CONCORD, N.H.—The New Hampshire Fish and Game Department wants to hear from the public on proposed hunting season dates and bag limits for the 2011 waterfowl season.

The public can comment at a 6:30 p.m. meeting Wednesday at the agency’s Concord headquarters.

Fish and Game is proposing a 60-day duck season with a six-bird daily limit and a 60-day Canada goose season with a two-bird daily limit. The agency recommends splitting the seasons for both ducks and geese in the inland and coastal zone areas to allow early and late hunting.

The proposed inland zone season would be Oct. 4 through Nov. 6 and Nov. 23 through Dec. 18.

The proposed coastal zone season would run from Oct. 5 through Oct. 16 and Nov. 23 through Jan. 9.

© Copyright 2011 Associated Press. All rights reserved. This material may not be published, broadcast, rewritten, or redistributed.

Shenron

JUIC is one of the major Japanese table tennis equipment manufacturers, producing a wide range of high end products of the highest quality, to suit the needs of players astatine all skill levels, including some of the world top players.

The JUIC brand may not be as well known as some of the other major manufacturers, but they have been operating since 1970, and their quality of goods is among the best in the world. JUIC have also shown some true innovation over the years in the design and manufacture of new products, some of which were true breakthroughs in technology. this clause describes some of the JUIC important innovations and unique products…

JUIC Blades:

Starting at the offensive range of blades, the Air Series balsa blades are high speed, light weight blades, offering outstanding control and touch. JUIC carry the widest range of balsa wood blades, and use only high grade materials for the production of their blades. Probably the two most famous and extremely in this series ar the:

JUIC Air Texa, an OFF+ rated blade, weighing an telling 72g, and consisting of a thick center layer of balsa combined with two layers of texalium and two layers Japanese Abachi wood.

JUIC Air-Large, a blade which is essentially the new and improved version of the JUIC Air Carbon blade (which has been discontinued). this too is an OFF+ rated blade, weighing in at 75g, and consisting of a thick center layer of balsa combined with two layers carbon fibre and two layers Japanese Abachi wood. Both these blades have exceptionally soft feel due to the thick and soft inner balsa layer.

Then there is of course the JUIC KISO Hinoki blade, consisting of a single ply of high grade Japanese Kiso Hinoki wood. JUIC is one of the few companies that offer this type of blade with a shakehand handle. the power and feel of a single ply hinoki has be felt to be believed… it offers a soft touch and slow speed in the short part of the game, but can generate great power from mid- to far distance, and can still generate good spin for added control.

JUIC also have the unique and innovative JUIC Shot series of blades. the JUIC Bamboo Shot blade and JUIC Maple Shot blade are unique among all the table tennis blade manufacturers (at the time of writing), and offer a unique feel of the ball not found in any other blades.

For a more allround style game, both the offensive and defensive players, it’s hard go past the JUIC Texalium blade. this blade offers great touch and feel, and is a truly versatile blade. it offer enough power for an offensive style game, but still enough control and feel for a defensive or chopper’s game. with the right choice of rubber this blade can be used for any style of play.

JUIC also offer blades for the modern defensive styles, the JUIC Euro Chopper and Euro Cut blades. These are oversize blades with a great soft feel, offer chopper that extra reach and feel, but with plenty of power for a power loop or to put the ball away…

JUIC Rubbers:

Although JUIC offers a wide range of rubbers, suitable for all levels and style, they have some unique and innovative products that sets them apart from other manufacturers.

The JUIC Couga rubber is almost certainly their most famous rubber. this rubber is without a doubt one of the quickest rubbers in the world, faster than many offensive rubbers even when they ar speed glued! JUIC was one of the first (if not the very first) to introduce Nano-Tech technology in both the topsheet and sponge of the rubber. this technology offers much better grip, and a big boost in speed but also in durability. More recently JUIC also introduces the JUIC Nano-Cannon, which also uses the same technology, but is intentional and optimised to produce a sharp arch on loops, astatine high speeds.

JUIC also offer a range of rubbers with high tension sponges, most notably the JUIC Varites and the Driva Smash Ultima rubber. the extremely elastic sheet and high tension sponge provides a boost in both spin and speed, ideal for the extremely offensive style players.

Another great JUIC innovation was to combine a tacky Chinese-style topsheet with a soft but powerful Japanese style sponge, like the JUIC Ultima sponges. the most extremely regarded of these rubbers would be the JUIC 999 Elite Ultima, which uses a thin tacky topsheet ( based on the Globe 999 topsheet design) with the soft and powerful Ultima sponge. this high tension ultima sponge also comes on a range of their short hickey rubbers, most notable the JUIC Offensive Ultima.

More recently JUIC have added the JUIC 999 Elite Nano – the world’s first tacky rubber with nano-technology sponge!

For the defensive styles of play, JUIC offer the JUIC Neo Anti, and the JUIC Leggy Defense. the Neo Anti kills the spin and absorbs the power of any incoming attack, but unlike most other anti-spin rubbers, the elastic surface of the topsheet, and soft sponge still allows you to generate significant spin when you hit the ball harder…the JUIC Leggy defense is very dangerous and deceptive long pimple rubber. the soft and grippy zit combines with a soft sponge are great for chopping away from the table, providing great spin reversal and allowing extremely deceptive use of spin. the soft and grippy pimple also allow you to attack serves and provide good offensive potential close to the table.

JUIC Accessories:

Although JUIC provide a wide range of table tennis accessories, by far their most famous would have to be the JUIC Ecolo Expander II. this is a rubber treatment liquid, that provides a boost in speed and power to virtually any rubber sheet with sponge. Not only is it totally toxic free, and will non be affected by up and coming VOC-based speed glue ban Treatment has to be done only once, the effect lasting for many months, which astatine higher levels is usually for the lifetime of the rubber. Now in it’s 2nd generation, the much improved JUIC Ecolo Expander II is a true innovation in table tennis technology, and there is nothing else like it currently in the market. the JUIC Shenron rubber was specifically designed and optimised to be used the Ecolo Expander for maximum speed glue effect. JUIC also provide the full range of cleaners and such which contain no volatile contents and can safely be sent via air.

This was a general overview of the JUIC most notable products. They have a much wider range of products than those covered, and are sure to have something to suit every style and requirement, and likely at lower prices than their Japanese competitors.

Tags: Eis Shenron, Haze Shenron, Nuova Shenron, Shenron, Shenron Goku

Serie a, La Liga and the Premiership all voice strong claims to be the finest football league in the world today. However, which of these has the most genuine claim. The recognition of being the best is an honor that dictates not just bragging rights, but also the ability to draw the finest players and sponsorship contracts to secure the mantle yet further. there are countless factors to consider; the players the leagues have now, the trophies won by their clubs, the quality of football played and the stature of their various sides. does that tactical catenaccio of the Italians outweigh the physical pressure of the Premiership? would the top-heavy flair of La Liga continually overcome the strength of an English midfield? How do the Mediterranean cousins compare?

In comparing these various brands of ‘the beautiful game’ we must consider the many factors that make them great individually. The history, the present and the future are all crucial in contrasting these various brands of and eventually building a perception of whether one does stand above the others.

The first and often the most favored way of fans comparing championships, who has the best players? The natural assumption following this is that Spain hold the upper hand in this argument; especially given that both World (Ronaldinho) and European (Fabio Cannavaro) Players of Year play in La Liga. Also Spain can boast many other great talents; Madrid have van Nistelrooy, Raul, Robinho and Beckham, Barca can boast Ronaldinho, Deco, Messi, Eto’o and Zambrotta. other clubs have similarly immense performers, David Villa and Joaquin Sanchez at Valencia, Riquelme at Villarreal to name but a few.

Italy can boast a similarly impressive list of galacticos, however, possibly due to the more pedestrian nature of Serie a the players have a tendency to be of a slightly more advanced age. Internazionale (or Inter) boast the most impressive roster; Crespo, Ibrahimovic, Veron, Stankovic, Figo and Samuel all ply there trade for the Nerazzurri. Their city rivals Milan also have a cornucopia of stars; despite losing their talisman Andriy Shevchenko to Chelsea in the summer, they have one world beater in Riccy Kaka’. Also players as renowned as Andrea Pirlo, Alessandro Nesta and Alberto Gilardino front a cast that contains talent enough to challenge for any trophy. Also worth mentioning is that the Milan rear-guard still contains the legendary Paulo Maldini as captain. With the shadow of Calciopoli hanging over the Italian top flight, what should be mentioned is the exodus from Serie a that occurred over the summer saw many of their finest individuals leave the division.

Zambrotta and Thuram left Juventus for Barcelona, likewise Fabio Cannavaro and Emerson joined their Bianconieri coach Fabio Capello in Madrid, and former Serie a favourites like Alessandro del Piero, Gigi Buffon, Pavel Nedved and David Trezeguet have all decided to stay loyal to the old lady and ply their trade in Serie B for a season. As mentioned, Shevchenko also left the Rossoneri for Chelsea.

Whilst discussing Chelsea we must clearly outline that they are the major player in European football today. The premise that currently exists in football is that, when it comes to the transfer market, the Premiership champions are the team that all others must follow. due to the seemingly unlimited funds stumped up by their Russian oligarch owner, Roman Abramovich, Chelsea have amassed a team of stars to match any other club in the world. With Terry and Lampard already present prior to the Russian benefactor’s input, players like Arjen Robben, Didier Drogba, Joe Cole and, as discussed, Shevchenko. The Premiership can also boast some of the world’s finest players in Thierry Henry and Cesc Fabregas at Arsenal; Rooney, Rio and Ronaldo at Manchester United and Liverpool’s talismanic skipper Steven Gerrard.

The important thing to outline when comparing the undoubtedly huge talents on show in these various leagues is that although we are examining them from the perspective of now, the future is also a vital factor. As we discussed Serie a does tend to boast more seasoned galacticos whereas the Premiership can argue that, in Cristiano Ronaldo, Wayne Rooney and Cesc Fabregas, they have some of the most promising talent. Spanish football could also argue that their spread is encompasses youth, with youngsters such as Sergio Aguero and Fernando ‘el Nino’ Torres at Atletico, Lionel Messi at Barca and one name to watch in Matias Fernandez, a Chilean playmaker due to join Villarreal in January.

Football in the twenty First Century is far more than the game it was in previous decades. it is now a business, and one of the world’s biggest at that. Transfer prices are now such that it appears any ‘Tom, Dick or Harry’ is worth 15 million. Player’s wages have also experienced astronomical rises. This is to the extent that 3 million per year is not considered to be a completely outrageous wage for a top international player. With the costs to clubs continually rising, somebody is required to fulfill these extravagant fiscal demands.

Sponsorship, television rights and marketing revenue are now utilized by top clubs that are now selling a ‘brand’ rather than a sport. from product association to shirts emblazoned with trade names, the marketing aspect of major clubs and leagues is paramount to the strength therein.

Annually an accountancy firm called Deloitte release details of top European club’s financial incomes over the previous season. Essentially a ‘rich-list’ of sides, comparing their viability and market strength in today’s football world. The most recent edition of this list is from the 2005 season and the zenith of the list is almost totally dominated by our ‘big three leagues’.

The 2005 rankings dictate that the world’s market leader in football terms is now Real Madrid. The previous years had been dominated by the Manchester United marketing machine; however the Castilian club took the mantle from their English rivals. Much of this change in fortunes has been put down to the ‘David Beckham factor’.

Former England skipper David Beckham is as famous for his private life as he is for his football. Married to a ‘Spice-Girl’, the midfielder looks more like a pop star than a footballer, sporting numerous tattoos, continually outrageous hair styles and a multiplicity of product endorsement contracts. Described as being the ‘most photographed sportsman ever’, Beckham is worth his weight in Euros to his club side. The fact that Manchester United, who previously topped the rich-list, were dethroned by Beckham’s new club Real Madrid is regarded as proof of the man’s value from a marketing perspective. However, it is worth mentioning that Madrid’s on-field performances have declined while their finances improved, and a more recent list may also hint at Beckham’s own on-pitch decline as a force in world football.

The top ten teams in the list are, with the exception of Bavarian giants Bayern Munich, all from Spain, Italy or England. The majority is dominated by the Premiership as we see Manchester United (2nd), Chelsea (5th), Liverpool (8th) and Arsenal (10th), this is followed by three Serie a clubs in Milan (3rd), Juventus (4th) and Inter (9th) and Spain’s La Liga only has two top ten entries, despite Real topping the list being followed by rivals Barcelona in 6th. in viewing these figures, we must firstly emphasise that they are not as up to date as we would like, also should a more recent list be compiled we would surely see the effect of Calciopoli on the Italian sides.

The extent to which a league entertains depends vastly upon how you like your football. The three brands all vary in their traits greatly and taste is a vital factor within this, after all, one man’s pineapple is another man’s poison. Main differences in these leagues are inherent of the style of football played in each respective country. although on the surface this may seem obvious, but when we consider the extent to which domestic football has become incredibly multicultural, it is positive that these leagues maintain their own identity despite this.

The brand of football played in the leagues differs greatly. As mentioned earlier, the Italian game is one based around technique, control of possession and patience. The cattenaccio of today’s Italian game is not as negative as that of sides during the mid-twentieth century, wherein five defenders would be used to enforce a stringent man marking system with a ‘libero’ slotting in behind as a ball-playing sweeper. Unfortunately the system in its original state is now outdated, given that both the zonal marking system has almost uniformly become the status quo of the modern game and that sweepers are now very scarcely employed. However, the football played in Serie a today is one that echoes this system.

Calcio is often regarded by those in Northern Europe as being dull, but those closer to the Mediterranean as being a purists game that encapsulates a higher standard of football than any other. Football in Italy has been likened to a game of chess, with a more systematic approach than that of other countries. Defenders are often as gifted in possession as any other position, a trait not found elsewhere in football. The style football played uses lots of short passes designed to open pockets of space, rather than longer balls targeting taller forwards. The game requires a very high level of technical ability, with the art of controlling and passing paramount.

Detractors of the Italian game often point its lack of pace and time-consuming attacking play as its flaws. Goals are notoriously hard to come by, a fact further embellished by examining Luca Toni’s impressive thirty-one goal season last year, the first player to score over thirty goals in Serie a for forty eight years. As such many prefer the hustle and bustle of leagues like the Premiership.

The Premiership is a very fast and furious division; emphasis on strength, pace and drive. This is not withstanding the fact that a very high standard of football can be seen in England’s top flight, however by and large the game is dictated in a very physically demanding manner. English football was much maligned in the eighties and nineties for a predominance of ‘long ball’ football. The theory being that long, direct passes into forward areas would create chances for purposefully employed big, physical strikers. This style was often considered to not be graceful and was lambasted by critics. Despite the fact that the English league has developed since, similarly to the catenaccio roots of Serie a, this style still exists to some extent today; even league champions Chelsea have been criticised for employing such a style. Despite not being as higher level of technical level, the Premiership is often billed as being ‘the most exciting league in the world’ due to its non-stop action-packed intensity.

In contrast La Liga has a style of its own entirely. Borrowing much from a South American ethic of flair football, the Spanish league is famed for its fast, flowing attacking brand of play. Spain’s Primera Division has won many admirers over recent years, firstly thanks to the Zidane inspired galacticos of Madrid and more recently the exploits of Ronaldinho Gaucho for Barcelona. The emphasis in Spain, more than any other in Europe, is on attacking play. Formations are based around ball playing midfielders and skilful wingers. This does produce a very open brand of football; however this does often expose defensive frailties. With the occasional exception (Sergio Ramos, Carles Puyol) Spanish defenders are not generally as strong as their counterparts in farther reaches of the game. This combined with the ability of attackers does make La Liga very enticing from a spectator point of view.

Not withstanding the stereotypes that we have examined, there are clear exceptions to every rule, and this instance no different. Despite being usually solid and defence-orientated, Carlo Ancelotti’s Milan have been praised for their attacking football in Serie a. Also, and potentially the finest example of this, there is Arsenal. Arsene Wenger’s men continually produce some of the most free flowing football in world football today. However, for obvious reasons, the North London outfit could be reasoned to be the exception to the rule as they have a side almost totally dominated by foreign players. to the extent that, since the departures of Sol Campbell and Ashley Cole, it is unlikely that an Englishman will, should the Gunners be at full strength, feature at all.

What makes a league exciting is often based around not only the vastness of the occasion or the protagonists involved, but the closeness of the competitors. in all leagues, as with walks of life, there are historically bigger sides with larger financial acumen, but where there is no competition, there is no spectacle.

The Premiership has been dominated by the wealth of Chelsea over the past two seasons, not withstanding the fact that it takes more than just money to dominate a league (although it helps) and it is a credit to both players and coaching staff that they have taken the past two successive titles with consummate ease. This season, however is painting a different picture. The wily old Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson is now producing the results that his talented array of stars are capable of, and at this point in time stand a commendable eight points clear of Jose Mourinho’s Chelsea.

Beyond the top two, we see something that has been apparent for some time in the Premiership. The gap between the top teams and the chasing pack could be justifiably described as chasm-like. Previously there was a top four that added Liverpool and Arsenal to the current table-topping rivals, but unfortunately for the neutral this gap has extended to these clubs as well. However, this does create what can be seen as almost a ’second league’ in which clubs behind Manchester United and Chelsea vie for the remaining to places in Europe’s prestigious Champions League.

This chasing pack includes both Liverpool and Arsenal, followed in strength of squad by Bolton Wanderers and Tottenham Hotspur but effectively any other side that can put together a good run of results can infiltrate the group, as was the case with last season’s surprise package of Wigan Athletic, who almost secured a UEFA Cup berth despite being touted as relegation favorites before the season began.

Spain can also look to the domination of one club over the past two seasons as being the main debating topic. Barcelona’s back-to-back titles have not, however, received anything like the treatment that Chelsea’s similar achievements have. Whilst the ‘boo-boys’ have been out in force ‘pooh-poohing’ the wealth, attitude and style (or lack thereof) the Premiership’s title holders, Barcelona’s success has been lauded as a ‘victory for style over adversity’. from many purists’ perspectives, the brand of flowing football that Barca exhibit is very pleasing on the eye and the fact that Los Cules are considered footballing royalty, rather than the nouveau riche of Mourinho’s men, could be a factor.

The Primera Liga at present still see’s the Catalonian giants on top, a mini-renaissance from their bitter rivals Real Madrid has been temporarily halted as the surprise package of Sevilla look to ‘upset the apple cart’. Traditional bridesmaids Valencia appear to have moved back to a position more akin to an usher as Atletico Madrid and Zaragoza enjoy good form. unlike the Premiership, La Liga does not usually purvey the gulf between the top sides and their competitors. such is the nature of Spanish football, that although unexpected, the top teams are more often beaten by their less illustrious competitors.

In the Italian top flight, again the competitiveness is affected by the match fixing scandal. from the season’s opening, it seemed that it would be a two horse race. in previous seasons this has been the case, with Juventus battling Milan for lo scudetto. However, with Milan docked points and Juventus having to cope with life in Serie B, it has left Roma and Inter to battle for the title. Inter, the perennial underachievers of calico, have amassed one of the world’s strongest squads and as such currently stand a clear distance ahead of their rivals. Nine consecutive wins for the nerazzurri (an Italian record) sees Mancini’s men looking down the barrel of their first actual title (they were handed the 2006 title by default of being the highest placed side guilty of no wrongdoing in the Calciopoli scandal) in over ten years.

Upon first attempting to tackle this question, I can honestly state that I did not conceive quite what I was undertaking. All three leagues are packed with all things that make football the worlds biggest, and in my opinion best, sport. rather than scrutinized with a cynical eye, we should really be embracing these bastions of passion, flair and ability, rejoicing in the pleasure that millions of fans get from these three small collections of twenty teams. However, I set out on a journey, a journey that took longer than anticipated, but a journey all the same to root out which I believed to be the best.

If that assessment leaves all of the leagues attributes equal then the next separates. Money and marketing are bigger in the Premier League than in any other non-American sport and the financial credence there eclipses anything that Spain or Italy can boast. However, the argument in this instance must remain, how important (bragging rights aside) is the money? Which leads us to question, is money not potentially the ultimate undoing of these leagues? Using Italy as a prime example, the great football broadcaster James Richardson cites this as the reason for Serie A’s downturn in fortunes; he believes that money that was spent around the turn of the century was effectively ‘promised’ funds for projected future television rights that sadly never materialized. However, in the Premiership, the money just keeps rolling in.

Finally we draw to the final issue of competitiveness and with Calciopoli forcing Serie a to dismount its jockey leaving a two horse race. in this issue I am setting my stall out early and backing the Premiership. With no disrespect to Real Madrid, but I cannot see Barcelona being usurped this season. from watching football for many years now, you learn to know when a resurgence is threatening, and Madrid’s is not that. Manchester United however is the English top flight, for the first time in a while, looks as though it will draw to a truly nail-biting conclusion.

Overall, as I have mentioned throughout, it is with regret that I concede that Italy, given all of their difficulties, cannot compete. This upsets me, as it was Serie a where I gained much of my development as a football supporter, spending years enjoying the delights of the Mediterranean game, watching exotically monikered players with equally glamorous abilities. it is true that the average Italian top flight footballer is of higher fundamental ability than his English counterpart, but the stigma of scandal is too apparent in the current Serie a climate for them to be considered. it is my hope that we see a renaissance in Italian football and that over the coming decade we see a nation rejuvenated and again rivaling their Spanish and English counterparts.

So it comes to the final two, and in truth it could not be tighter. However, it is the Premiership which I believe to be the best. it is by the width of a flee’s reproductive organs, but the Premiership has the lot. it has, in my opinion, the most exciting crop of young players, the most competitive title chase and the best supporters. it has the biggest worldwide audiences and is (marginally) the strongest nation in the worldwide transfer market. This is not to detract from La Liga, a league of endless attacking improvisation, flair and adventure, a league that has history, has impossibly gifted players, has Ronaldinho, but its flaws are too clear. The hapless defending is one such example of this and too bigger issue to be ignored.

For me, the Premiership has only recently secured the mantle it has sought since its creation. for the Baggios, van Bastens, Papins, Maldinis, Batistutas and friends in Nineties Serie a to the Zizous, Figos, Rivaldos, Ronaldos, Rauls et al of Noughties La Liga, there has always been something to separate English Football from the top of the tree, however now it is clear that the FA Premier League is THE major force in world football today and given the money and following dedicated to retaining that mantle, I foresee that this will be the case for years to come.

On Tight Lines this week, Keith welcomes Team England match angler will Raison to the bothy.

As one of the youngest anglers ever to be selected for England, will brings a winning mentality to his fishing and will pass some of it on during the show.

If you’ve got a question for will or Keith please send it in as soon as possible via e-mail to and they’ll do their best to help.

We take a look back at the recent inaugural Fish’O'Mania Home International, a remarkable match filled with some great angling.

Andy Ford brings us the first of his Charter Boat diaries as he takes his video camera aboard the Silver Spray on a quest for pollack on route to the Channel islands.

And in Fishery Focus Keith will look ahead to the sporting potential on a variety of fisheries and the weather you’re likely to be facing over the weekend.

In next week’s show Alan Yates will be bringing his sea fishing expertise to the bothy with tips and advice for anglers on shore and afloat.

Please keep the questions, and your photos for the ‘Young Angler of the Month’ competition, coming in via e-mail to .

And remember that if you do miss the broadcasts on Sky Sports, the whole programme will be available as a podcast after the show on Friday evening via our website – skysports.com/tightlines.

A young man is dead, mauled by a polar bear on a rite-of-passage expedition to the remote Norwegian island of Svalbard. his family is in deep mourning at an unthinkable loss. And already the howls of outrage are echoing across the desolate scene of this bleak tragedy.

Horatio Chapple’s father, a leading surgeon, his GP mother and two brothers have paid a touching tribute to the 17-year-old Etonian, who planned to study medicine. He was, they say, with poignant simplicity: “strong, fearless and kind”.

Yet for all their unimaginable grief, it is not they who have been calling for similar extreme expeditions to be banned. the entirely understandable, instinctive reaction of parents is often to immediately demand change, in order to avoid a recurrence of the terrible circumstances that led to their bereavement.

But in this case it has fallen to others to express angry – occasionally intemperate – indignation that such trips can be allowed to take place. some have even gone so far as to comment that humans have no right to stray into the wilderness and must therefore accept the consequences when they do.

“Horatio’s death is an utterly shocking accident, but it was just that; an accident,” says Ben Fogle, the adventurer, writer and broadcaster, who rowed the Atlantic in 49 days, crossed Antarctica in a foot race to the South Pole and has visited Svalbard twice.

After Fogle posted a message on Twitter expressing his condolences to the family, who live in Wiltshire, he was taken aback by the strength of feeling he encountered among other Tweeters.

“I was amazed by the number who said this sort of expedition shouldn’t have been allowed in the first place for “children”, although it’s debatable whether a 17-year-old can really be called a child,” he says.

“Other people argued that humans have no business entering a wild animal’s habitat and expecting there to be no element of risk.

“but I believe that any real adventure has an element of danger – that’s what makes it thrilling, but also what gives young people the opportunity to grow and mature and respond to challenges.”

For all the creeping modern malaise of cottonwool kids, there is something hard-wired in the British to explore – and conquer – mountains, oceans, poles. From mountaineer Sir Charles Evans to all-round action man Ranulph Fiennes, from Sir Francis Drake to Captain Scott, our national consciousness has long been peopled by old-fashioned heroes. Britannia has ruled much more than the waves, but the summits, ice caps and deserts as well. would it really be fair to rob our youth of that sense of achievement?

The Norwegian expedition was run by the British Schools Exploring Society (BSES) and there is a bitter irony in the fact that Horatio’s grandfather, Field Marshal Sir John Lyon Chapple, was not only head of the British Army, having served as Chief of the General Staff from 1989 to 1992, but was also president of BSES and went on one of its expeditions in the 1950s. this legacy will, one hopes, offer comfort to Horatio’s family, but their pain can only be guessed at.

The BSES, a registered charity, has close links with the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme (DofE) and both are hugely respected. That a BSES expedition has ended in such catastrophe has sent shockwaves through the sector.

“For expeditions in extreme conditions, expert training, guidance and expedition support is essential,” says Lizzie Bishop of the DofE. “the details of the recent BSES tragedy in Norway are still not clear and all providers of adventurous activity will be awaiting the outcome of their investigation. BSES are experts in this field and their guidance will be valued by other extreme adventure providers.”

More than 850,000 young people take part in DofE programmes across the world. For some teenagers, an expedition in a remote national park offers enough of an odyssey, but others crave more extreme adventures.

“we should continue to stretch the mind, body and soul of our young people through the matchless experience of undertaking an adventurous expedition,” says Bishop.

It’s a sentiment shared by Ian French, who set up the online charity Gapaid to advise parents after his 19-year-old daughter, Georgia, died in a coach crash in the Andes in March 2007. She and four others were killed when the bus veered off the road.

“Georgia was travelling with a group of friends rather than an organised trip, so she was in a very different category to Horatio, but I think that young people need to be educated about travelling abroad and gap year suppliers should be tightly regulated.

“Horatio seemed to be on a very well organised expedition, but being in the wrong place at the wrong time can happen to any of us. despite Georgia’s death, my wife and I still believe travelling the world is a very good thing. We’re not anti-adventure.”

And adventure is what an increasing number of youngsters crave; an estimated 300,000 go on gap year expeditions annually. when Horatio Chapple and the other 10 young people on the £3,000 BSES trip set up camp on the Von Postbreen glacier near Longyearbyen, all were given training by their two leaders in how to deter polar bears.

Experts recommend a lookout, guard dogs and a warning tripwire system designed to scare off polar bears by setting off flares. but there was no warning before the bear burst into the tent where Horatio and two others were sleeping. It is understood that the rifle intended as a last line of defence didn’t initially fire and it took several attempts to kill the animal.

Investigations will follow, and quite possibly recriminations too; nonetheless those involved in adventure and gap year experiences are adamant that they should – must – continue.

“In Britain we have a long tradition of exploring the world and it would be very sad if we lost this spirit, which gives such a sense of fulfilment,” is the verdict of the intrepid Conservative MP Rory Stewart, whose colourful adventures alongside his military and diplomatic service included trekking 6,000 miles through the remotest rural districts of Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iran, India and Nepal.

“some of the most satisfying, most worthwhile experiences in my life entailed risk.”

Risk, of course, means different things to different people. Travel broadens young minds – as attested by the announcement last week that school leavers can put any gap year experiences towards the Certificate of Personal Effectiveness, a qualification equivalent to an A grade at AS level, which could help them secure a university place

But travel can also expose teenagers to hazards for which they may be unprepared. according to Stuart Rees Jones, founder and CEO of Camps International, parents should vet any organisation they choose to take their teenager overseas.

“the majority of our time is spent on safety; assessing any risks and minimising them,” he says.

Camps International’s global expeditions cost from £1,600 and participants can do anything from rebuilding a school to working on water supplies or setting up micro-finance initiatives to help the women in developing communities earn money.

“Once the risk assessment and risk management processes are in place, I apply my final, ultimate check; would I let my kids aged five and eight climb into that vehicle or enter that environment? if I’m not happy to do that then I shouldn’t be taking anyone else’s children.”

Clearly, there are questions to be asked after this tragic event; but even Ken Hames, who knows just how deadly polar bears can be, believes there is great value in letting young people experience the wild first-hand, as Horatio Chapple did. Ex-SAS officer, survivalist and arctic expert, Hames describes polar bears as “the ultimate killing machine” with a sense of smell 4,000 times more powerful than a humans; if they are known to be in an area then extreme vigilance is necessary, which means an armed guard.

“I’ve been stalked by polar bears for days; they have no fear and will pursue you relentlessly unless you have the means to frighten them away,” says the veteran expedition leader and presenter of the BBC series beyond Boundaries, in which he takes groups of highly disabled youngsters on ground-breaking expeditions.

“A young person can be swept away in a Yorkshire river or killed by a bear in Norway; it’s about assessing risks and putting in place safeguards. It’s about balance,” he says.

“we shouldn’t ever stop kids going outdoors, because that’s how they gain a respect for the natural environment. if they lost the opportunity to immerse themselves in nature, that would be a monumental tragedy.”

rudechalets kick off the 2012 winter season with their Rudeville Slope side party giving all of their ski and snowboard loving guests the opportunity to ride / ski for free and celebrate the coming winter (Sept).  during the season rudechalets will be running an exciting range of custom weeks including the Burton Snowboard Test Weekend (Dec); rudegirls snowboard week (Jan); Basscamp music & snow sports festival (Apr) and the rudechalets Park, Pipe and Jib Tour (Apr).

Rudeville 2011 Slope side party in support of the Snow-Camp charity: 24th September 2012// all rudechalets guests, their family & friends will be invited to attend Rudeville’s pre-season snow-lovers gathering at the Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead. Everyone will have free access to the slope between 8 – 10pm and there will be an après-ski shindig with music and merriment in the Edge Bar over-looking the slope from 8pm – midnight.   our lovely friends at Burton are providing a small selection of brand spanking new winter 2012 snowboards and bindings for guests to test.  and both ski and snowboard equipment will be available to rent for no extra cost direct from the Snow Centre. in order to register guests have to make a small donation of at least £2 to the very worthy Snow-Camp charity.  Snow-Camp is an innovative youth charity that uses a unique combination of skiing, snowboarding and life-skills programmes to support inner-city young people.  To register your attendance visit: justgiving.com/rudeville

Burton Snowboard Test Weekend: 9th – 12th December 2011 // as always rudechalets will kick off the 2011/2012 winter season with their increasingly popular and insanely good value Burton Snowboard Test Weekend.  Due to increased demand the test weekend will be hosted across two chalets.  All guests will receive rude wrist bands giving unlimited access to a whole range of brand new 2012 boards & bindings which show case the latest developments in snowboard tech. Price: £299 per person includes airport transfers, lift pass, half board, unlimited wine & mountain hosting.

rudegirls snowboard week: 8th – 15th January 2012 // for winter 2012 we have tweaked our much loved rudegirls format to help guests progress faster on their snowboard, make the most of the mountain and maximise their après-ski time with more options to relax, stretch, explore, mingle and party than ever before!! rudegirls snowboard week caters for all levels of rider from complete beginner to seasoned freestyle and back country shredders.  Tuition will be provided by the lovely and incredibly patient Angel (who in the late 80s won the women’s half pipe and French world cup!) and there will always be a rudechalets team member on hand to show you the best pistes, parks and jib-tastic tree runs in the awesome Avoriaz ski area.  Price: £699 pp/pw includes: 4 x 2 hrs snowboard tuition, mountain hosting, lift pass, Burton Snowboard rental, airport transfers, half board & unlimited wine.

The Basscamp festival 2nd – 6th April 2012 // rudechalets is one of the chief accommodation providers for Basscamp – Morzine’s first electronic Music and Snow Sports Festival which is going to go off!!  a fun-packed week of banging DJs, live bands, après-ski parties, board park comps, free ski and snowboard tuition and a huge fancy-dress street party!  Festival packages start from £609 per person per week which includes an access all areas Basscamp festival wristband, airport transfers, fully catered accommodation in our centrally located & pimped up Chalet Joseph, unlimited in-chalet wine, mountain hosting & exclusive Basscamp discounts in bars, restaurants, on ski / snowboard lessons and other mountain based activities including parapenting and night sledding.

rudechalets Park, Pipe and Jib Tour: 8th – 15th April 2012 // The rudechalets Park, Pipe and Jib Tour is all about the riding with early starts, late finishes and huge improvements.  Burton sponsored Rider Chris Kightly and rude sponsored rider Andy Webb will demo tricks, give you pointers on the piste and show you around the awesome parks and jib-packed tree runs which make the Portes du Soleil one of the best areas to ride in Europe. Technical tuition is provided by a fully qualified instructor from the International Snowboard School in Avoriaz who have access to the Big Air Bag so you can huck yourself off a big kicker and practice your spins / inverts without the fear of nailing yourself on a hard-packed landing! Price: £499 pp/pw includes: Airport transfers, half board, unlimited wine, 6 day Portes du Soleil lift pass, 4 x 2 hrs park instruction & mountain hosting.

for more information, visit rudechalets.com.

Understanding how to operate your own competition wakeboard boat rental can be difficult that is why we offer training on the water with any of our equipment. We can teach you how to avoid damage to others around you, and the boat. all of our boat drivers / instructors have a certified boating license whether you are chartering or renting these amazing boats so you can have the best experience at any lake of your choice. Come and experience all the lakes and reservoirs in the Western States.

Boating was created for people who love boating by people who love boating. We understand that everyone doesn’t always have the means or the time to deal with boat ownership. Service is our business, and we are dedicated to providing our clients with the best possible experience on the water. whether you are chartering a boat and driver, or renting a boat on your own you will not be disappointed with our standards on boats and equipment. We use the best in competition boats from MasterCraft and water sports equipment from Hyperlite. We purchase new equipment every year to make sure our clients are getting the best in water sports equipment We also offer many services to make your vacation to the lake easy and enjoyable, like delivery and pickup, food services, waverunner rentals, lessons, and total vacation packages. We can take care of anything you would like us to, just ask

Here are some other things we offer: specializing in Competition wakeboard and water ski boat rental and charter services. Jet ski, waverunner, and PWC watercraft rentals. Hyperlite water sports equipment rental and vehicle transportation / rental. Delivery services to all lakes and reservoirs. Vacation packages to major lakes including Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Tahoe, Bear lake, Lake Shasta, and more. If it has to do with water sports we do it

Come and experience the thrill of water sports in the great outdoors Learn to wakeboard, water ski, wake skate, wake surf, knee board, air chair, tube and more. Ride like a pro using the latest competition boats and equipment on a brand new world-class boat driven by a professional driver. our chartered boating service is our specialty This is the way to vacation with a group of friends, business, or family.

Let us handle your delivery to any lake, drive the boat and clean it up, so you and your group have more time together, and in the water. Offering lessons and instruction ranging from getting your first ride to perfecting the landing of your favorite trick. There is an activity for everyone, even the little kids.

Specializes in Competition wakeboard and water ski boat rental and charter services. Jet ski, waverunner, and PWC watercraft rentals. Hyperlite water sports equipment rental and vehicle transportation / rental. Delivery services to all lakes and reservoirs. Vacation packages to major lakes including Lake Powell, Lake Mead, Lake Mohave, Lake Tahoe, Bear lake, Lake Shasta, and more. If it has to do with water sports we do it

Come and experience the thrill of water sports in the great outdoors Learn to wakeboard, water ski, wake skate, wake surf, knee board, air chair, tube and more. Ride like a pro using the latest competition boats and equipment on a brand new world-class boat driven by a professional driver. our chartered boating service is our specialty This is the way to vacation with a group of friends, business, or family

Make sure the company offers boat rentals with the latest competition wake board and water ski boats from MasterCraft, Hyperlite water sport equipment rental, and tow vehicle rentals.

Seven teams from the Nelson region will be battling for honours at the Lincoln University South Island secondary schools netball tournament, which begins in Stoke on Monday.

around 800 players from over 70 teams will take part in the four-day tournament, one of the biggest in the country.

a grade teams will play indoors at Saxton Stadium, while B and C grade games will take place on the outdoor courts.

The finals, scheduled for Thursday afternoon, will be played at the Trafalgar Centre.

The top five a grade teams will qualify for the secondary schools nationals in Napier in October, up from the four that went through last year.

Three Nelson teams will be playing in the top division – Waimea College, Nelson College for Girls and Motueka High School.

Waimea are the region’s top-ranked college team and will play in the premier semifinals next Saturday.

however, the secondary schools tournament remains the team’s number one priority.

They missed out on a spot at the nationals last year after finishing fifth, despite not losing a game at the South Island tournament.

Coach Faye Eden said they were determined to make up for that disappointment and ensure they made it into the top five and the nationals this time around. They were not over-confident, but believed they were hitting form at the right end of the year.

Nelson College for Girls placed 20th in 2010 but are aiming for a top 10 finish next week.

Coach Andrea Reidie said they had been boosted by spending a round playing premier netball earlier this season, which had helped their movement towards the ball.

“We’ve got lots of potential and if they play to it, they will do well.

“I’ve got a strong team right throughout; there are no weak links.”

Motueka coach Beccy Hay said 2011 was a rebuilding year for her team. They were sitting mid-table in senior one, but were building nicely towards tournament week.

“We’ve all set ourselves individual and team goals that we are working towards.”

Garin College came 23rd last season in B grade, but lost only two matches and missed out on the top 16 on countback.

Coach Sarah Rankin said they were looking for a top 16 finish this time around.

“They’ve come such a long way. The improvement is awesome to see, just as a team unit.

“They want top 16, and as long as they don’t come up against one of those freak teams who are all six foot, I think it’s achievable.”

Golden Bay High School have been hit by a couple of withdrawals in the past month or so, with several players stepping up from the B team.

They were performing well in weekly competition, and did well at an association development tournament in Nelson last week, coach Cherie Chamberlain said.

She was expecting a finish similar to last year’s 25th in B grade.

Nayland College finished 30th in a grade last year, and have dropped to B grade for 2011.

They will be led by midcourter Michaela Matenga, who impressed in her first season of premier netball with Stoke this year, and with the Tasman under-19 side.

Collingwood Area School are playing in C grade. They have been promoted to Golden Bay’s a grade this season and have given a good account of themselves, sitting around the middle of the table.

Coach Paula Beck said they struggled at the South Island tournament last year but had a number of new players this time around, and she was hopeful they would do well.

“I’m feeling pretty happy about where the girls are at, and I’m hoping to see some really good results.”

The tournament can be followed at sissnetball.co.nz/index.html.

Waimea College: Jordan Webby, Ashley Laing, Naomi Paenga, Kelsey Whiting, Mackenzie Orange, Ella Marwick, Megan Thomson, Zoe Walker, Emily Jensen, Freya Watson, Jordan Dennehy.

Nelson College for Girls: Whitney Orange, Caroline Fergusson, Anna Robinson, Ruth Swaney, Shevaun Collier, Rosie Bywater, Rebecca Reidie, Rosa Edwards, Madi Billens, Ellie Bell, Courtney Robinson.

Motueka High School: Natasha Wilkinson, Chelsea Thorn, Claire Martin Hamilton, Alex Brewer, Scarlett Wynands, Keilamarita Pouri Lane, Gemma Lamont, Rachel Templeton, Siobhan Delany, Sarah Jones, Ashley Park, Courtney Clarke.

Garin College: Tess Eden, Kate Fahey, Lulu Shanaher, Abbie Powick, Makaila Powick, Sjaan Hungerford, Emma Greep, Dakota Sigley, Cheyenne Sigley.

Golden Bay High School: Kate Gill, Jana Cottle-McConnon, Sage Andrews, Ellie Kerrisk, Paula Kohler-Saunders, Jessie Renton, Liana Sangster, Laura Sixtus, Kez Wells.

Nayland College: Olivia Clark, Michaela Matenga, Brianna Joyes, Macaela Joyes, Deanna Hunter, Ashleigh Snape, Abby Pestell-Thompson, Sara Reide, Ashleigh Parkinson, Kimberley Parkinson.

Collingwood Area School: Anna Barham, Amy Robinson, Caitlin McLellan, Brianna Davis, Louise Nalder, Talia Menary, Katie Barham, Sarah Robinson.

SCHEDULE

start times for Nelson region teams on Monday and Tuesday Waimea College – 9am Monday (Wakatipu High School), 1.30pm Monday (Waitaki Girls’ High), noon Tuesday (Lincoln High School). Nelson College for Girls – 10am Monday (Marian College), 1.30pm Monday (Columba College), 10am Tuesday (Mount Hutt College). Motueka High School – 11am Monday (Gore High), 2.30pm Monday (St Margaret’s College), 11am Tuesday (James Hargest High School). Nayland College – 9am Monday (invitation team), noon Monday (Darfield High), 9am Tuesday (Riccarton High). Garin College – 11am Monday (Kaikoura High School), 3.30pm Monday (Dunstan High School), 10am Tuesday (Ellesmere College). Golden Bay High School – 11am Monday (South Otago High School), 2.30pm Monday (St Andrew’s College), 11am Tuesday (Mackenzie College). Collingwood Area School – 10am Monday (John Paul II), 2.30pm Monday (Oxford Area School), noon Tuesday (Fiordland College), 3.30pm Tuesday (Linwood College).

– The Nelson Mail

The product is Mongoose Menace Boy’s BMX/Jump Bike (20-Inch Wheels, Lime Green).Spec’d for serious riding, the Mongoose Menace boy’s BMX/jump bike continues to turn heads. The bike is outfitted with such features as a full hi-ten steel frame, a CroMo steerer fork, 20-inch Kenda front and rear tires, alloy rims, and Wellgo micro-tread pedals. As a result, the bike performs beautifully whether you’re flying off jumps or performing tricks. other features include a rear Tektro alloy U-brake, a Mongoose hi-ten handlebar, a Mongoose slim saddle, and Mongoose Kraton grips.

Specifications

About Mongoose Founded in 1974 in a Southern California garage, Mongoose has always been an innovator. from the company’s initial cast-magnesium MotoMag wheels to its current crop of BMX, mountain, and pavement bikes, the Mongoose name has been synonymous with bicycle performance. Mongoose builds specifically for riders, which is why the company’s BMX designers aren’t wasting time watching reruns on ESPN2. Instead, they’re constantly testing their new designs at the park, on the track, and on the hill. this continuous experimentation is what drives Mongoose to cook up things like the Front Porch head tube, which lets you fine-tune the handling on Black Diamond series mountain bikes, or Freedrive suspension technology, which eliminates pedal bob and provides a super-efficient full suspension. Mongoose bikes don’t just push the limits; they set new ones. Read More …

Serfas Zip Baggy Womens Cycling Short that keeps you comfortable in the saddle for long rides and it features a removable liner.

Purchase from Amazon here

Serfas knows that cycling should build up your body, not break it down, and their cycling gear is designed with this idea in mind for over 15 years.

These four things should be considered when purchasing any cycling short.

Style –  a baggy cycling short with adjustable Velcro tabs at waist for perfect fit and elastic back waist for comfort. There are two handy side pockets and one rear hidden zipper pocket.

Size – variety of available sizes from small to extra large, see chart below. Ensure when buying bike shorts that the shorts are a good fit and not too tight which restricts movement and reduces comfort. too big and the shorts may be awkward for riding

Padding – The Serfas reactive gel chamois do more than just pad your seat. The gel reacts and moves with you body like a second layer of skin to alleviate friction and eliminate chaffing.

Fabric – very durable outer shell with inner liner that washes easily.

Cons about the Serfas Zip Baggy Womens Cycling Short

The only concerns centered around sizing issues so I have included the Serfas sizing chart for your convenience.

These women’s cycling shorts are available on Amazon. Click this link to check out the current price.

Who The Serfas Zip Baggy Womens Cycling Short is intended for

• Women Mountain bikers who love the flexibility of baggy shorts
• Bicycle touring with the convenience of a removable liner for easy washing
• Recreational riders including bicycle commuters who may prefer the more relaxed baggy cycling short style

Serfas Zip Baggy Womens Cycling Short Features and Specifications

• Women’s baggy style short
• Removable Reactive Gel liner designed for maximum comfort without migration
• Adjustable Velcro tabs at waist for perfect fit
• Elastic back waist for comfort
• Zipper Fly
• Two double cargo pockets with zipper
• Variety of sizes
• Color is black

What Customers Are saying about the Serfas Zip Baggy Womens Cycling Short

Rating:

Reviewers loved the comfort. The gel chamois liner in the Serfas Zip Baggy is a very comfortable pad. I am always looking for the pair of shorts that I can call, my 100 mile shorts. although I won’t be putting in 100 miles on the MTB, these liners are making the 3 hour MTB rides feel like 1!

Other reviewers commented that I like the gel, very comfortable. I bought sizer large which fit me very well. so in summary, very comfortable, but I wish the outer short was a slight bit smaller and the liner a slight bit bigger.

There were also comments regarding the style. one woman who purchased these stated I bought these before my first 150 mile weekend ride and was thrilled to discover that I could ride that far and not hurt at all 30 seconds after getting off my bike. The inner liner washes easily and drys quickly. The shorts with many pockets are my favorite summer gear, on or off my bike.

Click here to purchase from Amazon

The Serfas Zip Baggy Womens Cycling Short with a detachable padded liner is a comfortable bike short, particularly if you are riding all day.