GARDEN and LAWN PREPARATION

 Starting the process of preparing garden land is like starting a symphony of nature, with every note carefully chosen to balance the demands of the soil and the gardener's goals. Imagine a patch of land that is ready to be transformed, where hopes for colorful flowers and abundant crops sprout. Equipped with a trowel and a clear vision, the gardener steps onto the soil, prepared to gently extract life from beneath the surface.

The plants chosen become a protagonist in the story as the first threads of this gardening tale emerge. Each species has a personality to convey and a role to play in the drama that is developing in the garden. The gardener carefully chooses a cast that enhances the vision by considering the colors of flowers, the textures of leaves, and the heights of stems. This is a story of compatibility, in which the ground speaks its desires and the gardener pays close attention, choosing characters who will coexist peacefully with the environment.

The seasons function as chapters in this lush story, each with its own unique story arc. The gardener, a storyteller in tune with the rhythm of the land, thinks about when to plant, how the sun and shade dance, and how rainfall embraces the land gently. Aeration takes center stage as the plot thickens and the soil becomes a creative blank canvas. With the introduction of aeration, which is like a breath of fresh air to the soil, the gardener lets the roots spread out and feels relieved. This is a crucial point in the narrative that establishes the garden's resiliency and vitality.

Preparing garden land is like weaving a tapestry with threads of hope and devotion. It's a story told through the language of plants and soil, a collaboration between humans and nature. In this story, the gardener takes on the role of a living masterpiece's caretaker, nurturing not only plants but also a seasonal bond with the land.

Plant Selection

In the garden landscapes, the act of plant selection is a casting call where each green contender auditions for a role in the horticultural drama. Picture the gardener as a discerning director, walking along rows of possibilities, considering not just the colors and shapes but the personalities of each plant. It's a delicate dance between aesthetics and practicality, where sun-loving blooms find their place in the spotlight, and shade-dwelling foliage becomes the understudy. In this verdant casting session, the gardener becomes a curator of a living art gallery, selecting a diverse ensemble that will grace the garden stage with a symphony of colors and textures.

Season Consideration

As the seasons unfurl their tales, the gardener becomes a storyteller, choreographing the garden's narrative with careful consideration of nature's ever-changing script. It's a narrative that begins with the anticipation of spring, where bulbs burst forth in a crescendo of blossoms, signaling the awakening of the garden. The summer acts as a sun-soaked interlude, where the gardener navigates the delicate balance of hydration and sun exposure. In autumn, the leaves transform into a tapestry of fiery hues, and the garden prepares for a moment of rest. Finally, winter arrives, a hushed epilogue where the garden slumbers, awaiting the next chapter. In this seasonal saga, the gardener becomes a custodian of time, orchestrating a rhythm that echoes through the roots and leaves of the garden's inhabitants.

Soil Aerofying

Soil aerofying, a technique aimed at improving soil aeration, is a fundamental step in garden land preparation. In the work of Brown and Green (2020), the authors highlight the importance of addressing soil compaction to enhance root development and nutrient absorption by plants. They explain that soil aerofying involves the mechanical process of creating openings in the soil, allowing for better air circulation and water infiltration. The authors stress that this practice can significantly improve overall soil structure, promoting a healthier environment for plant growth. Brown and Green provide insights into various tools and methods used for soil aerofying, emphasizing its role in preventing waterlogged soil and supporting the establishment of a robust root system.

PLUMBING and Irrigation System Installation

Efficient water management is critical in garden land preparation, and the installation of an appropriate irrigation system is key to achieving this. In their comprehensive study, Martinez and Rodriguez (2017) discuss the various types of irrigation systems available to gardeners and the factors influencing the choice of a particular system. The authors emphasize the importance of considering factors such as water source, plant water requirements, and local climate when designing and installing an irrigation system. Martinez and Rodriguez provide practical insights into drip irrigation, soaker hoses, and sprinkler systems, highlighting the advantages and disadvantages of each. Their research underscores how a well-designed irrigation system contributes not only to water conservation but also to the overall health and vitality of the garden.

Overseeding in the Garden: A Resurrection of Green Dreams

In the quietude of a garden's awakening, the practice of overseeding becomes a poetic gesture, akin to breathing new life into the hallowed grounds. It's a tale of renewal, where the gardener, armed with a bag of seeds, embarks on a journey to revive the lushness of a tired lawn. The process begins as a ritualistic dance between the gardener and the earth, with each handful of seed cast upon the soil representing a promise of rejuvenation. The dormant grass, once dulled by the passage of seasons, is now a canvas awaiting the brushstroke of verdant revival.

As the weeks unfold, the overseeding story takes root, and the garden transforms into a vibrant tapestry of green hues. The new seedlings emerge like characters in a plot, weaving themselves into the existing grass with an eagerness to thrive. It's a narrative of resilience, where the garden, once thought to be past its prime, unfolds a second act, bursting forth with youthful exuberance. The gardener, akin to a storyteller, witnesses the resurrection of the lawn, the fruition of a narrative that celebrates the cyclical nature of growth and rebirth.

Topseeding: The Blanket of Promise for a Green Uniformity

In the equalization of garden care, the act of topseeding emerges as a harmonious melody, a whispered promise to the grassy expanse. Imagine the garden as a canvas longing for renewal, and the gardener as a painter, armed with a bag of seeds as brushes. Topseeding, like a gentle hand, lays a fresh layer of potential over the existing lawn. It's not just sowing seeds; it's an act of hope and transformation. As the gardener scatters the tiny emissaries, each seed becomes a note in a song that the earth is eager to sing.

Weeks later, the garden undergoes a metamorphosis. The once-thin patches transform into a lush carpet, and the grass seems to sway in gratitude for this touch of renewal. Topseeding becomes a whispered secret shared between the gardener and the soil, a commitment to the perpetual dance of growth. The garden, now adorned with a new layer of greenery, stands as a testament to the gardener's dedication—a testament to the simple yet powerful act of sowing seeds with the faith that, with time, they will weave a tale of abundance and beauty.

Top Dressing: The Elegance of Gardening Couture

In the realm of garden aesthetics, top dressing unveils itself as the couture of lawn care, donning the grass in a tailored ensemble of nutrients and finesse. Picture the garden as a green canvas, and the gardener as a stylist meticulously selecting the finest fabrics. With each application of top dressing, the soil becomes a runway, and the grass, the star models, adorned in a layer of organic luxury. It's a tale of refinement, where the gardener, armed with a wheelbarrow of compost and sand, becomes a maestro orchestrating a visual symphony.

As the top dressing unfolds its narrative, the garden undergoes a metamorphosis. The soil, once hungry for nutrients, now revels in the organic feast, and the grass responds with a vibrant display of health. It's a story of rejuvenation, where the gardener's careful attention to detail is reflected in the lushness of the lawn. The top-dressed garden stands as a masterpiece, a testament to the gardener's commitment to nurturing the land. In this sartorial saga, top dressing becomes not just a practical measure but an artistic expression, transforming the garden into a living tapestry of elegance and vitality.

Over Dressing: The Garden's Extravagant Banquet

In the horticultural culture, over dressing unfolds as the grand feast, where the garden is adorned in opulence and splendor. The gardener, akin to a culinary artist, spreads a lavish banquet of nutrients over the grass, ushering in a narrative of abundance. Imagine the garden as a regal banquet hall, and the over dressing as the rich tapestry that lays the foundation for a sumptuous green spread. With each application, the soil becomes a banquet table, and the grass, the honored guests, indulging in a feast of nutrients, rich organic matter, and the promise of vitality.

As the over dressing saga unfolds, the garden transforms into a lush kingdom, a testament to the gardener's generosity. The grass, once a modest resident, now stands adorned in a verdant cloak, radiating health and vibrancy. It's a story of nurturing excess, where the gardener, guided by a desire for abundance, enhances the soil's fertility and the grass's well-being. The over-dressed garden becomes a living ode to prosperity, where the land flourishes under the gardener's benevolent touch. In this tale of extravagance, over dressing becomes a celebration of the garden's potential, a banquet where every blade of grass is invited to revel in the richness of nature's bounty.

Garden Chronicles: 

The Art of Maintenance and the Poetry of Inspection

In the ongoing saga of garden caretaking, maintenance and inspection emerge as the vigilant guardians, weaving a narrative that ensures the longevity and health of the grassy kingdom. Imagine the garden as a realm where every blade of grass has its story, and the gardener, a dedicated curator, preserves these tales through meticulous care. Maintenance becomes a ritualistic dance, where the gardener waltzes through the green expanse, armed with tools and a discerning eye. It's a commitment to the art of stewardship, where weeds are plucked like unwanted interlopers, and the soil is gently nurtured like a cherished piece of art.

Amidst the choreography of maintenance, inspection is the poetry that unfolds with each step. The gardener, attuned to the nuances of the garden's language, inspects with an artist's sensitivity. Every yellowing leaf becomes a whispered secret, revealing the garden's needs, while every thriving shoot is a celebration of the gardener's efforts. Inspection is not merely a task; it's a dialogue with the garden, an exchange of signals where the gardener learns to read the subtle cues of nature. Through this symbiotic dance of maintenance and inspection, the garden becomes a living testament to the gardener's devotion, a canvas that reflects the beauty of a well-tended, thriving landscape.

In Review:

1. Take your time on weeding, removing the algae, and repair, refill the submerged part of your lawn, or any holes.(planning of time and duration of finishing this step is essential and crucial)

2. Cut the grass if too long, above 2 inches must be cut so its easy for raking(manual or machine operated).

3. Raking the old and dead weeds.

4. Cut the grass again at least 1inch or 2.5cm at height.

5. Removing the remaining dry and dead leafs again by raking or by using push brush.

6. Use your blower to remove other unwanted leaf and debris.

7. Aerofying, its either plug or spike aerofying, remember its a MUST(Dont the shortcut), the purpose is to shelter the nutrient, to keep the seeds from moving during irrigation, to slightly leveled the soul surface and recumbrances and gives air to roots.

8. Water the soil (make it wet).

9. If Basal System, fertilizer first then the grass seeds. If not basal, just do the direct seeding.

10. Cover the seeds with your soil of chosen.

11. Tampering to compact the soil, and to fuse the seeds and soil together.

12. Irrigate.(at least 10 to 15 minutes at 8AM and before sunset during the first 3 weeks only..

13. Put some scare crow for birds.(leash or secure you pets).

14. Irrigate manually at least 8 to 14 days until the grass has its own roots(optional but highly recommended)

15. Fertilizer application for your seed nutrients at least every 7 to 14 days at top. And day after seeding, at late afternoon is the best and ideal time.

16. Cut the grass if it reach 15 to 25cm.(retain 2.5 to 3.5 inches height for best and common heights of grass)

Remember: in seeding of grass, you can pick either wet seeded or dry seeded directly process.

Note: Dont rush and add a little of patience.

Hoping that above information help you out for your garden and lawn beautification.

Acknowledgment:  the course maintenance mens of emirates golf club and dubai creek golf yacht club from year 2005 to 2011, https://taurus.ag/, Edgar Anyayahan

THE GOLF

In the heart of Dubai, amidst the shimmering skyline, lies the Emirates Golf Club—a sanctuary where my passion for golf took flight. I, an amateur golfer with a once-cherished single-digit handicap, embarked on a journey through the meticulously manicured fairways of the Majlis Golf Course. Each visit was an adventure, with the iconic clubhouse standing tall against the azure sky. The sun, a faithful companion, cast its warm embrace over the landscape as my trusty clubs and I took on the challenge. The Majlis Course, a canvas of undulating greens and strategic bunkers, became the backdrop for countless tales of triumph and camaraderie. From the euphoria of sinking a birdie putt on the 18th green to the collective cheers with fellow golf enthusiasts, the Emirates Golf Club was more than a course—it was my personal haven of joy.

Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club unfolded its beauty like a cherished secret, with the gentle ebb and flow of the creek framing the captivating course. The vibrant energy of the city resonated with every swing, creating a symphony of excitement on the fairways. The breathtaking views of the skyline, the caress of the creek breeze, and the challenge of each hole made every round an exhilarating escapade. As an amateur golfer navigating the course's twists and turns, the Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club became a testament to the fusion of skill and sheer delight that golfing brings.

Venturing into the heart of Nad Al Sheba Golf and Country Club, I found myself immersed in the serenity of nature juxtaposed with the thrill of the game. The landscape unfolded like a green oasis, inviting me to conquer its challenges with each swing. Whether on the fairways or amidst the captivating beauty of the surroundings, every moment felt like a celebration of my love for golf. It wasn't just about the competition; it was about the personal victories, the friendships forged, and the joy of being part of a community that shared a common passion.

Jumeirah Golf Estates, a sprawling expanse of golfing paradise, showcased the Wadi Golf Course—a hidden gem that tested my skills amidst its natural wonders. The rhythm of my swing matched the cadence of the nearby wadi, creating a harmonious symphony of nature and sport. The satisfaction of conquering the challenging terrain was only surpassed by the breathtaking vistas that unfolded at every turn. The Majlis Golf Course at Jumeirah Golf Estates added its own chapter to my golfing odyssey, with its world-class design and prestigious atmosphere elevating the thrill of every round.

As the sun set on each golfing escapade in Dubai, I cherished not just the memories of the incredible courses but the personal growth and happiness that the sport brought into my life. Golf wasn't just a game—it was a journey, a passion, and a source of unbridled joy that unfolded on the stunning courses of Emirates Golf Club, Dubai Creek Golf and Yacht Club, Nad Al Sheba Golf and Country Club, and Jumeirah.

Brief: How the Game Evolved

There is general agreement that the Scots were the earliest of golf addicts but who actually invented the game is open to debate. We know that golf has existed for at least 500 years because James II of Scotland, in an Act of Parliament dated March 6, 1457, had golf and football banned because these sports were interfering too much with archery practice sorely needed by the loyal defenders of the Scottish realm! It has been suggested that bored shepherds tending flocks of sheep near St. Andrews became adept at hitting rounded stones into rabbits holes with their wooden crooks. And so a legend that persists to this day was born!

Various forms of games resembling golf were played as early as the fourteenth century by sportsmen in Holland, Belgium and France as well as in Scotland. But it was a keen Scottish Baron, James VI, who brought the game to England when he succeeded to the English throne in 1603. For many years the game was played on rough terrain without proper greens, just crude holes cut into the ground where the surface was reasonably flat!

Early Golf Organizations

Early golfers played at the game for many years without any thought of forming a society or club until finally a group of Edinburgh golfers in 1744 formed a club called the Honourable Company of Edinburgh Golfers. At this time, the first rules of golf, 13 in all, were drawn up for an annual competition between sportsmen from any part of Great Britain and Ireland. A few years later the Society of St. Andrews Golfers was formed and in 1834, when King William IV became the Society's patron, the title was changed to the Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St. Andrews.

The earliest clubs formed outside of Scotland was the Royal Blackheath Golf Club of England which came into existence in 1766, followed by the Old Manchester Golf Club founded on the Kersal Moor in 1818. 18th century golf in the United States, while known to exist, did not catch on and it was in Canada that golf first established firm roots in North America. The Royal Montreal Club was formed in 1873, the Quebec Golf Club in 1875 followed by a golf club at Toronto in 1876. It wasn't until 1888 that golf resurfaced in the United States. A Scotsman, John Reid, first built a three hole course in Yonkers, New York near his home and later that same year formed the St. Andrews Club of Yonkers on a nearby 30 acre site. From those austere beginnings, golf literally soared as a new national pastime in the United States. A modern jewel, Shinnecock Hills, was founded in 1891 on Long Island and by the turn of the century, more than 1000 golf clubs had opened in North America.

Early Equipment

The very earliest club makers were thought to be the skilled craftsmen who produced bows and arrows and other implements of war! The first authentic record of a club maker was in 1603 when William Mayne was appointed to the court of James I of England to make golf clubs for the king and his coherts! Two Scottish club makers are recognized from the late 1600s, Andrew Dickson of Leith and Henry Mill of St. Andrews. These clubs featured carved wooden heads of beech, holly, dogwood, pear or apple and spliced into shafts of ash or hazel to give the club more whip. Improvements were made by filling the back of the head with lead and by putting inserts of leather, horn or bone into the club face. In time, skilled blacksmiths of the day took on the challenge of forging iron faced clubs, initially without grooves, to provide more loft for shorter shots. The earliest balls were hand stitched leather, painstakingly stuffed with boiled feathers! In 1618, James I of England commissioned James Melvill and an associate to make feathery balls for the court. It was an exclusive grant for 21 years with the balls stamped by Melvill and any other ball found in the Kingdom not bearing his trademark were confiscated! You may well be surprised at the distances achieved by these feathery balls. In dry weather, a well struck feather ball could travel 180 yards (165 m) but when wet only about 150 yards (135 m). However, the feathery ball remained king until the middle of the 19th century. In 1848, a golfing clergyman from St. Andrews, the Reverend Adam Paterson, experimented with a substance from India called gutta-percha. It had been sent to him as padding covering a gift and he found that the material could be softened with heat and then molded into a hard ball. The gutty as it was known was not an instant success as the smooth ball tended to duck in flight. Players soon found that its performance improved at the end of a round when the ball received some nicks and scratches. Therefore, newly molded balls were scored all over with a saddler's hammer with such good playing results that the demise of the feathery was certain.

The gutta-percha ball lasted for approximately 55 years until succeeded by the Haskell ball in 1903. An American dentist, Dr. Coburn Haskell, ran some experiments by tightly wrapping a liquid filled rubber core with strips of elastic then covering it with a gutta-percha casing. North American golfers began to take the new ball seriously when Walter Travis, originally from Australia, won the 1901 United States Amateur Championship using the Haskell ball. When Alex Herd won the 1902 British Open Championship again using the Haskell ball, golfers everywhere dropped the gutty and clamored for the Haskell!

Modern balls have a more durable cover of balata or surlyn and various solid core balls with new synthetics have become popular. As well, we have seen the art of club making go from the original wooden clubs, to forged irons, then steel shafts and finally all manner of metal heads with many types of synthetic shafts. Technology has done wonders for the average golfer but practice, dedication and raw talent still remain a factor as witnessed by Greg Norman's amazing 63 at Augusta on April 11, 1996, during the first round of the US Masters Championship.

THE ORIGINS OF THE GAME

Throughout recorded history, every civilization has played a game with a club and a ball. Pangea for example, as described by Roman scribes, would appear to be the father both of modern hockey and the Celtic games of Shinty and Hurling.

In one form or another, the variant games of present day golf were clearly enjoyed throughout Europe in the Middle Ages. The game persisted over the centuries and the form that it took and rules that were applied varied as widely as the terrain the game was played over. In short, the game consisted of knocking a ball from one pre-designated place to another where the ball was to be struck off a predetermined object in the least number of blows. Games often extended from village to village.

That this game was ousted from the towns and onto the commons land beyond is one possible solution to the question of how it all began. Whatever the exact origins, it is known that by the 15th century, "kolf" as it was known in the Netherlands and "goff" as it was referred to in England, was a pastime enjoyed by Kings and Commoners alike. It's kinship to the Great Game however, remains entirely questionable.

So widespread was the game of "Gowf", as it was known in Scotland, that an Act of Parliament was passed to prevent the playing of the game on Sundays and thus preserve the skills of Archery. The citizens of Aberdeen, St. Andrews and Leith on Scotland's East Coast were the principal "gowfing" miscreants and it was no coincidence that rolling sandy links land was commonplace here. On this very terrain, a game that started with a cleek and a ball took on a form that started an evolutionary process that continues to this day.

The question of how it all began may be of pressing concern to some but to the Scot, it is sufficient to know that the game was born on the links land of eastern Scotland. Here, the game has been nurtured for over five hundred years and from here, it has been raised to the great game played and loved by millions throughout the world.

For other Details, you can visit the PGA of America and EGA of Europe.

SQUASH

In the heart of Dubai, within the polished and cleared walls of the Emirates Golf Club courts, the vibrant echoes of squash resonate—a game that has become the rhythm of my sporting passion. The swift thud of the ball against the court's walls, the precise strokes, and the strategic dance across the court create a symphony of athleticism and strategy. Playing squash at the Emirates Golf Club, amidst the panoramic views of the city, adds a unique flavor to the game, transforming each match into an exhilarating experience where skill meets the artistry of play.

Embracing the camaraderie of the squash ladder at the Emirates Golf Club, I found myself immersed in a community of fellow enthusiasts. The ladder, a dynamic platform for players of varying skill levels, became a stage for friendly competition and mutual encouragement. Whether engaging in a challenging rally against a higher-ranked opponent or relishing the thrill of ascending the ladder with victories, squash became more than a game—it was a source of joy, growth, and a shared journey within a community of like-minded players.

In the broader world of squash, 2023 ushered in a new era, with a dynamic landscape of talent and competition. As of this year, the coveted title of World No. 1 in squash is held by an exceptional player who has demonstrated unparalleled skill and consistency(you can find it here: https://www.psaworldtour.com/). Their mastery of the court and strategic brilliance have made them a beacon of inspiration for squash enthusiasts worldwide, showcasing the beauty of the game and reaffirming squash's place as a thrilling and globally embraced sport.

The History of Squash in 8½ Chapters

James Zug is a senior writer at Squash Magazine (www.squashmagazine.com) and is the author of Squash: A History of the Game, published by Scribner in September 2003.

I - FIRST THERE WAS REAL TENNIS ...

The origins of squash are in the ancient game of real tennis. In the twelfth century in France boys and girls played ball games in the narrow streets of their villages. They slapped balls along the awnings or roofs that lined the street or into shop and door openings. Rules depended on local geography. In time these street games migrated up to cloistered monasteries. Every Lenten season young brothers strung a fishing net across the middle of their courtyards and patted a ball back and forth with their gloved hands. The balls - a patch of leather with dog hair sewn inside, later cloth stuffed with soil, sawdust, sand or moss-bruised and cut hands. Monks added webbing to the gloves and then extended their hand by picking up a stumpy stick, a branch of a tree, a shepherd's crook. At the end of the fifteenth century the Dutch invented the racquet.The game was called tennis and it became the national sport of a dozen European nations. In 1580 the Venetian ambassador to Henri III of France walked around Paris counting tennis courts: he stopped at eighteen hundred. Gambling and violence sadly became the norm (Caravaggio, the Italian painter, killed a man at a tennis court in Rome in 1606) and tennis slowly retreated to royal palaces. Lawn tennis, as played by Hewitt and the Williams sisters, was invented in 1873 in Great Britain as an outdoor version of real tennis.Tennis begat rackets. In the early eighteenth century, prisoners at the Fleet, London's notorious debtor's gaol, created an outdoor version of tennis. It was called rackets, and it involved no more than smacking a ball against one or two walls. The ball, unsqueezable, was made from wound cloth and was similar to a golf ball; the racket was a stretched tennis bat. Soon rackets spread across Great Britain and was a common pastime as workingmen played in tavern yards and alleys and schoolboys played outside their classrooms.Britons started building rackets courts, as opposed to just playing in a convenient corner. These courts were unadorned affairs, roofless, rustic, usually just one or two stone walls and a paving stone floor. Inclement weather drove players toward a court with a roof. In 1830 the Royal Artillery built the first known covered racket court at their Woolwich depot. The Marylebone Cricket Club, the home of cricket, built one in 1844 next to their tennis court at Lords, and in 1853 Prince's Club opened its historic doors with seven covered rackets courts. Rackets spread to the colonies. The first covered rackets court in Canada was put in Halifax in the seventeen-seventies; in India in 1821; Australia in 1847. In 1793 Robert Knox, a Scot, put up the first covered court in America on Allen Street, between Hester and Canal, in lower Manhattan. A few years later the Allen Street court had a nearby rival that was called, due to the predominant profession of its membership, the Butcher's Court.Accompanying rackets was another socially-lubricated ball and wall game called fives. Named for the five fingers of the hand, this ancient version of handball was more or less the game of rackets without the racket. Many men played both sports in the same court. Fives grew so popular at English public schools that the two leading forms of the game derived their standards entirely from the quirky spots on campus where the boys played. Eton fives, first played amid the mossy drainpipes outside the school chapel at Eton, had a court twenty-five feet and three inches by fourteen with many buttresses and hazards, while Rugby fives, created at Rugby School (where the sport of rugby football also was started), had an unadorned court twenty-eight feet by eighteen, with side walls that sloped towards the back wall and a two and a half foot tin on the front wall.

II THEN THERE WAS FIVES ...The combination of rackets and fives sparked the creation of squash at the Harrow School outside London. Harrow boys were addicted to rackets. The chief place to play at Harrow was in the schoolyard that surrounded Old Schools, the main school building. One special nook of the schoolyard was called "The Corner." It had two good side walls and a front wall with a buttress which dropped the ball straight down and a waterpipe that might send it anywhere. In 1850 Harrow built two open-air rackets courts. Court time was hard to get for younger boys. They had to be content to play in the tiny, stone-walled yards at their boarding houses or in village alleys. The yards and alleys, like the Corner, boasted peculiar hazards: water pipes, chimneys, ledges, doors, footscrapers, wired windows and fiendishly sloping ground. Split-second decisions and speedy hand-eye coordination were essential. Rackets, with its long, heavy bat and bullet-hard ball, was difficult for an inexperienced boy to learn in such cramped conditions. With typical English flair, the young boys at Harrow invented something new. Rubber had just come into use and Harrow boys grabbed a rubber ball, sawed off the butt of their racquets and played a slower, easier game in their house yards. This bastardised version of racquets was called "baby racquets" or "soft racquets" or "softer." (In those days the word "racquets" was spelled properly.) Baby rackets was perfect for the Harrow boys. On 20 January 1865 Harrow officially opened a new complex of rackets and fives courts.The boys loved the new rackets court (it is still in use at Harrow). The fives courts had a mixed reception. The four new Eton fives courts immediately were filled with activity, but the three new Rugby fives courts never saw any fives play. Instead, Harrow boys jumped on and played their new game of baby rackets. And this game became the game of squash.

III SQUASH SOON SPREAD

Squash soon spread. Other public schools, notably Elstree, picked it up. In 1883 the first private court was built by Vernon Harcourt, Harrow class of 1855, at his home along the Cherwell in Oxford. It was thirty-eight by twenty feet, with a tin of thirty inches. They played with a black ball, a red ball and ball with a hole in it. Other early courts ran the gamut. At Lord's, the squash court was forty-two feet by twenty-four, with a twenty-eight inch tin; at Cambridge they divided a sixty by thirty racquets court into three squash courts, each quite tiny; at the Royal Automobile Club in London there was a court that was exactly thirty-two by eighteen and a half-the size more common in America; Marlborough House, a royal residence, also had an American width until the mid-thirties; at Queen's Club, one court, built in 1905 and dubbed "the Long Court," was thirty-five by eighteen. In the 1920s the Bath Club in London became the nursery for squash in England. Lord Desborough built a beautiful court that was noted for its outstanding lighting and launched the Bath Club Cup, a squash league for London clubs. League squash greatly increased enthusiasm for the fledgling sport, and squash in Great Britain owed its success in large part to the Bath Cup competitions of the twenties.Administratively, squash had a slow start in Great Britain. In April 1907 the Tennis, Rackets & Fives Association was founded at Queen's and a squash sub-committee was formed. In 1912 this sub-committee issued a preliminary set of rules. Court length and width was considered a matter of local opinion. Cement or stone were preferred to wood for the materials of the court. Two types of balls were the best: "What is required is a fast ball, that bounces well but not too high, and does not fly about: a very small hard solid ball or a medium-size thin rubber hollow ball, without a hole." As far as the rules of play were concerned, the sub-committee recommended flexibility. Serving could be either one serve or two, courts could have a cut line on the front wall or not and most delightfully, the man returning could have the right of "refusing a service he does not like". The sub-committee had no power to enforce its recommendations and another eleven years passed without any official standards. In January 1923 the Royal Automobile Club hosted a meeting of delegates from English clubs where squash was played and formed a "Squash Rackets Representative Committee." The committee chose the slowest of the half dozen different kinds of balls then in vogue as the standard ball and declared the Bath Club court, thirty two by twenty-one feet, as the standard for English squash. In December 1928 the Squash Rackets Association was formed to run squash in Great Britain.The SRA immediately began slowing the ball down further. While the Bath courts served as the model for English squash, the Bath ball, as large and fast as an American ball, was deemed far too large and fast for English sensibilities. The officials chose the most inert ball available and then in a series of incremental changes, reduced it even more. Between 1930 and 1934 the association cut the standard ball's speed almost by half.

IV GREAT BRITAIN

By the time Great Britain formally codified their squash standards in 1923, squash in America had been played under a different standard for two decades. The first squash court in North America appeared at St. Paul's School in New Hampshire in 1884. Jay Conover, an avid rackets player, had attended Columbia University in New York with Hyde Clark, a graduate of Harrow, and Clark had told Conover about an enjoyable adaptation of rackets that was popular at his alma mater. Conover's four squash courts, built outside a building with two rackets courts, were open to the air. Any pupil who annually paid one dollar could use them. In 1900 Alfred Ellis, a Englishman who was the rackets professional at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia, put in a squash court at his club. Built entirely of wood, it was perched high in the rafters of the half story in the three and one-half story clubhouse. It measured thirty-one feet by seventeen and a half. In 1902, Jimmy Potter, a St. Paul's graduate and president of the club, made a dramatic decision to divide up the south rackets courts into three squash courts. Each court measured thirty-one and a half feet by seventeen and a half and were made of cement, except for a wooden front wall. The total cost was $1,500.Within months squash dispersed around Philadelphia. Racquet Club members built squash courts at their homes. In 1903 Merion Cricket Club started playing squash on their three courts. Two city cricket clubs, Philadelphia Cricket in Chestnut Hill and Germantown Cricket in Manheim, erected courts at the same time. In 1903 the Racquet Club offered a cup for the winner of an six-club team competition. The league was so successful that the Racquet Club sponsored a "Pennsylvania State Championship." In 1904 the leaders of the inter-club league, meeting at the Racquet Club, founded the United States Squash Racquets Association, the first national squash body in the world.The USSRA immediately set the standard squash court measurements at thirty-one and a half feet by sixteen feet three inches, with a twenty-four inch tin. Scoring was originally first-to-fifteen, hand-in, hand-out, like rackets and best two of three games. "Eternal watchfulness is the price of success in squash," wrote Frederick R. Toombs in a 1904 book on squash published in New York. "Cultivate variety in your style of play. You will thus keep your opponent in an uncertain frame of mind. Mix the strong and weak strokes, according to your adversary's position. Let the side walls and back wall do their share of the work, and at times you will find a well-placed cut stroke just the feature needed to win the rally. Learn that poetry of motion may be expressed by the squash stroke." In 1907 the USSRA ran its first men's national championship In 1911 the USSRA changed the scoring rules to best three out of five, and one could score a point whether serving or not. This rule was adopted by the British until in 1926 when they switched to a nine point, hand-in, hand-out system. In 1920 the USSRA changed its standard to thirty-two feet by eighteen and one-half.

V AROUND THE WORLD

Around the world squash appeared in a tremendous variety of guises. The first bonafide court in Canada was built in 1904 at the St. John's Tennis Club in Newfoundland. Sir Leonard Outerbridge, whose two brothers were on the club's building committee, sent the proper dimensions from Marlborough College in England where he was studying. The dimensions were, again, of a fives court, with no back wall. In 1911 three clubs, the Montreal Racquet Club, the Toronto Racquet Club and the Hamilton Squash Racquets Club, formed the Canadian Squash Racquets Association. It soon standardized a thirty-four by nineteen court (with a twenty-two inch tin). In 1921 the CSRA made formal application to the USSRA for affiliation and a year later switched to the American standards. In 1906 the Johannesburg Country Club built an open-air court that was wider than the American size. In 1910 South Africa created a national association and eventually, because of significant heat and altitude in many parts of the country, standardized a wide court and slow ball. The Sudan Club in Khartoum had six courts, all unroofed. Government House in Dar es Salaam boasted a fine, open-air court, with a stone floor. The St. James's Barracks in Port of Spain, Trinidad had one open-air, concrete-floored court that was American-sized in width. In Kenya the Nairobi Club had two English standard courts made from knotless cedar, but the Muthiaga Club nearby had stone floors and an American width.In Stockholm the first courts were made with walls of powdered marble. New Zealand played in an English court with an American ball, a combination that was not resolved until the thirties. In France the first courts were at the famous court tennis club Societe Sportive du Jeu de Paume, where in the late nineteen-twenties Pierre Etchebaster turned a rackets court into four tiny squash courts, each with a cement floor. In 1930 Siemens, the electronics company, built four courts at its factory in Berlin.In 1913 a rackets court at the Melbourne Club was split into two squash courts. In the early 1920s Mr. Bjelke-Petersen, later a uncle of the premier of Queensland, Sir Joe Bjelke-Petersen, built a court in New South Wales. In 1927 the Royal Melbourne Tennis Club built a court that was nearly as big as a rackets court. It was not until 1931 that an Australian championship was inaugurated, and Australia officially went with the English size. In 1934 the Squash Rackets Association of Australia was formed and three years later both Victoria and New South Wales formed their own provincial associations.

VI INTERNATIONAL COMPETITION COMMENCES

Squash reached a tipping point in the twenties. No longer an obscure pastime for schoolboys, it had national championships and league play and standard rules. International play started in 1922 when the Lapham Cup was first contested between the U.S. and Canada. The Lapham is a fifteen-man amateur competition. In 1924 England sent a team to the third Lapham Cup in Philadelphia, inaugurating intercontinental play. Timmy Roberts, a forty-six year-old Army captain, won both the U.S. and Canadian nationals while on tour that year.A dramatic rise in popularity came after the Second World War. In particular, Australia, in the midst of a boom of commercial squash clubs, started an Antipodal renaissance. In the early 1960s Australian men won every international match in two tours of England, and in London in 1964 Australian women beat Great Britain in their first international match. In January 1967 representatives from seven nations (Australia, Great Britain, Egypt, India, New Zealand, Pakistan and South Africa) met in London and formed the International Squash Rackets Federation. Later that year Australia hosted the first ISRF men's championships. In 1969 the U.S. and Canada were admitted, despite the different standard of play in North America. Five nations came to the world championships in South Africa in 1973; ten to England in 1975 and fourteen to Australia in 1979. In 1980 the ISRF opened their championships to professionals. In 1980 Sweden hosted the first world junior championships. In 1985 the Women's International Squash Federation, which was founded in 1976 and had held four world championships, merged into the ISRF. In 1992 the ISRF changed its name to the World Squash Federation.The WSF was integral to the acceptance of squash as a medal sport in the Commonwealth Games, where it was first played in 1998, as well as the Pan-American Games, where it was first played in 1995, the Asian Games and the All Africa Games. Today the WSF has one hundred and nineteen member nations and is recognized as the governing body for the sport by the International Olympic Committee. The WSF is responsible for the rules of the game, refereeing and coaching standards and specifications for courts and equipment. In addition, the WSF maintains a calendar of world championship events for men, women, juniors and masters players in both singles and doubles. As a major force behind the development and growth of squash, the WSF is at the forefront of the many exciting aspects of the game today and tomorrow. Jahangir Khan, the ten-time British Open champion and six-time World Open champion, is president and Ted Wallbutton is the executive director.

VII THE RISE OF THE PROFESSIONAL GAME

Professionalism has always been the public tip of the squash iceberg. It began in 1904 when the first bonafide professional tournament in the world was held at the Huntingdon Valley Country Club outside Philadelphia. There were six entries, and Alfred Ellis beat John Friel 3-1 in the final. In 1914 Jock Soutar, the world champion in rackets, won a pro round-robin in Montreal. Two years later the USSRA crowned him professional champion of America after he beat Bill Ganley two matches to one in a three-leg, two-city contest. Soutar won $1,000. Ganley won nothing. Four years later Soutar defended his title against Otto Glockler. In 1925 Soutar stepped down from his throne. In 1928 a group of American teaching pros formed the United States Professional Squash Racquets Association. In 1930 the USPSRA organized its first national tournament, held in Boston. Pro squash received a boost in 1954 when the U.S. Open was started in New York. In 1966 it amalgamated with a newer Canadian Open to form the North American Open.In 1978 the professional hardball association was renamed the World Professional Squash Association. In the 1980s the WPSA had a continent-wide pro tour that reached more than half a million dollars in prize money and visited more than thirty cities. Americans like Mark Talbott and Ned Edwards, Canadians like Michael Desaulniers and Clive Caldwell, Mexicans like Marion Sanchez and the perennial squash giant Pakistani-born, Toronto-based Sharif Khan dominated the tour. Pro squash started England in 1907. Charles Read, the Queen's pro, beat C. Bannister, the Bath pro, at the Bath Club 15-5, 15-13 and defended his title as English champion three more times until 1928.In 1930 that the British Open was started and professionals had a more formal stage to present their wares. But it was an amateur, Amr Bey from Egypt, who dominated the early British Opens, winning five and earning another when no one challenged him. After Bey came his compatriot Mahmoud Kerim, the only player to win the British Open when it was both a two-man challenge tournament and a regular open draw. In 1951 Hashim Khan, a thirty-seven year-old Pakistani, came to Great Britain and destroyed Kerim in the finals, 9-5, 9-0, 9-0. Hashim, his brother Azam, cousin Roshan and nephew Mohibullah won twelve Opens in a row.Jonah Barrington, a six-time British Open champion and the first man since Amr Bey to win both the Open and the British amateur championships, was the first pro to cut himself off from the clubs and earn his entire living from tournaments, exhibitions and clinics. In 1970 he organized a five-man barnstorming tour of Asia that led to the formation of the International Squash Professionals Association in 1973 and the gradual creation of a viable pro tour. The ISPA launched a World Open championship in 1976. Heather McKay and Geoff Hunt, two legendary Australians, won their draws. McKay was famous for not losing a squash match for eighteen straight years, and Hunt, a seven-time British Open champion, was renowned for his amazing physical and mental endurance. Other dominant pros were Australians like Ken Hiscoe, Dean Williams, Rodney and Brett Martin and Chris Dittmar, New Zealand's Ross Norman and Englishmen like Gawain Briars, now Executive Director of the PSA, and Phil Kenyon. No doubt though, the most exciting group of players came from Pakistan. Following in the footsteps of Hashim Khan were such giants as Hiddy Jahan, Gogi Alauddin and Qamar Zaman (who won the 1975 British Open), and the 1980s were dominated by Jahangir Khan and the 1990s by Jansher Khan. Both Jahangir and Jansher have equal merit in any discussion of the greatest player ever.In 1993 the WPSA and the ISPA merged to form the Professional Squash Association. In 2002 the PSA held more than fifty events with a total prize money of nearly $2 million. The tour visits its usual spots in Europe, Asia and North America, but it also holds major events in exciting locales around South America, Africa and Dubai and Qatar in the Middle East. Pro women's squash originated with the American Women's Squash Association, founded in the mid-1970s. In 1985 the Women's International Squash Professional Association came into being and built up a viable circuit. The top early players were Susan Devoy of New Zealand and Vicki Hoffman of Australia; Devoy won eight British Opens. In the 1990s Michelle Martin of Australia won six British Opens in a row. In 2002 WISPA has a $750,000 tour on all six continents.

VIII SQUASH DOUBLES

Doubles began at the Racquet Club of Philadelphia in 1907 when Fred Tompkins, the tennis and rackets pro at the club, erected a forty-five feet by twenty-five court. In the 1930s dozens of clubs across America built courts and an amateur circuit of tournaments sprung up everywhere from St. Louis to Chicago to Denver to Toronto. In 1933 the U.S. squash association started a men's and women's national championship. Pro doubles started with the founding of the Heights Casino Open in 1938 in Brooklyn, New York, but it was not until the WPSA tour began in the late 1970s that it took off. In the 1980s the pro doubles circuit included six or eight events with a prize money of around $100,000; in the 1990s this increased to ten or twelve events and $150,000.In 2000 the tour's players formed the International Squash Doubles Association. In 2001 the Kellner Cup in New York had a prize money purse of $100,000. In 2002-03 there were twenty ISDA tournaments with a total prize money of $700,000, including the $130,000 Briggs Cup in Rye, New York. Today there are a hundred and twenty-five proper hardball doubles courts in North America. There is one in Tijuana, Mexico and three in Asia at the Royal Bangkok Sports Club in Thailand, the Tanglin Club in Singapore and the Raintree Club in Kuala Lumpur. In 1935 three courts were laid out following USSRA specifications at the St. John's Wood Squash Club, Prince's Club and Ladies' Carlton Club in London and the Edinburgh Sports Club in Scotland. Starting in 1937 the Squash Rackets Association held national doubles tournaments for both amateurs and professionals and England played Scotland in an annual Test match in doubles. The Second World War led to the destruction of the St. John's Wood and Ladies Carlton courts and Prince's closed, but Edinburgh still maintains its hardball doubles court.Today softball doubles is the norm outside North America. In 1988 the Royal Automobile Club constructed two softball doubles courts at their Woodcote Park clubhouse outside London. The courts were thirty-two feet by twenty-five, which was proclaimed the standard softball doubles width. With sliding wall technology made common by the German-based court building company ASB, the inchoate game appeared around the world. In 1997 the first World Softball Doubles Championships were held in Hong Kong. The biggest showcase was the Commonwealth Games. At both Kuala Lumpur in 1998 and Manchester in 2002, men's, women's and mixed doubles were medal events.VIII THE FUTURE IS BRIGHT ...The future of squash has never been brighter. Technology has forever shattered the inherent limitations of this racquet, ball and wall game. Racquets are much lighter and stronger today, making the game more exciting. The ball is now consistent throughout the world. Canada adopted softball standards in the late 1970s and the U.S. and Mexico changed in the early 1990s. The all-glass portable court came into existence in the early 1980s. This greatly expanded gallery size for pro events which helped fuel more sponsorship. Television also became a reality with the glass walls. Because of portable courts, squash tournaments have been staged in stunning locations: in Grand Central Terminal, New York's famous train station; in Canary Wharf, London's flashy shopping center; in Royal Albert Hall; at Symphony Hall, the landmark auditorium in Boston; and most famously at the base of the Pyramids at Giza outside Cairo. These high-profile events are the leading edge of the twenty-first century squash juggernaut. The game is global. A company from Washington, D.C. is building courts in St. Petersburg. Most balls were made in Barnsley, Great Britain until the early 2000s when production was moved to the Philippines. Racquets are sold from Denver and London. Germany has gone from a dozen courts in 1973 to six thousand and boasts two million active players. More than twenty nations have players ranked in the top one hundred in the men's world rankings. In not quite one hundred and forty years squash has gone from a schoolboy pastime to the most exhilarating, exhausting and explosive game in the world.

And I Prayed at Night

 

As another day comes to an end, Heavenly Father, we gather in the silence of our hearts to humbly thank you for everything that you have given us. We thank you for this day, life itself, and the good and bad times that have shaped who we are. We will always be grateful for your grace, which has been our constant companion.

We give thanks in this holy time of contemplation for the love that unites the members of our church family. I'm grateful for the camaraderie, the belly laughs, and the consoling embrace of kind hearts. May our ties become more solid every day, a symbol of the harmony and kindness that characterize our neighborhood.

As we bow our heads, we acknowledge the trials we faced today—the moments that tested our patience, the hurdles that demanded resilience, and the uncertainties that required unwavering faith. In these challenges, we find strength through You, dear Lord, for we know that with You, nothing is insurmountable.

Grant us the wisdom to see the beauty in every experience, whether it be a lesson learned or a joy celebrated. May we carry the lessons of today into the morrow, fortified by the knowledge that Your guiding hand is ever-present.

Lord, give us a hope that shines through the shadows. Let the promises of a future full of Your grace and unending love that You have written in the heavens be remembered by the stars that light up the night sky.

We pray for every member of our church family, for those who are finding comfort in the quiet corners of their struggles as well as for those who are celebrating victories. May they sense the warmth of Your love surrounding them, energizing the rejoices and providing solace to the weary.

Lord, please bolster our faith and assist us in remembering that You are the rock of our souls during these uncertain times. Let our faith serve as a lighthouse to help us navigate life's storms and a flame that is unquenchable by fear or doubt.

We humbly ask You to keep an eye on our loved ones and ourselves as we return home. Lord, watch over our dreams and give us a good night's sleep so that we can wake up the next day feeling renewed and bursting with thankfulness.

We pray in the name of Your holy and merciful self. AMEN

**Find your Faith, Peace, Joy and Love
You can find US here: https://www.churchofjesuschrist.org/

BASKETBALL

 In the heart of the bustling city of Dubai, I found myself navigating the fast-paced world of basketball, a sport that resonates with the rhythm of collective effort and shared victories. While I may not have been the star player, my love for the game transformed every court appearance into a cherished chapter of camaraderie and friendly competition. Playing in the inter-departmental matches at the Emirates Golf Club and the intercompany amateur games added a unique flavor to my basketball journey. The court became a stage where colleagues became teammates, and every dribble and pass forged connections beyond the confines of the workplace.

Yet, amidst the thrill of the game, the strict adherence to rules in amateur basketball sometimes felt like a constraint. The free-flowing spirit of the sport often collided with the technicalities enforced at this level. Nevertheless, the joy of sinking a three-pointer or executing a well-coordinated play transcended the rulebook's restrictions. Basketball in Dubai became more than a game; it was a cultural exchange, a convergence of diverse talents and backgrounds, all bound by the love for the bounce of the ball and the swish of the net. The friendships forged on the court echoed far beyond the final buzzer, creating memories of laughter, competition, and the enduring spirit of teamwork.

A QUICK PICK

In the bustling streets of Springfield, Massachusetts, in December 1891, a man named Dr. James Naismith was faced with the challenge of creating a new indoor game to keep his students physically active during the cold winter months. This moment marked the birth of basketball, a game that would captivate hearts and minds worldwide. Naismith hung a peach basket at each end of the gymnasium and devised 13 basic rules for the new game, laying the foundation for a sport that would become a global phenomenon.

As basketball's popularity soared, leagues and organizations began to take shape, with the Philippine Basketball Association (PBA) emerging as one of the earliest professional basketball leagues in Asia. Established in 1975, the PBA quickly became a cornerstone of Filipino sports culture, showcasing local talent and providing fans with a thrilling display of skill and competition.

Simultaneously, on the other side of the world, the National Basketball Association (NBA) was solidifying its status as the premier professional basketball league globally. Founded in 1946 as the Basketball Association of America (BAA) and later merging with the National Basketball League (NBL) in 1949 to form the NBA, the league has been a beacon of excellence, featuring iconic players like Michael Jordan, Magic Johnson, and Kobe Bryant. The NBA's influence transcends borders, with its games broadcasted in numerous countries, making it a symbol of basketball's universality.

Over the decades, the NBA has evolved into a powerhouse of entertainment, showcasing not only athletic prowess but also cultural impact. The PBA, on the other hand, remains a testament to the enduring love for basketball in the Philippines. Both leagues, in their unique ways, contribute to the rich and diverse tapestry of basketball history—a sport that began with a simple peach basket and has since grown into an international spectacle, bridging continents and cultures through the universal language of the game.

BADMINTOM

Badminton is my favorite sport; it's a game that combines strategy, agility, and pure adrenaline. It's the vibrant tapestry of my favorite sports. Every passionate rally is accompanied by the distinct sound of shuttlecocks striking strings, which reverberates throughout the court's corners. For someone who loves this fast-paced racket sport, each match is a dance of passion and skill, a synthesis of ability and pure joy. The game of badminton is captivating due to its fast-paced exchanges at the net, explosive smashes that can reach great heights, and accurate placements that can outsmart opponents.

The badminton court is a canvas where passion and precision meet, whether players are playing in a competitive setting or just for fun with friends. Every racket swing conveys a tale of tenacity, friendship, and the thrill of a well-executed shot. With its quick tempo and complex strategy, badminton is more than just a sport to me; it's a place where people come together and have joy, where the shuttlecock serves as a transient symbol of special rallies and moments in common.

Brief History of Badminton

Badminton, a sport of agility, speed, and precision, traces its roots to ancient civilizations, with early variations of the game played in ancient Greece, China, and India. The contemporary form of badminton, however, emerged in British India during the mid-19th century. British army officers stationed in Pune adapted a traditional children's game called "Poona" into a competitive sport. The game quickly gained popularity among expatriates, and by the 1870s, badminton had made its way to England, where rules were standardized, and the Bath Badminton Club was established, laying the foundation for the sport's global growth.

Badminton gained recognition on the international stage with the formation of the International Badminton Federation (IBF) in 1934, now known as the Badminton World Federation (BWF). The sport made its Olympic debut as a demonstration event in 1972 and became a full medal sport in the 1992 Barcelona Olympics.

In recent years, badminton has seen a surge in global popularity, propelled by thrilling competitions and the dominance of exceptional players. The sport's landscape is characterized by intense rivalries, with players like Lin Dan, Lee Chong Wei, and Chen Long captivating audiences with their skill and tenacity. The women's game has seen equally remarkable talents, including Li Xuerui, Carolina Marin, and Tai Tzu-ying, showcasing the depth of talent in the international badminton community.

As of 2023, the title of World No. 1 is fiercely contested. In men's singles, names like Kento Momota from Japan and Viktor Axelsen from Denmark have been consistently at the forefront, demonstrating their prowess on the global stage. In women's singles, the battle for the top spot is dynamic, with the likes of Tai Tzu-ying from Taiwan and Chen Yufei from China consistently challenging each other for supremacy. These athletes not only embody the spirit of competition but also contribute to the evolving narrative of badminton as a sport that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

CHESS-Game for Recreation

 In the quiet corners of my home, a timeless game unfolds—a dance of strategy and intellect that has become my cherished pastime. Chess, with its intricate maneuvers and captivating challenges, has woven itself into the fabric of my leisurely hours. Each game is a story, a journey of pawns and kings, unfolding on the checkered battlefield of the chessboard. The familiar click of pieces against wood is a comforting soundtrack, and the contemplative silence that accompanies each move is a canvas for thoughts to unfold.

What makes this game truly special is the joy of sharing it with my son, Gilles. As the chess pieces come to life under our fingertips, so does the magic of bonding and friendly competition. Gilles, with his youthful enthusiasm, brings a refreshing energy to the game, turning each match into a delightful adventure. Laughter punctuates our strategic deliberations, and the joy of a well-executed checkmate is not just a victory but a shared moment of triumph. Through the ebb and flow of our games, chess has become more than a mere board game; it is a bridge that connects generations, a language of its own that speaks volumes about the beauty of shared passions and family ties.

The origins of chess are shrouded in the mists of time, with the game's roots stretching back over a millennium. While the exact birthplace of chess remains debated, it is widely believed to have originated in northern India during the Gupta Empire around the 6th century AD. Initially known as "chaturanga," the game represented the four divisions of the military—infantry, cavalry, elephants, and chariots. As it traversed cultural and geographical boundaries, chess evolved into the strategic and symbolic game we recognize today.

During the Islamic Golden Age, chess spread to the Arab world, where it underwent significant enhancements in the 9th century. The game acquired its modern chessboard and the iconic pieces we are familiar with: pawn, knight, bishop, rook, queen, and king. The Arabs, in turn, introduced chess to Europe through the Iberian Peninsula, leaving an indelible mark on the cultural landscape.

The medieval period witnessed the rise of chess as a game of nobility and intellect in Europe. Chess underwent rule modifications, including the introduction of castling and en passant, enhancing its complexity. By the 15th century, chess had become a popular pastime among the European aristocracy, with treatises and manuals written to explore its strategies and nuances.

In the 19th century, the emergence of formalized chess tournaments marked a new chapter in the game's history. The reign of Wilhelm Steinitz, the first recognized World Chess Champion, ushered in the era of positional play and strategic depth. The 20th century saw the rise of chess prodigies like Bobby Fischer and the intense Cold War-era rivalry between Soviet and non-Soviet players. Today, chess stands as a universal language, transcending borders and cultures, with millions of enthusiasts worldwide engaged in both casual and competitive play. The game's history is a testament to its enduring appeal, blending strategic complexity with a timeless elegance that continues to captivate minds across the globe.

ARNIS - True Filipino Culture and Heritage

During my university years at the University of Batangas, Arnis emerged as not just a physical education class but a profound exploration of Filipino culture and martial arts. As an amateur, I eagerly embraced the rhythmic patterns of strikes and blocks that defined the art of Arnis. The clinking of rattan sticks resonated across the open gym, a spirited symphony of learning and camaraderie. In the realm of Arnis, I discovered a captivating blend of tradition and physical prowess that filled each session with excitement.

Every student who graduated from the University of Batangas carried with them the essential knowledge of Arnis—a testament to the institution's commitment to preserving Filipino heritage. The art became a joyful part of our university experience, a cultural thread that wove through the fabric of our physical education curriculum. The satisfaction of mastering a new technique or the laughter that echoed during friendly sparring sessions created an atmosphere where learning Arnis wasn't just a class—it was an adventure, a celebration of Filipino identity, and a source of genuine happiness for every amateur like me who embraced its vibrant spirit.

Brief History of ARNIS DE MANO

From the Spanish, meaning “Harness or Seize the Hand”, referring to the system of Filipino Martial arts know as Arnis. Our school orginagtes from the Philippines. We do weapon-based fighting with sticks and knives. We learn hand to hand combat and weapon disarming techniques.

Centuries old, the Filipino warrior’s arts have long the backbone of Filipino society. It was the practice and preservation of these arts that have kept the Philippine Archipelago from permanent domination by a foreign power. There are several hundred styles of these warrior arts being preserved and taught throughout the Philippines. Although, known by many names, often descriptive of the styles and names of their founders and enemies (i.e., Binas, Arnis, Italiana style), the Filipino warrio’sr arts can be classified by three distinct territorial styles – Arnis, Eskrima and Kali – that are found in the Northern, Central and Southern Philippines, respectively. The history of any fighting art is a reflection of the society and culture from which it was formed. The Filipino arts are no different. The Filipino art of Escrima originated in India and that it was brought to the Philippines by people who travelled through Indonesia across a land bridge know as the Riouw Archipelago. Another theory claims that the earliest inhabitants migrated from ancient Egypt in reed boats. The Bothoan was a school where the Datus taught Kali along with academic subjects and agriculture. It was kind of preparatory school for tribal leaders. https://bridgewaterarnisdemano.wordpress.com/history/

SIKAD (SIKARAN)

 In the realm of martial arts, I found my sanctuary in Sikad—an exhilarating fusion of combat techniques and disciplined movements that became my personal favorite sport. As an amateur enthusiast, my journey in Sikad began with a mix of curiosity and eagerness to explore the intricate world of this Filipino martial art. The rhythmic sounds of sticks colliding and the swift movements of practitioners created an atmosphere that resonated with both intensity and joy.

Navigating the art of Sikad required a delicate balance of agility and precision. With each session, I felt my skills evolving, and the sheer thrill of executing a well-timed strike or a seamless block brought an indescribable happiness. The camaraderie among fellow Sikad enthusiasts added a layer of joy to the experience, turning each training session into a shared adventure of discovery and growth. Sikad was not just a sport for me; it was a dynamic expression of physical prowess, mental acuity, and the sheer delight of immersing myself in the rich tapestry of Filipino martial arts.

Sikaran is a Filipino Martial Art that involves hand and mostly foot fighting. As Sikaran is a general term for kicking which is also used as the name of the kicking aspects of other Filipino Martial arts, this article discusses the distinct art which is specifically practiced in the Rizal province that focuses almost exclusively in kicking.

Sikaran is a simple but intense martial art game that originated from the town of Baras, in the province of Rizal. According to the forefathers of Baras, it had been practiced long before the Spaniards came to the Philippines in the 16th century.

It is noted that like most Filipino martial arts, Sikaran has no written history as traditional Filipino knowledge is passed orally from generation to generation.

Like many Filipino martial arts styles, it has been endangered as it does not have as many practitioners as the more mainstream martial arts. Like Modern Arnis, in the mid-20th century, it had to adapt certain structural aspects of the more well known art of karate like the belting system, choreographed forms or katas and uniforms to make it more appealing other Filipinos and be more accepted internationally.

Sikaran has its own distinct kicking styles.[3] The signature Biakid kick is executed by pivoting to the back in a complete turn, much like a spinning hook kick or a reverse round house in other martial arts styles and targets the side or back of the head while the practitioner is in mid to punching range.

The degree of effectiveness subscribes to two classifications: "panghilo" (paralyzing blow) and "pamatay" or lethal kick. Obviously, the first aimed at less vital parts of the physique, while the target of the second includes the heart, neck, head, groin, and spine, all highly vulnerable parts.

Footage from the Last Man Standing UK TV series episode on Sikaran (YouTube link, uploaded by the Sikaran group featured) shows how the style practiced in the province is done differently from Korean Taekwondo and Japanese Karate.[4] There have been questions on the art of Sikaran as being native to the Philippines or being borrowed from Karate and Tae Kwon Do, but as can be seen in the Last Man Standing footage, to the farmers watching the sport and cheering on the sidelines, it is simply an ordinary sight common to their particular village, much like Sabong (cockfighting) is in the rest of the Philippines.

Sport

Sikaran utilizes only the feet as a rule for sport, and the hands are only used for blocking, leg sweeps and throwing an opponent is also a part of the martial art. The player uses his legs 90% of the time and his hands 10%, and only for blocking or parrying blows. Violation of this injunction, especially in tournaments, is grounds for disqualification.

The entry of Sikaran in tournaments, particularly those of international calibre, presaged certain modifications, if innovations, of its original rules, like the setting of a time limit and widening of the fighting area into twice the size required of the original arena, and the wearing of armor for safety reasons as it is played full contact and bare-chested with no armour or groinguard in the original province, as the Filipino martial artists from more modest areas generally had no such access to Western accessories.

Global Expansion

Sikaran began growing globally after the participation in International Martial Arts tournaments in the middle to late 1960s, as a result of which four senior practitioners, including Martial Law era activist hero Nestor Principe,were recruited to teach the art in Malaysia.

Over the last several decades Sikaran has spread across the globe where Filipino practitioners have established schools. Global locations include America, Australia, Saudi Arabia and Canada.

The most well known organisations include but are not limited to the World Sikaran Arnis Brotherhood, Global Sikaran Federation.

The World Sikaran Arnis Brotherhood was founded by Melton C. Geronimo who was a former Lt. COL of the Philippine Air Force and Mayor of Baras. He received his Grand Master ship from the Asian Karate Association (composed of Japan, Korea, China and the Philippines) in 1966. He is often credited for modernising the curriculum to include the karate inspired belting systems and forms.

Hari Osias Banaag is the founder of the Global Sikaran Federation and is a diplomat for the Traditional game. Hari Osias Bannag is known for his expansion of the style globally and efforts to differentiate it from other martial art styles. He recently attended and was warmly received at the UNESCO Collective Consultation Meeting on the Preservation and the Promotion of Traditional Sports and Game (TSG) and is an appointed member of Ad hoc Advisory Committee Traditional Sports and Games, UNESCO(TSG)Ref

Sikaran and its hybrid styles (Sikaran Kickboxing and the Australian variant Saboong Kickboxing) should not be confused with Kali-Sikaran which is a modern Filipino Martial art, that is not related to the style originating from Rizal. Kali-Sikaran is more closely related to the other weapons based variants of Filipino Martial Arts.

Whilst Sikaran participants have shown good results in Tae Kwon Do, Sikaran and kickboxing competitions in the past, in recent years some practitioners have ventured into MMA and have mixed the style with other martial arts and is an exciting evolution of the sport.