This Story was origionally displayed on this blog in March.
I never hide my love of my football team "Leeds United" a team that I have supported all my life. To understand the dream you have to realise prior to 1960's Leeds were never considered a top team and had never won a trophy. In 1963 with the club in dept and floundering at the bottom of the 2nd division (sound familiar) Don Revie became manager and announced that one day Leeds will be best in Europe.
Within 2 years Leeds were up with the big boys and over the next 10 years turned into England's most feared club side. Every year they competed for every trophy possible winning a few and falling at the final hurdle in others.
On many occasions Leeds seemed victims of dodgy referee decisions costing them many more trophy's. The feelings in Yorkshire was that we were not supposed to win and beat the so called big boys.
In 1974 Leeds stormed to the English championship qualifying the for the big one, the European cup.
When Leeds reached the semi-final they were paired with the tournament favorites Barcelona. The spaiards had dutchman Johan Cryuff reputably the worlds top player in their ranks. I went to the home leg and we won 2-1 to give us hope. The night of the 2nd leg I remember loads of us sat round listening to the commentry on radio and with 20minutes to go and the score at 1-1 Leeds were reduced to 10 men. That 20 minutes seemed like forever as Leeds reppelled attack after attack in front of 90,000 screeming spaniards. But by the end it was Leeds who would face holders Bayern Munich in the final.
At this time I was 17 years old and had never been abroad, not many people had in them days it was prior to cheap flights and Yorkshire was not the most wealthy part of England. I made my mind up that I would go to Paris for the final and along with my mate Tap who was 16 years old we sent off our applications for tickets.
Sunday 25th May we set off on our coach in what was going to be the biggest invasion of France since D Day, an estimated 25,000 Yorkshire folk made the journey. Eventually we arrived at our hotel in a rough area of Paris on Monday night, the rich Germans seemed to have all the posh hotels but we didn't care.
Tuesday was spent seeing the city, this was an adventure we were having the time of our life.
Then Wednesday 28th May arrived and anticipation took over as we dressed in our flags and scarfs. As we made our way to the ground it seemed like Leeds fans were everywhere this was to be our dream.
When we got in the stadium "Parc de Princes" we had seen nothing like it. It was state of the art, brand new, the pride of France. When the teams came out the noise was deafening and it was obvious we outnumbered the Germans 4 to 1.
The match started well with Leeds all over Munich and halfway through the first half Clark broke through the German defence. But as he was about to slip the ball into the net Beckenbaur the German captain took is legs away, the Leeds players turned to the referee expecting the penalty but he waved play on. We couldn't believe it surely not another dodgy ref.
As the 2nd half started Leeds still dominated and after about 15 minutes the ball came to Lorimer who hit a terrific volley into the German goal. The celebrations started but the German players surrounded the ref who then went to discuss the goal with the linesman. Unbelievably he disallowed it and this proved too much for one fan who ran on the pitch to protest.
The fan who ran on the pitch was jumped on by 6 French security staff but instead of escorting him from the ground they decided to beat him up in front of the bulk of the Yorkshire support.
This upset the Leeds fans and fights broke out as more tried to scale the barriers to help one of their own. After a few minutes Hundreds of French riot police came marching around the pitch banging their batons against there shields.
I had never seen anything like it as the police charged, Leeds fans battered them back using flag poles, then they started to rip up seats to throw at police, I was in the middle of a full scale riot .
The stadium was wrecked, the police stood back settling for keeping the fans from the pitch.
While all this was going on the match continued but Leeds players new the day had turned sour and it was the end of a era. The Germans scored two late goals to win the match.
At the final whistle the Leeds players came over to the fans and applauded to the the disgust of the authorities, but we all new our dream had been taken away from us.
After the match we went to a subway station and this is where a french man suddenly attacked my friend. I jumped between them and suddenly the man pulled a 6 inch Knife. This was one of the most frightening experiences of my life, I grabbed his arm and wrestled for my life.
This seemed to go on for ever but was probably only seconds before other people dragged the man off me and took the knife from him. He was arrested by police that were soon on the scene.
I feel I was very lucky that night.
Later European football authority banned Leeds for 4 years and also banned the referee for taking bribes. The match was never replayed.
To this day Leeds supporters chant at away matches "Champions of Europe" no one understands why. You had to be there.
Sunday, July 30, 2006
Saturday, July 29, 2006
Leeds United The Glory Years
The Glory Years 1965 to 1975
Following on from last nights post the next ten years were the finest in Leeds Uniteds history competing for trophys on all fronts in England and Europe. During this period the Club won many trophys and missed out on many others through a string of bad luck, bad referees, fixture congestion, etc.
It was always rumoured that Leeds ground was built after throwing off the travellers who dwelled there and a gypsy curse was put on the Club. Many fans believe this could be the case with the bad luck and number of times the club finished Runners up in various competitions. The gods always seem against this Club or is it something more sinister, you judge.
During these years Leeds played unbelievable football one of the best sides ever seen on these shores but were hated in the media (dubbed dirty Leeds) and fans of other Clubs.
Great names in the Clubs history all becoming internationals were hero worshipped, today me and people like me can real off Revies great team - Sprake, Reaney, Cooper, Bremner, Charlton, Hunter, Lorimer, Clarke, Jones, Giles, Gray, Madeley, plus many others.
I saw my first match in 1967 as a 9 year old and was hooked from the start, I was in love for the first time ever, I had hero's to worship.
During this period the Club won many trophys including Championship twice, League Cup, FA Cup, Inter City Fairs Cup (twice) & Charity Shield but it was all the titles they missed out on that sticks in the memory.
I could never understand why other supporters always chanted "We all hate Leeds" even when not playing us, or why the newspapers always slagged us off. Perhaps it was because we wasn't supposed to compete with the big boys, perhaps it was the arrogant"ole" football we played in the early seventies. Who can forget the southampton match when leading 7-0 we played keep ball for the last twenty minutes with our fans shouting "ole" like a matador with every pass.
The first signs of something dodgy was in 1967 when trailing 1-0 to Chelseain an FA Cup match Lorimer equalised with a 30yard bullet shot and it was disallowed. I have this goal on video and the commentator's words in disbelief "He's disallowed it, He's dissallowed it and they will have to read the rule book backwards to find a reason why" Today we still do not know why ?
Then there was the West Brom joke referee Ray Tinkler in 1971 that allowed a blatant offside goal plus many other iffy decisions that gave Arsenal the double. This match saw some early scene's of serious crowd trouble at Elland Road when supporters invaded the pitch (to try lynch the ref). Who can forget the way Don Revie looked to the heavens in disgust.
Who can forget the European Cup Winners Cup Final against AC Milan when a string of dodgy decisions (plus Hunter sent off) cost us another trophy. Later this ref was banned for life for taking bribes.
One of the greatest days of my life was in 1972 when I was 14 and went to Wembley to be amongst the 100,000 that saw us win the FA Cup. Allan Clarkes great header was enough to beat Arsenal and send us wild. Even the Queen turned out to present the trophy. Even in victory the powers that be ruled against us forcing us to play our last league match only 2 days after the final at Wolverampton when the players were knackered, we lost which cost us the league.
Despite winning the league again and qualifying for the European Cup Don Revie moved on in 1974 to take up the England job, Brian Clough came in but hated Leeds and was sacked after 44 days after upsetting all the players. Jimmy Armfield took over and we marched through Europe looking for our Holy Grail "The European Cup".
I have reported this story before back in March - "Paris 75, The dream ends in violence" it will launched again tomorrow.
Following on from last nights post the next ten years were the finest in Leeds Uniteds history competing for trophys on all fronts in England and Europe. During this period the Club won many trophys and missed out on many others through a string of bad luck, bad referees, fixture congestion, etc.
It was always rumoured that Leeds ground was built after throwing off the travellers who dwelled there and a gypsy curse was put on the Club. Many fans believe this could be the case with the bad luck and number of times the club finished Runners up in various competitions. The gods always seem against this Club or is it something more sinister, you judge.
During these years Leeds played unbelievable football one of the best sides ever seen on these shores but were hated in the media (dubbed dirty Leeds) and fans of other Clubs.
Great names in the Clubs history all becoming internationals were hero worshipped, today me and people like me can real off Revies great team - Sprake, Reaney, Cooper, Bremner, Charlton, Hunter, Lorimer, Clarke, Jones, Giles, Gray, Madeley, plus many others.
I saw my first match in 1967 as a 9 year old and was hooked from the start, I was in love for the first time ever, I had hero's to worship.
During this period the Club won many trophys including Championship twice, League Cup, FA Cup, Inter City Fairs Cup (twice) & Charity Shield but it was all the titles they missed out on that sticks in the memory.
I could never understand why other supporters always chanted "We all hate Leeds" even when not playing us, or why the newspapers always slagged us off. Perhaps it was because we wasn't supposed to compete with the big boys, perhaps it was the arrogant"ole" football we played in the early seventies. Who can forget the southampton match when leading 7-0 we played keep ball for the last twenty minutes with our fans shouting "ole" like a matador with every pass.
The first signs of something dodgy was in 1967 when trailing 1-0 to Chelseain an FA Cup match Lorimer equalised with a 30yard bullet shot and it was disallowed. I have this goal on video and the commentator's words in disbelief "He's disallowed it, He's dissallowed it and they will have to read the rule book backwards to find a reason why" Today we still do not know why ?
Then there was the West Brom joke referee Ray Tinkler in 1971 that allowed a blatant offside goal plus many other iffy decisions that gave Arsenal the double. This match saw some early scene's of serious crowd trouble at Elland Road when supporters invaded the pitch (to try lynch the ref). Who can forget the way Don Revie looked to the heavens in disgust.
Who can forget the European Cup Winners Cup Final against AC Milan when a string of dodgy decisions (plus Hunter sent off) cost us another trophy. Later this ref was banned for life for taking bribes.
One of the greatest days of my life was in 1972 when I was 14 and went to Wembley to be amongst the 100,000 that saw us win the FA Cup. Allan Clarkes great header was enough to beat Arsenal and send us wild. Even the Queen turned out to present the trophy. Even in victory the powers that be ruled against us forcing us to play our last league match only 2 days after the final at Wolverampton when the players were knackered, we lost which cost us the league.
Despite winning the league again and qualifying for the European Cup Don Revie moved on in 1974 to take up the England job, Brian Clough came in but hated Leeds and was sacked after 44 days after upsetting all the players. Jimmy Armfield took over and we marched through Europe looking for our Holy Grail "The European Cup".I have reported this story before back in March - "Paris 75, The dream ends in violence" it will launched again tomorrow.
Friday, July 28, 2006
The Leeds United Story (as I see it) - The Early Years
I think a lot of my blog readers will realise how much I love my Soccer team Leeds United, but maybe some may not fully understand my passion I feel, this is a cradle to the grave thing, there is no changing through the good or bad times.
Well its my duty as a true fan to convince you all that this should be your favorite English Club I'm sure I will get some help from at least one of my blog friends "Airliebird" a true Yorkshire lass. I will warn you supporting this Club as more ups and downs than a yo-yo.
With just over a week to go to the start of our league season I am intending to tell the Leeds United story in my words over a number of articles. It will be about Love, Hate, Successes, losses, bent refs, violence, brilliant players, bad luck, great fans, controvesy's etc.
Anyway to set the scene I will start with an History lesson :-
The Early Years
Leeds United were formed in 1919 in controversial circumstances after Leeds City were banned from Football for making illegal payments to players.
For the next forty plus years as far as Soccer goes Leeds were insignificant spending most of this time in the lower divisions of the English league.
Well its my duty as a true fan to convince you all that this should be your favorite English Club I'm sure I will get some help from at least one of my blog friends "Airliebird" a true Yorkshire lass. I will warn you supporting this Club as more ups and downs than a yo-yo.
With just over a week to go to the start of our league season I am intending to tell the Leeds United story in my words over a number of articles. It will be about Love, Hate, Successes, losses, bent refs, violence, brilliant players, bad luck, great fans, controvesy's etc.
Anyway to set the scene I will start with an History lesson :-
The Early Years
Leeds United were formed in 1919 in controversial circumstances after Leeds City were banned from Football for making illegal payments to players.
For the next forty plus years as far as Soccer goes Leeds were insignificant spending most of this time in the lower divisions of the English league.
Then in the early sixties Don Revie (see photo) arrived as manager with the club struggling at the foot of the 2nd division.
Don made the decision to change the traditional Blue kit to the famous all white mirroring Europes most famous club Real Madrid. Revie boasted one day this club will emulate Madrid and be Champions of Europe. Many saw this as a show of arrogance for such a little club and the hatred of Leeds Utd from all but our own had begun.
But with a team of unknown young players Revies team gained promotion to the top flight and reached their first final within two years. Although they lost the 1965 FA cup final to the more established Liverpool after extra time they showed enough to make the football world look up.
Tomorrow - The Glory Years
Thursday, July 27, 2006
My Golden Rules in Life
1. Live today like you will be dead tomorrow (because one day you will be right).
2. Treat others like they treat you (because thats what they deserve).
3. Never give anyone a 2nd chance to let you down (because they will).
4. Learn from other peoples mistakes (you don't have time to make them all yourself).
5. Its not the taking part its the winning that counts (who likes losers).
6. Set your goals high and don't stop until you get there (achieving ambitions is everything).
7. Never ask your friends what they can do for you ask what you can do for them (be a good friend).
8. Don't make your only ambition in life to become the richest person in the graveyard (enjoy what you earn).
9. Honesty is everything (Only people that can be trusted are worth knowing).
10. You get out what you put in (making an effort is always worth while).
2. Treat others like they treat you (because thats what they deserve).
3. Never give anyone a 2nd chance to let you down (because they will).
4. Learn from other peoples mistakes (you don't have time to make them all yourself).
5. Its not the taking part its the winning that counts (who likes losers).
6. Set your goals high and don't stop until you get there (achieving ambitions is everything).
7. Never ask your friends what they can do for you ask what you can do for them (be a good friend).
8. Don't make your only ambition in life to become the richest person in the graveyard (enjoy what you earn).
9. Honesty is everything (Only people that can be trusted are worth knowing).
10. You get out what you put in (making an effort is always worth while).
Wednesday, July 26, 2006
Wednesday weigh in
Last week my weight was 230.3lb.
Today my weight has dropped to 228.1lb a loss of 2.2lb (still winning the war).
Over the last week the weather has been good so I have been able to walk to work every day (Mon to Fri). Only drank beer on Monday at my Pool match (which I lost in a deciding frame, would have won but snookered myself when on a finish).
Both tonight and tomorrow I will be attending Table Tennis training sessions, it is hot so I should be able to sweat something out of me.
Today my weight has dropped to 228.1lb a loss of 2.2lb (still winning the war).
Over the last week the weather has been good so I have been able to walk to work every day (Mon to Fri). Only drank beer on Monday at my Pool match (which I lost in a deciding frame, would have won but snookered myself when on a finish).
Both tonight and tomorrow I will be attending Table Tennis training sessions, it is hot so I should be able to sweat something out of me.
Tuesday, July 25, 2006
What to do when you are bored
Tonight I was sat at home bored with nothing to do, I did do some serious damage to the bush in the garden earlier.
So I made a decision to book another Vacation so I have spent a fair amount of time checking prices for flights and hotels. Last week I wrote a blog article saying the only place in North America I could get a decent flight price to was Toronto and asked bloggers for information.
Now tonight I find flights to some US cities are dropping but the replies I got from two blog friends (Kristine & Modigli) have convinced me Toronto is the place for my next adventure.
Well the bottom line is "I have booked", I fly from Manchester on Wednesday 27th September arriving late afternoon, I will be staying in the city for 10 nights returning to England Saturday 7th October.
I will write more about what sights I intend to see & what bars and clubs I will try to visit. Kristine has kindly given me some by e'mail where live music happens and I will be checking out their web sites. More importantly she has agreed to meet up one night for a meal/drink/laugh, I'll look forward to that, she will be the second blog friend I will meet following Regina in Chicago.
While I'm on this subject it really appeals to me to meet up with blog friends (cos you are all nice people) if possible and Kristine isn't the only one living in the Toronto area so BF how about a meal one night (on me), don't worry I don't bite (much).
So I made a decision to book another Vacation so I have spent a fair amount of time checking prices for flights and hotels. Last week I wrote a blog article saying the only place in North America I could get a decent flight price to was Toronto and asked bloggers for information.
Now tonight I find flights to some US cities are dropping but the replies I got from two blog friends (Kristine & Modigli) have convinced me Toronto is the place for my next adventure.
Well the bottom line is "I have booked", I fly from Manchester on Wednesday 27th September arriving late afternoon, I will be staying in the city for 10 nights returning to England Saturday 7th October.
I will write more about what sights I intend to see & what bars and clubs I will try to visit. Kristine has kindly given me some by e'mail where live music happens and I will be checking out their web sites. More importantly she has agreed to meet up one night for a meal/drink/laugh, I'll look forward to that, she will be the second blog friend I will meet following Regina in Chicago.
While I'm on this subject it really appeals to me to meet up with blog friends (cos you are all nice people) if possible and Kristine isn't the only one living in the Toronto area so BF how about a meal one night (on me), don't worry I don't bite (much).
Only two months to go, now I've only got to tell my manager I want time off for my third holiday of the year.
Sunday, July 23, 2006
My Life at Present
Ok I'm a bit short of good blog stories at this time but I just thought I would say what is happening in my life at present (this will be boring).
Work - I have started in my new role running the Electrical/Instrumentation department at work. For those that don't know upto last month I just covered the Electrical but both departments have been put together.
I am also in the middle of trying to move my office from a workshop base to the site main office block, this is part of a plan to eventually bring all Engineering departments under one roof. The Electrical would have to move anyway as our building is in danger of falling down.
We are so busy at work with a large back log of jobs but I spent a big part of last week either interviewing or attending more than 10 meetings (just what you want when the weather is good). Three out of my five working days I had to stay over last week.
Nightlife - Non existant as I am trying to avoid Pubs so I am not encouraged to drink and ruin my weight loss plans (total Commitment). Well almost I did play for my team at Pool last Monday (drank a few beers) and we lost, I lost my games which isn't surprising as I am having my worst season ever. I seem to be able to beat all my team mates prior to the matches but then the balls just don't run for me. Tomorrow I am playing in the 3rd round (last 32) of the area championship and hopfully I can regain my form. I have a tough match against a former Champion on his teams home table so I will be outsider, I am our teams only player left in the competition.
Table Tennis - Some good news here I have just moved up to number 94 (4 places) in the National Ranking list (Veterans) and I am going to be ranked at No1 in Yorkshire 2nd team which is what I was aiming for. We are out of season at present but I attended a training session on Thursday (was going to do Wednesday but too late from work).
Saturday I ran a coaching session for the areas youngsters, we have some promising players coming on. I'll be doing the same next Saturday, and Sunday I am doing a session for the Scarborough Association (it will give me some pocket money for my next vacation).
Rest of Weekend - I went for a five mile walk this morning. The food yesterday wasn't as healthy as it should have been but today I managed to walk past a Doubtfires Ice Cream van without buying one.
The rest of the time I was lazy and watched the British Open Golf on the television (Tiger Woods won and didn't look like getting beat), I would have been better going out and playing. I also have a big bush to cut down and should have done it but it will get done one night this week.
Oh well only two weeks to the Soccer season starting (Leeds v Norwich August 5th).
Work - I have started in my new role running the Electrical/Instrumentation department at work. For those that don't know upto last month I just covered the Electrical but both departments have been put together.
I am also in the middle of trying to move my office from a workshop base to the site main office block, this is part of a plan to eventually bring all Engineering departments under one roof. The Electrical would have to move anyway as our building is in danger of falling down.
We are so busy at work with a large back log of jobs but I spent a big part of last week either interviewing or attending more than 10 meetings (just what you want when the weather is good). Three out of my five working days I had to stay over last week.
Nightlife - Non existant as I am trying to avoid Pubs so I am not encouraged to drink and ruin my weight loss plans (total Commitment). Well almost I did play for my team at Pool last Monday (drank a few beers) and we lost, I lost my games which isn't surprising as I am having my worst season ever. I seem to be able to beat all my team mates prior to the matches but then the balls just don't run for me. Tomorrow I am playing in the 3rd round (last 32) of the area championship and hopfully I can regain my form. I have a tough match against a former Champion on his teams home table so I will be outsider, I am our teams only player left in the competition.
Table Tennis - Some good news here I have just moved up to number 94 (4 places) in the National Ranking list (Veterans) and I am going to be ranked at No1 in Yorkshire 2nd team which is what I was aiming for. We are out of season at present but I attended a training session on Thursday (was going to do Wednesday but too late from work).
Saturday I ran a coaching session for the areas youngsters, we have some promising players coming on. I'll be doing the same next Saturday, and Sunday I am doing a session for the Scarborough Association (it will give me some pocket money for my next vacation).
Rest of Weekend - I went for a five mile walk this morning. The food yesterday wasn't as healthy as it should have been but today I managed to walk past a Doubtfires Ice Cream van without buying one.
The rest of the time I was lazy and watched the British Open Golf on the television (Tiger Woods won and didn't look like getting beat), I would have been better going out and playing. I also have a big bush to cut down and should have done it but it will get done one night this week.
Oh well only two weeks to the Soccer season starting (Leeds v Norwich August 5th).
Thursday, July 20, 2006
Food & Drink I don't Like
The other day I named 10 of my favorite Food & drinks that I have to try and avoid to assist my weight loss.
The following 10 I dislike while a large majority of the population love them :-
1. Fried Eggs - The one item I leave off my English Breakfast, I don't dislike eggs but will only eat Omelette and not very often.
2. Tea - The traditional English drink but I never touch the stuff. If I have an hot drink it will be Coffee everytime.
3. Whiskey - I can't put this stuff near my nose, can't stand the smell or the taste.
4. Pernod - This French aniseed tasting alcoholic drink was once a favorite of mine until I drank too much one night and made myself sick. I have never touched the stuff since and that was over 25 years ago.
5. Curry - I will not eat curry following an incident similar to the Pernod story and this goes back over 30 years.
6. Tomato Ketchup - I love tomatoes but won't put ketchup on anything.
7. Grapefruit - About the only fruit I can think of that I don't like the taste.
8. Kippers - I love usually love most fish but not these smelly articles.
9. Olives - Just taste sour to me.
10. Raspberry's - Actually I love these things but I am allergic to them so can't eat them. If I do I risk coming out in blotches and swellings all over my face and body.
What don't you Eat/Drink ?
The following 10 I dislike while a large majority of the population love them :-
1. Fried Eggs - The one item I leave off my English Breakfast, I don't dislike eggs but will only eat Omelette and not very often.
2. Tea - The traditional English drink but I never touch the stuff. If I have an hot drink it will be Coffee everytime.
3. Whiskey - I can't put this stuff near my nose, can't stand the smell or the taste.
4. Pernod - This French aniseed tasting alcoholic drink was once a favorite of mine until I drank too much one night and made myself sick. I have never touched the stuff since and that was over 25 years ago.
5. Curry - I will not eat curry following an incident similar to the Pernod story and this goes back over 30 years.
6. Tomato Ketchup - I love tomatoes but won't put ketchup on anything.
7. Grapefruit - About the only fruit I can think of that I don't like the taste.
8. Kippers - I love usually love most fish but not these smelly articles.
9. Olives - Just taste sour to me.
10. Raspberry's - Actually I love these things but I am allergic to them so can't eat them. If I do I risk coming out in blotches and swellings all over my face and body.
What don't you Eat/Drink ?
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
Wednesday Weight Check
Two posts tonight
Last week following my vacation I reported my weight was 232.5lb an 8.5lb increase over my 17 days away. My excuse having a good time, drinking too much (every night), eating anything and everything, lack of exercise, etc.
Ok all this is an excuse that is acceptable, holidays are for this kind of thing, if you worry on holiday whats the point of going.
But now I am back home and I am determined to lose weight and I will be putting the results each Wednesday on my blog. Todays weight - 230.3lb a loss of 2.2lb a move in the right direction.
Another help in weight loss is exercise and Modigli asked the question if I was doing any on a recent blog article. Well I attended Table Tennis training sessions on Wednesday & Saturday, this isn't ping pong I actually play at county standard so is decent exercise. I have also left the car in the garage and walked to work (2.5 mile each way) Thursday, Monday, Tuesday & today.
I was supposed to play golf last night but had to cry off because of a late meeting at work.
I did have a few drinks of Beer on Monday as I play in the local Pub Pool league but this is the only night I am drinking. On top of that I didn't eat too healthy on Saturday but as I have previously said I will lose the occasional battle but will win the war.
Last week following my vacation I reported my weight was 232.5lb an 8.5lb increase over my 17 days away. My excuse having a good time, drinking too much (every night), eating anything and everything, lack of exercise, etc.
Ok all this is an excuse that is acceptable, holidays are for this kind of thing, if you worry on holiday whats the point of going.
But now I am back home and I am determined to lose weight and I will be putting the results each Wednesday on my blog. Todays weight - 230.3lb a loss of 2.2lb a move in the right direction.
Another help in weight loss is exercise and Modigli asked the question if I was doing any on a recent blog article. Well I attended Table Tennis training sessions on Wednesday & Saturday, this isn't ping pong I actually play at county standard so is decent exercise. I have also left the car in the garage and walked to work (2.5 mile each way) Thursday, Monday, Tuesday & today.
I was supposed to play golf last night but had to cry off because of a late meeting at work.
I did have a few drinks of Beer on Monday as I play in the local Pub Pool league but this is the only night I am drinking. On top of that I didn't eat too healthy on Saturday but as I have previously said I will lose the occasional battle but will win the war.
Help Please - Toronto
I have been checking Flight/Hotel deals for a number of North American Cities (planning another trip Sept/Oct.
I did intend to visit Boston but I cannot find a reasonable deal so I have checked other cities on my gonna see one day list.
On top of Boston I checked out Philadelphia, Washington & Atlanta but all US flights seem expensive at present (around £400+), Hotels were also costly in all but Atlanta.
Now by far the best deal I could find is to Toronto £267 and I can also get a good hotel deal. Now I know at least two blog friends live in this area so here are my questions ?
1. Has anyone ever flown with "Air Transat" ?
2. What are they like ?
3. Do you know anything about "Clarion Hotel" (near Sherbourne subway station) ?
4. Is this Hotel in a good area (if not what are the best areas) ?
5. What are the tourist attractions in Toronto ?
6. What is the nightlife like (live music scene) ?
7. What is the September weather like ?
8. How many days would be a good period to see the city ?
9. Anything else you can add ?
I did intend to visit Boston but I cannot find a reasonable deal so I have checked other cities on my gonna see one day list.
On top of Boston I checked out Philadelphia, Washington & Atlanta but all US flights seem expensive at present (around £400+), Hotels were also costly in all but Atlanta.
Now by far the best deal I could find is to Toronto £267 and I can also get a good hotel deal. Now I know at least two blog friends live in this area so here are my questions ?
1. Has anyone ever flown with "Air Transat" ?
2. What are they like ?
3. Do you know anything about "Clarion Hotel" (near Sherbourne subway station) ?
4. Is this Hotel in a good area (if not what are the best areas) ?
5. What are the tourist attractions in Toronto ?
6. What is the nightlife like (live music scene) ?
7. What is the September weather like ?
8. How many days would be a good period to see the city ?
9. Anything else you can add ?
Nothing definate yet prices can come down on other flights, the one down side I have found so far is expensive flights to other cities to make it an two centre Holiday. I will be moitering prices over the next couple of weeks.
Tuesday, July 18, 2006
So Americans don't like Soccer
So England didn't make the world cup final but that wasn't going to stop me watching this match while I was in the states. The day of the Final was my last in Chicago so I decided to watch Italy versus France in my favorite Pub "Fado".
As a soccer fan I just can't be neutral so I decided I was going to support Italy in the final and thought it would not be right to wear my England shirt. So when I got up in the morning I choose rather than wear a National shirt I would wear my Club colours the uniform of the mighty whites.
Now kick off was not while 1pm Chicago time so I decided to go for a walk up Michigan Avenue in the morning and make my way to Fado's for about 12noon. To my amazement for the first time in the US I was seeing as many Soccer Shirts as Baseball shirts (even more surprising was that the White Sox were entertaining Boston Red Sox that day).
Eventually I made my way to Fado's and when I got there I was shocked there was a line of people 50metres long waiting to get in. As I made my way to the back of the queue assuming they were waiting to open I remember passing a group in Red scum (Manchester) shirts who seemed to glare at my White Gods top (we never get on) I was also surprised at the number of French supporters waving their flags.
Once in the queue it became apparent that it wasn't moving very quick so a girl in front of me went to find out what the problem was. She came back and said the pub was packed and it was one out one in. Now I realised most people will be in the pub to watch the final so wouldn't be moving so we had no chance, Fado's was closed due to crowd congestion.
So I moved on to "Rock Bottom" one block away to find the same problem a great long line of people trying to get in to watch the match.
I moved south a couple of blocks where I knew a sports bar "Mother Hubbards", now this is a baseball bar so I had my doubts. However they do have a lot of televisions and I thought they may show the match on one of the smaller screens, you can only ask.
When I opened the door I was amazed it was packed, the soccer was on, Italian and French flags (plus others) were everywhere. Luckily there was a spare seat at the bar and I ended up next to another Englishman from Oxford (not everyones perfect).
The atmosphere throughout the match was fantastic with a mix of all nationalities including many Americans totally absorbed.
The staff who were not expecting this turned out worked their socks off keeping everyone supplied with food and drink (they were totally undermanned), extra time and penalties must have killed them. The girl working the bar on her own was smashing still managing a smile despite running around like an headless chicken, Baseball was never like this.
Anyway the match is now history with Italy winning the shoot out and Zidane becoming a national hero (the first uniformed Frenchman to win a fight since Napolean), what a idiot, must be related to Rooney.
From what I saw America is slowly starting to realise this is the world game and a sporting nation like them needs to get serious about it (3 billlion people world wide can't be wrong).
As a soccer fan I just can't be neutral so I decided I was going to support Italy in the final and thought it would not be right to wear my England shirt. So when I got up in the morning I choose rather than wear a National shirt I would wear my Club colours the uniform of the mighty whites.
Now kick off was not while 1pm Chicago time so I decided to go for a walk up Michigan Avenue in the morning and make my way to Fado's for about 12noon. To my amazement for the first time in the US I was seeing as many Soccer Shirts as Baseball shirts (even more surprising was that the White Sox were entertaining Boston Red Sox that day).
Eventually I made my way to Fado's and when I got there I was shocked there was a line of people 50metres long waiting to get in. As I made my way to the back of the queue assuming they were waiting to open I remember passing a group in Red scum (Manchester) shirts who seemed to glare at my White Gods top (we never get on) I was also surprised at the number of French supporters waving their flags.
Once in the queue it became apparent that it wasn't moving very quick so a girl in front of me went to find out what the problem was. She came back and said the pub was packed and it was one out one in. Now I realised most people will be in the pub to watch the final so wouldn't be moving so we had no chance, Fado's was closed due to crowd congestion.
So I moved on to "Rock Bottom" one block away to find the same problem a great long line of people trying to get in to watch the match.
I moved south a couple of blocks where I knew a sports bar "Mother Hubbards", now this is a baseball bar so I had my doubts. However they do have a lot of televisions and I thought they may show the match on one of the smaller screens, you can only ask.
When I opened the door I was amazed it was packed, the soccer was on, Italian and French flags (plus others) were everywhere. Luckily there was a spare seat at the bar and I ended up next to another Englishman from Oxford (not everyones perfect).
The atmosphere throughout the match was fantastic with a mix of all nationalities including many Americans totally absorbed.
The staff who were not expecting this turned out worked their socks off keeping everyone supplied with food and drink (they were totally undermanned), extra time and penalties must have killed them. The girl working the bar on her own was smashing still managing a smile despite running around like an headless chicken, Baseball was never like this.
Anyway the match is now history with Italy winning the shoot out and Zidane becoming a national hero (the first uniformed Frenchman to win a fight since Napolean), what a idiot, must be related to Rooney.
From what I saw America is slowly starting to realise this is the world game and a sporting nation like them needs to get serious about it (3 billlion people world wide can't be wrong).
Monday, July 17, 2006
10 reasons losing weight is hard for me ?
The answers are simple just Food and drink in particular my addictions that I must fight to avoid the following :-
1. Fish & Chips - Now in Yorkshire these are a tradition, not sat in a snotty restaurant with a plate but eating them out of newspaper smothered in salt and vinegar. Best place in the world for this is probably sat on a wall looking at the harbour in one of our great Yorkshire coastal towns (Whitby, Scarborough, Bridlington, etc) . For info for my American blog friends the Fish is Cod or Haddock and to you Chips are Fries (what you call chips we call crisps).
2. John Smiths - This great Tadcaster Brewery produces the greatest Beer in the world, 3 options here Hand Pulled Yorkshire Bitter, Extra Smooth or Extra Cold. What the rest of the world call beer is not in the same league.
3. Full English Breakfast - Ok I cheat here, I am not a lover of fried eggs but the rest of it is so tasty, rashers of Bacon, Pork Sausages, Fried Bread, Black pudding, Hash Browns, Baked Beans (Heinz), Fried Tomato, etc.
4. Yorkshire Pudding - Our traditional food can be had in either the Giant form stuffed with Beef and vegetables in an onion gravy or in smaller sizes with our traditional Roast Beef Sunday Lunch. Some people have them as a starter covered in treacle but not me.
5. Ice Cream - Now I love Ice Cream (all flavours) but there is not an ice cream I have found anywhere in the world that is a patch on "Doubtfires". This is made locally and is so unbelievable it spoils all other ice creams for ever. I challenge anyone who has ever tried it to walk past a Doubtfires Van and not buy one.
6. Cheesecake - I just find it so difficult not to have dessert in a restaurant if they have Cheesecake on the menu. The topping is irrelevant I like them all but I am prone to strawberry.
7. Chocolate - Ok I am a Chocoholic and I fight hard to avoid it, but once it is offered and I get the taste I just can't stop eating. The best of course is the "Yorkie Bar" but don't offer me a Terry's Chocolate Orange (both origionally made in York surprisingly enough).
8. Cheese - I love all the cheeses from around the world, not yet found one I don't like. If I fancy a snack its Cheese Sandwich or Cheese & Biscuits or Cheese & Cake. There is always cheese in the fridge.
9. Fizzy Drinks - Always liked the old teeth rotting sugar fuelled drinks usually Coke, Pepsi or Lemonade. Recently I've made an effort in going for the diet versions instead of the full fat offerings.
10. Growlers (Pork Pies) - We have a Butchers near us that makes the most awesome Pork Pies they are amazing. "Who ate all the pies ?" sorry guilty as charged.
1. Fish & Chips - Now in Yorkshire these are a tradition, not sat in a snotty restaurant with a plate but eating them out of newspaper smothered in salt and vinegar. Best place in the world for this is probably sat on a wall looking at the harbour in one of our great Yorkshire coastal towns (Whitby, Scarborough, Bridlington, etc) . For info for my American blog friends the Fish is Cod or Haddock and to you Chips are Fries (what you call chips we call crisps).
2. John Smiths - This great Tadcaster Brewery produces the greatest Beer in the world, 3 options here Hand Pulled Yorkshire Bitter, Extra Smooth or Extra Cold. What the rest of the world call beer is not in the same league.
3. Full English Breakfast - Ok I cheat here, I am not a lover of fried eggs but the rest of it is so tasty, rashers of Bacon, Pork Sausages, Fried Bread, Black pudding, Hash Browns, Baked Beans (Heinz), Fried Tomato, etc.
4. Yorkshire Pudding - Our traditional food can be had in either the Giant form stuffed with Beef and vegetables in an onion gravy or in smaller sizes with our traditional Roast Beef Sunday Lunch. Some people have them as a starter covered in treacle but not me.
5. Ice Cream - Now I love Ice Cream (all flavours) but there is not an ice cream I have found anywhere in the world that is a patch on "Doubtfires". This is made locally and is so unbelievable it spoils all other ice creams for ever. I challenge anyone who has ever tried it to walk past a Doubtfires Van and not buy one.
6. Cheesecake - I just find it so difficult not to have dessert in a restaurant if they have Cheesecake on the menu. The topping is irrelevant I like them all but I am prone to strawberry.
7. Chocolate - Ok I am a Chocoholic and I fight hard to avoid it, but once it is offered and I get the taste I just can't stop eating. The best of course is the "Yorkie Bar" but don't offer me a Terry's Chocolate Orange (both origionally made in York surprisingly enough).
8. Cheese - I love all the cheeses from around the world, not yet found one I don't like. If I fancy a snack its Cheese Sandwich or Cheese & Biscuits or Cheese & Cake. There is always cheese in the fridge.
9. Fizzy Drinks - Always liked the old teeth rotting sugar fuelled drinks usually Coke, Pepsi or Lemonade. Recently I've made an effort in going for the diet versions instead of the full fat offerings.
10. Growlers (Pork Pies) - We have a Butchers near us that makes the most awesome Pork Pies they are amazing. "Who ate all the pies ?" sorry guilty as charged.
Ok so what am I going to do about it, well its all out war (ok I may lose the occasional battle) I will fight my cravings until I win.
Yesterday morning I have gone through my over full wardrobe and everything which is on the slightly large (comfortable) size as gone to the charity shop. Only stuff hung in my wardrobe now just fits or is too tight, so I must now win.
Sunday, July 16, 2006
Saturday, July 15, 2006
Forest Park St Louis
Forest Park St Louis is a great place to spend a day just walking around and exploring. It is at least 2 mile long by 1 mile wide.On my rounds I came across a museum, a Zoo, A boat house with a good restaurant, a visitors centre with a cafe, a golf course, a opera house, a tennis centre, a art gallery plus plenty of scenic views.
Just a great place with something for everyone.
Thursday, July 13, 2006
Vacation Top Five Lists
I've come up with these lists from my vacation during the last two weeks :-
Biggest Plonkers -
1st - The idiot with the 21st birthday group that tried to pick a fight with me and two friends I had made in "Beale on Broadway" in St Louis. He accused one of the chaps I was with of staring at his girlfriend when they actually were stood directly in front of the Blues Singer we were trying to watch.
2nd - Despite me wearing an England shirt and having an Yorkshire accent a fool on the Chicago Tribune stall at the Taste promised to deliver their paper on 3 occasions for 50cents, it was only when he started to fill the form in with my address he realised the error of his ways.
3rd - Big Headed St Louis Cardinals Supporter in packed Hotel Bar following match demanding he be served first calling the barman "a Mexican son of a bitch". No prizes for guessing who got served last everytime he went to the bar.
4th - The loony on the Abbey Pub stall at the Taste of Chicago whom I asked what type of fish they were serving (I like cod but not catfish). He insisted it was neither of those it was called "Battered".
5th - Got to go to United Airlines for letting me stand by a carosel for over an hour at St Louis airport waiting for my luggage. Apparently they had sent it on an earlier flight and had it in their office.
Best Service Staff :-
1st - I'll go for Teresa & Phil in Fado Pub in Chicago she is so cute and I love her sexy Irish accent and he is just a solid lad. They both always makes me feel welcome on my visits to the City.
2nd - Barmaids Michelle and friend (I can't remember her name) in "Beale on Broadway" in St Louis, really friendly and loved the way they told some arrogant Cardinals supporters who wanted the Television on to "F**k off this is a music bar not a sports bar".
3rd - Servers in "Show Me" on Lacledes Landing, St louis all with large breasts, tight shorts and skimpy vests (great uniform) and they insist on leaning forward when asking what I wanted and not leaving much to my imagination. It took me ages to choose as I couldn't concentrate.
4th - Room staff at "Palmer House Hilton, Chicago " just so friendly and polite.
5th - Hungarian waitress in Bewleys Hotel Mancheser Airport, so keen to help and a great smile. (see 2nd on next list)
Worst Service Staff :-
1st - Miserable dark haired bitch working behind bar in Kingston Mines Club, Chicago. It seemed an effort for her to pull a beer (the other girl was ok).
2nd - Some of the other staff a Bewleys Hotel Manchester Airport, so full of their own importance.
3rd - Bar Man in "The Big Bang" dueling piano bar on lacledes landing (grumpy b*****d).
Biggest Plonkers -
1st - The idiot with the 21st birthday group that tried to pick a fight with me and two friends I had made in "Beale on Broadway" in St Louis. He accused one of the chaps I was with of staring at his girlfriend when they actually were stood directly in front of the Blues Singer we were trying to watch.
2nd - Despite me wearing an England shirt and having an Yorkshire accent a fool on the Chicago Tribune stall at the Taste promised to deliver their paper on 3 occasions for 50cents, it was only when he started to fill the form in with my address he realised the error of his ways.
3rd - Big Headed St Louis Cardinals Supporter in packed Hotel Bar following match demanding he be served first calling the barman "a Mexican son of a bitch". No prizes for guessing who got served last everytime he went to the bar.
4th - The loony on the Abbey Pub stall at the Taste of Chicago whom I asked what type of fish they were serving (I like cod but not catfish). He insisted it was neither of those it was called "Battered".
5th - Got to go to United Airlines for letting me stand by a carosel for over an hour at St Louis airport waiting for my luggage. Apparently they had sent it on an earlier flight and had it in their office.
Best Service Staff :-
1st - I'll go for Teresa & Phil in Fado Pub in Chicago she is so cute and I love her sexy Irish accent and he is just a solid lad. They both always makes me feel welcome on my visits to the City.
2nd - Barmaids Michelle and friend (I can't remember her name) in "Beale on Broadway" in St Louis, really friendly and loved the way they told some arrogant Cardinals supporters who wanted the Television on to "F**k off this is a music bar not a sports bar".
3rd - Servers in "Show Me" on Lacledes Landing, St louis all with large breasts, tight shorts and skimpy vests (great uniform) and they insist on leaning forward when asking what I wanted and not leaving much to my imagination. It took me ages to choose as I couldn't concentrate.
4th - Room staff at "Palmer House Hilton, Chicago " just so friendly and polite.
5th - Hungarian waitress in Bewleys Hotel Mancheser Airport, so keen to help and a great smile. (see 2nd on next list)
Worst Service Staff :-
1st - Miserable dark haired bitch working behind bar in Kingston Mines Club, Chicago. It seemed an effort for her to pull a beer (the other girl was ok).
2nd - Some of the other staff a Bewleys Hotel Manchester Airport, so full of their own importance.
3rd - Bar Man in "The Big Bang" dueling piano bar on lacledes landing (grumpy b*****d).
4th - Bar maid in bar on Lacledes Landing, can't remember bar name but it advertises a New Orleans type atmosphere. She couldn't even be bothered to take her coat off and was more interested in eating a pizza than serving.
5th - Girl serving at Blue Chicago she just didn't know how to smile (I think she was a temporary from elsewhere).
Best things visited :-
1st - Taste of Chicago (more than once).
2nd - Forest Park St Louis, Great Place to spend the day, report and photos to follow.
3rd - Gateway Arch, St Louis, Impressive structure.
4th - Navy Pier, Chicago, I always love this place.
5th - Union Station, St Louis nice shopping centre.
To be fair to Chicago I didn't visit too many tourist attractions on this visit as I have seen them before. Some would be on this list it is an awesome city.
Things I should have done on this vacation but didn't :-
1st - Hired a bike for the day in Chicago and gone north along the lake path.
2nd - Visited the Soulard District in St Louis, apparently the nightlife is supposed to be good in this area. A bit tight here, couldn't get there on public transport and wouldn't pay for a taxi.
3rd - Visited the Green Mill Jazz Club in Chicago, I did intend to but other things cropped up and plans changed.
4th - Took in a baseball match, in all my visits to the states I still have not been to one and I had chance of a ticket for the Cardinals.
5th - Watched England win the world cup, apparently there was something wrong with the televisions in St Louis and they lost to Portugal on Penalties.
People I met that I knew previously :-
1st - Graham, works at same place as me plays Pool on a Monday with me and he arrived in Chicago the Thursday before I left. He is there because his Girlfriend is working and living in the City. We had pre-arranged our meeting and visited the Taste.
2nd - Regina, Blogging friend agreed to perform some of her songs while I was in the City. I wouldn't have missed that for anything, thanks Regina it was good.
3rd - Jeff, manager/owner of Andy's Jazz Club always welcomes me, the free entry I get when he is there is nice of him.
4th - Got to mention the cute Teresa in Fado's again.
5th - Sorry thats it.
Summer
To us soccer fans summer does not officially start until after the last match of the season. So Sundays world cup final (well done Italy) signalled the start of summer.
We can now forget about Soccer until the first match of next season for our Clubs.
Note - Leeds United first pre-season friendly is tonight, they are in Norway to take on Sparta Sarpsburg.
Summer is over at last.
We can now forget about Soccer until the first match of next season for our Clubs.
Note - Leeds United first pre-season friendly is tonight, they are in Norway to take on Sparta Sarpsburg.
Summer is over at last.
Wednesday, July 12, 2006
Chicago just Good Food & Music this time.
Ok after 8 days in Chicago during the Taste Festival I expected to put on weight so I got on my bathroom scale and was delighted to find I had lost an incredible 50lb. This delight was short lived however as I got off the scale to find it not moving, it is jammed.
Anyway I knew my clothes are tighter so I got weighed at work today to find out the damage, result an 8.5lb increase. Weight prior to holiday 224lb and today 232.5lb but it was worth it but now back to the hard work.
Anyway this visit was about enjoyment and the music was awesome, I saw so many great acts I can't even remember most of their names but here is some that stood out.
Anyway I knew my clothes are tighter so I got weighed at work today to find out the damage, result an 8.5lb increase. Weight prior to holiday 224lb and today 232.5lb but it was worth it but now back to the hard work.
Anyway this visit was about enjoyment and the music was awesome, I saw so many great acts I can't even remember most of their names but here is some that stood out.
One of my songwriting idols Ray Davies (former Kinks front man) appeared as the star act on independance day (one up for the English). First time I have ever seen Ray live I really enjoyed his performance which was a mix of stuff off his recent album (check out No8 my music post dated 19th June) and some Kinks classics.
Another highlight of my trip was a visit to North Chicago to the "Red Line Tap" on Thursday to see fellow blogger Regina sing, she has an awesome voice. I took some photo's but I will leave it up to Regina if she wants to post any of them on her blog. Regina
The music was varied and although I'm not a massive country fan this group "Janesville" where really good entertainment. Janesville
Another group that were entertaining "Underwater People" who played some of their own stuff mixed with Pop classics. Underwater People
These "Funk Du Jour" played a lot of 70's classics ans surprisingly I remembered them all (must be getting old). Funk Du Jour
Ok my eating drinking and listening to great music wasn't only limited to during the day I visited a number of great pubs & clubs while in town including :-
Believe me if you love music food and having a good time pencil in a visit to next years Taste of Chicago Festival, I will be (hopfully see you all there ?).
Tuesday, July 11, 2006
St Louis Photo's
I've only been back home a couple of hours but here is some photo's from my holiday (a few stories to follow).
The Gateway arch dominates the skyline and is an impressive sight.
Lacledes Landing is St Louis well known entertainment district.
Charles Lindburghs famous plane "Spirit of St Louis".
Entertainment by the mighty Mississippi river.
Busch Stadium home of the St Louis Cardinals.
Well you have got to relax sometime and the Hotel Swimming Pool was a good spot.
St Louis historical Union Station is now a shopping complex with bars and restaurants and well worth a visit.
I think this was the town hall ?
I have missed photo's of Forest Park from this post as I will show then on another article as it is in the same league as Central Park New York and Lincoln Park Chicago, maybe not quite as big but well worth spending a day there.Sunday, July 02, 2006
Goodbye St Louis & World Cup
Last night for me in St Louis, I'll be moving on to Chicago in the morning. Tonight there is a free concert and firework display on the banks of the Mississippi so I'm going to check it out.
I won't be drinking too much beer tonight I had enough this morning watching England lose to Portugal. Same old story in this world cup a Manchester United player gets sent off for stupidity and we can't take f*****g penalties.
I won't be drinking too much beer tonight I had enough this morning watching England lose to Portugal. Same old story in this world cup a Manchester United player gets sent off for stupidity and we can't take f*****g penalties.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)