Tapella Halloween Treat

It was supposed to be another Sportydad’s sporting event that night; to watch the replay of the 2012-2013 NBA opening games. With a blockbuster schedule  featuring the defending champs Miami Heat vs. archival Boston Celtics in the East and the Dwight Howard-Steve Nash reinforced LA Lakers against Nowitzki-less Dallas Mavericks in the West, I was in for an exciting night. So I thought. Apparently, basketball proved no match to our Spanish gastronomic date at Tapella that same evening.

A trip to Tapella brings you down Spain’s rich gastronomic experience and culture. In style, “ ala executive class”. Each menu relates you to a region, south or north, central or coastal, by way of the ingredients and style of cooking. Last time we were here months ago, we were taken to a trip down sunny Spain, with original Spanish cuisine from Andalucia, Catalan, Basque,  and Castilian regions only an expert Spanish Senorita can do, Chef Alexandra Cacho. This time, 14 new sets of menu were unveiled where  each serving seemed a mystery but eventually would draw our “ ahhs and ohhs”.

With my DIY Sangria

It started with our welcome drinks, where Chef Xandra dutifully taught us how to make our own Sangria, Tapella’s bestseller. Brandy first, then  liquor, topped by red wine. Put  ice cubes to moderate the taste and finally fill your glass with Sprite or Seven-up along with bits of fruits, preferably apples and/or lemon/oranges and voila, you now have your Sangria. Nice lesson for a social drinker like me. In due time and more practice,  I think I could perfect my own Sangria concoction.

Then, we sampled their new dishes.

Plato de Pintxos Calientes, P395

A plate of hot tapas of calamares, chorizo, croquetas béchamel, sobresada de quezo manchego, purusalda, tigres, champi, and pollo moruno

Plato de Pintxos Frios, P350

A plateful of cold tapas composed of cucumber, sardines, pulpo, cojonudos, gazpacho, veruta, agustin, and baine

Rabo de Toro, P695

A dish of slow cooked imported ox tail served with fries and carrots. I love its medium rare quality of the succulent meat. 

Tarte de Tomate, P275

This dish has sweet and succulent tomatoes sitting on Malagos cheese and caramelized walnuts, crowned with lettuce, lollorossa, and shrimps, then drizzled with extra virgin olive oil and added with a little bit of balsamic vinegar

Personally, I seem to have a natural liking to Spanish food. After all, our Ilonggo cuisine have strong  Spanish influence, from delicacy bread and pastries to such popular dish as “Paella” whose variation we call  ‘Arroz de Valenciana” Credit that to the many Spanish Senoritos and Senoritas, hacienderos, entrepreneurs and businessmen who came and lived in Iloilo and Negros.

Fideua Negra, P600

This dish is a black squid pasta using fine wheat noodle pasta cooked with lemon and added with bite-sized squids and shrimps. It is topped with aioli sprinkled with chives, along with cream dory coated with batter. The experience reminds you of the  gastronomic delights of Catalonia.

Bring your family and friends to Tapella at Greenbelt 5, Ground Level, Ayala Center, Makati City for a delightful and classy experience on authentic Spanish food, relaxing ambience, a hospitable guest relations. Get to meet a very engaging host, Chef Xandra Cacho who is happy to explain the origin of the cuisine and reveal her culinary secrets, some of it anyway, towards authentic Spanish cuisine.

Beyond the 13th Move: The Story of Eugene Torre

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Eugene Torre  is one of the few great Filipino sports heroes whose excellence and prominence in chess span more than four decades, and counting. I can think of two others who  fit the description for such longevity; Paeng  Nepumoceno in bowling and  the big J, Jaworski in basketball. Paeng’s career likewise span more than four decades and until now is still a force to reckon with. Jawo’s eminence in basketball span the period of my childhood, teenage years and adulthood. They all started in my growing up years and until now, they’re still there. They are all my all time local sports heroes.

Beyond the 13th move is a biography of Torre. I bought this book in the 70’s and was one of my treasured collection until Ondoy struck a few years ago.  I wish it could be re-published.

Eugene Torre was born in Iloilo city, my “happy place”. For decades, he was the toast of Philippine chess.  Beyond the 13th move was a memorable piece of history. Flashback: 1972 Chess Olympiad, Nice, France. Torre, then 22 but already the Philippines top player, played for the top Board (board 1) of the Philippine team. Ever since its inception and until now, each country normally fields its strongest player in Board . So Torre, was up against the world’s best of the best. On this fateful game ( my memory now fails me who he was up against except that he was also a top grandmaster), Torre needed only to draw the game and be crowned a full grandmaster. On that game, after some quick openings, Torre played safe and offered a draw. It was a long agonizing moment as he waited for his opponent to accept his offer. Then that moment came. His opponent formally welcomed Eugene to the elite grandmaster club by accepting the draw. History unfolded. Torre became the first Asian and the first Filipino to become a chess grandmaster. In that tournament, Torre finished  strong, 9 wins and 10 draws, to win the bronze medal for Board 1. Anatoly Karpov, who would later become world champion won the gold. But to stay unbeaten in a very strong field was already an outstanding record. The Philippine team also placed a respectable 11th place finish, until now its 2nd highest finish.

Torre would later on play for a record 19 consecutive Olympiads. Then on his 20th stint, he tied Hungary’s top grandmaster Lajos Portisch for the distinction of the only players to have played for 20 Olympiads. Now in the ongoing 40th Olympiad in Istanbul, Turkey, Torre broke this tie, and again made history by becoming the only player to have played in 21 Olympiads. In all of this, he played in Board 1 a record 17 times. In his entire career, his sterling record was in 1983 when he was ranked 17th in the world and played in the Candidates Matches for the 1984 world Championship, losing to Zoltan ribli,6-4 in a one on one encounter. No other Filipino has reached this pinnacle of success. Years before that, he made waves when he defeated then current world champion Anatoly Karpov in a tournament held in Manila in 1976. He was then credited for being the only player to have beaten Karpov while the Russian still reigned supreme as world champion.  Torre was also known as among the very few best friends, confidante, and second of that American chess genius, that recluse former world champion Bobby Fischer.

One of the finer moments described in the book was that in his era, whenever Torre wants to rest and relax, he would go home and find comfort and serenity in his land of his birth. Home is Iloilo ( La Paz) where he would enjoy its beaches. In some of these homecomings, he would drop by a landmark  place, a restaurant cum bookstore in Jalandoni  Street in front of the University of San Agustin. This place was also where local chess players meet and play. Torre would then play simultaneous games against anybody who would want to. It was in one of these fun simul games that my elder brod played him to a draw

Maria Sharapova's Tie-breaker

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It was a match everybody was expecting to end in the altar November this year. Instead, it was extended to a tie-break. Nobody knows now who gets the "Advantage", but definitely there will be no match point. I am referring to the Le Affaire Sharapova-Vujacic.

After winning her 3rd round match in the ongoing US Open, Maria Sharapova, women's tennis royalty, let the cat out of the bag. Her love affair with boyfriend Sasha Vujacic is over, finis. And they parted ways end of spring this year with no one, not even the nosy press knowing it. She herself was surprised that nobody asked her about it.

In happier days, they looked a perfect match. Both are good looking, both have the height, both have the physique and figure many would envy. Most of all, both are popular and famous. Sharapova need not further introduction. She's women's tennis top attraction; that I could say without fear of contradiction. She's my idol too. What she wears in her games in every tournament is being awaited. That's her fashion statement. How she plays either excites or makes your heart break.Vujacic on the other hand played was an NBA star, a member of the popular champion Lakers team of Kobe Bryant and co. for many years until he was traded to the New Jersey Nets last season. This year he disappeared in the NBA when he decided to play professional basketball in Turkey. Where then did they go wrong?

Sharapova herself admitted that their busy schedules was it. In short, their long distance love affair just would not click. Vujacic's Turkey assignment further added their estrangement. Since he arrived there this season, Maria revealed he has not gone home in 10 months. Absence indeed makes the heart grow fonder. Maybe they could find some rationalization knowing that this problem actually is common among sporting celebrities; especially if you're on the tour circuit where you go globetrotting the whole year round. Unless of course you are Mirka Federer, who retired in the sport and contented herself being the No.1 cheerer in every tournament of her beau of long years and husband later, Roger Federer.

The news spotlight of course will be on Sharapova. Already, the headlines are screaming: SHARAPOVA IS SINGLE ONCE AGAIN. Yahoo News put it nicely. " FINE TUNE YOUR BACKHAND, GENTLEMEN. MARIA SHARAPOVA IS BACK IN THE MARKET'.

Ouĭ Kim; Good Riddance Andy: US Open 2012

Tennis Majors always bring excitement; always with a package of surprises, controversies, disappointments, theatrics, stories and performances that will become historical highlights. The ongoing US Open 2012 is no exception. First came the  disappointment that world’s No.2 Rafa Nadal is out with injury. To me, the absence of one major character takes out some luster of the tournament. On the other hand,  a great promise loomed as the “greatest who has returned", Roger Federer, further takes another great step in cementing this crown. Or will it be Andy Murray’s time to finally bag his elusive major crown following his Olympic victory? On the distaff side, Serena looks supreme and has resumed her winning ways and habit of collecting records. Only Sharapova I think could stand in her way but only if, my Maria would be consistent  in her top fighting form.

 But the greatest drama that unfolded  was provided by two past champions announcing their retirement. Like previous tennis greats, the US Open, being the last in the calendar of the majors, is always reserved for retirement ceremonies.

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Yesterday, after losing her 2nd round match against upcoming British teen Laura Robson in a close 2- set heartbreaker decided by tie breakers, Kim Clijsters finally called it quits. Age, motherhood, and all, the 29 year old Belgian finally bid adieu the 2nd time around  to the sport she loved most. The first time she called bye bye in 2007 to give birth to her child, she came back in 2009 and won that year’s US Open. That was a spectacular win, surprising everyone considering that she had only few tune up games prior to the tourney. She even defended it the next year. This time though, it will be a final goodbye.

Kim was on top of women’s tennis in the last decade along with fellow Belgian Justine Henin, the Williams sisters, and Maria Sharapova. Her matches against these great rivals were always worth my time. She was a 4- time grand slam champion. Early on in her tennis fame, her popularity somehow rose with her publicized love affair with the then equally popular and top men’s tennis player, Australian Leyton Hewitt. The press called her  Aussie Kim, a tag she perhaps also loved, especially when sitting and cheering in Hewitt's box.  But she married someone else and later proved to all that motherhood is not a hindrance to becoming a champion. She was the first mother to become a grand slam champion since 1980. We will surely miss her. I will miss her competitiveness, her grit, and fighting heart. Her most enduring image to me were her  “splits” when retrieving deep baselines shots as no one else in the tennis circuit can do.

 Merci Kim. And good luck to your next journey.

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Andy Roddick came next in announcing he is done for good in tennis. He too was once my idol. Fast, furious, he with that power and booming serves.  He was on the rise in the early 2000, winning his first and only grand slam tournament, the US Open in 2003. That year, he was also rated world No. 1. It was bright note to American tennis. It came at a time when  Pete Sampras and in a way, Andrei Agassi were already closing on in their careers. Roddick therefore became their heir to carry the hopes of American tennis. Sadly, he came short of that billing. He stayed among the top 5 and for years lingered on that spot. Unfortunately for him, another greater Swiss maestro named Roger Federer was on the rise and set to dominate the field. They fought in the 2006 US Open finals just as Federer was starting to collect US Open titles. Thrice, they played in the Wimbledon finals. All these times, Federer simply outclassed him. Their last meeting in 2009 Wimby was a classic 5- set marathon thriller. Roger won, 16-14. In this time too, 2 other outstanding players came, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic.  Andy drifted and stayed in the top 10 and soon after, outside of that exclusive club. He could hardly advance  even to the quarters. He realized it was time to go. There was no other way as he said he did not want to be a mere passenger in this journey. So now, he is saying goodbye to tennis with no apparent heir to carry the torch of American men's tennis.

God job Andy. Now you can finally take off that trademark hat to your loyal and favorite Flushing Meadow crowd. Take a bow!

Lance Armstrong's War

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This is the title of the book which Wizheart gifted me last January with a simple dedication- “…to add to your collection of biographies of great sportsmen…”. As the author put it, this book is the extraordinary story of “ one man’s battle against fate, fame, love, death, doping  scandal, and a few other rivals on the road to the Tour de France.” He was stricken with cancer but fought and overcome it to win an unprecedented  record of 7 Tour de France titles. He seemed to win all these battles, except for one…. the doping accusation.

Lance Armstrong indeed is one of my sporting heroes in a sport considered among the most gruelling test of human endurance and skill, cycling. When we were young, we used to get excited during summers when the then annual Tour of the Philippines unfold and passed by our town.  I grew up idolizing  local heroes like  Abaquita, Moring, Reynante, etc. During fiestas, cycling also was one of the most awaited activities of the celebration. As I grew older therefore, this fascination with cycling continued. That’s how I came to know such cycling greats like Eddy Merckx, Greg Lemond and these past 10 years, Lance Armstrong and his closest rivals, Jan Ullrich, Tyler Hamilton, Ivan Basso, and Miguel Orendain.

 We came to know the exploits of these great cyclists through the news we read. But the book revealed to me the hardships, trials, challenges, the preparation prior to the tours, the do’s and don’ts, the technology in making bicycles, the  inner workings etc. which made me conclude that this is one hell of a sport. That’s why, with all those achievements, I looked up to Lance Armstrong.

But today’s papers reported a disturbing news. Lance was found guilty of the doping charges by the US Anti Doping Agency (USADA) and he will be banned from the sport for life ( which may have no effect at all as he has finally retired). Worst however, he will be stripped of his record 7 Tour de France titles and other titles and awards.  USADA said, Lance Armstrong was a dope cheat; that he used performance enhancing drugs from 1999-2005.

This accusation has actually been lingering for years now. Ever since, Lance denied all these accusations describing them as nonsense. He naturally has been blocking all the moves by the doping agency. Until now. Tired perhaps of fighting for his innocence saying it has taken great toll on his family, he surrendered. “Finished with this nonsense” he said. Now, the only thing left perhaps is the action of the International Cycling Union, the sports governing body.

Lance Armstrong- is he a sports hero or a dope cheat? Honestly, until this saga comes to a  final, unassailable conclusion, he still is my hero.

Spirit of London 2012

Source: Google Images

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The 30^th Olympiad in modern times has opened and what a show, as always. Watched by 4 billion people worldwide and attended by royalties, government leaders, celebrities, among others, it leaves no doubt to its billing as the greatest show on earth. The headlines say it all. Fantastic.

Coming home after the kids watched the blockbuster movie, Batman, The Dark Knight Rises, we caught the replay of the opening ceremonies last night as the athletes started the grand  ceremonial  parade by nations. We were excited to see the entrance of our Philippine delegation as the kids were having their countdown guessing the next in line by alphabetical sequence. It was also a lesson in geography for them and us actually, hearing for the first time many unknown countries and wondering where they are located in the globe. When the “ Saints” came marching by, they asked, why there were so many countries named after unknown saints.

The athletes “fashion wear”, i.e. uniform was another exciting part to watched. We laughed at the seemingly over and undressed,  admired the simplicity and design of others. Today, we learned that it was indeed a “catwalk show”, with the uniforms designed by such fashion biggest names, Armani, Ralph Lauren, Prada, Ferragamo, Stella McCartney, Hermes. Our national uniform was designed by a local big name, Rajo Laurel. I could only laughed that while I liked the navy blazers and navy berets uniform of the US delegation designed by Ralph Lauren, it is getting bad press because it was made in China. Ha ha.

But our greatest excitement was on the sight of popular sports stars, most especially, those who carried their national flags. It started with,  Marcus Baghdatis, the tennis star  from Cyprus, then NBA Memphis Grizzlies center Haddadi of Iran and world’s fastest sprinter Usain Bolt of Jamaica. It reached crescendo when our idol, tennis darling Maria Sharapova led the Russian delegation in a pant and suit design made by a Russian sportswear Bosco. The thrill hasn’t yet  subsided  when we sighted  a jubilant tennis superstar Novak Djokovic carryring the colors of his native land, Serbia. Then came the towering clean shaven NBA and Laker star Pau Gasol leading the very familiar glaring red and gold Spain delegation. At this moment, we almost expected and hoped the Swiss team will be led by tennis greatest, Roger Federer. Alas, roger was not there. This morning we knew why. He already has his 1^st round going against a low rated opponent from Colombia. Now, we wondered. Who’s gonna carry the blue and red stripe American flag? Could it be Kobe Bryant, Lebron James, or Michael Phelps? It was none of the above; a lady fencer did the honors for the US team.

It was already midnight. The climax is yet to come;  the lighting of the Olympic torch and the best kept secret of the whole event: who will be given the honor of doing it? And finally, the “best of Britain”, Sir Paul McCartney ( who doesn’t know him and the Beatles”) closed the affair with his famous ballad, Hey Jude. Na na na na….na na na.

Now, the Games has begun. The events I'd like to watch: the showdown between Phelps and teammate Lochte in swimming, Bolt vs. Tyson Gay in sprints, USA vs. Spain in basketball, Federer vs. Djokovic, Saharapova vs. Serena Willliams in tennis, and the Chinese domination overall. But actually, if there is one event I am made to choose, it's athletics, track most especially.

The Dream Team and Other Almost Dream Teams

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This is of course about the U.S. basketball teams to the Olympics comprised of NBA professional stars and superstars. This practice of using NBA stars started in 1992 during the Barcelona Olympics. The world by then has caught up with them in basketball. Back then, a gathering of amateur collegiate stars was enough to win the basketball gold. But not anymore, they concluded. So since 20 years ago, they dominated once again Olympics basketball, thanks to their NBA superstars.

Now comes the debate on who is the greatest dream team ever. Kobe Bryant, the Laker superstar perhaps stirred the debate when he was reported saying this year's batch could beat the original dream team of 1992. He was in my opinion, of course just kidding and perhaps just psyching them up following the non inclusion of other stars due to injuries. Missing center Dwight Howard, guard Dwayne Wade, slam dunk king Blake Griffin, Chris Bosh, would indeed make one dreaming.

In my mind, there indeed was only one dream team and this is the original dream team of the Barcelona Olympics in 1992. All and future Hall of Famers, except maybe for one. So powerful the team was that they beat their opponents by an average of 40 or so points. So complete that the substitutes was made by 5, not 1, not 2, nor 3. So devastating that in the whole tournament, Coach Chuck Daly never called a time out. Yet, despite the lopsided scores, fans overflowed the basketball stadium, not to see or expect a competition, but to see showtime. Slam dunks everywhere, pinpoint no- look passing, booming "treys", powerful and graceful drives, total paint domination. Even the opponents, starstrucked as they were, went for posses and autographs.

How about this as starting 5. Magic Johnson and Michael Jordan at guard, Larry Bird and Karl Malone at forward, and Patrick Ewing at center. The 2nd five would consist of John Stockton and Clyde Drexler at guard, Charles Barkley and Scottie Pippen at forward, and David Robinson at center. All superstars in their own positions. Sweet shooting Chris Mullin and the only amateur inserted in the team, All American No.1 amateur player Christian Laettner completed the line-up. Who can beat that?

True, most were nearing the peak of their careers. But their stars were still brightly shining in the basketball court. There is one more quality to this team which made it truly a dream team. They won the hearts and imagination of the basketball world. It cemented the frenzy that globalized basketball, a phenomenon I believed started by my idol, Michael Jordan.

Infographic: What Manny Pacquiao Knows That You Probably Didn’t Know

Got this from AdoboBites. :)


Manny Pacquiao Infographic Brought To You By Adobo Bites

Remembering Kiev : Euro 2012

Kiev circa 1984

Euro 2012 comes to conclusion with the finals match between defending champion and current World Cup champion Spain against a resurgent Italian squad scheduled on Monday in the beautiful city of Kiev, the capital of Ukraine. It is a fitting climax to the drama that characterizes the passion of the Europeans on the sports of soccer. It is also a testament to the all out preparation of the co-host city, putting up and spending a fortune building new stadiums and infrastructure, despite the negative impact of politics. For me, far far way  from it all, it is nostalgia and memories of a memorable past. Many years ago, pre glasnost and perestroika, I stayed in Ukraine for 4 months from March to July 1984 as one of the 17 engineers from 10 developing countries who attended the UNIDO/UNDP In Plant Training for Iron and Steel Engineers in Zaporozhtal Iron and Steel Works in Zaporozhye, a large industrial city south of Kiev.

St. Sofia Cathedral

We arrived in Kiev in early April 1984, spring coming as a relief to the cold winter of March when we arrived in Soviet Union. It was one of the oldest cities and the 3rd largest city in the former Soviet Union, after Moscow and Leningrad. It was a city of parks, so many of them as with the other major cities then of USSR. It was a city built on both sides of the famous Dneiper River, the largest and longest river in Ukraine which stretches out to the Black Sea in the southwest. The churches were marvelous, notably St. Sofia and St .Andrews, gold plated multi domes, reflections of the rich Christian tradition of the place before the Communists abolished religion. Other famous landmarks were the monuments to the Great Patriotic War ( as they call World War II with the tall Statue of the Motherland towering all other monuments.

Subway station downtown Kiev, 1984

Visiting Kiev then was  a relief to many of us delegates used to the Western type of living. Open cafes, busier streets, marvelous Metro ( subway stations), more approachable crowd. Otherwise it was still "borsch" ( Russia's "national soup" ), queueing, and Parooski. But we love the city, we love to stroll, we love the peacefulness of the place, and we love their ladies whom we think are more beautiful than Western women.

Statue of Motherland, Kiev

Football is big in USSR. it sure is big in Kiev, and other Ukraine cities. Football fields are everywhere all over the country. Their local football team, Kiev Dynamo, was very popular. Everyday, from morning till night, all we see in our TV sets was football; the only show in TV we can understand. Months later, in June 1984, every night, we would cram in the room of our fellow Chinese trainee to watch Euro 1984, the first time I was introduced to it. If my memory serves me right , I think it was Portugal who won that time. But the most famous player in that tournament was the French player by the name of Michel Platini. Incidentally, today, Platini, as president of UEFA, is in charge of overseeing Euro 2012.

Spaseeba Kiev. ( Thank you Kiev). Thanks for the memories. 

Wimbledon 2012 Shocker: Nadal Eliminated in 2nd Round

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I woke up this morning  and immediately switched on  the TV  to check the result of the Germany-Italy semi- final match up in Euro 2012 played a few hours earlier ( Philippine time) in Warsaw, Poland. Instead, a shocking news reverberating from London greeted me. Rafael Nadal, the world's No.2 and the tourneys 2nd seed, and just a few weeks ago, a big winner( a record 7th title) at the French Open was ousted in the 2nd round in 5 sets. Not so soon I said. It's still the early stage of the tournament when top seeds use this as warm-up sessions. And I don't even intend to write about Wimby till next week when the critical Round of 16 starts. I don't think my friend and tennis partner and a Nadal fan Matt in California would believe the news. 

And since this is still the 2nd round, I was sure the giant slayer is an unrated, unknown and maybe just even a mere qualifier. And he is really sort of that. From now on, his name will be etched in the history of Wimbledon and tennis. He is Lukas Rosol, from the Czech Republic, and seeded 100th. Consider his credentials: this is his first Wimbledon and has never won an ATP match in grass since 2005. And how he ended the match: he fired an ace at love. 

I have always viewed such upsets as highly possible and probable. Players ranked as low as 150th have the capacity to win against top players at any given day. They have already that skill,the power, speed, stamina and the hunger for recognition to ambush any top player on his off day. What these unheralded players often lack is mental composure, concentration and consistency that can be taught only by experience. 

I have watched Rafa's opening game. Also against an unrated Brazilian player, he fell behind, 0-4 in the first set before rallying for an eventual easy win. It could not be a sign of course since sometimes they lose the first set only to be fired up and win. But this is no doubt a huge upset, far bigger even than the early exit of another great, Pete Sampras, in 2002 to another unknown player. But that was because, as observers pointed out, Sampras was already then going down the hill while Rafa now is still at his peak. Oh well, is this good news for Federer and Djoko fans?

Going back to my original objective. This morning, my surprise and disappointment was completed.  My bet, Germany lost, clearly and convincingly, to Italy, 1-2. And with Spain eliminating another personal bet, Portugal on a shoot-out ( it's painful to lose this way ), my misfortune on guessing winning games continue. Spain vs. Italy? Can't figure it out now. Ha ha ha! Let's see how the road to Kiev looks like. 

Euro 2012: The Clash of the Titans

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Europe's heavyweights separated themselves from the so so when the semi final cast was completed. Earlier, Portugal nipped the Czech Republic, 1-0, Germany outclassed Greece, 4-2, defending Euro and World Cup champion and No. 1 in the world Spain eliminated France, 2-0 and finally, today, Italy sent the English team heartbroken with a 4-2 penalty shootout win. England's penalty loss was their greatest fear for it seemed like a curse to past English teams. Since 1990, they lost 6 out of 7 penalty shootouts, and this time, it happened  again, following a goal less regular and extension time. In all four quarterfinal matches, the winning teams clearly dominated their opponents, notwithstanding the scores. Of the four teams, only Portugal did not win a World Cup title. I was glad I have watched all the replay of these games and look forward to its conclusion.

It will be Spain vs. neighbor Portugal, and Germany vs. Italy. I go for Portugal, the underdog and the powerful Germany in the finals. Spain is heavily favored against Portugal but who knows, Cristiano Ronaldo, Portugal's superstar might show his true wares and give his country  a glorious victory. Spain is powerful, with its players culled mainly from Real Madrid and Barcelona, all veterans of the Euro 2008 and World Cup 2010. But I get bored with their style of play, long set up plays, disciplined and patient though. Portugal plays a running game and I like football that way. Germany on the other hand is strong both in offense and defense and have a deep bench. Against an ultra defensive but boring Italian team, I'm sure they'll be able to make breakthroughs and score.

That's the reason why I like South American football, the way Brazil, Argentina et. al. play. Free flowing, smooth attacking style. That's how you can appreciate the beauty of football.

After all is said, I think Germany will be the Euro 2012 champions. I like to see their leader, Chancellor Angela Merkel jump for joy again, like she did in the game against Greece. It would be a good break and relief for her while leading the European Union out of bankruptcy and disintegration.

Pacquiao Lost, Pacquiao Redeemed!

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On fight night, Manny Pacquiao lost by a close split decision to two judges. On recount, commissioned by the ruling World Boxing Organization and reportedly done by five international judges, Pacquiao won unanimously and convincingly. So what's the real score now?

Well, the WBO recounting satisfied the clamor by many for a review. It made a decision many also thought was the right decision. It somehow lessened the impact of the loss. But it can not overturned the judges decision. Timothy Bradley still remained the champ. The belt could not just be given to Pacman. And in a show of sportsmanship and maturity, Pacquiao said he does not want to take the belt either. He didn't even lash out at the judges and maintained he respect the decision though he believed he won and wanted a rematch. It makes one wonder: so why was it recounted. Only a criminal intent which has yet to be proven could overturn the ruling. Unfortunately, lapse in judgement, incompetence, judges error, could not make Pacquiao win and retake his belt.  Well, this is boxing; this was held in Las Vegas and they have their own rules.

To me, the best decision could have been this: WBO to declare the title vacant, and order a mandatory rematch this year between the two to settle once and for all the issue. I'm not just sure whether that would make another blockbuster fight.

Heat's Glory: It Was All Lebron James Story

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When my kids, Gabo and Rago, were still very young, they would often ask me this common question kids normally ask: Papa, which is stronger, Fire or Rain, Light or Wind? This year, a similar true to life question was added: Which would prevail? Heat or Thunder? This time however, they already have their answer; a foregone conclusion even way back last year. Heat of course.

My sons had been Heat fans. They idolize Dwayne Wade. And how they whoop it up when Lebron James and Chris Bosh came along last year, in a celebrated but controversial move. Now, they prove themselves right. This is also a rare time when we all root for one team. I was never a Heat fan , though I admire James and Wade for their individual virtuosity on court. But when this year season opened in December last year, delayed due to Union-Management disagreements, I boldly predicted. It's the year of the Heat. It's King James coronation. And even when they were up and down in the regular season, even when the Celtics were up 3-2,  with Game 6 back to the Garden ( Celtics home court), I still maintained,  Heat all the way.

I wanted Heat to win for the primary reason that for me, it's time Lebron James gets a championship ring. For all his achievements already, 3-time MVP, 2 Finals appearance, All Stars appearances, Olympic championship, and all. He transferred to Miami in his utmost desire to win a championship which he could not get with the Cavaliers. And for that, he was despised in Cleveland, he was criticized by many including the press. But who would want to retire without a ring? Ask Karl Malone, ask Charles Barkley, both NBA's greats and hall of famers, members of the original, the true one and only Dream Team. They retired without this greatest  prize.

Hail King James. Hail to Miami Heat! Hail to our very own, Miami's Fil-Am coach, Eric Spoelstra, hail to Pat Riley. When Gabo and Rago go home from school this afternoon, they will be happy, and we'll have one interesting discussion yet again.  

Euro 2012 Football Championship

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It's been over a week now that Europe is all agog over this tournament, second only to the World Cup in terms of importance and prestige. Never mind the crisis, serious enough to make their nations, Greece especially, bankrupt. They forget all their worries and problems once their countries play.That's how passionate Europeans are about football. National pride, passion, at times plain arrogance and hooliganism. Football to them is everything.

Such major sporting event yet it pains me that local media doesn't even bother to prominently report it. No news in major broadsheets and if ever, just a very tiny space likened to reporting the result of a barangay basketball tournament. And I thought that we are suppose to promote football now. If we are to promote this sport nationwide, media should play a very major role in promoting it, through its reporting, broadcasting, etc. Look at how they play up NBA. Basketball is already very popular in the country, and everybody is reporting it, giving it headline news in the sports pages and giving news at the scores. One major TV network even scrap their morning programs to beam live the on-going NBA finals when it is already actually covered in other channels. Good thing, Solar Sports ( which I think started sport coverages before other networks followed) is showing replays of the Euro Cup in the evenings. For the stories, Business World ( and perhaps the other business newspaper too) cover it regularly, including the other European and South American Cup championships.

Because of the TV coverage, we saw how NBA players play; and we follow their moves, their set-ups, etc which enhance our skills and basketball sense or IQ. Imagine if the same coverage is shown to us when Messi, Ronaldo, Rooney, Drogba, Lampard, Gomez, Roben, Shevchenko, Van Persie, et al show their wares.

The Euro 2012 is now in the quarterfinal stage.. Azkals fans, catch them and see the real  football.

Sleepless in Seattle

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This isn't about our favorite movie years ago, when Tom Hanks and Meg Ryan titillated us with their love story that ended up at New York's Empire State Building. This is about NBA, about the Oklahoma Thunder which may become this season's big winner and its predecessor, the Seattle Supersonics.

A few years ago, in 2008 , the Sonics folded up the Seattle franchise and moved to Oklahoma. The reason?  The Sonics team owners and the city of Seattle failed to agree on the expansion of Key Arena, the Sonics homecourt. So Gary Payton, Shawn Kemp, stars of the 90's who battled the mighty Michael Jordan and the Chicago Bulls for the NBA crown in 1996 , Dale Ellis, Xavier McDaniel in the 80's, Dennis Johnson, Jack Sigma in the 70's, Ray Alllen, Rashard Lewis of the early 2000, and the people of Seattle are the ones who maybe are now having sleepless nights.

Consider this. Back then in 2008, Kevin Durant, the man responsible for the ascendancy of the Thunder now, was already with the Sonics team, coming out from a Rookie of the Year season. And the flamboyant, high flying Russel Westbrooke from UCLA, the flip side of the Thunder's dynamic duo, was already drafted. So, back then, the future already belonged to them. They could have been in this prestigious position right now. 41 long years and one NBA championship in 1979, that was their story. It could have been a green and gold (Sonics color) celebration; not the blue and white Thunder  color.And future Hall of Famer Gary Payton is terribly sad.

Many of my friends say Seattle is a beautiful city; and I believe them. This city, home of America's great names in business, among them,  Boeing ( that's why they were called Supersonics), Starbucks, Microsoft, and what more, deserves to have an NBA team.

Incidentally, last summer, I read from an old book of my father-in-law, the speech of an Indian tribal leader delivered during the turn-over of their sacred land to the "whites." It was a very beautiful speech, full of passion with a tinge of disappointment that they have to give up their hallowed ground, the home of their ancestors. It was about their culture, tradition, and bravery in fighting for what they rightfully claimed was theirs. But why am I relating this?

Because the name of this Indian tribal leader was Chief Seattle, and the city was named after him.

Super Sunday

Last weekend was a blockbuster weekend with a smorgasbord of exciting major events which made me glued to the tv set whole day and night, changing channels back and forth. It was a 3 in 1 plus 1 weekend. I couldn't ask for more. The first made me feel great, the 2nd was a big big disappointment and the 3rd decided only an hour ago Monday night as rains delayed its final conclusion.

It actually started last Saturday evening when my favorite, Maria Sharapova, completed a big big comeback from years of injury and frustration to enshrine herself as the Queen of Tennis by capturing the French Open. It was the only title absent in her three major titles, thus capturing the rare Grand Slam in tennis; Wimbledon, US Open, Australian and French Open. rare because only 10 women  before her achieved it. And with her French Open title came a bonus, the world's No. 1 ranking. Nothing can beat that.

Sunday morning, we have the Game 7 of the NBA East finals between the revered Boston Celtics and the Miami Heat. Before the season began last year, I said I would bet on the Heat. And indeed, they won the East and now flies to Oklahoma for the most coveted NBA finals. It's time, Lebron James gets his championship ring. But they are up against the Thunder, a team bannered by young talented players led by Kevin Durant and Westbrooke. I thought Durant and Westbrooke are still young; they can wait for their time. I also predicted this match up in the finals.

Right after that game, came the most awaited event. Our national boxing hero, Manny Pacquaio against an undefeated but unheralded young challenger. Timothy Bradley. Shock, disbelief, disappointment, anger, sadness. Our Pambansang kamao lost by a split very controversial decision. It was a rub-out. How they could do it to a universal boxing icon is beyond me. Las Vegas boxing has seen many of such trash but victimizing our own Pacman? It's national tragedy in the Philippines. Even the international community was dismayed. This will be talked about for a long time. Now, the Filipino nation is cring out for revenge; Rematch.

Came the evening and there's Novak Djokovic, the world's No.1 and the top seed going against his great rival, the King of Clay, Rafael Nadal, world's no. 2 and 2nd seeded. In both ways, history is at stake. For Djokovich, it's the distinction of becoming the only man after more than 30 years to hold the four major titles at the same time. It started last year at Wimbledon, then US Open, then Australian Open last January. It's no coincidence that in all these tournaments, his opponent in the finals was... Nadal. Now for Rafa, which considers the clay of the Roland Garros his kingdom and turf, it's the unprecedented 7th title, breaking from 6 titles he jointly holds with one of tennis greats, Bjorn Borg. Alas, after 3 sets, with Nadal leading 2-1, the match was postponed due to rain. When play was resumed, nadal reigned supreme in 4 sets.

The Azkals Has Arrived!

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If we are to gauge the performance of our men's football national team (represented by the popular Azkals) the last two years since that eye opening Suzuki Cup performance, then, indeed, we can now say that finally, Philippine football has arrived. Their performance in the on going friendly games against long time regional tormentors, Malaysia and Indonesia has cemented that observation. Gone are the days when those two ASEAN neighbors, long dominant in the regional games, would outclassed our national teams by such forgettable scores as 7-2, 8-3, margins considered in football as massacre. Now, they can not intimidate us anymore. Now, they can not under estimate us anymore. Now, they are showing us respect.

Last week's friendly game in Malaysia against the host nation was played to an exciting and fighting draw. The team was not even complete with the inavailability of the Younghusband brothers and Neil Etheridge sitting out a one game suspension. In their last friendly a few months ago, played at Rizal Memorial, Malaysia was just lucky to even the game scoring in the closing minutes of the game, following a lapse in defense. Up 1-0 then with time ticking out, it could have been a sweet victory for our revered Azkals. Last night's game against Indonesia played in our own turf was also another heart rending game. Played in rain, it was marred by a bench clearing altercation following a Malaysian foul and which resulted to two red cards issued for the Philippines and one for the visiting Indons. But it proved beneficial on our side as the penalty kick which resulted on that early foul prior to the altercation resulted in a beautiful goal, courtesy of our No.1 scorer, Phil Younghusband. A penalty kick, a header pass to Phil in a crowded area in front of the goal, which he simply volleyed to a stunned Indon goalie.  It was a goal tying kick, 2-2, on the 80th minute which droved the highly partisan crowd in frenzy and uproar. Angel Locsin, wherever she maybe at that time, could have surely jumped from her seat. Now, the Azkals are flying to Bacolod for their 3rd friendly match against Guam, minus the hometown favorite, Ilonggo star and team captain Chieffy Caligdong who was one of those given the red card. How I wish the prolific Stephan Schrock will be there but he did not play last  night because he flew back to Germany on an emergency.


Philippine football has still a long, long way to go to even just be a contender in Asia, much more in the world. A generation or more perhaps. The question lingering in our minds will be: after Azkals, what? They will aged, most will go back to their country where they grew up, mostly in Europe. But now, even for just the popularity and attention revived, and the grass root development  that we now see, Sportydad is happy. Happy in the thought that I have something to cheer about in the sport I first loved, the sport I first played even before I entered school.

Golf Your Way to Father's Day at Marriott Manila

This June, we share our own fun way to uniquely indulge every great leader of the family—our dads! At Marriott Manila, we ensure that we’re the perfect venue to celebrate his life and love through golf.

Since it’s another event that deserves a grand blow out, food is always the first thing to consider especially for the man who takes time to enjoy family, hobby, and a good meal of course. If thinking where to eat on his special day, it would be great to consider a venue where dad can enjoy a hole-in-one treat from dining, accommodation, plus his love for golf!

Wake up the whole family a little earlier and head to Marriott Café for a taste of our most-talked about Sunday Brunch. Needless to say, there’s just something so endearing about a brunch especially at Marriott Café which has set the bar on the way we brunch—cozy, comforting, and basically has everything to satisfy an ever-fickle taste buds. For only P2, 500 net, the whole family is in to be treated with a spread that is purely gourmet. You cant’ go wrong with executive chef Meik Brammer’s 17 stations, featuring its newest additions such as oyster bar, chilled seafood, salumiere, cheese studio, homemade pasta, yakitori, Chinese, and tandoor. Plus, Cru Steakhouse also incorporates its specialties such as Angus beef rib eye, strip loin steak, grilled fish, squid and veggies--which of course, every meat lover dad should never pass up! If you’re family is a fan of big, tender, and tasty slabs of steaks, you must have heard about our Cru. Our well marbled, precious steak slices that are usually saved up for special occasions can now be gorged limitless and enough to suffice the price for this brunch. And who would’ve thought that a martini bar is such as pleasure to enjoy this time of they day? With these well-crafted cocktails and great mixes, it will surely set the stage for dad’s extra special event.  Plus, our chocolate room that spells decadence is brimming with assorted chocolates and rich cake choices is always worth saving up the space for. Whether it’s for the romantic mom and dad or sweet-toothed siblings, this corner is bound to let you experience a taste of heaven. And if you haven’t tasted just yet our sensational homemade gelato, it’s the best time to savor every flavor,   especially the famous Ferrero!  

What’s amazing with dads is that, they love all sort of action-packed bonding experience, especially if it’s a golf game. That’s why while enjoying brunch, an indoor putting station awaits all families that is guaranteed to bring fun and can make any family closer than ever. Make sure to bring out the best putt for a chance to win Marriott Manila gift certificates such as overnight stay, Java+, Marriott Café buffet, golf lessons, and freebies when dad makes it hole-in-one.

But if your goal is to surprise dad with a most romantic kind of date, book for a Cru Steakhouse dinner. For this occasion, sous chef Redj Casanova takes it up a notch with a special Father’s Day 4-course menu: Crispy soft shell crab salad, cream of chicken veloute, grilled grain fed Australian rib eye or pan roasted salmon fillet, and dark chocolate soufflé with Bailey’s ice cream--all at P4, 000 net. And since it’s a day to be extra lavish, might as well consider treating him with a wine-by-the-glass which can add a wine tasting dimension to a meal. With its welcoming yet sophisticated fine dining vibe coupled by Cru’s personalized flair of service, dad will surely feel an amazing king of the day experience that he’ll probably talk about for years.

Another hands-down way to reward a hard working head of the family is by taking him at the Quan Spa, where he’s in to experience a whole new way to wholeness and wellness. Featuring Pevonia Detox massage for only P5, 950 net, this two-hour treatment is designed for distressing, detoxifying, and toning while taking away toxins and impurities of the body. This revered treatment for two hours is using Pevonia’s seaweed wrap teeming with nourishing extracts, guaranteed to revive and refresh a tired body. 

A grueling first half of the year deserves a much-awaited break, and kicking back with your family sounds heavenly. Why not take them at Marriott Manila and avail of the mid-year bonus room package? For only P9, 888++ per night when staying for two nights, the deluxe room accommodation is also inclusive of buffet breakfast for two—and an extra 3^rd night for free plus a double Marriott Rewards points!

Who said that crafting a special event like this would be such a pain? At Marriott Manila, we offer a simple formula for an occasion that is worth remembering while getting out of the traditional.

For inquiries or reservations, call 988-9999.

ABOUT MARRIOTT HOTEL MANILA:

An inviting beacon set in the world-class casino entertainment complex of Resorts World Manila, Marriott Hotel Manila is the place to work and play. Ideally located in Newport City across Ninoy Aquino International Airport Terminal 3, it is a convenient 15 minute drive from Makati Business District and Bonifacio Global City. Affording a splendid view of the adjoining 18-hole Villamor Golf Course, it boasts 342 exquisite guest accommodations that offers luxurious bedding, in-room safe, mini-bar, high-speed Internet, air conditioning, 40" full high definition LCDs with IPTV, videos on demand and jack pack plug-and-play system. The hotel features excellent dining options such as Marriott Cafe, Cru Steakhouse, Java+and Lobby Lounge. Leisure facilities include Quan Spa, Health Club, Salon and Newport Mall. With a Grand Ballroom and several meeting rooms, Marriott Hotel Manila is also the ultimate destination for meetings and events, from weddings to gala dinner celebrations.