featuring Rocky Balboa.
There is one more image that I would like to share with you but I would rather save it for tomorrow's as I feel it deserves it's own post. It made me laugh and that is all I am going to say.
Check back tomorrow.
Thursday, March 26, 2009
Merson Sells Out
Paul Merson - former football player - has appalled me by endorsing a chain of bookmakers by appearing in adverts.
The gambling addict's face is splashed upon posters for a company called BetterBet. He holds in his hand a card with the companys telephone number and boasts a campy smile.
I don't know who is at fault here - Merson for doing it or BetterBet for putting a known addict on advertising for their brand. Either way, it's one of the most ridiculous ad campaigns I have ever seen due to the contradiction involved by both parties.
Paul Merson has made his plight against gambling public. This is a U-turn that sends a terrible message.
Back in the 1990s when he revealed he had lost a fortune through gambling it made the star seem human.
I was in high school when the revelation was made and realised it took a lot of guts and knew that it would help people if someone in the public eye talked about it.
I feel he's sold himself out. That message he delivered through his media appearances and in his autobiography has been deemed obsolete with his involvement in this advertising campaign.
The gambling addict's face is splashed upon posters for a company called BetterBet. He holds in his hand a card with the companys telephone number and boasts a campy smile.
I don't know who is at fault here - Merson for doing it or BetterBet for putting a known addict on advertising for their brand. Either way, it's one of the most ridiculous ad campaigns I have ever seen due to the contradiction involved by both parties.
Paul Merson has made his plight against gambling public. This is a U-turn that sends a terrible message.
Back in the 1990s when he revealed he had lost a fortune through gambling it made the star seem human.
I was in high school when the revelation was made and realised it took a lot of guts and knew that it would help people if someone in the public eye talked about it.
I feel he's sold himself out. That message he delivered through his media appearances and in his autobiography has been deemed obsolete with his involvement in this advertising campaign.
Wednesday, March 25, 2009
Heroes Of World Class
In early 2008, I watched WWE's documentary DVD on World Class Championship Wrestling and wrote about it on this blog. I was aware that there was an independent documentary on the ill-fated promotion but thought I wouldn't have had a chance of seeing it as it was only available in the USA.
My assumption was wrong as the DVD was released in the United Kingdom. I bought it late last year and had it placed in my 'to watch' list ever since.
I finally managed to catch it over the past few days.
Heroes Of World Class : The Story Of The Von Erichs And The Rise And Fall Of World Class Championship Wrestling is a bit of a mouth-full and so was the length of the documentary.
Don't get me wrong - two and a half hours was not enough to cover everything associated with the Dallas territory but the makers managed to cram it in with enough to tell the story of WCCW and the Von Erich family.
However many times I've read or seen things about the Von Erichs it always leads me to believe that this is the most tragic tale to come out of professional wrestling. Bear in mind, I've seen so many wrestlers that I have grown up watching drop dead at alarming rates and each story is a sad one.
The Von Erich story is the saddest of the lot.
The documentary had access to old footage from World Class. It's a great job that the film was made as WWE has since purchased the tape library. Had it not been produced, the only story about WCCW would be the version that WWE did last year. I'm not saying WWE did a poor job on that DVD, I'm just saying it's like history - it's always best to have more than one source which will help convey what happened.
A number of former WCCW workers were interviewed on this film. The main person interviewed is Kevin Von Erich, who is the only member of the Von Erich brothers still alive. One of the most poignant comments made about Kevin is that 'he was once a brother and a son and now he is neither'. That sentence summed it up perfectly.
The end of the documentary showed Kevin making one final visit to the Dallas Sportarium where most of WCCW's events took place. The building was set to be demolished so he paid his final respects to the home of his father's territory.
I urge you to seek it out - especially if you've seen the WWE version of the World Class story.
My assumption was wrong as the DVD was released in the United Kingdom. I bought it late last year and had it placed in my 'to watch' list ever since.
I finally managed to catch it over the past few days.
Heroes Of World Class : The Story Of The Von Erichs And The Rise And Fall Of World Class Championship Wrestling is a bit of a mouth-full and so was the length of the documentary.
Don't get me wrong - two and a half hours was not enough to cover everything associated with the Dallas territory but the makers managed to cram it in with enough to tell the story of WCCW and the Von Erich family.
However many times I've read or seen things about the Von Erichs it always leads me to believe that this is the most tragic tale to come out of professional wrestling. Bear in mind, I've seen so many wrestlers that I have grown up watching drop dead at alarming rates and each story is a sad one.
The Von Erich story is the saddest of the lot.
The documentary had access to old footage from World Class. It's a great job that the film was made as WWE has since purchased the tape library. Had it not been produced, the only story about WCCW would be the version that WWE did last year. I'm not saying WWE did a poor job on that DVD, I'm just saying it's like history - it's always best to have more than one source which will help convey what happened.
A number of former WCCW workers were interviewed on this film. The main person interviewed is Kevin Von Erich, who is the only member of the Von Erich brothers still alive. One of the most poignant comments made about Kevin is that 'he was once a brother and a son and now he is neither'. That sentence summed it up perfectly.
The end of the documentary showed Kevin making one final visit to the Dallas Sportarium where most of WCCW's events took place. The building was set to be demolished so he paid his final respects to the home of his father's territory.
I urge you to seek it out - especially if you've seen the WWE version of the World Class story.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
Wins Happen In Threes : Week 7 Results
Another 5-4 week with the multiples and a loss with the single. I'm still in profit and still having fun (I think).
There are five weeks left. I know another good weekend is due.
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Marquette -4.5
2) Arizona
3) USC -2
4) Hoffenheim
5) Sturm Graz
6) Arsenal
7) Celtic
8) Manchester City
9) Standard Liege
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £4.51
Profit/Loss = -10.82
SINGLE RESULT
Chievo to draw 1-1
Stake = £3.33
Returns = 0
Profit/Loss = -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 7 WEEKS
Stake = £130.62
Returns = £173.19
Profit/Loss = +42.57
There is a weekend off this week due to International games. Back next week.
There are five weeks left. I know another good weekend is due.
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Marquette -4.5
2) Arizona
3) USC -2
4) Hoffenheim
5) Sturm Graz
6) Arsenal
7) Celtic
8) Manchester City
9) Standard Liege
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £4.51
Profit/Loss = -10.82
SINGLE RESULT
Chievo to draw 1-1
Stake = £3.33
Returns = 0
Profit/Loss = -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 7 WEEKS
Stake = £130.62
Returns = £173.19
Profit/Loss = +42.57
There is a weekend off this week due to International games. Back next week.
Monday, March 23, 2009
My Friend Jack
I don't know for sure but I would guess in the Spring of 1998 I was at a desk in the library of the college I was doing my A-Levels at and had a copy of Empire magazine looking through it for a piece of coursework I was working on.
I came across an advert for Jack Daniel's Whiskey where they offered people a selection of replica bottle labels. All we had to do was send a postcard off to them in Lynchberg, Tennessee.
The postcard was sent and - a few weeks later - I got what I was offered.
Months later, I got another letter from the distillery.
And then another.
It has now been eleven years since I sent off for those labels and I am still getting stuff through the post.
I am not complaining, though. Jack Daniel's have been extremely kind over these years.
I've received tons of things from them - calendars (one a year), diaries, keyrings, poker dealer chips, those long plastic things you use to mix cocktails, coasters. I know there are more things that they have sent me - I'm just having a hard time trying to remember everything.
The most intriguing thing they sent me was a bag that you fill with water and place in a freezer. Once the bag has become frozen, you open it up and you have ice which is shaped like bottles of Jack Daniel's. I haven't tried using this gift as you can only use it once and I'd rather not use it.
They sent me another keyring on Saturday; which is why I am writing about them today.
I don't know where they stand for customer service but the way they have treated me since I sent off for those labels has been incredible.
I hope I remain on their mailing list for years to come.
I came across an advert for Jack Daniel's Whiskey where they offered people a selection of replica bottle labels. All we had to do was send a postcard off to them in Lynchberg, Tennessee.
The postcard was sent and - a few weeks later - I got what I was offered.
Months later, I got another letter from the distillery.
And then another.
It has now been eleven years since I sent off for those labels and I am still getting stuff through the post.
I am not complaining, though. Jack Daniel's have been extremely kind over these years.
I've received tons of things from them - calendars (one a year), diaries, keyrings, poker dealer chips, those long plastic things you use to mix cocktails, coasters. I know there are more things that they have sent me - I'm just having a hard time trying to remember everything.
The most intriguing thing they sent me was a bag that you fill with water and place in a freezer. Once the bag has become frozen, you open it up and you have ice which is shaped like bottles of Jack Daniel's. I haven't tried using this gift as you can only use it once and I'd rather not use it.
They sent me another keyring on Saturday; which is why I am writing about them today.
I don't know where they stand for customer service but the way they have treated me since I sent off for those labels has been incredible.
I hope I remain on their mailing list for years to come.
Sunday, March 22, 2009
Mother's Day
All women become like their mothers. That is their tragedy. No man does. That's his.
-Oscar Wilde
I think the above quote says it all.
-Oscar Wilde
I think the above quote says it all.
Saturday, March 21, 2009
An Elaborate Work
Though this be madness, yet there is method in't.
One of the most interesting stories in wrestling came in 1996 when Brian Pillman began acting out of control on and off-screen.
The development of his 'Loose Cannon' persona was so real that almost everyone believed that the wild things he did was not part of a script or storyline.
It made him even more famous.
Every time I read an article or view a news item about Joaquin Phoenix, I am reminded of Pillman.
Phoenix is in the middle of an apparent personal meltdown after retiring from movies. It has got a lot of people talking about him which has led to or began from all the media attention he has garnered.
The consensus seems to be split. Some think that this is a hoax whilst people on the other side believe it is for real.
The art of a good conman is to trick the mark. This makes Joaquin Phoenix half of a good artist.
There is a reason why there's always a camera capturing these moments he finds himself in. His brother-in-law, Casey Affleck, has been doing a good job recording Phoenix's change of career and what happens along the way.
It's all a work in progress and all will become clear in the future. He isn't the first guy to try and fool the world.
Nor will he be the last.
One of the most interesting stories in wrestling came in 1996 when Brian Pillman began acting out of control on and off-screen.
The development of his 'Loose Cannon' persona was so real that almost everyone believed that the wild things he did was not part of a script or storyline.
It made him even more famous.
Every time I read an article or view a news item about Joaquin Phoenix, I am reminded of Pillman.
Phoenix is in the middle of an apparent personal meltdown after retiring from movies. It has got a lot of people talking about him which has led to or began from all the media attention he has garnered.
The consensus seems to be split. Some think that this is a hoax whilst people on the other side believe it is for real.
The art of a good conman is to trick the mark. This makes Joaquin Phoenix half of a good artist.
There is a reason why there's always a camera capturing these moments he finds himself in. His brother-in-law, Casey Affleck, has been doing a good job recording Phoenix's change of career and what happens along the way.
It's all a work in progress and all will become clear in the future. He isn't the first guy to try and fool the world.
Nor will he be the last.
Friday, March 20, 2009
Wins Happen In Threes : Week 7 Selections
I'm posting this earlier than usual because I have included three games from the NCAA Basketball tournament. The selected games take place from 4:30pm today.
The other two genres I have bet on are football home wins and away wins.
The nine games work out well this weekend. There are three today, three on Saturday and three on Sunday.
As for the single, I am going with an Italian correct score. Chievo have drawn 1-1 in a lot of their home games recently. Let's hope they oblige this weekend.
MULTIPLES (Current record 31-23)
1) Marquette -4.5 (NCAA)
2) Arizona (NCAA)
3) USC -2 (NCAA)
4) Hoffenheim (Germany)
5) Sturm Graz (Austria)
6) Arsenal (England)
7) Celtic (Scotland)
8) Manchester City (England)
9) Standard Liege (Belgium)
£15.33 block (511 bets at 3p a line)
SINGLE OF THE WEEK (Current record 2-4)
Chievo to draw 1-1 (Italy)
£3.33 single
The other two genres I have bet on are football home wins and away wins.
The nine games work out well this weekend. There are three today, three on Saturday and three on Sunday.
As for the single, I am going with an Italian correct score. Chievo have drawn 1-1 in a lot of their home games recently. Let's hope they oblige this weekend.
MULTIPLES (Current record 31-23)
1) Marquette -4.5 (NCAA)
2) Arizona (NCAA)
3) USC -2 (NCAA)
4) Hoffenheim (Germany)
5) Sturm Graz (Austria)
6) Arsenal (England)
7) Celtic (Scotland)
8) Manchester City (England)
9) Standard Liege (Belgium)
£15.33 block (511 bets at 3p a line)
SINGLE OF THE WEEK (Current record 2-4)
Chievo to draw 1-1 (Italy)
£3.33 single
Thursday, March 19, 2009
Waiting For The Bell
I'm sitting here waiting for my alarm to go off.
It seems to have been a long time since the ring has woken me. Nowadays, I am usually here waiting for it to sound.
It's probably a good thing, really.
Having an alarm waking you up is not the best start to the day, is it?
I can imagine there are plenty of people out there who enjoy a challenge and beating the alarm is like overcoming their first hurdle of the day.
The alarm just sounded and I managed turned it off before it got to the second ring.
There goes hurdle one.
It seems to have been a long time since the ring has woken me. Nowadays, I am usually here waiting for it to sound.
It's probably a good thing, really.
Having an alarm waking you up is not the best start to the day, is it?
I can imagine there are plenty of people out there who enjoy a challenge and beating the alarm is like overcoming their first hurdle of the day.
The alarm just sounded and I managed turned it off before it got to the second ring.
There goes hurdle one.
Wednesday, March 18, 2009
Wins Happen In Threes : Week 6 Results
What can I say? Terrible.
I'd also like to make mention of a mistake I made when placing the bet on Saturday morning. I had originally penciled in the Hull vs Newcastle game to go over two goals but - when I checked my selections in the evening - it was apparent that I had accidentally added the Everton vs Stoke game to the slip.
As luck would have it, the Newcastle game lost and the Everton game won. As I am recording the games I have actually placed a bet on, the Everton game stands although I admit I fluked out on that one.
As for the basketball - BIG MISTAKE!
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Manchester United
2) Everton v Stoke OVER 2 goals
3) Miami Heat (PICK)
4) Charlotte Bobcats -4
5) Houston Rockets -2
6) Athletico Madrid vs Villareal OVER 2 goals
7) Almeria vs Barcelona OVER 2 goals
8) Standard Liege
9) West Ham United
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £1.77
Profit/Loss = -13.56
SINGLE RESULT
Michael Chopra to score in 90 minutes and Cardiff City to win
Stake = £3.33
Returns = 0
Proft/Loss = -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 6 WEEKS
Stake = £111.96
Returns = £168.68
Profit/Loss = +56.72
I'd also like to make mention of a mistake I made when placing the bet on Saturday morning. I had originally penciled in the Hull vs Newcastle game to go over two goals but - when I checked my selections in the evening - it was apparent that I had accidentally added the Everton vs Stoke game to the slip.
As luck would have it, the Newcastle game lost and the Everton game won. As I am recording the games I have actually placed a bet on, the Everton game stands although I admit I fluked out on that one.
As for the basketball - BIG MISTAKE!
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Manchester United
2) Everton v Stoke OVER 2 goals
3) Miami Heat (PICK)
4) Charlotte Bobcats -4
5) Houston Rockets -2
6) Athletico Madrid vs Villareal OVER 2 goals
7) Almeria vs Barcelona OVER 2 goals
8) Standard Liege
9) West Ham United
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £1.77
Profit/Loss = -13.56
SINGLE RESULT
Michael Chopra to score in 90 minutes and Cardiff City to win
Stake = £3.33
Returns = 0
Proft/Loss = -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 6 WEEKS
Stake = £111.96
Returns = £168.68
Profit/Loss = +56.72
Tuesday, March 17, 2009
Worst. Build-Up. Ever.
There are nineteen days to go until WrestleMania.
And I don't give a damn.
In over twenty years of being a fan, this has been the worst build-up job I have ever seen for a WrestleMania.
I was extremely let down with the announcement that Chris Jericho would face-off against Jimmy Snuka, Ricky Steamboat and Roddy Piper.
This match means my idea of a 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin match is not going to happen. Instead, we're going to see Jericho against the Hall of Famers which will surely feature Mickey Rourke throwing the killer punch to end the bout.
Remember Mickey Rourke? He was the guy that WWE was sucking up to when he was in contention for an Oscar and wasn't mentioned again until last night.
I've said it before and I'll say it again - it is a one match show.
The Undertaker versus Shawn Michaels is the only match I want to see.
I genuinely thought my interest in the event would have reached its peak by now but it's been nothing but a letdown and there is nothing that can be done which will change my mood towards it.
Last year, I did a week-long WrestleMania special on this blog. I can guarantee this will not be repeated in the week leading up to this year's Mania.
And I don't give a damn.
In over twenty years of being a fan, this has been the worst build-up job I have ever seen for a WrestleMania.
I was extremely let down with the announcement that Chris Jericho would face-off against Jimmy Snuka, Ricky Steamboat and Roddy Piper.
This match means my idea of a 'Stone Cold' Steve Austin match is not going to happen. Instead, we're going to see Jericho against the Hall of Famers which will surely feature Mickey Rourke throwing the killer punch to end the bout.
Remember Mickey Rourke? He was the guy that WWE was sucking up to when he was in contention for an Oscar and wasn't mentioned again until last night.
I've said it before and I'll say it again - it is a one match show.
The Undertaker versus Shawn Michaels is the only match I want to see.
I genuinely thought my interest in the event would have reached its peak by now but it's been nothing but a letdown and there is nothing that can be done which will change my mood towards it.
Last year, I did a week-long WrestleMania special on this blog. I can guarantee this will not be repeated in the week leading up to this year's Mania.
Monday, March 16, 2009
3/16 : Is It In The Numbers?
Austin 3:16 says 'I just whipped your ass!'
-'Stone Cold' Steve Austin, King of the Ring 1996
Steve Austin's career was made during his coronation speech at the 1996 King of the Ring pay-per-view.
After disposing of the Christian, Jake Roberts, Austin humbled his rival with a speech which contradicted the holy message Roberts had been spewing in the weeks leading up to the event.
'Austin 3:16' became a household term. T-shirts were printed. And sold out.
Why is he going on about 3:16 today? I guess you are asking yourself. Let me explain.
As you are probably aware (if you have been reading this blog regularly) I have been under the possibly misguided impression that Steve Austin will make one final wrestling appearance at this year's WrestleMania. Word of a possible bout with Chris Jericho surfaced in 2008 and then acknowledgement that Austin would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on the eve of WrestleMania XXV added fuel to these rumours.
Austin had even appeared as the central figure in advertising for the event so I was waiting for things to kick off on TV.
And they hadn't.
Chris Jericho has been featured in plenty of angles over the past few weeks interacting with legends by attacking them verbally or physically. There had even been hints he would wrestle Mickey Rourke at the show in April due to the success of The Wrestler. Rourke was meant to have been signed up to appear as Jericho's opponent as a standard bearer for the legends of wrestling.
I'm going out on one final limb and stating that Jericho will face-off against Austin at WrestleMania and Rourke will be in Austin's corner.
If it's going to happen, tonight is the night to put the wheels in motion. Monday Night Raw is taking place from San Antonio, Texas - Austin's home state.
My theory takes a drastic swing if you consider today's date - 3/16. Hey, it's an American wrestling show - I've got to use the American dating system for my speculation!
Yes, I may be putting too much stock in the date and the venue for tonight's Raw but I am right in saying that whatever plans they have for Jericho at WrestleMania needs to be sorted tonight.
They can't drag it on any longer - if Austin is going to return for his swansong match this is the time to do it.
If I'm right, you heard it here first.
And if I'm wrong...
-'Stone Cold' Steve Austin, King of the Ring 1996
Steve Austin's career was made during his coronation speech at the 1996 King of the Ring pay-per-view.
After disposing of the Christian, Jake Roberts, Austin humbled his rival with a speech which contradicted the holy message Roberts had been spewing in the weeks leading up to the event.
'Austin 3:16' became a household term. T-shirts were printed. And sold out.
Why is he going on about 3:16 today? I guess you are asking yourself. Let me explain.
As you are probably aware (if you have been reading this blog regularly) I have been under the possibly misguided impression that Steve Austin will make one final wrestling appearance at this year's WrestleMania. Word of a possible bout with Chris Jericho surfaced in 2008 and then acknowledgement that Austin would be inducted into the WWE Hall of Fame on the eve of WrestleMania XXV added fuel to these rumours.
Austin had even appeared as the central figure in advertising for the event so I was waiting for things to kick off on TV.
And they hadn't.
Chris Jericho has been featured in plenty of angles over the past few weeks interacting with legends by attacking them verbally or physically. There had even been hints he would wrestle Mickey Rourke at the show in April due to the success of The Wrestler. Rourke was meant to have been signed up to appear as Jericho's opponent as a standard bearer for the legends of wrestling.
I'm going out on one final limb and stating that Jericho will face-off against Austin at WrestleMania and Rourke will be in Austin's corner.
If it's going to happen, tonight is the night to put the wheels in motion. Monday Night Raw is taking place from San Antonio, Texas - Austin's home state.
My theory takes a drastic swing if you consider today's date - 3/16. Hey, it's an American wrestling show - I've got to use the American dating system for my speculation!
Yes, I may be putting too much stock in the date and the venue for tonight's Raw but I am right in saying that whatever plans they have for Jericho at WrestleMania needs to be sorted tonight.
They can't drag it on any longer - if Austin is going to return for his swansong match this is the time to do it.
If I'm right, you heard it here first.
And if I'm wrong...
Sunday, March 15, 2009
WWE & JR Wash Their Hands
WWE released the following statement in regard to the passing of Andrew 'Test' Martin:
World Wrestling Entertainment® has been made aware of the passing of Andrew Martin. The WWE extends its deepest condolences to the Martin family. Mr. Martin was under contract with WWE at various time periods and performed under the name "Test." He last performed for the WWE in February 2007.
It comes across to me that they are going into defence mode acknowledging that the wrestler hadn't performed for them in over two years. They fail to draw attention to the approximate seven years of service that Martin gave to the them.
Jim Ross has also sickened me with a post on his blog where he tries to divert attention away from the 'Test' moniker by claiming that:
Test, a name provided Martin after he portrayed a security person who tested the band Motley Crue's mic with the obligatory, 'test...test...test,"
That is total B.S.
Sure, Test was introduced to WWE fans as a bodyguard for Motley Crue. The name has nothing to do with people doing mic checks, though. Have you ever seen a bodyguard try out any recording equipment for a band or musician? That's what roadies are for.
'Test' was named after the most common steroid of all. Why? Because he was built like a house and was obviously on something cosmetic.
World Wrestling Entertainment® has been made aware of the passing of Andrew Martin. The WWE extends its deepest condolences to the Martin family. Mr. Martin was under contract with WWE at various time periods and performed under the name "Test." He last performed for the WWE in February 2007.
It comes across to me that they are going into defence mode acknowledging that the wrestler hadn't performed for them in over two years. They fail to draw attention to the approximate seven years of service that Martin gave to the them.
Jim Ross has also sickened me with a post on his blog where he tries to divert attention away from the 'Test' moniker by claiming that:
Test, a name provided Martin after he portrayed a security person who tested the band Motley Crue's mic with the obligatory, 'test...test...test,"
That is total B.S.
Sure, Test was introduced to WWE fans as a bodyguard for Motley Crue. The name has nothing to do with people doing mic checks, though. Have you ever seen a bodyguard try out any recording equipment for a band or musician? That's what roadies are for.
'Test' was named after the most common steroid of all. Why? Because he was built like a house and was obviously on something cosmetic.
Saturday, March 14, 2009
Andrew 'Test' Martin
It never gets easy when you hear of the passing of a professional wrestler.
It seemed like we had a good run where the breaking news of a death didn't make it to the front page of wrestling sites.
I got another one of those shocks this morning when I read that Test was found dead at his apartment complex in Tampa, Florida.
I'm not going to claim that Test was one of my favourite wrestlers - he wasn't.
What I will say is his death is another one of those moments that proves what a terrible business it is when you scrub away all the glitz and glamour on its surface.
Andrew Martin - the person -was jacked up to the gills. His professional name 'Test' was even a reference to 'Testosterone' so you sort of get my drift in regards to what he needed to be in order to achieve a place in the business.
He was only four years older than me. And that's what is even more shocking.
When the Benoit deaths occurred, a number of the current stars came out to defend pro wrestling saying that the long list of deaths were from people who wrestled during a different period of pro wrestling. They claimed that the older generation had it a lot tougher which led them to doing things they shouldn't have to get by.
Andrew Martin was in that generation who claim they live better lives than those that came before them. He even posted a blog in defence of the industry at a time when he was angling to get his job back with WWE.
There were DUI's and other problems in the latter years of Martin's life. I'm shocked at hearing the news of his death, but should I really have been considering I had read about some of the troubles he had gotten into recently?
There will always be wake-up calls, it's a shame that those who have the power to help aren't stirred by them.
And so the cycle will be repeated when we roll out the next name to enter the death list.
It seemed like we had a good run where the breaking news of a death didn't make it to the front page of wrestling sites.
I got another one of those shocks this morning when I read that Test was found dead at his apartment complex in Tampa, Florida.
I'm not going to claim that Test was one of my favourite wrestlers - he wasn't.
What I will say is his death is another one of those moments that proves what a terrible business it is when you scrub away all the glitz and glamour on its surface.
Andrew Martin - the person -was jacked up to the gills. His professional name 'Test' was even a reference to 'Testosterone' so you sort of get my drift in regards to what he needed to be in order to achieve a place in the business.
He was only four years older than me. And that's what is even more shocking.
When the Benoit deaths occurred, a number of the current stars came out to defend pro wrestling saying that the long list of deaths were from people who wrestled during a different period of pro wrestling. They claimed that the older generation had it a lot tougher which led them to doing things they shouldn't have to get by.
Andrew Martin was in that generation who claim they live better lives than those that came before them. He even posted a blog in defence of the industry at a time when he was angling to get his job back with WWE.
There were DUI's and other problems in the latter years of Martin's life. I'm shocked at hearing the news of his death, but should I really have been considering I had read about some of the troubles he had gotten into recently?
There will always be wake-up calls, it's a shame that those who have the power to help aren't stirred by them.
And so the cycle will be repeated when we roll out the next name to enter the death list.
Wins Happen In Threes : Week 6 Selections
This week is the turn for NBA basketball. This genre will be used along with the football outcome and total goals betting.
MULTIPLES (Current record 27-18)
1) Manchester United
2) Everton v Stoke OVER 2 goals
3) Miami Heat (PICK)
4) Charlotte Bobcats -4
5) Houston Rockets -2
6) Athletico Madrid vs Villareal OVER 2 goals
7) Almeria vs Barcelona OVER 2 goals
8) Standard Liege
9) West Ham United
£15.33 block (511 bets at 3p a line)
SINGLE OF THE WEEK (Current record 2-3)
Michael Chopra to score in 90 minutes and Cardiff City to win
£3.33 single
MULTIPLES (Current record 27-18)
1) Manchester United
2) Everton v Stoke OVER 2 goals
3) Miami Heat (PICK)
4) Charlotte Bobcats -4
5) Houston Rockets -2
6) Athletico Madrid vs Villareal OVER 2 goals
7) Almeria vs Barcelona OVER 2 goals
8) Standard Liege
9) West Ham United
£15.33 block (511 bets at 3p a line)
SINGLE OF THE WEEK (Current record 2-3)
Michael Chopra to score in 90 minutes and Cardiff City to win
£3.33 single
Friday, March 13, 2009
A Prepared Statement
Sorry, Rafa. We don't care about your status at Liverpool. It's all about me today.
As you are all aware - I have been playing in a fantasy football league for probably four years or so now and have always been competitive despite not being any good at it.
My rival - Turbo Chef - has constantly bashed me as he has beaten me in every single contest we have entered.
The fact that we were neck-and-neck for a majority of these seasons speaks volumes for how good - Sorry, I mean bad - he really is. We were mid-table and fighting for bragging rights between each other whilst the better managers were attempting to win the entire league.
Before the current season began, I made a vow. I said that if I failed to be in a better position than him this season I would retire for one season.
In November, realising that I was facing an uphill struggle - I resigned. I conceded.
I refused to log back in to change my team and promised to return for the 2010/11 season but I couldn't resist but look at how things were going so I returned to the site last night and the message board was quiet.
It was silent because there was no jive talking and bragging being done because I was not around. I cannot let the league suffer for all of the 2009/10 season so I am throwing my hat back into the ring.
I ain't gonna retire!
I'll be back and I'm coming for you all next season.
As you are all aware - I have been playing in a fantasy football league for probably four years or so now and have always been competitive despite not being any good at it.
My rival - Turbo Chef - has constantly bashed me as he has beaten me in every single contest we have entered.
The fact that we were neck-and-neck for a majority of these seasons speaks volumes for how good - Sorry, I mean bad - he really is. We were mid-table and fighting for bragging rights between each other whilst the better managers were attempting to win the entire league.
Before the current season began, I made a vow. I said that if I failed to be in a better position than him this season I would retire for one season.
In November, realising that I was facing an uphill struggle - I resigned. I conceded.
I refused to log back in to change my team and promised to return for the 2010/11 season but I couldn't resist but look at how things were going so I returned to the site last night and the message board was quiet.
It was silent because there was no jive talking and bragging being done because I was not around. I cannot let the league suffer for all of the 2009/10 season so I am throwing my hat back into the ring.
I ain't gonna retire!
I'll be back and I'm coming for you all next season.
Thursday, March 12, 2009
What I Know (And Don't Know)
I haven't been watching any of the Cheltenham Festival this year.
Usually, I would have a small flutter using tips in the racing and football paper I buy each week but I'm not that keen this time around.
Horse racing isn't my passion. It never has been, really. Football and American Football is where I specifically like to bet on.
There is a rule to bet on things you know.
Or in my case - I stick to what I think I know!
Usually, I would have a small flutter using tips in the racing and football paper I buy each week but I'm not that keen this time around.
Horse racing isn't my passion. It never has been, really. Football and American Football is where I specifically like to bet on.
There is a rule to bet on things you know.
Or in my case - I stick to what I think I know!
Wednesday, March 11, 2009
Kizarny Cizanned
Kizarny mizay be anizother one of thizose ideas thizat is shizort-livized.
-Me on October 13th, 2008
It looks like I was right in regards to the Kizarny character in WWE as the wrestler was released from his contract on Monday.
The gimmick was intriguing to begin with as the wrestler appeared in vignettes talking carny.
For those not in the know, and I am sure there are many of you, carny is the language that carnival workers developed in the early days of fairs as a way to communicate between each other and to keep the outsider (the mark) away from their dialogue. This language was adopted by the wrestling workers although it is dated and it isn't used in contemporary wrestling circles.
Kizarny came onto our screens talking carny. Imagine what those fair-weather fans thought of him. Remember - a lot of wrestling fans aren't as clued in to the history of the show so a guy appearing on TV each week talking in a silly double-Dutch type speech would be a head scratcher.
The gimmick was more for those in the know. Unfortunately, the people 'in the know' also realise a good wrestler when they see one and Kizarny just didn't have it.
He couldn't get over with the marks, nor could he with the insiders.
He only managed to wrestle twice on television. It will be the months of vignettes that will be the thing he will be most remembered for.
-Me on October 13th, 2008
It looks like I was right in regards to the Kizarny character in WWE as the wrestler was released from his contract on Monday.
The gimmick was intriguing to begin with as the wrestler appeared in vignettes talking carny.
For those not in the know, and I am sure there are many of you, carny is the language that carnival workers developed in the early days of fairs as a way to communicate between each other and to keep the outsider (the mark) away from their dialogue. This language was adopted by the wrestling workers although it is dated and it isn't used in contemporary wrestling circles.
Kizarny came onto our screens talking carny. Imagine what those fair-weather fans thought of him. Remember - a lot of wrestling fans aren't as clued in to the history of the show so a guy appearing on TV each week talking in a silly double-Dutch type speech would be a head scratcher.
The gimmick was more for those in the know. Unfortunately, the people 'in the know' also realise a good wrestler when they see one and Kizarny just didn't have it.
He couldn't get over with the marks, nor could he with the insiders.
He only managed to wrestle twice on television. It will be the months of vignettes that will be the thing he will be most remembered for.
Tuesday, March 10, 2009
A Blank Mind
I am kicking myself after forgetting to watch UFC on Saturday night.
I was aware that there was a show and that one of my favourite fighters, Quinton Jackson, was in the main event so I was looking forward to recording it and watching it on Sunday morning.
On Saturday afternoon, I checked the cable listings to ensure that it was on live and then made a mental note to go upstairs and set it to record on my PC.
And I forgot.
All evening I had this feeling that I was forgetting something and couldn't put my finger on what the problem was. I even walked into certain parts of my house to try and jog my memory. It was baffling me - I knew I needed to remember something but just couldn't figure out what.
I fell asleep and then woke up at 5am. The first thing I thought was, 'Damn, I missed the UFC show!'
It was too late, I had to resort to reading the results online.
I was aware that there was a show and that one of my favourite fighters, Quinton Jackson, was in the main event so I was looking forward to recording it and watching it on Sunday morning.
On Saturday afternoon, I checked the cable listings to ensure that it was on live and then made a mental note to go upstairs and set it to record on my PC.
And I forgot.
All evening I had this feeling that I was forgetting something and couldn't put my finger on what the problem was. I even walked into certain parts of my house to try and jog my memory. It was baffling me - I knew I needed to remember something but just couldn't figure out what.
I fell asleep and then woke up at 5am. The first thing I thought was, 'Damn, I missed the UFC show!'
It was too late, I had to resort to reading the results online.
Monday, March 09, 2009
Wins Happen In Threes : Week 5 Results
A profitable week. Could have been better. Could have been worse!
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Chelsea / Chelsea
2) Bayern Munich / Bayern Munich
3) Hoffenheim vs Werder Bremen OVER 2 goals
4) M'gladbach vs Hamburg OVER 2 goals
5) Cardiff City
6) Heerenveen
7) Barcelona vs Athletico Bilbao OVER 2 goals
8) Porto
9) Arsenal / Arsenal
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £40.72
Proft/Loss = +25.39
SINGLE OF THE WEEK RESULT
AZ Alkmaar to win 2-0
Stake = £3.33
Returns = £0.00
Profit/Loss -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 5 WEEKS
Stake = £93.30
Returns = £166.91
Profit/Loss = +73.61
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Chelsea / Chelsea
2) Bayern Munich / Bayern Munich
3) Hoffenheim vs Werder Bremen OVER 2 goals
4) M'gladbach vs Hamburg OVER 2 goals
5) Cardiff City
6) Heerenveen
7) Barcelona vs Athletico Bilbao OVER 2 goals
8) Porto
9) Arsenal / Arsenal
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £40.72
Proft/Loss = +25.39
SINGLE OF THE WEEK RESULT
AZ Alkmaar to win 2-0
Stake = £3.33
Returns = £0.00
Profit/Loss -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 5 WEEKS
Stake = £93.30
Returns = £166.91
Profit/Loss = +73.61
Sunday, March 08, 2009
The Pass
I had a welcome surprise in my post yesterday.
In November of last year, I was on Lance Storm's website and he requested fans to buy a copy of 'The Spy Who Came For Christmas' and to write a review of it. In return, each reviewer would get a signed backstage pass.
I bought the book and did what was asked. I even wrote a review of the novel on this blog in case you want to read it.
I checked back on Storm's website early this year and my review was on there. There was also a message to the reviewers that there would not be enough backstage passes to go around as there had been a lot of interest.
I assumed I had missed out but wasn't annoyed as I enjoyed the book so took it as an unlucky break and forgot all about it.
Until the postman dropped a letter from Canada through my letterbox yesterday.
The pass was from Storm's stint in ECW and was from the Hardcore Heaven pay-per-view which took place in May of 2000.
In fact - I think out of all the backstage passes Lance Storm must have had over the years - this one was one of the most significant to his career as this was a PPV where he was in the main event challenging for the ECW World Heavyweight Championship. It was also his swansong ECW PPV appearance before joining WCW a few weeks later.
It is a nice addition to my collection.
In November of last year, I was on Lance Storm's website and he requested fans to buy a copy of 'The Spy Who Came For Christmas' and to write a review of it. In return, each reviewer would get a signed backstage pass.
I bought the book and did what was asked. I even wrote a review of the novel on this blog in case you want to read it.
I checked back on Storm's website early this year and my review was on there. There was also a message to the reviewers that there would not be enough backstage passes to go around as there had been a lot of interest.
I assumed I had missed out but wasn't annoyed as I enjoyed the book so took it as an unlucky break and forgot all about it.
Until the postman dropped a letter from Canada through my letterbox yesterday.
The pass was from Storm's stint in ECW and was from the Hardcore Heaven pay-per-view which took place in May of 2000.
In fact - I think out of all the backstage passes Lance Storm must have had over the years - this one was one of the most significant to his career as this was a PPV where he was in the main event challenging for the ECW World Heavyweight Championship. It was also his swansong ECW PPV appearance before joining WCW a few weeks later.
It is a nice addition to my collection.
Saturday, March 07, 2009
Wins Happen In Threes : Week 5 Selections
This week's genres are match result, goals and half-time/full-time betting. The single of the week is my favourite correct score.
MULTIPLES (Current record 20-16)
1) Chelsea / Chelsea
2) Bayern Munich / Bayern Munich
3) Hoffenheim vs Werder Bremen OVER 2 goals
4) M'gladbach vs Hamburg OVER 2 goals
5) Cardiff City
6) Heerenveen
7) Barcelona vs Athletico Bilbao OVER 2 goals
8) Porto
9) Arsenal / Arsenal
£15.33 block (511 bets at 3p a line)
SINGLE OF THE WEEK (Current record 2-2)
AZ Alkmaar to win 2-0
£3.33 single
MULTIPLES (Current record 20-16)
1) Chelsea / Chelsea
2) Bayern Munich / Bayern Munich
3) Hoffenheim vs Werder Bremen OVER 2 goals
4) M'gladbach vs Hamburg OVER 2 goals
5) Cardiff City
6) Heerenveen
7) Barcelona vs Athletico Bilbao OVER 2 goals
8) Porto
9) Arsenal / Arsenal
£15.33 block (511 bets at 3p a line)
SINGLE OF THE WEEK (Current record 2-2)
AZ Alkmaar to win 2-0
£3.33 single
Friday, March 06, 2009
Return Of Mike
I used to be the biggest Michael Jackson fan alive.
Well, no - that's not right. I am sure there are millions of people who are - or rather were- more fanatical than me.
I am not so much of a fan any more although I always buy his new albums whenever they come out.
His series of shows at the O2 Arena were announced yesterday and I'm interested to see how they are received.
If you've seen the news or read the papers there has been talk about his health being in jeopardy so I don't know how he can cope with ten dates in his current state.
Betting firms are offering odds on him not completing the schedule that has been set. I think it would be a good bet to go against him fulfilling his commitments.
Of course, all talk of these issues may have been exaggerated in the way of getting his name back out there before new albums or tours are talked about.
Taking that in to account - I wouldn't bet against him, either.
Well, no - that's not right. I am sure there are millions of people who are - or rather were- more fanatical than me.
I am not so much of a fan any more although I always buy his new albums whenever they come out.
His series of shows at the O2 Arena were announced yesterday and I'm interested to see how they are received.
If you've seen the news or read the papers there has been talk about his health being in jeopardy so I don't know how he can cope with ten dates in his current state.
Betting firms are offering odds on him not completing the schedule that has been set. I think it would be a good bet to go against him fulfilling his commitments.
Of course, all talk of these issues may have been exaggerated in the way of getting his name back out there before new albums or tours are talked about.
Taking that in to account - I wouldn't bet against him, either.
Thursday, March 05, 2009
Streaking For Cash
I've been playing a game on ESPN's website called Streak For The Cash.
It's quite hard.
You're meant to predict an outcome in a number of sporting match-ups they select . If you get twenty-seven in succession, you win the competition.
My longest streak has been three - just to let you know how tough it is.
Twenty-seven in a row?
Impossible!
It's quite hard.
You're meant to predict an outcome in a number of sporting match-ups they select . If you get twenty-seven in succession, you win the competition.
My longest streak has been three - just to let you know how tough it is.
Twenty-seven in a row?
Impossible!
Wednesday, March 04, 2009
Hey WWE, Show Me The Buzz!
I'm not sure what is going on with me as I am not as pumped up about this year's WrestleMania.
I'm usually looking forward to the big show by now. There is a little under a month to go and I just haven't got that buzz I always - and I mean always - get.
WrestleMania Sunday is one of my favourite days of the year and I am sure my mood will change before April 5th. It's just at this moment - there's only one match I am looking forward to. Everything else seems blah.
John Cena vs Big Show vs Edge - no thanks.
Randy Orton vs Triple H - seen it before.
The match I am predicting will be the show stealer will be the one pitting Shawn Michaels against The Undertaker.
We haven't seen these two wrestle together in singles competition since early 1998 and I can guarantee this will be the highlight of the night.
I'm not saying the build-up has been bad, I'm just saying it hasn't been as great as previous years and it's this that has caused my lack of enthusiasm.
I'm usually looking forward to the big show by now. There is a little under a month to go and I just haven't got that buzz I always - and I mean always - get.
WrestleMania Sunday is one of my favourite days of the year and I am sure my mood will change before April 5th. It's just at this moment - there's only one match I am looking forward to. Everything else seems blah.
John Cena vs Big Show vs Edge - no thanks.
Randy Orton vs Triple H - seen it before.
The match I am predicting will be the show stealer will be the one pitting Shawn Michaels against The Undertaker.
We haven't seen these two wrestle together in singles competition since early 1998 and I can guarantee this will be the highlight of the night.
I'm not saying the build-up has been bad, I'm just saying it hasn't been as great as previous years and it's this that has caused my lack of enthusiasm.
Tuesday, March 03, 2009
Wins Happen In Threes : Week 4 Results
Doesn't make for good reading this week.
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Everton
2) Hannover V Bayer Leverkusen OVER 2 goals
3) Liverpool
4) Ayr
5) Bristol City
6) Real Madrid
7) Twente V ADO Den Haag OVER 2 goals
8) Manchester United
9) Valencia V Valladolid OVER 2 goals
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £1.66
Profit/Loss = -13.67
SINGLE OF THE WEEK
Craig Bellamy to score in 90 minutes & Manchester City to win
Stake = £3.33
Returns = 0
Profit/Loss = -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 4 WEEKS
Stake = £74.64
Returns = £126.19
Profit/Loss = +51.55
MULTIPLES RESULTS
1) Everton
2) Hannover V Bayer Leverkusen OVER 2 goals
3) Liverpool
4) Ayr
5) Bristol City
6) Real Madrid
7) Twente V ADO Den Haag OVER 2 goals
8) Manchester United
9) Valencia V Valladolid OVER 2 goals
Stake = £15.33
Returns = £1.66
Profit/Loss = -13.67
SINGLE OF THE WEEK
Craig Bellamy to score in 90 minutes & Manchester City to win
Stake = £3.33
Returns = 0
Profit/Loss = -3.33
OVERALL AFTER 4 WEEKS
Stake = £74.64
Returns = £126.19
Profit/Loss = +51.55
Monday, March 02, 2009
Odds 'N Sods
On New Year's Day of this year, we had a knock at the door from the police.
A girl had been driving and swerved out of the way of a car and crashed into the back of my Father's parked car.
The crash caused considerable damage and was away for about three weeks getting repaired.
A few days ago, my Dad asked me to look after his keys and give them to my Sister's boyfriend so he could look after them while he was away in Scotland. I asked him why didn't he just leave the car out the front as usual and his response was that he didn't want to risk it getting hit again while he wasn't around.
I then began an argument with him on probability and how it was unlikely the same event would occur again.
My stance was the car had been out the front for years and had only been hit once so it wouldn't happen again or - if it did - it wouldn't happen when he was away for the week. The odds were against a hit.
And I was right.
Sort of.
Nearly one month after my Dad returned and almost two months to the day of the first crash - we had another car bump into it.
So much for my calculations!
A girl had been driving and swerved out of the way of a car and crashed into the back of my Father's parked car.
The crash caused considerable damage and was away for about three weeks getting repaired.
A few days ago, my Dad asked me to look after his keys and give them to my Sister's boyfriend so he could look after them while he was away in Scotland. I asked him why didn't he just leave the car out the front as usual and his response was that he didn't want to risk it getting hit again while he wasn't around.
I then began an argument with him on probability and how it was unlikely the same event would occur again.
My stance was the car had been out the front for years and had only been hit once so it wouldn't happen again or - if it did - it wouldn't happen when he was away for the week. The odds were against a hit.
And I was right.
Sort of.
Nearly one month after my Dad returned and almost two months to the day of the first crash - we had another car bump into it.
So much for my calculations!
Sunday, March 01, 2009
Have You Ever Tried...
Have you ever tried Welsh cakes?
If you ever visit Wales then this is something you should seek out.
My Father befriended Jake La Motta a few years ago while he was here on a visit and the real-life Raging Bull took a shine to this Welsh treat.
As a parting gift, my Dad gave him a box of them. He joked that it would be empty by the time they got to the airport.
The trick to Welsh cakes is to buy them from a proper Welsh bakery and not one of those National ones like Greggs, Nor should you buy the mass produced ones you can get in the supermarkets they are nice but there's a loss of authenticity about them, if you will.
Home-made ones are even better.
Unless you're a bad cook like yours truly!
If you ever visit Wales then this is something you should seek out.
My Father befriended Jake La Motta a few years ago while he was here on a visit and the real-life Raging Bull took a shine to this Welsh treat.
As a parting gift, my Dad gave him a box of them. He joked that it would be empty by the time they got to the airport.
The trick to Welsh cakes is to buy them from a proper Welsh bakery and not one of those National ones like Greggs, Nor should you buy the mass produced ones you can get in the supermarkets they are nice but there's a loss of authenticity about them, if you will.
Home-made ones are even better.
Unless you're a bad cook like yours truly!
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