Slopestyle Approved for 2014 Olympics

Slopestyle approved for 2014 Olympics

BY Olivia Dwyer

****

        This article talks about the event SlopeStyle skiing and snowboarding being approved for the 2014 Olympics.  This event consists of skiers and boarders who enjoy spending time in the terrain park. With jumps, rails and even boxes the athlete must perform the most difficult tricks while attaining the most amount of height off the jumps. The article contains many thoughts and concerns that people within the International Olympic committee have, and all the obstacles that they had to overcome to approve this event for the 2014 Olympics in Russia. This article has excited me because this will attract a new age of people that will view the Olympics, as this is a big interest for the younger generations at the slopes. This article has expanded my look on this sport, after reading this article it has inspired me to go on the internet and learn more and watch and see what these athletes do to train and prepare for an event such as this. It has taught me all the hard work these people put into the sport they love. The way they progress from such a young age is incredible. Also it has also taught me that there is a lot of hard work and planning that goes into adding an event to the Olympics. This article has inspired me to want to do more rails and jumps when I am at the hill. Seeing all the hard work these people put into adding this event makes me want to try and improve on my skills within the terrain park. This sport will change my behavior because I will now have another interesting sport to watch during the winter Olympics and I am looking forward to what these athletes will prepare for the winter games. The addition of the sport SlopeSyle skiing and boarding makes me even more excited for the upcoming Winter Olympics. I suggest that if you have any interest in watching snow sports or are interested in boarding or skiing that you watch this video below and maybe check out the article.

http://xgames.espn.go.com/article/6662007/ioc-approves-ski-snowboard-slopestyle-2014-winter-olympics-sochi-russia

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=r4im0ARSJbc

Tempting the Gods

What it's Like to Tempt the Gods, Sekaia Tukai.

3/5

I thought that the author of this article described his job of feeding sharks with a noticeable passion for his line of work.

Sekaia is a shark feeder for Aquatrek near the island of Beqa, close to Fiji's largest island of Viti Levu. Sekaia explains his passion for his job and the sharks he cares for. Sekaia dives 80 feet under the ocean to feed eight different species of sharks. I've heard the saying that if you love your job, you never work in your life, and Sekaia clearly defines this in his article when he says that he is privileged to work with sharks and that he hates getting sick and missing a dive. Although he talks about the various risks in his job, he doesn't worry about them because he has learned about each shark species he feeds. He says that the job gets significantly easier as the sharks grow older and mature, because they will recognize that Sekaia is giving them food. One aspect of the job is newborn sharks, since they are un-accustomed to the feeding process. Clearly, Sekaia loves his career, and deftly explains that in his article.

Overall, I don't feel very affected by this article, besides me realizing the risks associated with his career, and the amount of courage it would take to take on this kind of job.

Tukai, Sekaia. "What it's Like to Tempt the Gods." Scuba Diving. Thursday March 21st: pg 18

Recurve vs Longbow

Recurve vs Longbow
Rating: 4/5
This article was on the differences between Recurve bows and Longbows. These differences include things like limb designs, handle designs, and length of the bows. Changes in characteristics change the performance of the bows. This article was very informative about when to use which bow, and how each of the two can be used.

In the article, it talked about how different traits change between bows, and which bow is better for certain traits. For example, the velocity of an arrow coming from a recurve bow is higher because of the shape of the limbs, which are curved forward to store more energy when pulled back. Because of this design, the bows are also able to be designed at a shorter length in a recurve bow, which is beneficial when out in the field, and also lowers the weight of the limbs. Lower weight in the limbs makes it easier for the bow to spring forward. There is also less hand vibration due to the handle design of the bow.

Longbows have their own positive qualities though as well. One is that longbows have better accuracy because, their limbs are one fixed piece of wood, meaning they don't shift and twist as much as a recurve bow. The string also only touches the bow at the very tips of the wood instead of forming to the curved tip of a recurve bow. Because it only touches at the very tips, the string doesn't hit the limbs of the bow as it is fired, and it creates better accuracy.

Overall, I think that the review was really good due to the details it provided without being too biased. The author didn't try to influence people based on his opinion, he just gave the facts. The article included different materials that the bows can be made of, and gave a thorough overview of the two different bows.

http://www.sportsmansguide.com/Outdoors/Subject/SubjectRead.aspx?sid=11&aid=175265&type=T

a successful combination-Olympic Games

A SUCCESSFUL COMBINATION

“Olympic and Paralympic cauldron ‘petals’
sent as gifts to competing nations”

http://www.london2012.com/news/articles/olympic-and-paralympic-cauldron-petals-
sent-gifts-competing-nations.html

* * *

With the success of the 2012 London Olympic Games, the athletes themselves not only received their medals and recognition, but each competing country also took a part of London home with them. As quoted from the article presented “…they each received a copper petal-inscribed with the name of their country and the words ‘XXX Olympics London 2012’”. The 2012 Olympics were one of the most memorable Summer Games in the history.

During the opening ceremony of the Olympic Games, 204 hand crafted copper petals were lit to start the flaming of the cauldron, which would continue to burn until the end of the games. Out of the 204 petals, 164 represented the number of participating countries. This article briefly describes the creation and lighting of the cauldron, which is one of the most significant events of the Olympic Games. The main topic though of the article is how the competing countries took home their copper petals. These petals will remind the country, the athletes, the volunteers, the coaches and all those involved of the hard work, initiative and courage it took to get to and finish the 2012 London Olympic Games. The petal symbolizes hard work, success, ambition and enjoyment.

But how does this relate to being physically active and staying healthy? All of the athletes that partake in any of the sports need to be fit and active. Hard work and confidence is beneficial to achieve goals, and having a well balanced diet and healthy life style aids in achieving these goals. To even get into the Olympics is hard enough, but to stay at the highest level is something that only rare individuals can do. These amateur and professional athletes work all through their lives to become successful in the one thing they love; whether it’s swimming, volleyball or tennis, maintaining a fit body and healthy diet is essential.  In general, being healthy is always beneficial to anybody.

In my opinion this article has made me realize how hard the athletes actually worked for the opportunity to win a gold, silver or bronze medal. It has opened my eyes to see that I can achieve any goal if I work hard and keep a positive attitude. I’ve also learned that being healthy can benefit me physically and mentally. As seen in the short video, the feeling of accomplishing a life’s goal is wonderful and being able to share your success with the world is even better. The video shows all parts of the Olympics and gives viewers a perspective on the lives of the hard working athletes. 

The Ultimate Gear Shed!

Love Shack- Peter Vigneron

Outside Magazine

** Good

 

          

                 In outdoor ed we have learned about several different types of equipment and how it is especially important to treat them with care. Organization is an easy way to ensure that they will not be broken which is very important when it comes to the safety of the users.

     

My article is about a 61 year old skier and and climber from Washington who builds a highly impressive gear storage facility. he has packed ten pairs of skies, two bikes,and all of his climbing and camping equipment in his twenty by twenty foot garage.He used the extra space to house a home brewing kit, a walk in cooler, and two climbing walls on the exterior of the shed. He has given tips on how to store all your gear properly to maintain its shape, functions, and quality.

This article has mad me think of how to store my sporting items properly, and has come to conclusions in why some of my gear has not lasted as long as i expected. I have learned that sleeping bags should be stored in loose sacks, as i thought they should be stored tightly. Also that safety equipment should be stored at eye level so it is harder to forget and that wet gear should be stored near the front for ventilation. I think keeping some of the rules i have learned in mind will make me more organized with my equipment and more aware when doing certain activities that I have read about in this article. This article has opened my eyes to care for my equipment and I feel as though I will be more careful with the equipment i am given in the future.

By: Heather Murty

Vigneron, P. (2012, October). Love Shack. Outside, 35, 36.

Life is Short - Try Backpacking

****

This is a great article about that wonders of backpacking and  the opportunities it offers. Take a break from your normal life, and escape to the great outdoors! This is the message displayed in this article and it is enforced with many reasons. Getting away from the busyness of the city, the stress of work, and the commotion of everyday life, and explore some of the most beautiful places in the world. It will allow you to focus on the terrain and the beauty of your surroundings. The article also talks about some great backpacking locations lie the San Juan Mountains in Colorado. It talks about the vigorous terrain that is a never-ending challenge. 

This article has influenced me and made me  want to go backpacking in many great locations. I think this would be a great experience and I would be able to shut everything else out and just focus. This would be a excellent activity, and I would love to go to many beautiful mountains and just hike. Overall, this was a great article that is motivating and informational. 

- Liam Husen

http://www.americansportsmanoutfitters.com/article-library/backpacking-articles/life-is-short-try-backpacking

Snow Making at Ski Resorts Go High Tech

****

This article's focus is snow making at ski and snowboard resorts, and how it has improved in the recent years.  Because of the recent lack of snow, ski and snowboard resorts have had to improve their snow making techniques in order not to push away their customers.  And it was a huge success.  "'If I'm going down a run, I cant tell you if I just skied on natural or man-made snow,' said Bruce Lee, a Redondo Beach resident who has been skiing for 30 years.'"  The recent success in improving the man-made snow is music to the ears of all snowboarders and skiers who have been down due to the lack of natural snow.

As an avid snowboarder and skier,  I can personally say that this article made me feel better about the upcoming winters.  Last year was an awful year for skiing and snowboarding, and this year has already been an improvement.  It made me hopeful for the years to come, and it inspired me to keep boarding.  I learned that making snow isn't as easy as I had originally thought, and it taught me to be more appreciative of how far the ski resorts go to improve the hills for us.

Link to article: http://www.latimes.com/business/la-fi-high-tech-snowmaking-20121213,0,3691980.story

Get a Grip

****

This article talks about ice fishing, and how the technological advancements in recent years have made it easier to be proficient in the sport.  It talks about the secret techniques and trick used in the sport for better success.  "Called the underhanded hold, this technique provides better balance and comfort and also has advantages for finesse jiggling.  Try this easy way to improve your ice-fishing game."  This technique is the focus of the article, and it explains the trick and gives an explanation on how to use the technique.

This article more or less introduced me to ice fishing.  And with a family of avid ice fishers, it helped me better understand the sport my family takes a part in.  It inspired me to ask my dad to take me on one of his trips, and now we have plans to go this winter.  It taught me to be less critical about the ice fishing sport, and that is it not as easy and simple as it may seem.

Link to article: http://www.ontariooutofdoors.com/icefishing/articles/?ID=304&a=read

Mud Run Wars

*****

The sport of obstacle racing has been recently introduced to the world, by new entrepreneurs creating races that test the limits of the human body and mind.  This article talks about three of such companies, Tough Mudder, Spartan Race, and Warrior Dash.  It focuses on the success these three companies have attained after only a few years.  "The obstacle course craze is taking over America.  This year some 1.5 million people will enter an event."  The article talks about how the companies got started.  What challenges did they go through in the creation of the races?  Questions like this are answered frequently in the article, and it is a great read for those interested in researching about the new sport and it's origins.

This article inspired me to sign up for a race this summer, and it inspired me to get more active and do something better with myself.  I learned that nothing can be gained without taking action, and it made me change my behaviour to a more lively, active lifestyle.

Link to article: http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-adventure/multisport/Mud-Run-Wars.html

Spartan Race Invades Time Square 

****

This article is about the kick-off of the popular obstacle race, known as Spartan Race in New York. It describes the types of conditions of the race and many of the obstacles. "There is fire, mud, water, barbed wire, and occasionally Hell on Earth. There WILL be obstacles to catch you off guard. Curve balls, so to speak. Get over it." This article also briefly discuses the new partnership between Reebok and Spartan Race, and how it will affect the race. This was a shorter race, as it was in downtown New York, but was still a great event for all participants.

This article has given me a little more insight on the race. Eric and I are doing one in June, so this article was very interesting to me. I have learned about the partnership between Reebok and Spartan Race, and am looking forward to what they can accomplish together. This article has made me even more excited for the race this year, and the challenges it beholds.

-Liam Husen

Link to article & pictures of race: http://www.theblaze.com/stories/2013/01/17/times-square-was-taken-over-by-a-mini-spartan-mud-race-on-thursday-and-we-have-14-awesome-pictures-of-it/

Day Packs and What to Put In Them - Greg Vincent

****

This article discusses the types of packs available and what equipment to pack for a single day venture. It talks about the advantages to a standard backpack versus a fanny pack, as well as waterproofing options. More in-depth, water bottle access and women's packs are also touched on. The article finishes with a great list of equipment to pack, and I suggest taking a look at it before going hiking. 

From this article, I have learned many things about packs and what is important to have on one. I learned about many items that are key to carry in your pack when hiking, and the specifics about packs and their straps and padding. Reading this article has made me really want to go hiking, and I will probably check the list before I go. This is a great, quick article that has a lot of information and suggestions. 

-Liam Husen

http://www.execulink.com/~gvincent/TheRightStuff/packs.html

How can you know if your being ripped off?

Could you be getting ripped off on the outdoor gear you buy?

This article is about how many different companies have to oppertunity through smart advertising to  tak
advantage of your knowledge to get you to buy things you don't need or may not be fully useful
to you. 

The last thing you want to happen to you when you go camping is for your equipment to fail on you and
be left in the outdoors unprotected. Some companies will put an extremely high price on an item and 
promote the the product in a way witch makes you believe that you have to have it. Once you purcase
this product such as a tent, you go out camping and find that it collapses on you! This is what this article explains
which is not to buy things that you don't trust or may be at a high price range. 

In conclusion i would give this article 4 starts because it goes into detail about how not to buy things that may
seem out of you're price range and probably won't end up working out for you in the long run.  I believe that 
this article is very helpful and others should as well read it before making big price rang decisions. 

wanna know more? http://www.outsideonline.com/outdoor-gear/gear-guy/What-gear-is-expensive-but-useless-.html

Dangers of hiking unprepared

This article explains the dangers of going hiking when not fully prepared. When you head for an exciting and dangerous journey of hiking you have to make sure that you are fully prepared and know what you are doing or you can get into serious trouble.

This article goes into detail about how three American hikers head to Iraq to hike the Zagros mountains and come into some trouble because they didn't know what they were getting into. These American hunters went hiking on the Zagros mountains which lie near the boarder of Iraq and Iran. The Americans went at the hight of summer and the path they chose to take was deserted. Through non preparation, ignorance and cultural misunderstanding they ended up straying off the path into Iran. They were brought to jail by the Iran boarder guards thinking that they were American spies.

What this article shows is that when going out into the wilderness without any preparation and knoledge of the outdoors it can make you end up in places you didn't want to be. In conclusion I would give this article three and a half stars for teaching future hikers about the dangers of hiking when poorly prepared.

"ENVIRONMENTALISTS, HUNTERS CLASH ON OUTDOORS BILL"

"ENVIRONMENTALISTS, HUNTERS CLASH ON OUTDOORS BILL"

This article explains about the concerns environmentalists and hunters have towards the "sportsmen's act of 2012" bill that is said to soon be passed. It explains the negative impact this bill will have on the environment and how it has nothing to contribute to society. 

The "Sportsman's act of 2012" is a bill that encourages the raise in cost of fish and wild life habitats as well as expand opportunities of hunters. The money that come out from the raised causesgoestowards enviromental issues. Now why are the environmentalists cosernd? Well, the bill initials the continuation of lead ammunition witch produces around 14,000 tons of lead in the environment each year. This also follows with many different types of material that may be harmful to the environment.

In conclusion I would give this article 4 stars for informing people about how the enviromental bill is more harmful to the enviromental than it is helpful and it gives a good reason to be concerned. 

Concrete canoe? Science NonFiction!

You Thought Your Canoe Was Heavy!

My Rating: *****

If you remember the Algonquin trip, you might have noticed that I didn’t carry any of the canoes. I have trouble balancing a canoe on my shoulders. But my classmates said the canoes were light. Well, this canoe is definitely not light!

If you’ve fashioned anything out of concrete before, you will know that it will be heavy. Heavy things that are solid chunks will sink, like chunks of concrete. So how do you make concrete float? It’s difficult to make a functional boat out of concrete. I know because I actually did this. During the summer, I did this engineering camp at McMaster University. One of our projects we did was building a boat out of concrete. Mine didn’t work. But hey, that’s engineering. You break stuff until you figure out how to make it so it doesn’t break.

This canoe of concrete, however, is different from the concrete boats that we made at McMaster’s engineering camp. First of all, it’s bigger. Second of all, they’re racing them against each other. Third of all, it must be fast and easily maneuverable. Even for a team of second year university engineers, that’s a difficult task. But it all pays off in the end, even if you don’t win.

I liked this article because it was both outdoorsy and scientific at the same time. I bet portaging that concrete canoe must be an elephant (or at least a few bison)

article avaliable at: http://www.canoerootsmag.com/features/features-canoes/1366-you-thought-your-canoe-was-heavy.html