Sports Galore - Post Mortem

For those who have no idea what this post mortem article is all about, the brief explanation goes like this; there was a period of time starting from May 2012 till August 2012 which was full of sporting event which I anticipated with a lot of eagerness. I watched all these events and also had my very own prediction of what might the results be and also what results that I wanted. If you still have no idea what I am talking about, just check out the previous article here, Sports Galore. Well let’s get started with the post mortem one by one according the sporting events mentioned before.

English Premier League - Judgement Day (13/05/2012)

The title challenge came down to the wire between both the Manchester clubs in the most thrilling ending of the English Premier League history. Tied with the same amount of points, Manchester City had the upper hand with the goal difference and will go on to win the title if they manage to secure all 3 points in the Etihad Stadium against Queen Parks Rangers, unless Manchester United manages to register a win against Sunderland and turn around a 8 goal difference which is highly unlikely to happen.

Well things didn’t go well for the Blue Half of Manchester as they were trailing 2-1 with around 5 more minutes to go and the Red Devils were leading by 1-0. As the clock ticked down, Edin Dzeko managed to pull one back to bring things to level. But a draw wouldn’t be sufficient to get their hands on the trophy. The final whistle blew at the Manchester United game, the players and fans were excited, 1 more minute left at Etihad and title number 20 will be theirs. Then came the biggest turn around in Premier League history as Sergio Aguero blasted the ball pass the QPR keeper to make the score 3-2.

A moment of shock, it took a few seconds for everything to register clearly. The Red Devils had the title in their hands for around 50 seconds and then in a split second it was gone. After 44 years, Manchester City had won the Premier League title. Celebrations erupted in Etihad Stadium. It was over, the season had come to an end; a thrilling end and Manchester United was left disappointed. They would have to wait one more year for their 20^th title. 

Factual Result: Both Manchester clubs secure a win. Manchester City crowned EPL champions after 44 years.
Hopeful Result: Manchester City drops points against QPR. Manchester United become EPL champions for the 20th time.


On to the relegation battle between QPR and Bolton Wanderers; as stated above QPR had lost their match so it all depended on Bolton’s result to see who stays and who goes. And despite dropping the points, QPR managed to stay in the Premier League as Bolton failed to register a win. So, Owen Coyle and his team were going down to the Championships.

Factual Result: Both teams drop points and QPR stays in the EPL.
Hopeful Result: QPR nicks a draw or win in Etihad Stadium to stay up and hand the title to the Red Devils at the same time.


Besides the title, the Champions League spot was also played for in the last day with Arsenal, Tottenham and Newcastle all having chances to qualify. One team will be left disappointed as there were only two more places up for grabs and maybe it will be more than one in case Chelsea are crowned champions against Bayern Munich in the Champions League finals. Arsenal and Tottenham had their fate in their own hands as securing a win will promise a top 4 finish, meanwhile Newcastle needed to register a win and hope either one of the other teams to drop points.

Well at the end for the day, Arsenal and Tottenham both secured wins and went on to finish in the top 4 but unfortunately Tottenham were left to rue their fate as their qualifying spot was given to Chelsea when The Blues were crowned Champions of Europe.

Factual Result: Arsenal and Tottenham win to qualify for Champions League.
Hopeful Result: Tottenham and Newcastle qualify for Champions League. Arsenal misses out but gives chance to Arsene Wenger to focus more on the league next year and challenge for the title. Also chances for younger Gunners to show their worth in the Europa League.
Unpredicted result: Arsenal and Tottenham secure qualification. Chelsea nick Tottenham’s place with their Champions League victory.


Champions League Final - Bayern Munich vs Chelsea (19/05/2012)

This year saw Bayern Munich go against Chelsea to be crowned Champions of Europe. Chelsea had a horrendous season this year by missing out on a top 4 finish for the first time since the last 9 years. Their season was also marred by the unsettled turmoil in the changing room and saw the departure of AVB. But caretaker manager, Roberto Di Matteo had initiated the resurgence of Chelsea by leading them to two cup finals. Having secured the FA Cup, Chelsea's eyes were set upon the coveted Champions League trophy which has been Roman Abramovich's dream ever since he bought over the Blues. The Champions League had eluded Roman for the past one decade and this year might be the year he finally gets his hands on it.

Bayern Munich also had a less than satisfying season. They lost the Bundesliga by an 8 points difference to Borussia Dortmund. To add salt to the wound, Bayern lost the DFB-Pokal final to Borussia Dortmund with a scoreline of 5-2. Having lost their chances to secure a cup for this season on two accounts, the Champions League was the last chance for them to finish the season with a trophy. Having the home advantage as the finals will be played in the Allianz Arena, Bayern Munich were set to avoid a trophyless season.

Well at the end it was Chelsea who managed to pull through as champions. It was a tight match throughout the whole game, until the 83^rd minute when Tomas Muller put one pass Petr Cech. With around 10 minutes to go, Bayern Munich was set to lift the trophy. But it wasn’t meant to be as in the 88^th minute Chelsea put a blow in Bayern’s dream as they scored the equaliser and who else to do it then the Blue’s player who always delivers in big matches, Didier Drogba.

The match went on to extra time and the score remained 1-1 until the final whistle blew. It was to be decided with the penalties. Chelsea had the bad start as their first penalty taker, Juan Mata missed right after Philip Lahm had scored Bayern’s first. The rest scored in successions; Gomez, David Luiz, Neuer and Lampard. With Bayern leading 3-2, Ivica Olic stepped up and missed. Ashley Cole didn’t make any mistakes and the scores were level. Bayern’s fifth was their talismanic player, Bastian Schweinsteiger and he would go on regret this dreddful day as he missed his penalty. It was Didier Drogba who stepped up next. If he scored, Chelsea would win and score he did.

Chelsea were champions of the first time ever in their club history and Roman Abramovich’s dream was finally fulfilled.

Factual Result: Bayern Munich nicks a close win in front of the home crowd.
Hopeful Result: Bayern Munich wins to ignite their resurgence for next season.
Unpredicted Result: Chelsea wins the Champions League to the first time in the club’s history.


Thomas Cup 2012 (20/05/2012 - 27/05/2012)

The Thomas Cup this year was hosted by China in Wuhan. The last we won the Thomas Cup was in 1992 when Cheah Soon Kiat and Soo Beng Kiang secured the last point which was needed to get our hands on the cup. After 1992, the closest we ever came to clinching the trophy once again was in 1994, 1998 and 2002 where we finished as runner-up by losing to Indonesia in all three accounts.

Losing Lee Chong Wei to injury, Malaysia had an early exit as they were up against China in the quarter final stage. The rest of the players put up a strong fight yet we were disposed by China 3-0 who went on to win the title once again.

Factual Result: China wins the Thomas Cup for the 5th time in a row.
Hopeful Result: Malaysian squad pulls a surprise win and comes back home as Heroes.


French Open 2012 - Les internationaux de France de Roland-Garros (27/05/2012 - 10/06/2012)

The three way battle for the Grand Slam title between Roger Federer, Rafael Nadal and Novak Djokovic is upon us once again with Andy Murray providing challenge from time to time. But the French Open clay court plays advantage to the reigning King of Clay, Rafael Nadal. Having won the title 6 times, equalling Bjorn Borg's record, Rafael Nadal was set to surpass that record.

Novak Djokovic after losing to Nadal in the Monte Carlo open finals wanted to avenge his defeat and prove that he is worthy of the world number 1 title in all type of courts. He also wanted to break his drought of not having ever won the French Open title. Another player set to break his spell of not having a Grand Slam title was Andy Murray.

One player which you can never put aside is Roger Federer who is considered the greatest player to embrace the game of tennis. Looking to add to his 16 Grand Slams title, Federer wanted to win the French Open which he has only manage to win once making the French Open his least successful Slam. It has been 2 years since Federer won his last Slam, the 2010 Australian Open and the closest he has ever come to winning another Slam after that was the 2011 French Open, but this might be the Slam that "The Emperor" makes his comeback.

It was Rafael Nadal who won the title beating Novak Djokovic in the finals, 6-4, 6-3, 2-6 and 7-5. It was a tight match, but Nadal prevailed once again.

Factual Result: Rafael Nadal wins his 7th French Open title.
Hopeful Result: Roger Federer wins his 17th Grand Slam title.


UEFA Euro 2012 (08/06/2012 - 01/07/2012)

The UEFA Euro was back after Spain won it the last time in 2006. Spain were looking to retain the cup since no nations has won it in a back-to-back tournaments before. Spain wanted to make it their third win of the tournaments. Germany the strong hold of European football was also a top contender to win. England under the new management of Roy Hodgson had a lot to prove since they didn't qualify for the previous tournament. Netherlands had an amazing record during the qualifying rounds and the EPL top scorer RVP was set to achieve the same in this tournament. Besides team victory, a personal agenda was looming with the name of Cristiano Ronaldo. He is the only person standing between Messi and his 4th World Player of the Year Award.

Well Spain did go on to reach the finals and were crowned champions beating Italy in the finals. Netherlands had a bitter tournament crashing out in the group stages. England crashed out in the quarters and Portugal went out in the semi finals. Cristiano had a good tournament none the less but it wasn’t enough. The Germans suffered in the hands of Italy in the semis being unable to break their terrible record against the Italians. At the end it was Spain who was champions once again.

Factual Result: Favourites to win the tournament; Spain, Germany or Netherlands.
Hopeful Result: England wins the tournament to end their fan's years and years of disappointment or Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal wins the tournament and of course he bags the Golden Boot too en route.


Wimbledon 2012 (25/06/2012 - 08/07/2012)

The tennis giants were back on the grass court after the clay court Grand Slam. The statistics in Wimbledon will have a slight twist in comparison with Roland Garros. Novak Djokovic was out to retain his title. Roger Federer's win would tie him with Pete Sampras as the player with the most Wimbledon Singles title. Rafael Nadal who has only won the title once wanted to add to it. Andy Murray was in line to win his first Grand Slam also. Yet, it was the “Emperor of Tennis” who went on to claim his 17^th Grand Slam title beating Andy Murray in the finals, 4-6, 7-5, 6-3 and 6-4.

Factual Result: Novak Djokovic to retain the title.
Hopeful Result: Roger Federer wins to equal Pete Sampras record.


Olympics - London 2012 (27/07/2012 - 12/08/2012)

The Summer Olympics was back after 4 years. Being a Malaysian, my full focus was on the badminton court. The Olympic Gold medal had eluded our country ever since its conception. We came close to winning it on two occasions, Cheah Soon Kit - Yap Kim Hock losing out in the Men Doubles finals to Rexy Mainacky - Ricky Subagja in Atlanta 1996 and Dato' Lee Chong Wei losing out in the Men Singles final to Lin Dan in Beijing 2008.

And this year it eluded us once again, as our Dato’ Lee Chong Wei went down to Lin Dan 21-15, 10-21 and 19-21. But it was a hard fought battle. He gave it his all, but it wasn’t meant to be. Nevertheless, the country was immensely proud of Dato’ Lee Chong Wei and he will forever be in our nations heart.

Factual Result: Only for badminton - Lin Dan wins Gold again.
Hopeful Result: Only for badminton - Dato' Lee wins the Gold and surprise package Koo Kien Keat - Tan Boon Heong win the Gold also giving Malaysia double victory and 1 day public holiday or maybe 2.


Looks like most of the listed hopeful results did not appear to realize. In an unlisted hopeful result; Maria Sharapova won the Roland Garros title completing her career Grand Slam. Well, a week after Summer Olympics, the football season kicked off as usual even though it wasn’t a good start for the Red Devils who went on to lose their opening match against Everton. But there will be 37 more games to go and I’m sure the Red Devils will pick themselves up. The listed sport events had come to an end, even though some of the results were disappointing, it was an enjoyable period of time nevertheless.

Bucketlist #02: Go To Disneyland

At Disneyland Hong Kong entrance

"Disneyland", even the word itself is magical. It is every child's dream to go to Disneyland and it was mine also. I grew up hoping and wishing that one day i will be able to visit Disneyland. Well it finally came true when i was 28 years old. Was it to late? No, not at all, it would not have been too late even if i have went there when i was 60 years old. It is never too late to go to Disneyland.

My job was the one that provided me with this opportunity. My work requires me to attend an Investigator Meeting each time we take up a new study. The Investigator Meeting usually takes place in a Asia-Pacific country. My first Investigator Meeting brought me to Taiwan and i had the time of myself. Little did i know at that time that my next Investigator Meeting will be taking me to Hong Kong. Hong Kong is one of the 5 places in the world that has a Disneyland Theme Park.

The news that i will have to attend a meeting in Hong Kong came to me in November 2010. As soon as i heard the news, the only that came to my mind was "Disneyland", "Disneyland" and "Disneyland". The meeting was to take place on the 10th December 2010 at The Excelsior Hotel which is a 5 star hotel and i will be staying there from the moment i reach Hong Kong, 9th December 2010 until the moment i leave, 11th December 2010.

I checked the meeting details and learned that i will be reaching Hong Kong on the 9th December 2010 in the evening and will be attending a welcome dinner at 7.30pm. So i can't go to Disneyland on the first day itself. The meeting will be on the next day and will commence at 8.30 am and end at 3.00pm. The departures back home are set on the same evening the meeting ends. But, since the flight back to Malaysia is only available once a day and only in the morning, i was set to leave early morning on the next day, 11th December 2010. So there was my chance, right after the meeting at 3.00pm, i will be free to do my own activity and visit any place i want. Well, there was only one thing that i wanted to do and only one place that i wanted to go and i guess everyone knows by now what it is.

My flight to Hong Kong was a direct flight though Cathay Pacific Airlines. The flight was smooth and i landed in Hong Kong International Airport with much excitement. As soon as i came out of the arrival hall there was already an event organizer waiting for me holding the meeting name in a placard. I was there with my specialist, so both of us followed the event organizer in quite a luxurious MPV which i couldn't remember the name. It took us around 45 minutes to reach our hotel, The Excelsior. By the time we reached it was already 8.00pm. I checked into my room which was really amazing. Got ready and went down for dinner, all the while there was only one thought in my mind, Disneyland.

After dinner, i rested for awhile and went for a walk around the city. Wanted to familiarize myself with the surroundings and find out where the nearest MTR station was so that i can have everything coordinated for my adventure tomorrow. After roaming the streets until 12.30am, i went back to my room so that i can enough rest and not fall asleep during the meeting.

My morning started with a delightful breakfast. It felt wonderful feasting on a five star hotel breakfast buffet. The choices of food were just to many to handle. The meeting commenced smoothly and i gave it my total attention even though subconsciously i was waiting for the meeting to end as soon as it can. During lunch, i went to the tourist counter in the hotel lobby to find out more about Disneyland. I picked up some quite useful information. Using the MTR to get there would be way cheaper and easier as there is a special MTR station for Disneyland itself. I also found out that it will be closing at 9.00pm which is one of the latest time the park will close as it usually closes at 8.00pm. So i was lucky that i will be having an extra 1 hour to explore Disneyland. And the best part was i bought my entrance ticket to Disneyland at the tourism counter itself. I would be able to escape from lining up at the park counter, that means more time for me to enjoy Disneyland. I was all set. 2 more hours and i would be off to Disneyland.

The meeting ended 10 minutes earlier than expected. Looks like everything was working out to my favor today. I had a short shower, took everything that i needed and made my way to the nearest MTR station which was less than 5 minutes walking distance away. Having maneuvered the Moscow Metro for 6 years, figuring out the MTR system wasn't that difficult at all. I got my tickets and was on my way, a good 40 minutes and i will be reaching my destination, Disneyland.

At Disneyland Hong Kong Fountain

The last train ride to my destination was already magical as it was a specially made Disney train that had beautiful Disney characters interior designs and even the windows were in the shape of Mickey Mouse's head. The announcers voice was explaining about the Magical Kingdom throughout the ride and when we finally reached the station we were given a welcome note. Hearing that welcome note, it fully registered in my head, i was there, i was finally there in Disneyland.

The sight was enchanting with a beautiful fountain right in front of the entrance. The audio was playing throughout the park with series of Disney songs. I was mesmerized, i was excited. I didn't know what to do and where to go first. So i went to the brochure counter and got a few brochures with the map of the park and also events that might be going on for today. Looking at the map, the events listed and also the amount of time that i have, i planned out what i wanted to do. It took me around 5 minutes and i had everything planned in my head. Either way i can improvise as i go on.

First stop was the Hong Kong Disneyland Railroad, it was train ride that went around the whole park. It takes around 15 minutes and you will be able to see the total layout of the park. Its the easiest way to see all the different sections available before you go exploring it one by one. The ride was fun with voice-over explaining where we were and what we were seeing. Looking at all the different sections such as Adventureland, Fantasyland and Tomorrowland were just too exciting and it also made me change my plans a bit because the queues for certain attractions were visible and i had to cancel out some of it as i knew getting stuck in the queue will deprive me of exploring other attractions. The joy ride was over, just seeing the whole park was so enchanting, now time to explore it one by one.

As soon as i got of the train, the first stop was Art of Animation. It was a building with artwork from many Disney animations. Drawings, paintings, models and real model animation pieces. Admired the fascinating artwork and models, took a few pictures and i was off to my next stop. I checked out some of the souvenir shops so that i would have a rough idea of what i would want to buy later. All these were in the Main Street USA section. Now off to my first stop Adventureland. A lot of attractions at Adventureland, but the main one would be the Jungle River Cruise. The queue was extremely long, so i had to skip that. But no to worry i would not miss out on it again the next time i come.

After Adventureland, it was time for Fantasyland. Fantasyland also had a lot of attractions. The Golden Mickey's last show ended by the time i got there. So i missed out on that too. I was looking forward to that show. The rest of the attractions like Its A Small World, Mad Hatter Tea Cups, Cinderella Carousel and Dumbo the Flying Elephant were more suited for children. Even though i didn't try the rides, i enjoyed watching loads and loads of children having fun there. But i watched one of the best 4D shows ever in Fantasyland, the Mickey's PhilharMagic. The show was absolutely wonderful. It showcased orchestra music with Donald Duck jumping through different cartoon animations such as Lion King, Beauty and the Beast, Little Mermaid, Aladdin and many more in 3D. With added effects such actual water splashing on you, air blowing on your face and many other effects it turns this 3D show into a magical enchanting 4D show. Never have i seen anything this great on screen before. Simply amazing.

Being mesmerized with the show i headed to the Main Street USA again. Since it was December and it was nearing Christmas, everyday Disneyland has a "Christmas Tree Lighting" event. Everyone gathered in the Main Street USA to witness the event. It started with Mickey and Minnie entering the main square where the huge Christmas Tree was located. They sang a few Christmas jingles and the crowd sang together and so did i but only the songs that i know of course. Later Mickey and Minnie were joined by 4 other Disneyland performers who sang more jingles. As the jingles ended, they started the countdown to light the tree. From 10 to 1 and as soon the countdown ended, the huge tree lighted up with synchronized music. Small fireworks were set off and artificial snow poured from the top of the buildings. I could feel the Christmas spirit already. Actually more than i have ever felt before. I don't know why but i always felt a close relation between Disney and Christmas. And watching the Christmas Tree light up in Disneyland was just too good to be true.

The Sleeping Beauty Castle

Then i was off to the Sleeping Beauty castle which is one of the most iconic symbol of Disneyland. Took a few pictures in front of the castle. By that time my stomach was already growling for dinner. I had a lot of options to dine at as Disneyland offers variety of choices. And the best part was my dinner bill can be reimbursed as it was being paid by my meeting sponsor. So budget was not an issue, i can dine wherever i want. I weighed my options; Corner Cafe and Plaza Inn in Main Street USA, Rear View Cafe in Adventureland, Starliner Diner and Comet Cafe in Tomorrowland and Royal Banquet Hall in Fantasyland. All of them had a different concept, some were futuristic, some were jungle like and some were royal like. I opted for the Royal Banquet Hall in the Sleeping Beauty castle in Fantasyland. Dining in a castle like setting was amazing. I felt like i was in the 16th century, what an experience. The food was great too, i had steak with different types of meat and dined like a king. It was stomach filling and also heart filling.

Right after satisfying my hunger, i ventured to the last section, Tomorrowland. I didn't have much time left as closing time was near. I skipped the UFO Zone and the Orbitron as it was children oriented and it was also quite full. I wanted to try the Autopia but it has quite a queue too. So i was left with Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters, Stitch Encounter and also the Space Mountain. The Space Mountain was an indoor roller coaster ride which i was double minded whether to try it or not. I am afraid of heights but i also didn't wanted to miss the chance. I went to check it out and the waiting time to get in was quite long. So i decided not to wait. But eventually i would try it the next time i come along. So straight to the Buzz Lightyear Astro Blasters where you get on a ride and blast Zurg's Army with your laser blasters as the ride goes on. It was totally awesome or how teenagers these days would say it "off the hook". Next was the Stitch Encounter. It was an interactive show where a Stitch animation on the screen interacts with the audiences live. It was quite funny and the audinces enjoyed it a lot including me.

Once i was done with Tomorrowland, i checked the time. It was 8.45pm. Just nice for me to do my souvenir shopping before the final closing. I just needed 15 minutes to get whatever that i wanted to buy. The crowd was already gathering in front of the Sleeping Beauty castle and i joined the crowd for the final event. This is where the closing event takes place. Everyday Disneyland closes with a musically synchronized fireworks display which will be the highlight of the day. Everyone waited anxiously with the phones and cameras ready to record it. I had my camera ready too. But i wasn't going to record the whole show. Probably just a few minutes of it. I wanted to enjoy the moment rather than record it.

When the show started, i was awestruck, i was stunned, i was mesmerized. Never have i ever seen anything so enchanting and beautifully coordinated. No wonder its called a Magical Kingdom. The fireworks were coordinated to a series of Disney songs with perfection. The songs featured from many Disney animations such as Cinderella, Aladdin, Lion King, Beauty and Beast, Mulan and many many more. It went on and on and grew larger and larger. Just when you thought that this must be the final blast, it continues with even a bigger showcase. For about 15 minutes the "Disney in the Stars" presented me with the best musically coordinated fireworks display that i have ever seen in my life. What a grand closing for an amazing adventure. This is what i call signing off with style.

At the entrance for the second time

As the show ended, the crowd made its way towards the exit. I was in no hurry to leave. If i had it my way, i didn't want to leave. But all good things has to come to an end so did my magical journey in Disneyland. Minor disappointments would be i never took picture with any of the live characters at any of the "Meet the Characters" checkpoint as the queue was always very long. I also missed out on the daily parade which took place everyday at 1.00pm. At that time i was still back at my hotel attending my meeting. Besides these few small things there wasn't much that i didn't get to do. And some of the things that i didn't get to try this time, i manage to try it the second time i came around. Oh yes, i did come again for the second time.

The second time i came to this magical place was 5 months after the first time, on the 6th May 2011. And it was for the same reason that i came the first time, because i was attending another Investigator Meeting. This time i was staying in the Langham Place Hotel which was equally good as the Excelsior. I was accompanied by one of my specialist who decided to follow me to Disneyland. Since it was my second time here, getting around was way easier and faster. And this time i made sure i try the things that i missed out on my first trip. The most important ones being the Jungle River Cruise in Adventureland and also the Space Mountain roller coaster ride in Tomorrowland. There were certain things which i tried again, the Mickey PhilharMagic being the main one. And as usual, since this is my second time, a bit of souvenier shopping before ending it with the magical fireworks display. Well that's what went on the second time. Now back to my first trip.

As i walked back to the MTR station, the music from Disneyland slowly faded behind me. I got into the train and reflected back on the day that i had today. It was wonderful. I was like a kid again. A small boy running up and down the whole park realizing his dream. Never did i thought that this day would come true. 4.00pm to 9.15pm, one of the best 5 hours and 15 minutes of my life. They say that you can never go back to your childhood ever again. Well they are wrong because today i did. I wasn't a 26 year old working adult, i was a  10 year old who was full of joy and no worries in the world at one of the happiest place on earth.

Well going to Disneyland has always been my dream and i have fulfilled it. So, "Go to Disneyland"; check.

Has The Spirit Died Out..??

For those who might remember, one of my earlier post in this blog discussed about me re-visiting my school after 9-10 years. It was an amazing experience indeed. I was totally overwhelmed and i captured that excellent moment in the "Back To School" post. One of the points that i addressed in that post is the unity and the Georgian Spirit that was demonstrated on that day. But after around 1 year, as i visited my school again today, my previous observance does not seem to match the current environment. After coming back home the only question that kept knocking into my head was "is the Georgian spirit dieing out?".

My friends cousin brother who is a form 2 student in St. George's Institution brought me the happy news that our school is having its annual Sport's Day on the 23rd June 2012. Another opportunity to visit my school since the Canteen Day of last year. Its been so long since i went to my last Sport's Day. If memory doesn't mistake me, the last Sport's Day that i attended was in the year 2000. 12 years, that is quite a long time. I should go, i must go, it was decided.

I woke up early at 7.00am, and got ready. I had to make 3 trips that morning before i can go about doing my work; send my mom to my uncle's house, send my sister to work and then fetch my mom again to send her to work too. By the time it was done, it was already 8.45am. The perfect time to have my breakfast and today i opted to have western. After breakfast, straight to the school field. It took me only ten minutes and i was already there.

First sight of the school field, and the only word i can use to describe it was "disappointing". The environment did not present a highly enthusiastic Sport's Day at all. Only one row of tents were visible. There was not a big crowd to begin with. Very few athletes, few teachers, even fewer parents or families and other student supporters were no where to be seen. Those on duty such as the prefects and St. John boys looked lack luster. The athletic events were going on but no one was seem to be cheering their houses. At the same time the medal presentation ceremony was also taking place and no applause were to be heard. Everyone was minding their own business with most dwelling deeply into their smartphones. Since when did Sport's Day become this dull. When did this turn around of events happen?

During my time it was different, trust me it was totally different. The set up of the whole field would bring about a highly ecstatic environment. There will be a long row of tents to house the guest of honors, PTA guests, principal, teachers who are not actively involved, parents and other family members. This would already constitute a large number of the crowd. There will also be 4 different colored canopies around the running track that corresponds directly with the house colors, Red (Beh), Brown (Edward), Blue (Gilbert) and Green (Henry). These canopies would be filled with the respective house athletes and their supporters. The supporters usually outnumber the athletes easily to a 10 to 1 ratio.

Beside these, there will also will be tents for other uniform units such as the prefects, St. Johns and also the Scout's Marine Band where they will rest before they take over for their friends who will be on duty on their respective posts. Other clubs, societies and also food vendors will take up the opportunity to set up food and beverage stalls to accommodate the large crowd. It will be like a festival, a huge annual celebration. But unfortunately none of these were visible today. The celebration was not only no where to be seen but it was also no where to be felt which i think is far worse. Even though sometimes the crowd doesn't turn up or sometimes the set up is not that good, the spirit was always high. The Georgian spirit never rendered. But sadly i can't say the same for today.

Whatever crowd that was present today were not hyped up. No cheers, no chants, no claps. It was dull and blatant. The only sound of cheers came during the invitational run where SGI 1, SGI 2 and SMK Hua Lian took part in a 4 X 100m race and when the race ended with SGI 1 claiming 1st price there were no more cheers to be heard. Before the main awards of House Champions and Athlete of the Year was given out, most of the students were already leaving. The teachers had to make an announcement for the prefects to close the gates so that the crowd could be retain for the closing ceremony. What an unexpected and sad announcement indeed which never ever occurred last time.

The poor display of Georgian spirit worried me. It was obvious that those students who were not involved in the Sport's Day did not turn up at all. Only the athletes and on duty uniform unit students were present and some of the athletes left the field before their events even started making the events being carried out without full participation. Usually the students who are not involved would still attend the Sport's Day to support their respective houses and cheer their friends. The field would be crowded and will be full of claps and cheers. Even though the other students decided not to come, those who were present did not demonstrate the usually displayed Georgian Spirit.

When i learned that the number of student admission to my school was slowly decreasing throughout the years, i was not very concern as now parents have many options with so many new schools coming up. I thought even though the quantity wasn't there, the quality of a true Georgian will always be there. But today's Sport's Day has showed otherwise. The Georgian Spirit that was part of every Georgian last time has started to falter. I never expected this to happen, i think no one would have expected a day like this to come.

I hope the teachers and the OGA have noticed what is going on. If everything is left like as it is, our beloved Alma Mater can be deeply affected. Action should be taken now so that whatever Georgian Spirit which is still left can be salvaged and then revived. But rather than expecting others to do something , maybe i can think something to contribute. I can't think of anything now, but i should take this responsibilities onto myself as should other Georgians.

It has always been said before that "Once A Georgian, Always A Georgian". We should fight to bring back our glory days and re-instill the Georgian Spirit.

-Georgian Forever-

Top 10: Tamil Movies 2011

Only after going through my previous posts did i realize that i have not been writing any movie reviews for quite some time. The last movie review i did was on Captain America and Rise of the Planet of the Apes. Both were good movies which i watched back to back in the cinema on the same day. Ever since then, i have watched quite a number of movies in the cinema but i never could find the time to sit and write about it. Hence i decided to come up with a "Top 10" list of the movies that were released in 2011 to sum up my 1 year movie experience. But after listing all the 2011-release Hollywood movies that i have watched, i was surprised to notice that my list only contained 12 movies. I thought that i went to the cinema a lot of times last year, but it looks like it was not that many after all. Well, making a "Top 10" list out of 12 movies doesn't seem like a very good idea. So i decided to shift the language from "English" to "Tamil".

The list of 2011 Tamil movies that i have watched were fairly longer than the English one at 30 movies. I only remember going to the cinema a handful of times. Most of the movies were watched through the subscription of Astro (Malaysia's Direct Broadcast Satellite Pay TV Service) in my house which is my mother's favorite pass time. The television is basically switched on and switched off in accordance with the time we wake and the time we go to sleep everyday. There was a lot of Tamil movies which were released last year but i would not be able to judge the movies that i have not watched yet. So in order to give a clearer picture of my "Top 10" selection, i have enlisted all the 30 movies below.

7am Arivu

Mayakkam Enna

1. 7am Arivu
2. Aadukalam
3. Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai
4. Deiva Thirumagal
5. Engeyum Eppodhum
6. Engeyum Kaadhal
7. Kaavalan
8. Kandaen
9. Ko
10. Kullanari Koottam
11. Mankatha



Nootrenbathu

12. Mappilai
13. Mayakkam Enna 
14. Mouna Guru
15. Muran
16. Nootrenbadhu
17. Pathinaaru
18. Payanam
19. Poralli
20. Seedan
21. Singam Puli
22. Siruthai
23. Thambikottai
24. Thoonga Nagaram
25. Vaagai Sooda Vaa
26. Vaanam
27. Velayudham
28. Venghai
29. Veppam
30. Yuddham Sei

My "Top 10" would of course take into consideration good story, screenplay, technical work, acting performance, direction and many other aspect. Unfortunately stardom does not merit any points from me. Well without getting to technical and going into too much detail, lets just conclude that this "Top 10" is the 10 best movies in my opinion out of the 30 movies that i watched. The movies are not listed according to rank but in numerical/alphabetical order.

1. 7am Arivu

Directed by AR Murugadoss, 7am Arivu re-introduces "Bodhidharma", the forgotten Tamil Pallava Prince who was one of the founding fathers of Shaolin Kung Fu to the audience. Set in the present time, the director has coupled history with DNA enhancement concept with great affect. Surya, Shruti Hassan and Johnny Tri Nguyen all have played their part very well. It is a must watch movie for all Tamilans, and the effort put into the movie should be given its due appreciation.

2. Aadukalam

A captivating story set around the village activity of "cockfighting". Aadukalam brings the best out of Dhanush, who plays a Madurai teenager whose life evolves around the world of "cockfighting". Honor, jealousy, family and friendship are the themes given the main focus in the movie and is knitted very well into smooth running storyline which is embroidered with great technical work and wonderful direction by Vetrimaran. Aadukalam will be a movie that will remembered for many years to come.

3. Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai

Suseenthiran brings to live a short story of the same name to the silver screen. Azhagarsamiyin Kuthirai brings you the feeling of watching a moral value based fairy tale that we use to watch in Disney Movies during the school holidays last time with the mixture of Indian culture and village lifestyle which adds more nuances to the movie. Though not being a star studded cast, every actor has done amazingly to portray their role. The film is simple, heartwarming and a must watch.

4. Deiva Thirumagal

Based on the Hollywood movie "I am Sam" which garnered Sean Penn an Academy Award nomination for best actor, Deiva Thirumagal tells the story of a mentally challenged father who fights for the right to raise his 6 year old daughter. Vikram's portrayal of a disabled father needs to be applauded, a wonderful performance indeed. A heart gripping story that makes us root for the father even though we know he will be incapable of taking care of her. As love clouds our judgement over common sense, the movie gives us an eye opening ending.

5. Engeyum Eppodhum

Story of two couples in two different places, whose lives intersect in a road accident involving two buses which the couples travel in. A simple story about people and their everyday lives enlisting simplicity as its main strength, the frailty of life and how it can change suddenly. A light road safety message also incorporated into the movie. A movie with a light feeling which carries you throughout a well crafted screenplay strengthen by equally good performance by all the main four characters. Watch Engeyum Eppodhum, anywhere and anytime.

6. Ko

A young generation out to revolutionize the current political misdemeanors in Tamil Nadu. Jeeva plays a journalist who covers the change in the political era from the old corrupted politicians to the younger generation who are out to change everything for the better. Movie provides quite a number of twist to keep viewers engaged to the storyline. Whether intentional or not, Ajmal projects the political values of Machiavelli and also a characterization which is influenced by Machiavellinism. A fast paced movie, which would have been even better without the focus on office romance.

7. Mayakkam Enna

Once again Selvaraghavan comes up with a brilliant movie depicting a character who strives to succeed in his passion for photography. Dhanush justified his National Award for best actor which he received for Aadukalam by doing a totally different role with a very in depth characterization which is a trademark in Selvaraghavan's movies. The story already carries itself and the added excellent acting glues us to our seats. A story about passion, love, struggle, hardship, friendship, loyalty and success. Mayakkam Enna is excellence and brilliance.

8. Nootrenbadhu

Not many movies gives us a different take on life, gives realization and makes us think about our life and others, to be grateful, to be hopeful and to be wishful. A movie that makes us content and inspires us to reach out, Nootrenbadhu. Siddarth plays an American doctor whose life takes a 180 degree turn when he is diagnosed with cancer. Leaving his loving wife, Siddarth goes to India where his condition makes him see the world in a different angle which illustrates us to do the same. A lighthearted movie that needs to be watch, and most importantly reflected upon.

9. Vaagai Sooda Vaa

A village where everyone works to produce bricks, even the children. Vimal goes to the village as a teacher to provide education to the children where the school is no more in use and all the children are poised to work and produce bricks. The story evolves around the struggle of Vimal trying to give realization to the villagers and their children that education is the only way to break out of the circle of being underprivileged for generations. The movie emphasizes on the importance of education and how child labor deprives them of having a better life in the future. Vaagai Sooda Vaa comes to win.
 
10. Vaanam

A remake of a Telugu movie, Vaanam is the story of different individuals whose fates come together on New Year's eve in a terrorist shoot out in a public hospital. Vaanam though hosts different individual with different stories and addressing different issues, the main theme remains to be humanity. Vaanam gives a realization of our humanity even though we are different geographically. religiously, in our occupations, in our social status, in our principles, in our believes and in our characters. All the characters are well balanced, and the screenplay is well written to ensure all the different stories intertwine nicely and is brought together in a ending that heightens our feeling of humanity.

There are also some movies which were noted as good movies and might have made the "Top 10" if i had seen them. This honorary mention goes to "Avan Ivan" and "Aaranya Kandam". Looking at the list, its quite assuring that the Tamil cinema is headed in the right direction.

Another Blog - My Photoshop

There are a few things that i learned when i was jobless or shall i say when i went MIA (missing in action) for about 15 months. One of it was learning to use Adobe Photoshop. And how did this come about:? Well my sister was doing her Diploma in Information Technology (Programming) in Polytechnic Ungku Omar (PUO), and Adobe Photoshop was one of the software that she needed to master one of her study semester requirement. Unfortunately the lecturer assigned to teach about this software was not a master in it herself to begin with. First day of class she drops a bomb that students should learn Adobe Photoshop by playing and tweaking around with it on their own.

When i heard this, i was a bit shocked but i recovered quickly as it is something which is expected in our current education system especially in education institutions run by the government. I have a lot of displeasure when it comes to our current education system but i would not want to dwell into that topic in this post as i want to keep this post short.  I'll hold on to this discussion about our education system for a different post. Back to Adobe Photoshop, my sister needed assistance with her work and assignments as she was not being guided by her lecturer. So i decided to help. But the only problem was my knowledge of this photo editing software was zero.

So i decided to seek the help of my most trusted "Guru", the internet. I explored the internet looking for tutorial websites which had both basic tutorials and also some complicated ones. As i learned more and more, it got really interesting and i started enjoying this new found hobby, exploring Adobe Photoshop. So besides helping my sister with her assignments, i also spent time editing my own pictures and this resulted in some works which i was quite proud of. Its not comparable to professional work, but for my personal judgement, i was quite satisfied.

These works, stored in my external hard-disk have been sleeping in my cupboard for quite some time. So i have decided to bring them out and post them in my other blog, "My Photoshop". Why suddenly? Well first reason being that i can view my work for time to time easily without the hassle of plugging and unplugging my hard-disk. Second reason, which is actually the main reason is that i want to restart my photo editing hobby as my latest work in Adobe Photoshop was completed more than 2 1/2 years ago. I hope that by posting my works in a blog it will motivate me to come up with new ones. The link for my new blog:

http://venoobeephotoshop.blogspot.com/

New works and pictures coming soon, i hope.

Bucketlist #01: Watch Manchester United Play Live



Outside Stadium Luzhniki on the day of the match



I have written about this new found website where a person can monitor his bucket list in my previous posts. It’s an interesting website and it is inspiring me with a lot of new ideas. Well it occurred to me that even though I am keeping track with my bucket list using that particular website, it wouldn't hurt to post my completed items here in this blog too.



 So, first in the list would be one of my childhood dreams. Ever since I started supporting Manchester United, which I don't quite remember since when, I have dreamed of watching them play live. My dream came true in 2008 and the way it came true makes it one of the happiest and most memorable day of my life. Yes, I was there in Stadium Luzhniki, Moscow on the 21st May 2008 when the Red Devils were crowned as the Champions of Europe and hoisted the famous trophy for the third time. Only 67,310 football fans from the whole wide world were there to watch the game live, and I was one of them.

It all happened like a dream; like a roller coaster ride; it was fast, it was exciting, exhilarating and it was rejuvenating. I remember it as if it had happened yesterday. I was doing my final year in Moscow, and only during the knockout stages of the Champions League did it properly sink in to my mind that the Champions League finals will be played here in Moscow, in Luzhniki Stadium. I really wanted to go even though it wasn't decided yet who will be in the finals. But who cares, this is the Champions League finals 2008, I would want to watch it even if it was Shalke 04 vs Olympiacos.

But what are the odds of getting a ticket. Lining up to get a ticket at the ticket counter when sales start would be utterly impossible. I still remember when England played Russia for the Euro 2006 qualifiers; the queue was so long that it stretched a few miles. People were camping outside the counter a day before. So it was totally out of the question. As my heart and will desired to go, my brain was cracking itself to come up with a solution. That is when I was made aware by a friend about the lottery system for the online ticket sales. Little did I know that lady luck was already smiling at me at that precise moment.

The process was quite simple. All you have to do is login into the UEFA website and register yourself to make a bid for the Champions League Finals ticket. Anyone can make a bid as long as they have a valid credit card. Each bid is entitled to win two tickets. The bidding period is open for three weeks. Once the bidding has been closed the system randomly picks 5,250 applicants where each applicant will receive 2 tickets each making it 10,500 tickets to be given away all together. The chance of getting a ticket is really difficult. But my initial problem was making a bid to begin with as I did not have a credit card.

That minor problem was solved when I and my friends decided that we should pair non credit card holders with credit card holders since 2 tickets are being given away for each bidder. I was to be paired with my block mate Ajed (Faizal Nazli) who is also a Manchester United supporter like me. The only thing left to do was to wait for the bidding to open, submit our applications and hope for the best. The first day of bidding finally came and we placed our bid one hour after it opened and we were already the 7,060th applicant. 6 hours after that another one of my friend registered and he was number 75,000 and above. By the next 24 hours, the bid had reached more than 200,000 bids and it will continue to be open for the next three weeks. Our chances seemed slimmer by the day.

But I kept on hoping, I kept on believing. And finally the day of the lottery came, a confirmation email will be sent to those who are successful. We came back from class and straight away checked my friend's email. Unfortunately he didn't receive any email from UEFA. Disappointed, I hit the bed straight away; once again my brain was cracking itself to find another way to get the tickets. Frustration made me tired and I dozed off. Maybe my dreams will bear a solution for my problem. I wasn't sure how long I was asleep, but I was woken when my friend, Ajed was jumping on my bed like a mad child. He kept on screaming "We won! We won!” I was too sleepy to register what was going on. I looked at him and said with my sleepy voice, "Yes, yes, I know, I know". He gave a weird expression and went back to his room. I was dozing off to sleep once again when my brain finally processed and registered what had happened. Was it real or was I dreaming?

It was true, it did really happen, I have won the ticket, and I’m going to the Champions League Final 2008. Now I have to wait patiently to find out who will play in the finals. By the time the bid results were announced the Champions League was already in the 1st leg of the quarter final stages. The best news was Manchester United was still there with 7 other teams in the quarter final which were Arsenal, Liverpool, AS Roma, Schalke 04, Barcelona, Fenerbache and Chelsea. Manchester United was playing against Roma, but it was not that hard for them to go pass the Roman Gladiators. But they hit a brick wall in the semi finals. Barcelona awaited them in the next stages. The Red Devils had quite a trouble beating them but I was unable to watch the matches as something else came up and I had to go back to Malaysia. That will be foretold in a different post.

When I came back to Moscow, I was greeted by the amazing news that Chelsea will be playing with Manchester United in the finals here in Moscow, and I had the tickets to go and watch them. My dream was coming true; I will be finally watching them play live. But I never knew that the game will turn out to be one of the most exciting matches I have ever watched. The wait for the finals was exactly 21 days from the day of the semi final result. The days seem to move really slowly but I didn't mind as the build up to the final was amazing especially the last three days before the finals as they held the Champions League 2008 exhibition in the Red Square. It was filled with many booths; UEFA, Manchester United, Chelsea, Vodafone and many more. A lot of games were there to win prizes, competition to win tickets, video presentation of the Champions League history and also the famous trophy which was on display for every fan to take picture with it. Even though the queue was always a few miles long, I didn't miss my chance.

The day of the finals finally came, 21st May 2008. It was going to be played at 10.45pm to match the normal kick off time according to Central European Time which was 8.45pm. All those who had the tickets both from my hostel, Kahovskaya and the other hostel, Spartivnaya got ready and were off to the Luzhniki stadium. Not all of us had tickets; some were following along to see whether they could get tickets from people who will be selling it near the stadium grounds with increased price. Some were original tickets, some were fakes, and you have to be careful when you buy from people like these. I didn't have to worry about that, I had my official ticket and my seating was in the Manchester United half with my Red Devil brothers.

We were in the stadium quite early, watching the fans from all around the world gathering and cheering for their teams be it Manchester United or Chelsea was great. There were still some games going on for fans to play, some face painting for the fans and many other exciting things. As we went around the stadium we met lot of different type of supporters and we also ran into the famous "Punjabi Red Devils Fans" who were always seated behind Sir Alex Ferguson in Old Trafford. We even took pictures with them. After all the excitement outside the stadium, it was time to go into the stadium for the ultimate showdown. We got to our seats; it felt like home being surrounded by so many Manchester United fans who share the same passion as me for the club. We mixed around with crowd, took a few pictures, there was the opening ceremony and then it was time for the kick off.

In Stadium Luzhniki before the kick-off

But before the kick off, when the Manchester United players were coming into the stadium every fan in the Manchester United side of the stadium were asked to hold up a red or white A4 sized plastic material. When we did this we would be spelling out the word "BELIEVE" for the players to see. It was amazing. The game started and it was spectacular, both teams were defending well and hit hard on the counter attacks. It was end to end attacking. We were singing cheers and chants for the team and also for the individual players which I have learned from the Bobby Dazler Manchester United Bar in Moscow where I use to watch important matches. Every minute was so nerve wrecking and finally the deadlock was broken on the 26th minute, the Red Devils scored and who else to do it then the top scorer for the Champions League 2008, Cristiano Ronaldo. The stadium erupted, at least on one side; the blue side of the stadium were silenced. We are here and we are taking the trophy back with us.

But the celebration didn't last long, around 20 minutes after we opened the score, Frank Lampard equalized in the 45th minute putting the ball pass Van Der Sar. This time the noise came from the blue half of the stadium, we were silenced. The half time whistle blew, and we were tied 1-1. We were restless and I am sure the Chelsea fans were feeling the same. We had 45 minutes to put the game to bed. The second half started and it was intense as the first half. Both teams had equal chances with Chelsea hitting the bar a few times. Ryan Giggs came in as a substitute for the club record of 759th appearance. The game ended with the score still being level on 1-1. It was time for extra time; the tension was building, looks like I was getting my tickets worth to watch a full 120 minutes of the game. It will be worth it as long as we emerge victorious at the end.

The clock was ticking away in the extra time and there was no goal to be seen as fatigue started to creep into the players. The second half of extra time brought a turnaround of events when Didier Drogba was sent off for slapping Nemanja Vidic. Chelsea was down to ten men, but the time left was too short for the Red Devils to capitalize on the extra man advantage. The final whistle blew, 120 minutes; score still 1-1, off to the penalties. My heart was already pounding so hard, I wasn't sure if I could handle this. It was a nail biting nerve wrecking experience. Finally the players were ready, with Manchester United taking the first kick. Carlos Tevez stepped up for United and scored. Then Ballack for Chelsea, Carrick for United and Belletti for Chelsea, all scoring keeping the score level at 2-2.

Next came Cristiano Ronaldo for the Red Devils, he missed. Silence throughout the Red half. Waves of cheers and roar came from the Chelsea fans. The player that put us in front has put us on the back pedal. But he can't be blamed. We wouldn't even be here if it wasn't for him. We needed Chelsea to miss now to level the scoring. Lampard for Chelsea, Hargreaves for United, Ashley Cole for Chelsea and Nani for United, all scored. John Terry was stepping up for the last kick, the kick that will hand Chelsea the trophy. All hope was lost, we came this far and John Terry was ready to put an end to Chelsea's Champions League title drought. Terry took the shot and Van Der Sar went the wrong way but it didn't matter as the ball missed the goal. Terry had missed as he slipped during the kick.

For a split second we didn't know what had just happened. We were still in the game, we still had a chance, and the Red half roared their lungs out. Chelsea almost had the title in their grasps. But now it was anyone's trophy. The shootout will go on until someone misses and the other team scores or the other way around. Anderson for United and Kalou for Chelsea both scored. Ryan Giggs for United and he scored with ease. Nicholas Anelka for Chelsea, Van Der Sar was ready, he took the shoot and Van Der Sar jumped the right way parrying away his shot. It was over, United fans cheered to bring the roof down, players were running towards Van Der Sar, it was over. We were champions; we were champions for the third time. We were cheering our lungs out, players were celebrating and I still couldn't believe it, we were Champions of Europe.

The celebration went on; we were singing cheers for the team and players. We were excited and hugging each other, known friends and unknown strangers, it didn't matter as all were our United brothers and sisters. The players were celebrating on the field. Chelsea fans had already left and it was time for the trophy presentation ceremony. Chelsea players went to receive their medals first, they played well, a hard fought battle but it wasn't their day to be. Then it was the Champions turn, United's turn. Medals were given out to our heroes, and the famous trophy was hoisted. It was one of the best sights I have ever seen, seeing my team, Manchester United lift the Champions League trophy right in front of my eyes. Post celebrations went on until all the players left the field.

Then it was time for us to leave. But the cheering and singing didn't stop. We cheered and sang as we left the stadium, it continued on the streets as we walked to the Metro station, and it continued in the Metro station as we waited for our train, and it didn't stop even when we were inside the train. It just went on and on as we reached our Metro station, as we walked on the streets back to our hostel and until the inside of our rooms where we joined by other friends who couldn't be with us at the stadium. The celebration went on for days, talking about the match over and over again, downloading the match and watching it over and over again, we just couldn't stop.

The day I watched Manchester United play live was one of the happiest day of my life. Not only I watched them play live, I watched them play live in the Champions League finals, I watched them play for the full 120 minutes, I watched them play the penalties and I watched them hoist the coveted Champions League trophy. The feeling was just amazing, it was unbelievable, it was exhilarating, it was just too good to be true but it was. No words can explain the joy and excitement that I felt. Bucketlist #01: Watching Manchester United Play Live - Checked.