The Sports Archives – Best Moments Of The New Orleans Hornets!

Posted on February 26, 2013 by thesportsarchives

New Orleans PelicansThe New Orleans Hornets recently announced they will be changing their name to the Pelicans at the beginning of next season. Sports fans everywhere have critiqued the organization’s decision to change to the name of a bird that doesn’t necessarily stoke fear or enthusiasm.

As a pest control company, we are sad to see the retirement of the hornets mascot, as it was the last pest-related name in major pro sports in America. We thought we’d honor the Hornets by recounting some of the greatest moments in Charlotte/New Orleans Hornets history.

April 5, 1987

On this day, Commissioner David Stern called George Shinn, the teams original owner, to notify him that he was being awarded a team in the National Basketball Association. On November 4, 1988, the Hornets played their first game, which resulted in a loss to the Cleveland Cavaliers. On those two dates is where it all started.

Where Did The Hornet Name Come From?

Other names were being considered by Shinn during the process of naming his new franchise, but “hornets” eventually won after a fan-based contest picked the winner. The name comes from a statement made by the British commander Lord Cornwalis during the Revolutionary War when he said the city resembled a “nest of hornets”.

The Prodigal Son Returns

On December 23, 1988, the hornets beat the Chicago Bulls. The game was Michael Jordan‘s first return to Charlotte as a professional player, and the win was viewed as the franchise’s first marquee victory.

So Close, Yet So Far Away

In 1996, the Hornets drafted Kobe Bryant out of Lower Merion High School in Pennsylvania. He would only be a Hornet for a short while before being traded to the Los Angeles Lakers for Vlade Divac. Since then Bryant has led his team to five NBA championships, and become one of the greatest players in NBA history.

New Beginnings

After much dispute, the team was relocated to New Orleans before the start of the 2002 season. The team remained as the Hornets, but the season marked a new era of basketball for the franchise.

“The New Orleans Hornets Select…”

Anthony Davis

Anthony Davis

In April of 2012, the franchise was sold to Tom Benson, who stated early on that the team would be making major changes both in player personnel and branding to better fit the characteristics of the New Orleans region. A few months later, the Hornets selected Anthony Davis with the #1 overall draft pick and Austin Rivers with the tenth pick, ushering in what hopes to be a new, bright era of New Orleans basketball.

Goodbye Hornets, Hello Pelicans

True to his word, owner Tom Benson unveiled the teams new name, mascot and colors in a press conference in January of 2013. Starting in the 2013 season, the team will be known as the New Orleans Pelicans, named after Louisiana’s state bird, the Brown Pelican.

Steve Bitter is a Marketing Manager with Bulwark Exterminating, based in Mesa, AZ. Bulwark Exterminating is an industry leader in providing high quality pest control service. Bulwark is fully operational in seven states, including eleven major cities. While Bulwark provides pest extermination for common insects such as ants, roaches, crickets and spiders, the company’s differentiating specialty is scorpion control. Bulwark uses the finest and most effective products in the world to solve common pest problems.

Photo Credits: Wikipedia

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The Pests Of The NBA!

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The Sports Archives – The Best Competitive BMX Events!

Posted on February 26, 2013 by thesportsarchives

BMX Racing

BMX Riding at its Finest

For a long time BMX as a sport has always dwelt around the margins of popular sporting culture. It has always had its following but was a sport for the purists, the fanatical and the often insane.

BMX riding hit a high in the late 80s when custom bikes and parts were widely available and the sport gained some notoriety among a growing following.

However, trend and popularity has a way of coming up and down like a half-pipe and in recent years BMX competitions and events have come back with a vengeance. With major BMX events taking place year round, which discipline will be your favourite?

Olympic BMX Riding

The most recent sport to be inducted into the most prestigious sporting event in the world, BMX riding has been included in the last 2 Olympic Games. Initially introduced in Beijing in 2008, the sport took an even more popular position in London 2012.

With such major coverage, this is a massive boon for patrons of the sport and a new sport of interest for the general public. Inclusion at these major events has undeniably played a part in the growing popularity of the sport.

BMX Supercross

Long before the Olympics brought BMX riding into the fold there was Supercross and the Supercross World Cup. Consisting of five events across several countries this is the pies de resistance of competitive BMX racing.

The 2013 World Cup roster will take in events from Manchester (England), Santiago (Argentina), Papendal (Netherlands) and Chula Vista (USA).

X Games

In a sport as versatile as BMX riding there are of course major events that work a little differently from simply being first across the line. While the thrill of a flat-out race can be exciting, the X Games can be spectacular.

Using BMX’s for stunts and extreme tricks can leave the audience in awe as freestyle BMX rider’s pull of a plethora of tricks, grinds and flips such as the Superman, the Nac-Nac and many more.

Championed by such riders as Matt Hoffman and Dave Mirra, freestyle BMX riding is often more associated with skateboarding and other freestyle sporting events than it is with Supercross.

Extreme BMX Stunt Shows

If on the other hand you’re looking for a true spectacle and that element of real danger, then you may want to check out an extreme BMX stunt show. Based more on high-flying and outrageous jumps, you’ll see riders hit spin backwards on their bike in mid-air, perform somersaults and generally defy death.

Featured images:

Clive Anderson is an avid fan of the X-Games. He works professionally on customised BMX bikes.

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The Sports Archives – Performance Sports Stuff!

Posted on February 25, 2013 by thesportsarchives

Good sports equipment is now more important than ever to athletes. Sports equipment is now part of a billion pound industry. The fact that effective equipment plays a huge part in how an athlete performs, it has become imperative that the athlete is provided with the best equipment available from the beginning.

For runners the use of correct running shoes is essential as they need the right grip and support to help them perform to the maximum. Different surfaces require different grips and different types of support, for example, clay running tracks will require larger spikes on the shoes where as if the person is running on concrete they will not use spikes at all.

Biker wearing SpandexIt’s really important for athletes like cyclists and runners to weigh as little as possible and to be aerodynamic which means that their clothes have to be exceptionally light and tight around their bodies. Lycra clothing is definitely one of the main clothing choices for many athletes due to the fact that it’s tight but it still lets the skin breathe. Tight clothing is essential for any athletes that require speed; clothes that flap in the wind will reduce their time by hundredths of a second, which may not seem a lot, but in the Olympic 100m final it’s everything.

Lycra or Spandex, due to is unique properties, is now even used by triathletes and swimmers. Triathletes use Lycra because they have to swim and it keeps them warm while swimming; once the athletes are out of the water, even though they’re wet, the Lycra is quick drying and will keep them warm for the remainder of their race.

Alistair Brownlee

Alistair Brownlee

The Triathlon is now one of the UK’s fastest growing sport after our current success at this year’s Olympics with Alistair Brownlee and Jonathan Brownlee, who won Gold and Bronze in the 2012 London Olympics.

There is a huge selection of Lycra clothing including hoodies, trousers, t-shirts and even sporting underwear out there and many shops don’t only the most efficient high-tech sport accessories. Most sports shops will cater for all fitness level and not just those that are of Olympic standard. Sports shops sell athletic clothing that is suitable for all ages, genders and sizes of people and the cost won’t break the bank either. So if you want to take on the Olympic heroes, then get yourself down to your local sports shop and kit yourself out with the latest sporting fashions.

Richard Cooper tends to shop online at www.performancesportsstuff.com for most of his sports clothing; he finds their products are great value for money.

Photo Credits: Wikipedia

How Much Does It Cost To Train An Olympic Athlete?
A Career in Sports Engineering

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The Sports Archives – What Metals The Best Bicycles On The Market Are Made Out Of?

Posted on February 25, 2013 by thesportsarchives

A sturdy bike is composed of several factors: frame, chain tension, and components that make shifting smooth into gear with ease. The bike frame is an important component that can not only support the weight of the rider, but allow for many outside environmental stress factors associated with both short and long distance biking. The best materials can accomplish the following tasks:

  • long distance endurance to cyclical stress
  • high density for durability
  • the ability to hold heavy weight
  • Maximum yield strength for crash strength

Steel

Steel frame of 2000 LeMond Zurich road racing bicycle.

Steel frame of 2000 LeMond Zurich road racing bicycle.

Steel is a popular material used for bikes due to their ease in production and lack of expense. Traditional steel bikes use higher density in frames compared to less expensive tensile steel gauge bike frames. Steel also includes unique features to increase strength:

  • Flex for absorption of shock
  • Reduction in weight with light steel frames

Carbon Fibre

A carbon fiber Trek Y-Foil from the late 1990s.

A carbon fiber Trek Y-Foil from the late 1990s.

Carbon fibre has become popular in recent years with its use in the auto industry as a non-metallic material with its strength and residual beauty. It is a strong substance that allows for highly detailed bicycles that can be made with an aerodynamic profile. It also has characteristics that increase longevity:

  • Corrosion-free tubing
  • Can have a matrix added for stiffness
  • Vibration damping abilities

The most unique aspect of this bike metal is its vibration damping strength. This is why it is used in many vehicles today and as an eco-alternative to some of the other metals.

Titanium

Characteristic weld beads on a titanium frame made by a master craftsman.

Characteristic weld beads on a titanium frame made by a master craftsman.

Although one of the more expensive metals to use in a bike, titanium has many desirable traits that allow for various tube sizes. It is typically used as an alloy material, which means that the material is mixed with a more lightweight material. These alloys were often used in the engineering field due to their ability to handle stress. The standard titanium bike has many strengths:

  • High strength to weight ratio
  • Fantastic corrosion resistance
  • Low weight tubes with high stiffness

Scandium Aluminum Alloy

Another alloy that holds its weight in the metal industry for cycling is the metal scandium. The content of scandium is rather small, but the alloy allows for excellent flexibility in design and advanced welding techniques for unique styles. It is, by itself, a soft metallic chemical in a natural silver-white color.

  • Frames are thinner and lighter than most metals
  • Smaller tubes without sacrificing durability. A smaller tube may make the bike more agile and less weight for the rider overall.

The strength of metal in a bike should not be the only determining factor. You should also consider the rigidity of the frame, shock absorption, and budget at hand. These top metals can remain strong for almost any rider on the market, particularly if the rider is looking for a long term overall bike to serve any purpose that may place stress on the frame. All options should be considered, which includes: price, design style, and intention of biking. Whether you are looking for a mountain bike, riding bike, or a heavy-duty, there is one for you.

William writes for Dynamic Metals stainless steel & titanium suppliers. Look to them for high-grade metals. Metals available include AMS 5643 and many others, visit DynamicMetalsLtd.co.uk today for more information.

Photo Credits:  Wikipedia

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The Sports Archives – Top 5: What Made The Super Bowl So Memorable?

Posted on February 23, 2013 by thesportsarchives

2009 Super Bowl Fireworks

The annual Super Bowl is one of the biggest events in the global sporting calendar, let alone in the United States where over 100 million people regularly watch the extravaganza unfold.

This event always creates a vast number of talking points that keep both the public and the media occupied almost right until the start of the next season. What were the top five memorable moments from 2013 Super Bowl XLVII?

Brotherly Love

2013 Super Bowl XLVII was the first time that brothers had been opposing coaches in the history of the NFL, let alone the season-ending game. No chance of any controversial comments flying in either direction then, but the humility and respect shown between both Jim and John Harbaugh definitely lit the way for all occasions in the future to lean heavily on these two characteristics.

Perhaps the only negative would be to have such a feeling of elation after winning, only to feel bad for your sibling, and vice-versa.

Half Time

The half time show is a legendary feature of the Super Bowl, and Beyonce’s appearance followed Madonna’s from last year in being edgy and daring. Hopefully this will be the way forward in the future, too, as Janet Jackson’s notorious wardrobe malfunction years earlier had paved the way for legendary, yet uninspiring acts such as Paul McCartney and Bruce Springsteen to monopolize the half time show for a period.

The Fireworks

Super Bowl weekend and the game itself is much more than merely a sporting occasion, it is an all-round entertainment attraction, and a key part of that glitz and glamor is the spectacular fireworks displays that always accompany the end of the game.

Of course, the indoor venue meant they weren’t as great as what you will probably see next year at MetLife Stadium, but they still provided an amazing spectacle both for those in attendance and for those watching on television.

The Game Itself

Despite everything else that goes on around Super Bowl weekend, the main attraction is obviously the game itself. This year’s encounter was a thrilling battle that looked over at half-time, only to turn into one of the best deciders in recent memory.

The fact that both teams were undefeated in Championship games added the extra spice, if any were needed, and the will to win from both teams was obvious.

Ray LewisRay Lewis

Last weekend’s game saw the retirement of legendary linebacker Ray Lewis, who had returned for the Super Bowl having initially hung it up in 2012. Although Lewis didn’t hit the heights that saw him named Super Bowl MVP in 2001, his presence was still felt as the Ravens hung on for a landmark victory.

Stuart is an online content writer across a number of industries. Stuart has a specific interest in how glitz and glamour, such as fireworks demonstrations, adds suspense and drama to sporting events. Several online businesses offer fireworks for sale across the whole year, so people can create their own ‘Super Bowl’ celebrations from their own garden.

Photo Credits:
Fireworks:   http://www.jeb-enterprises.com/images/siteimages/superbowl2009fireworks.jpg
Ray Lewis:  Wikipedia

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The Sports Archives – Tips On How To Plan For A Successful Marathon!

Posted on February 22, 2013 by thesportsarchives

Mumbai Marathon -037

Marathons are great ways to raise awareness for certain charitable causes. They are also a wonderful way to advertise your business or organization’s name out there as most of these marathons receive widespread media coverage. Below are some ways to make sure that your marathon is successful:

Get permits

Paula swooshes by

Your marathon will most likely affect traffic as most of them are held on the streets. You need permission from local authorities so that certain streets can be closed off for a few hours to allow the run to take place. Be sure to apply for the permits in advance because the city needs time to plan diversions and communicate the same to the public.

Get corporate sponsorships

Semi Marathon de Paris 2008 – Selection

The more corporate sponsors a marathon has, the greater its overall chances of success. Remember your main goal is to raise awareness and the much-needed money for your cause. Sponsors can donate time, money or materials to help make your event a success. They may provide or print your T-shirts for free, promote your run in their stores, and even come forward to offer health services such as ambulances, first aid attendants and so forth.

Publicize

Gharib

In order for your event to have a good turnout, people must know that it exists, right? You can advertise on the grass root level by word of mouth or you can go big and book slots on TV and radio stations. Using the internet is also a great and cheap way to publicize your marathon. Your sponsorship partners may also help by promoting the run themselves using flyers, posters or ads on their websites.

Temporary shelters to hydrate the runners

DSC_5096_1039DSC_5096

You must set up water stations during specific intervals of the course so that the runners may stop and get something to drink. This will reduce instances of dehydration which can lead to fainting. Set up a nice big visible temporary shelter for this. Each of these watering stations must have trash receptacles so that the runners do not litter the streets. Instead, they can dispose off the used bottles or cups at these receptacles. These shelters should be made of a durable material that is reflective of the sunshine so that the people serving the drinks do not get affected by the sun’s heat. In addition to these shelters, your emergency services crew and the security crew should also have lots of water supply to help runners who for some reason are unable to make it to the designated watering points.

Make sure that transparency is apparent

DSC_5140_1083DSC_5140

If you designate a charity as the beneficiary of the proceeds of the marathon, be sure that all money less those spent for organizing the marathon do end up there. If financial impropriety is suspected, you risk your reputation, legal ramifications and the inability to ever conduct such an event again. Have an auditor handle the funds and hand them over to the relevant parties once everything has been collected and accounted for. And lastly, if your marathon event is successful, consider having it on an annual basis!

Featured images:

David Hall is the author of this delightful post. He is technophile and has a huge collection of various gadgets. He really loves his portable garage as it gives him the freedom to park his car wherever he wants without having to fear about anything happening to it.

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The Sports Archives – Top Ten List Of World’s Best Surf Spots!

Posted on February 21, 2013 by thesportsarchives

Here is a List of the Top 10 Surfing Spots in the World:

1. 7 Mile Miracle, Oahu, Hawaii

Stretching along the North Shore of Oahu, this surf spot is often cited as the best in the world, particularly renown for containing the legendary Banzai Pipeline. Banzai Pipeline is famous for its huge waves breaking just above the beach’s cavernous reef, forming large, thick water curls.

2. Super Banks, Gold Coast, Australia

Formed from the connections of three banks–Snapper Rocks, Rainbow Bay, and Green Mount–on good days a surfer can hit a wave connecting the three, on a wave often lasting several hundred feet and allowing for a multitude of maneuvers. This connection makes it one of the longest, hollowest, and best waves in the world.

3. Uluwatu and Kuta, Bali, Indonesia

Bali has both some of the biggest waves with perfect glassy faces and sandy shores beloved as areas devoid of rocks and coral. Out of the water, Bali is a paradise island perfect for the nature-seeking traveler.

4. The Bubble, Fuerteventura, Canary Islands

Considered a world-class surf spot, this right-hand wave offers epic, 5-6 ft hollow, power-packed waves crashing over Fuerteventura’s rocky reef. In addition to its famous surfing waves, Fuerteventura has become a popular windsurfing and kitesurfing destination, having hosted the annual International Windsurfing and Kiteboarding Championship since 1985.

5. Lima, Peru

In contrast to the sandy shores of many top spots, Lima’s beaches are pebbled with uninviting gray water. However, surfers giving this spot a chance are rewarded with consistently clean, long rides with waves breaking in small, medium, and large sections.

6. Black’s Beach, San Diego, California, United States

This beach is also often cited as a top three, having one of the country’s most powerful breaks. With particularly big swells mixed with strong currents, this spot is best suited for more seasoned surfers.

7. Tamarindo Beach, Tamarindo, Costa Rica

Located within some of the country’s most scenic areas, this stretch offers something for everyone. Beginners and experts flock to this surf mecca in order to enjoy Tamarindo Beach’s variety of warm-water breaks including beach, river mouth, and reef breaks.

8. Sao Francisco do Sul, Brazil

While Brazil’s beaches are often complained about as being overcrowded, the area’s quality sandbar attracts annual surfing competitions making it a great location for a mix of quality waves and surfing professionals.

9. Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

Considered Sydney’s most famous beach, the area’s stunning beaches combined with great breaks have resulted in a thriving professional and amateur surfing culture. Bondi Beach is an exposed beach break offering a dependable and rideable wave throughout the year.

Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

Bondi Beach, Sydney, Australia

10. Sunzal, and La Libertad, El Savador

Sunzal is the most popular El Savadorian spot, with a long and slow right and shorter, hollow inside section. In La Libertad, surfers can expect a world-class break with three main sections. The top is fast and hollow wave called ‘the point’. The two other sections are mellower, making it great for beginner surfers and long boarding.

Will writes for Fellow, purveyors of the finest quality boardshorts and surfing accessories. At Fellow we believe in making the highest quality products which last. Learn more about our products by visiting our website or connecting with us on Twitter.

Image Credit:   http://www.worldalldetails.com/article_image/sydney_australia_973274.jpg

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The Sports Archives – Los Angeles Dodgers: The New Team To Hate In Baseball!

Posted on February 20, 2013 by thesportsarchives
Stan Kasten

Stan Kasten

When a team’s owners spend vast amounts of money improving and remodeling the team’s home stadium, you would assume it was because the team had plans of sticking around for a while. Unfortunately, recent developments shed light on the unsettling fact that no promises have been made as to the Los Angeles Dodgers’ staying power at the stadium. According to the article, team owners put up the funds for a new scoreboard and sound system, among other frivolities, but the team president Stan Kasten gave an indecisive answer when questioned about how long the team would play in the stadium. Obviously many feel that this belies a commitment problem on the part of the team and its owners.

Other Changes on the Horizon

A new and impressive stadium is not the only change the Dodgers are dealing with. According to Mercury News, pitcher Ryu Hyun-jin, who was signed just inside of the deadline, received a six-year contract for $36,000,000. Another pitcher, Zack Greinke, reportedly received his own nice little package, also for six years but for an incredible $147,000,000. This means that the Dodgers are going to be spending big this season and in the seasons to come; their payroll is estimated to be well over the $230,000,000 mark. This figure doesn’t even take into account the fee paid to negotiate for Hyun-jin, which comes in at $25.7 million. Though it appears that the team can afford the big bucks right now, many are speculating about overspending and worrying that the Dodgers could eventually find themselves in financial trouble. Even if they don’t, many feel the gross display of wealth is lacking in good taste.

A Tainted Past

Mike PiazzaWhile many are displeased with the current state of the Dodgers and their spending spree, trouble is lurking in history as well. According to the Los Angeles Times, Mike Piazza’s rumored past drug usage might keep him out of the Baseball Hall of Fame. Piazza, who served as a catcher for the Dodgers, has an impressive amount of home runs and a batting average that’s close to toppling .300. Despite those stats, things aren’t looking good for Piazza, who must win enough votes to make it into the Hall of Fame. Many believe that he used steroids during his stint with the Dodgers, though he was never officially tested. Though rumors circulated, the most hurtful appeared in a Roger Clemens biography written by Jeff Pearlman, who claimed that Piazza not only used steroids but confessed doing so to reporters. Furthermore, he claimed that other players, including Reggie Jefferson, were aware of the drug usage. Piazza, of course, maintains that the allegations are false, though he does admit to initially using drugs that had not yet been banned at the time.

What Will the Future Hold?

In the end, only time will tell how the Dodgers will be received by fans, which stadium they will eventually call home, and even whether or not Mike Piazza will go down in history positively as an honored Dodgers player. While many fans still have great faith in the team and excuse or even condone its recent actions, others are not quite so forgiving. All things considered, the next season should be an interesting one.

Heather Rothman is a freelance sports and lifestyle blogger currently residing in Denver, CO. When she’s not watching her Colorado Rockies take on the other teams in the NL West, she spends her days hunting, fishing, and using a variety of meats in her Professional Meat Grinder.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

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The Sports Archives – Weather The Storm – 5 Things You Need As A Beginner Surfer!

Posted on February 19, 2013 by thesportsarchives

Surfing - 2010 Mavericks CompetitionBeing a beginner surfer is fun, but sometimes it can be downright difficult. You’re constantly falling headfirst into the waves, you have to learn how to stand up on the board in the first place, your friends are all laughing at you from the shore- whether they’re seasoned surfers or not.

These hardships get easier to face so long as you have the right tools. Remember these five things to get you through your beginning phase and above all, enjoy yourself – after all, you’re out there learning a new skill, having fun in the sun, and being active!

A Wetsuit

You want to look the part, don’t you? A wetsuit is the first thing you need, especially if you plan to continue surfing during the colder months. Bonus: it’ll protect you from the sun, although you should use some sunscreen on your face anyway. When you’re in a wetsuit in the waves though, beware. To sharks, you look uncannily like a seal. Stay safe out there.

A Good Teacher

You want someone who understands the water – a real pro. Someone who can tell you what you’re doing wrong and correct it. Sure, you might need to spend the first few hours of the lesson practising technique on the sand, but it’ll be worth it in the end when you’re riding the waves with the best of them.

A Surfboard

Pretty basic stuff, right? You need a board. You need a real surfboard…not just a boogie board or a pair of floaters. If you don’t buy yourself (or rent) a nice surfboard, you’ll be stuck out there swimming, which is no fun at all. Plus, you can paint that surfboard however you see fit. It’s a bit heavy though, so make sure to get one that’s long enough and wide enough for you, but no bigger.

A Beach

You can’t go surfing without a beach – it’s pretty obvious. Whether you live far away and need to drive out to the coast, or you’re just around the corner, having a place with surf, sand and beach babes is really the first step to a successful surfing career. Make sure you have an exit strategy as well, whether that be getting your car all sandy or taking a shower and hopping on the bus. You’ll be grateful.

A Towel

Dry yourself off after your dip. Hang out on the sand under an umbrella and watch the girls play volleyball. It’s up to you what you do with it, but it really is a staple for the beach-loving boho man. If you’re heading in with your girlfriend, you might also like to bring a beach umbrella, a camera, thongs, so on and so on and so on… There are too many other beach essentials to list.

Linda Campbell is a surfer. She’s just recently purchased new surfing fins and can’t wait to test them out.

Photo Credit: Wikipedia

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The Sports Archives – Ghyll Scrambling: Taking The Plunge!

Posted on February 18, 2013 by thesportsarchives

Ghyll ScramblingGhyll scrambling, aka gully bashing or canyoning, is akin to white water rafting…without the benefit of a raft!

It’s the extreme sport of plunging off a rocky ledge into a thundering waterfall, hurtling through the void into the racing waters below.

Adrenaline junkies have turned this ‘leap of faith’ into one of the fastest-growing outdoor sporting activities in Britain, not to mention one of the most dangerous.

Ghyll scrambling, aptly named after the Lakeland word – of Viking origin – for a steep ravine or narrow mountain torrent, is popular in many parts of the country, and especially in the Lake District, where these water-filled gorges run with rainwater from the fells which cascade down the sides of the mountains on their way into the lakes of Cumbria.

It’s terrific fun, and can be enjoyed under supervision by anyone with a love of adventure – family-friendly groups are organised by many professional organisations who allow young beginners from the age of eight years.

But be warned – at its extreme, ghyll scrambling can be extremely hazardous, and is not recommended to be undertaken by anyone on their own.

Icy Waters Whipped by Howling Winds

During the summer, water temperatures can – to put it mildly – be bracing, and in winter, with icy waters often whipped up by howling winds, keeping warm in the raging torrents is a challenge in itself.

Wetsuits, waterproof salopettes and Wellington boots are pretty much a given at any time of year. The boots won’t do much to keep the water out of course, but will protect your feet, calves and ankles from the danger of serious injury on rocks and boulders on the way down.

Gully Bashing

Thermal baselayer T-shirts and leggings will go some way to keeping your body temperature under control, and waterproof socks and gloves will help direct heat to susceptible toes and fingers.

Sealskinz’ All Season Glove is a close-fitting, 100% waterproof leather glove ideal for this purpose, and their Midweight Mid Length Sock or Thick Mid Length Sock both feature waterproof membranes to keep out water.

Baselayer tops and bottoms by any of the leading brands like Smartwool, Icebreaker and Helly Hansen – especially their heavier-weight offerings – will all help to keep you warm in freezing conditions…and as an added bonus many are incredibly quick-drying if they do come in for a thorough soaking!

Safety helmets, like those designed by Petzl, Grivel and Wild Country for climbers, should always be worn as a safety precaution.

Featured images:

Nicki Williams is a copy writer for Gear-Zone, specialists in outdoor clothing and equipment from leading brands including Rab, The North Face, Berghaus, Petzl and Black Diamond

Click here for more details

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