Fishing for Fortune – In Search of Diamond Jim

Among Maryland’s superb sports facilities and venues there is one treasure that stands alone. Even from space, it is recognizable as uniquely ours. The Chesapeake Bay, largest estuary in the country, has defined Maryland since the beginning of time. It gifted us with a world famous cuisine. It brought settlers to our shores, provided transportation for commerce and furnished resources for industry. For hundreds of years, the Chesapeake Bay has been our window on the world.

It’s also our biggest playground for sports and recreational activities. It’s hosted international competitions like the Volvo Ocean Race. Regional sailing and power boating competitions happen almost every summer day. Even so, I wonder if any sportsman enjoys the Chesapeake more than those in search of the Big One.

Sportfishing is a big industry in Maryland. Generations of head boat captains have made their living as fishing guides. Recreational boaters, whether seeking relaxation or excitement (sometimes both) spend hours with a line tossed overboard. No matter the reason or expectation, sportfishing in the Chesapeake Bay became infinitely more exciting when Diamond Jim swam onto the scene.

He isn't exactly Moby Dick, but Diamond Jim is worth chasing. Even obsessing over.  As with many other grand pursuits, there's plenty of fun to be had in the hunt.

Catching Diamond Jim is about as likely as hitting the Maryland Lottery. But the hunt is infinitely more exciting than a fistful of scratch offs. (Sorry, Buddy.) You never know if that tug on your pole is the ever-elusive, green tagged rockfish.

Not just any green tag, either. There is only one Diamond Jim (worth $10,000) and 49pretenders (Zircons?) The longer he stays off the hook, the more valuable Jim becomes. If he makes it through the summer without taking the bait he’s worth 25 grand. That’s a lot of fins.

The Diamond Jim chase is sponsored by the state through Department of Natural Resources and several private sector partners. It is a fun way to draw attention to the Bay’s bountiful resources and the state fish. It creates an element of excitement on even the laziest summer day.

Learn more about Diamond Jim, his court of imposters, and other ways to make hay with a day on the Bay here: www.dnr.state.md.us/dnrnews/pressrelease2009/052809.asp

Those Innovative Soxsters

As expected, the Soxs fans arrived early yesterday. My fave bartender said three were already perched on the stoop at Pickles when he arrived for work. Guess they wanted a cold one before beginning the vigil at Home Plate Plaza.

Sox fans lead the league in lurking. By noon on game day you see clusters of them stationed on the steps at Schaefer Circle, waiting for the players to arrive. Seasoned autograph-seeking veterans know which entrance certain players favor and when they are likely to arrive. (Some enter via the stadium, others prefer the Warehouse)

The real pros are prepared for all contingencies, as I learned this afternoon. On my way to lunch at Pastimes, I passed an encampment in front of the Warehouse. Couple of costumed Sox fans accompanied by bikes (must have been tough pedaling down I-95) were guarding their stash of memorabilia. Not just a few pictures and magazines, but boxes of baseball cards and a golf bag full of baseball bats. I was about to ask what this road show was all about (Soxsters always have good stories) when a cell phone rang. One of the guys answered the phone, grabbed a particular bat from the bag, hopped on a bike and sped in the direction of the stadium.

Seems they had a satellite camp over there, along with a sentry who called just as soon as a player was sighted. These guys are so slick I’m guessing they have it loaded on their Iphones and listed on ebay before the game even starts.

I asked if they do this drill at other stadiums. No, one of them told me. There’s no place like Baltimore. These trips are the highlight of our summer.

Ironic or not, it makes you proud to know people plan their summers around a trip to your ballpark. Particularly when it's a couple hundred miles away and they travel by bicycle.

The Red Sox are coming, the Red Sox are coming !!

I may get flamed for this, but hear me out. The times I most enjoy hanging around Camden Yards is when the Red Sox play. The team plays Monday night, but the fans will start lurking around the Warehouse about noon.

I know this is heresy to those who resent having Oriole Park taken over by a sizable (and highly vocal) contingent of opposing fans, particularly when they all come in costumes and sit together. They do seem to take over the place. But they also bring enough energy to light south Baltimore, and demonstrate a real appreciation for the game.

That’s not all they appreciate. I’ve spent a lot of time talking to them – on Eutaw Street and in my favorite haunt, Pickles Pub – and what I hear repeatedly is how much these folks from New England enjoy coming to Camden Yards. For many, the trip to Baltimore is a family vacation, a weekend with the guys, or even a romantic getaway. (No kidding!) For some, it is the only chance they get to see their favorite team in person since Fenway Park tickets are so scarce (and expensive.) As one group of guys told me (while swilling at Pickles) it’s cheaper to catch an AirTran out of Boston or Southwest out of Providence, get a hotel at the airport and light rail to the stadium, than it is to pay for tickets and parking in Boston. At Pickles, you can’t have a conversation without comparing StubHub steals.

In fact, said one, they enjoy coming here so much they call it “Fenway South” (I don’t think I’ll share that with Mr. Angelos anytime soon.) When one shouts across the bar to another “I'll catch you at Boog’s” you know it isn’t their first time here. For some, it’s an annual migration.

So while many O’s faithful (and probably the Birds themselves) resent the highly partisan Sox fans in their roost, look at it from an economic standpoint. Not only do the interlopers stay in hotels, eat in restaurants, visit attractions, and drink in bars (particularly the latter) but they also buy concessions and souvenirs at the stadium. With the hospitality industry hit particularly hard by a soft economy, these free spenders from the north are a welcome bump for the local economy.

That isn’t the reason I like the Sox visits the most, though. It’s the genuine admiration they express for Camden Yards and the experience they have when visiting here. Anyone who appreciates what a special place we Marylanders have is OK with me.

Don’t let the Beantowners have all the fun. Come to a game and spend the day or evening around the park. Be a tourist in your own state and see what we have that is the pride of the Major Leagues. Oriole tickets are available here:
baltimore.orioles.mlb.com/ticketing/index.jsp?c_id=bal

Canoeing with Kiddies, Smithsonian Institute Research

My rained-out adventure on the Rhode River was rescheduled for today and the weather couldn’t have been more glorious. So was the company. Our canoeing excursion with the Smithsonian Institute Research Center consisted mostly of families with small children, ranging in ages from five to ten. Almost everyone was a novice, so we had the benefit of being taught safety and paddling techniques before we embarked. If you’ve never been canoeing before, this is a wonderful, pressure free way to learn. Even for experienced paddlers, the guided two hour journey offered a delightful peek into a secluded nature preserve, free of motorized vessels, and a good cardiovascular workout.

I accompanied our guide, taking the bow position and doing most of the paddling while he steered from the rear. Good way to learn about the Smithsonian’s programs at the Research Center while reminding myself to tighten the abs.

The guided tours are conducted by volunteers. They take school groups, scout troops, and the regularly scheduled weekly tours to the headwaters of the Rhode River and up Muddy Creek, its main source. While there are sailboats and the inescapable waterskiing power boaters on the Rhode, they can’t maneuver the shallow depths of the aptly named creek. So once we cleared the mouth, the water was still and the air silent.

The Smithsonian now owns about 3,000 acres where Muddy Creek flows into the Rhode. Everything we could see was part of the preserve. Our guide explained how we were in a mud flat where the water was very shallow – sometimes barely passable – but the mud was as much as fifteen feet deep. We passed a few osprey nests, whose occupants were out fishing. They flew overhead and scolded from the nearby trees. Several blue herons were also on the hunt. One was so engrossed he barely looked up as we glided by. The most startling was an enormous bald eagle who swooped by on his way back to his nest at the headwaters.

The trip was so engrossing, and the environment so interesting, that the two hours slipped away. The youngsters switched places about half way through the trip so that everyone had a chance to paddle and no one got tired. I was amazed how well even the little kids did. And no whining! I can only guess they were having such a good time and were so captivated by all they were seeing that they didn’t realize how much exercise they were getting,

(And yes, I loaded up on Motrin just as soon as I got to the car. Otherwise, my fingers wouldn’t be working now)

A lot of countries and regions have realized the appeal of eco-tourism. I just returned from Alaska, where it is a major part of the economy. Along with the benefits of recreation and fitness, outdoor adventure offers something even more important – the chance for families and friends to share an interesting experience. I think I enjoyed watching the moms, dads (and granddad) learning about the wildlife of the river with their children as much as I did seeing the sights myself. Our guide told me it’s one of the reasons he volunteers. It’s gratifying to see youngsters touched by nature.

Maryland is beginning to catch on to eco-tourism, with the abundance of natural recreational assets we enjoy year round. I’m looking forward to seeing more in the coming months, in the mountains and the backwaters of the Eastern Shore. Hiking, biking, kayaking and canoeing are all ways to enjoy the beauty of our state. We are fortunate that the Smithsonian is doing so much to preserve the fragile eco-system of South Anne Arundel County, and share its beauty with those who appreciate it.

Learn about their programs and check out their adventures here: http://www.serc.si.edu/

Renaissance Roller Girl

This heroic scene isn't what you'd expect on the wall of a neighborhood Irish pub. Usually, those spots are reserved for patriots martyred in the Easter Rebellion. But the full length wall mural in Dougherty’s of Mt. Vernon (223 Chase Street) pays homage to another team of warriors engaged in full combat – the Charm City Roller Girls.

Even more stunning than the visual impact is that the artist, Leah Koltko, is a roller girl who graduated from Maryland Institute.

This sport becomes more and more intriguing as its popularity grows. For those who think the last roller queen was the Kansas City Bomber, take note --a new generation of skaters has found an audience for their competitive, entertaining and fun sport.

Charm City Roller Girls was formed in 2005 as an outgrowth of recreational skating at Skateland rink. It quickly developed into an organized all-woman, flat-track roller derby league made up of local women from all walks of life –from moms to artists.



With success (and fans) came the move to the Du Burns Arena in Canton, where their season began in May.

Before summer is over, I’ll catch a game (match?) and blog about it. For now, check out their website and learn about these community-based competitors. There’s even information about team tryouts for aspiring roller girls.

It sounds like too much fun. Can’t help but wonder what other talents lurk in the lineup.

http://www.charmcityrollergirls.com/

Hot "PINKS"

The weather held for the "PINKS All Out" drag race series held at Maryland International Raceway over the weekend. According to reports, thousands of fans turned out for the all day SPEED channel event.

480 drivers participated, including 20 local drivers from Southern Maryland. Larry Boswell from Mechanicsville (pictured above in his 1967 Chevy Camaro) made it to the final eight.

The competition at MIR will be featured in the September 17th episode of "PINKS All Out" at 8:00 PM on the SPEED channel.

Gearing up your Game

The end of the school year reminds me of summers long ago when I carted my boys to sports camps at the Naval Academy. Kids from throughout the region stayed in Bancroft Hall while they honed their skills sailing, rowing, water polo and just about every sport you can imagine. I still remember how awestruck a lot of them were by the facilities, staying in such a historic place, and learning from Division I coaches. You can learn more about the sports camps here: www.navysports.com/camps/navy-camps.html

Maryland has some nationally recognized clubs, programs and sports facilities for aspiring athletes of all ages. A few have been in the news lately, so it’s a good time to mention them.



With the Chelsea-Milan match looming, no one could be more excited than the BAYS, the Baltimore Area Youth Soccer named the No. 1 youth club team in the country by Soccer America. The BAYS have a professional relationship with Chelsea FC, and this week (June 22-26) coaches from Chelsea are working with BAYS coaches on player development. The BAYS owe much of their success to the passion of Kevin Healey, general manager of the Baltimore Blast, who is president of the BAYS club team.

Maryland is also the aquacenter of competitive swimming, with Olympians Michael Phelps and Katie Hoff training at the Meadowbrook Aquatic Center with the NBAC team. Keith Mills has a great story in this month’s Press Box about the next generation of Olympian aspirants who have come from distance and diverse backgrounds to train. You can read it here: www.pressboxonline.com/story.cfm?id=5008

It seems aspiring baseball players the world over know Ripken Academy in Aberdeen. Not only are there camps for youngsters to learn “The Ripken Way” with Cal and his brother Billy, but the complex also hosts team tournaments, and the Cal Ripken World Series in August. The Ripken program has been successful in many ways, including the media coverage it gives Maryland and the number of visitors it draws to Aberdeen.

The complex, with its retro ballfields reminiscent of classic MLB stadiums, is truly magical. You can see what Ripken Baseball brings to Maryland here: www.ripkenbaseball.com



Programs and facilities are not just for youngsters. Adventure Sports Center International, in Garrett County, situated on a mountaintop, offers training for the most skilled whitewater rafters and kayakers on their specially designed, adjustable course. The 2008 US National Whitewater Slalom Championships were held there, and in August, we’ll be going up for the US Rafting Nationals.

Of course, you don’t have to be a top competitor to enjoy the facilities. Even tenderfoots can shoot the course rapids or take a tour on a nearby river while experiencing the beauty of Western Maryland. See what they have to offer here: www.adventuresportscenter.com

There are many, many more top programs in Maryland. Look forward to sharing more about them.

Upset in OC -- APV Crocs beach volleyball

Both men and women top seeds were toppled in the first APV Crocs tour on the boardwalk in Ocean City.

Third seeds John Hyden and Sean Scott defeated Olympic gold medalists and defending world champs Phil Dalhausser and Todd Rogers in the finals, 21-13, 21-18. Sunday’s final marked the second event in a row that Hyden and Scott defeated Dalhausser and Rogers in an AVP Crocs Tour final. The first was two week ago in Atlanta.

In women's play, second seeds Jennifer Kessy and April Ross defeated top seeds Nicole Branagh and Elaine Youngs, 21-12, 21-15.

BROADCAST: Ocean City Open, Men's and Women's Finals -- Versus TV, Saturday June 27th at 4:00 PM and Friday July 3rd at 4:00 PM

Au Natural on the Appalachian

Just an alert to those taking advantage of this beautiful Father's Day Sunday with an old fashioned family hike on the Appalachian Trail.

Today is Summer Solstice. In the hardcore hoofing community, it is celebrated as Hike Naked Day. Nothing to do with Maryland, Father's Day, or even Sunday. It just happens that this expression of nature coincides with the annual migration of hikers transversing the entire trail. They generally begin in Georgia, just as soon as weather permits. That puts them in Maryland at solistice time when this summer ritual manifests.

That's right -- in addition to ticks and poison ivy, Maryland is blessed with seasonal flashers.

Supposedly these wandering naturalists carry emergency fig leaves (a bare necessity?) in case of unexpected encounters with civilization. But if startled while picnicking on one of the many magnificent vistas in Frederick or Washington County, just remember not to look below the (ahem) timberline.

The Appalacian Trail is one of the treasures of Maryland, and you should experience it. Get more information at: Appalachian Trail Conservancy: http://www.appalachiantrail.org/

Canoeing With Critters, Smithsonian Environmental Research Center, Rhode River (Anne Arundel County) June 20

The June Monsoon

I was really looking forward to my two hour eco-adventure on the Rhode River when I left early this morning. Gray clouds may discourage some, but it’s perfect for this melanoma veteran . The sun glare on water defies even the best sunscreen. Besides, a little misty rain adds atmosphere.

I was the first of the canoe crew to arrive, just as the birdwatching flock was ready to take flight. There seems to be lots of activity at the center. In addition to the canoe trips, the Smithsonian has a full calendar of family-oriented, environmentally focused educational experiences with elements of adventure. http://www.serc.si.edu/public_programs/event_calendar.aspx?year=2009&month=6 Birdwatching is just one of the guided field trips. Others study native flora, wildlife, and archeology. Some programs are geared specifically for parents and children.

They also offer canoe and kayak rentals, and free access to the miles of woodland trails. It’s a clever way to exercise while experiencing nature and enjoying family time. Also very inexpensive, with a nominal $5.00 contribution to the center.

Unfortunately, just as the final canoe party arrived, so did the deluge. Even the birdwatchers flew back to the nest. Our tour guide studied the radar (with its ominous yellow blip over Anne Arundel County) and decided to scrub the excursion for today. I’m disappointed, but will be back next week. I heard the birdwatchers talking about the Owl Prowl and it sounds like a real hoot.

If the weather clears, I’ll head to Quiet Waters for a little kayaking. Just that short visit this morning made me yearn to paddle in a secluded cove. That’s one thing about Maryland – water conditions range from extreme to tranquil, sometimes on the same river. Before the summer is out, we’re going to see them all.

About the Smithsonian Environmental Education Center:

http://www.serc.si.edu/


During Colonial days, the Rhode River was dotted with massive tobacco plantations. John Contee, a naval officer on the USS Constitution, purchased one such estate with his share of the plunder after Old Ironsides captured HMS Java in 1812. In appreciation to his benefactor (and perhaps with a touch of irony) he named his farm “Java” Through the years, as the estate was divided and tobacco gave way to dairy farming, the 300+ acre portion of Java became the property of Robert Lee Forrest, who bequeathed it to the Smithsonian Institute upon his death in 1962.

Instead of selling the property for the Smithsonian’s endowment, incoming Smithsonian Director S. Dillon Ripley, a noted ornithologist, saw its potential as an environmental research center. In 1965, the first center opened.

Through the years, as the center has expanded its scope and gained an international reputation for studying many ecological issues, additional land has been acquired. The original Contee property was purchased and merged into the center complex. Other parcels along the Rhode River have been added as the parcels became available.

Today, SERC encompasses 2800 acres. Its operations include hundreds of researchers, scientists, educators and students who work with field stations all over the world. Best of all, SERC offers the public the opportunity to study the environment first hand through the programs and activities they offer throughout the year. Miles of hiking trails and launching docks for canoes and kayaks offer a look at the amazing Chesapeake ecosystem.

Speed on Strips and Sand

If you're into celebrating Maryland's 375th birthday with some squealing tires, head south to St. Mary's County, birthplace of our fair state and home to one of the storied venues in the world of motor sports.

Maryland International Speedway at Budd's Creek will be hosting the national tour of PINKS ALL OUT all day June 20th. PINKS ALL OUT is the top tier of the drag racing circuit. Speed TV will be filming as hundreds of the best drag racers in the country will chase $18,000 in prize money. For information on this ticketed event call (301) 884-9833 or visit http://www.mirdrag.com/.

You might want to check out the Professional Beach Volleyball- AVP Crocs Tour: Ocean City Open. This boardwalk-based event is already underway and updates (along streaming) are available on the website at http://www.avp.com/ Excerpts will also be carried on Versus network.

Having (somewhat) recovered her equilibrium and dignity after the header on the Gwynns Falls Trail, Blogue will test her balance by canoeing Muddy Creek West at River Smithsonian Environmental Research Center. This educational exercise is part of the environmental mission of the natural resources research complex.

More about this adventure tomorrow !

Desperately Seeking -- South Shore Trail

An unexpected trip to Gambrills prompts this poignant plea. Is there anyone, anywhere in cyberspace who knows when “they” (whoever “they” is) WILL FINISH THE SOUTH SHORE TRAIL?

Heck, I’d be thrilled just to see them START the South Shore Trail. But other than declarations of “it’s coming soon” on various websites (some several years old) there is no evidence SST is shovel (forgive the cliché) ready.

South Shore is one of the long forgotten segments of the Baltimore Annapolis interurban electric railway. Its cousin on the other side of the Severn, now known as the B&A Trail, has enjoyed great popularity since the Lighthizer years. Some short spurs of the connector, running through Piney Orchard, have been complete for several years and others are in some stage of construction or litigation (or both.) The South Shore line, running 13 miles between Odenton (aka BRAC-world) and Annapolis, connecting schools, ballfields, parks, fairgrounds and neighborhoods, has been languishing on the drawing boards forever, despite receiving federal (don't call it earmark) funding in a major transportation bill several years ago.

Sure, times are tough and $$$ for recreational amenities is tight, but why is the South Shore Line – a significant Washington-Annapolis-Baltimore link in the East Coast Greenway -- always the caboose in the budget process?

This wonderful connector is more than a linear park and recreational asset. It will also provide safe alternative transportation for those living, working, attending school, or participating in activities in this rapid growth corridor.

So if anyone out there sees shovels actually moving, please let me know.

Tour Dem Parks, Hon

For two years I’ve longed to bike the Gwynns Falls Trail. GWT, a 14 mile passage connecting parks, schools and neighborhoods from Northwest Baltimore to the Inner Harbor, passes through Camden Yards. It is a unique linear park, encompassing beautiful natural scenery, fragile ecological systems, and a close look at Baltimore’s industrial past and cultural heritage. Since learning about the trail and its origins here: www.gwynnsfallstrail.org/ and working with volunteers to mark our own history here: http://www.gwynnsfallstrail.org/images/pics/Panels/Exhibit_31.jpg. I’ve wanted to experience it myself.

On June 14th, I had my chance at the 5th Annual “Tour Dem Parks, Hon” celebration of Baltimore’s biking community. The prospects of a beautiful day, lots of company , an apres-tour cookout and the inescapable commemorative t-shirt were almost all the incentives I needed. (Assurance I wouldn’t be the only middle aged matron in pedal pushers sealed the deal.)

Alas, at 8:00 AM, the entrance to Carroll Park was a sea of spandax -- vivid neon and jeweltones, like a school of tropical fish. Sponsor logos and health club insignias identified this crowd as Serious Cyclists, like the Patterson Park pros a few weeks ago. Not an ounce of adipose in sight.

The intimidation factor faded at the registration table where I saw a little more diversity in age and body mass. As promised, the 5th annual “Tour Dem Parks, Hon” offered something for every age, interest, shape, and skill level. Maps identified designated routes of 12, 25, 36 and 64 miles. Helpful volunteers explained the features of each.

By 8:15, the spandex had split, headed for a spin through Howard, Baltimore, and Anne Arundel County before returning to collect their t-shirts. I learned later that these cyclists were not so much interested in the scenery and historic markers as they were in challenging the terrain and each other.

(NOTE: Maryland has a substantial triathlon community, which includes several clubs, major events, and a network of participants. Triathletes participate in non-competitive tours like this for their training regimen. More on Maryland triathlons later this summer)

Many experienced recreational riders opted for the routes within the City, beginning and ending on the Gwynns Falls Trail and incorporating Druid Hill Park, Cylburn, Herring Run, and Patterson Park. For them it was an opportunity to see progress made in the past year – new trail segments, designated lanes, and better signage – while enjoying familiar scenery.

My friends and I fell into the third category – the family route – which took us up and back a six mile stretch of the Gwynns Falls Trail. This was ideal for aspiring cyclists, curious explorers, and friends sharing light exercise with a touch of adventure.

In other words, the bunny slope of the spin set.

With me were two Gwynns Falls veterans. Beth Stromman, universally regarded as the godmother of the Baltimore bicycle master plan, is a long time City planner who worked on the Gwynns Falls Trail project for the fourteen (!)years it took to complete. Margaret Martin, a City engineer, worked on the GWF plan with Beth many years ago when she was with the Army Corps of Engineers. Margaret (like me, a City of Annapolis expatriate) is now with Baltimore’s Department of Central Services. They take great pride in the popularity GFT enjoys, and made the ride more enjoyable with stories about obstacles overcome and partnerships forged to make the trail possible.

Beth took the lead as we headed north, passing Montgomery Park on our way to the Carroll Golf Course and our path along the stream.

It’s hard to say what part of the experience was most rewarding. Maybe it was the beautiful irony of the woodland stream Olmstead envisioned as a park more than 100 years ago. After being deferred by industrialization for more than 100 years, his plan was revived -- incorporating that history and the lessons learned into an educational experience.

Sharing the trail with people of all ages, studying the history on the markers along the way, talking with the volunteers and enjoying the beautiful weather makes me to want to explore another trail. One of the best things about Maryland is the number of different opportunities just a short drive away.

WHY MARYLAND – The birthplace of American railroading enjoys a legacy of wonderful trails. Many rightaways, trestles and tunnels have been incorporated into linear parks which connect communities and recreational facilities. Inter-urban trolley systems once operating in the Baltimore-Washington-Annapolis triangle now mesh schools and ballfields with trails. Every region in Maryland has rail trails in addition to fitness trails and community connectors.

Geography – the mountains of Western Maryland, foothills and rolling farmlands in the central state, and sandy flats of the Eastern Shore offer variety for recreational riding, training, and competitive events.

Culture, Advocacy – Maryland cities are behind vanguards like Portland or Chicago when it comes to incorporating bicycles into their transportation plans. Give Baltimore a lot of credit for jumping in with both pedals to catch up. Having an avid cyclist as Mayor, and a bicycle-pedestrian coordinator on the planning team has helped immeasurably.

Political clout -- Friends in high places have brought many other projects to fruition. One visionary is longtime DNR Secretary (and Warehouse neighbor) Dr. Torrey C. Brown. He was instrumental in restoring the North Central railroad bed from Baltimore County to the Pennsylvania line into a trail that now bears his name. It comprises a major segment of the proposed Grand History Trail connecting Washington, DC, Annapolis, Frederick, Baltimore and Gettysburg, PA.

Congressman (now Senator) Ben Cardin was a huge factor in the creation of the Gwynns Falls. Senator Barbara Mikulski championed Allegany Highlands in Cumberland. As with the Torrey Brown Trail, each is a segment in a much larger network that brings visitors through Maryland. Among the national trails that pass through Maryland are the East Coast Greenway, from Maine to Florida, and the American Discoverty Trail, from Delaware to California.

Higher education – Bicycling and activism tend to flourish in college communities. Maryland has a bumper crop of both, including a multicultural international scene that elevates awareness of cycling as responsible, sustainable transportation.

Vigorous volunteers – Maryland abounds with bicycle enthusiasts who patrol trails, testify at hearings, write grants, support events, and generally wave the flag for bicycle causes. I’m beginning to recognize faces as I go to different activities. Cycle advocates are partnering with the health and wellness community, city planners and transportation officials, and recreation officials as they incorporate bicycle-centric design into every lifestyle and occupational plan.

It must be working: Maryland was recently recognized as one of six “bicycle-friendly” states by the League Of American Bicyclists for taking initiatives to improve conditions for bicyclists.

Check out this bicycle publication:

Spokes, a free monthly tab, for an about cycling in the Mid-Atlantic States. Cover feature for June showcases trails and cycling events in Dorchester County. Very interesting stories, pix, and columns about every aspect of cycling.

http://www.spokesmagazine.com/

Interesting links:

Talbot County recently launched a bicycle brochure with six themed routes. You can see a map and learn more about the attractions and activities along the trails here:
http://www.tourtalbot.org/PDFs/talbot_county_bicycle_map.pdf

Other Biking Events in Maryland – Gravity East, June 5-7

Gravity East, the nation’s biggest downhill racing series, held a Speedweek, which included four days of USAC sanctioned downhill racing and the opening round of the Gravity East Slalom Series, at Wisp resort in McHenry, Maryland. The Chumba Capital Cup is as a combined-time event, with racers tackling two different courses over two days, plus a dual slalom, for over $10,000 in cash and prizes.

Speedweek kicked off with the Capital Cup competitions June 5-7 at Wisp, wrapping up at Seven Springs in Pennsylvania the following weekend. Winner of the Chmba Capital Cup was determined by the best combined total time from the two downhill runs.

Wisp Resort and Railey Montain Lake Vacations hosted competitors for the ten days of training, racing, and vacationing. More than 180 racers competed and trained at Wisp before moving the tour north. According to www.racersedgeonline.com, the fourth annual Chumba Racing Capital Cup at Wisp Resort was a huge success. Racer participation was up by 26% from 2008. Thanks to greater sponsor participation, over $10,000 in cash and prizes was awarded for the weekend.

What is gravity racing?
OK, I'm not sure. Even with Google and Wiki, I can't figure out exactly what gravity racing is all about. I deduce it is another of those action sports I have trouble understanding. (Miss you, Dew Crew!) It seems to involve BXM bikes, speed, and mountains. It also seems to be very popular, lending itself to four season resorts like Wisp. By next year, I'll know more. Maybe I'll even go. Chances for participating continue to be slim.

A Weekend of Surf and Turf

Chesapeake Bay Swim – Great story in the Annapolis Capital about the 18th Annual Great Chesapeake Bay Swim, a 4.4 mile open water race from Sandy Point State Park to the Eastern Shore.  This open water swim attracts athletes (particularly triathletes in training) from all over the country.

647 swimmers braved the currents (not to mention sea nettles) under the twin spans.

Winner Brian Benda of Baltimore County reached the finish line at Hemingway’s on Kent Island in a little over an hour and a half.

Link to story, which includes picture gallery: www.hometownannapolis.com/news/top/2009/06/15-26/647-hit-the-surf-for-annual-Bay-Swim.html

LPGA Championship, Bulle Rock -- Our own Terry Hasseltine attended the final day of competition at Bulle Rock, where 22 year old rookie Anna Nordqvist from Sweden took her first tour victory at the last McDonald’s LPGA Championship held at Bulle Rock.

(Next year, the event will have a new sponsor and home course after five successful years in Harford County)

Terry reports:

“The LPGA event had probably the best weather to close out an event I have ever been a part of. There were approx 12,000 spectators mulling around the course yesterday afternoon as the ladies hit the links. There were so many beautiful views throughout the entire golf course, but I spent most of my afternoon watching the 18th hole.”

“The organizers and others are extremely sad to see this event go away,” Terry continued “but very excited that new opportunities will present themselves because of this experience.”

More big-name soccer on the horizon?

We know the Chelsea-Milan “friendly” scheduled for July 24th at M&T Bank Stadium is close to being sold out -- more than a month before kickoff. The enthusiastic response to this international match raises prospects for an even greater mega match on the horizon. Headline in today's Sun:

"In Baltimore, a question: 'Why not a World Cup?'"

Ken Murray reports that M&T Bank Stadium made the first cut for potential host cities and stadiums in the World Cup of 2018 or 2022 - without having applied. The USA Bid Committee reduced its list this week from 70 stadiums to 45 in 37 U.S. cities.

Also in the hunt are the Meadowlands in East Rutherford, N.J.; Lincoln Financial in Philadelphia; FedEx Field in Landover; RFK in Washington; Soldier Field in Chicago; Qwest Field in Seattle and the Rose Bowl in Pasadena, Calif.

Terry Hasseltin takes great delight in this elevation to the world arena, and credits the ticket sales for the friendly, plus the attractive demographics Baltimore enjoys with proximity to Washington, Philadelphia and New York via the Northeast Corridor

Terry is also dropping hints about hosting friendlies on an annual basis, with next year’s match being headlined by a marquee contingent whose name we won’t mention here, (but is the fave of rocker Rod Stewart.)

Don’t get left at the box office for Chelsea-Milan. Tix are available online at www.baltimoreravens.com/soccer or by phone at 410-261-7283.

More Lacrosse News

As expected, Towson University will host the 2010 NCAA Division I women's lacrosse championship for the third year in a row, bringing both the men's and women's NCAA tournament finals to Baltimore next year. The women's games will take place at Johnny Unitas Stadium on May 28 and 30, while the men's final four returns to M&T Bank Stadium on May 29 and 31.

It's the first time both championships will be held in the same vicinity at the same time. It creates the opportunity for numerous lacrosse intensive activities for fans, families, and friends of all participating teams.

This year's Division I women's championship, which saw Northwestern defeat North Carolina, drew 14,064 to Unitas Stadium for the three games, a semifinals record for women's game in the United States.

Baltimore hosted the men's final four in 2003, 2004 and 2007 and set attendance records in each of those years. The announced 51,719 who showed up to watch the Division I men's semifinals in 2007 are still a single-day record for the tournament.

Tickets now on sale for 2010 NCAA lacrosse championship

Great story in the Baltimore Sun today about the return of NCAA lacrosse to Baltimore, tickets sales, and why the event flourishes here in Tankagas State. Some of the top industry insiders reiterate what we said earlier about Maryland’s appeal for holding major lacrosse events. Here are some quotes from Edward Lee's story in the Sun:

"I'm a New York guy, and I went to school in New York, but I realize that in terms of a concentrated area, that is the heart of lacrosse," CBS College Sports analyst Paul Carcaterra, a former Syracuse All-America midfielder, said of Baltimore. "You can argue that New York is a better state than Maryland in terms of lacrosse on the high school and college lacrosse levels. But from the standpoint of a concentrated area, when you're talking about New York, you're talking from Syracuse to Long Island, which can be 300 miles in some cases. When you think about Maryland lacrosse, you think about a concentrated 45-mile area. It is the heartland in terms of being that centrally located area."

Others believe it's convenient for more fans to travel and watch the games, too.

"I just think Baltimore is better situated to service the fans," said Quint Kessenich, ESPN analyst and former Johns Hopkins All-America goalie. " Southwest Airlines can fly you to BWI [Baltimore-Washington International Thurgood Marshall Airport] cheap. The hotels are nearby, [so] you don't have to rent a car. And it's the Northeast corridor - D.C., Virginia, New Jersey. Think about the amount of fans within a four-hour radius."
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Tankagas State -- where the action is

There’s another reason – a very big one – why Maryland rules for hosting youth or college tournaments.

While an international airport and Amtrak’s Northeast corridor make Maryland venues easily accessible for major events, it is the interstate highway system and central location in the Mid-Atlantic population center that drive (literally) the friends and family network who comprise the fan base for youth and collegiate sports.

Call us Tankagas State. Not a campus, but a geographic reality -- with Maryland as the epicenter.

NCAA Lacrosse provides an excellent example. Baltimore, where both the men’s and women’s championship tournaments will be held next year, is only a tank of gas away from colleges in Long Island to Tobacco Road. Half the schools in the men’s Division I level are located within that radius, as are the families of many athletes. For a weekend event, Maryland is a rollicking road trip for a car and a cooler.

In the case of lacrosse, it goes beyond convenience for those involved in the tournament. Maryland also furnishes the talent for many of the teams, and other homegrown fans involved in many of the rec lacrosse programs, camps, tournaments and media outlets that comprise the outreach network. From a marketing standpoint, Maryland is lacrosse nirvana. The sport is nurtured here, and the locals will come regardless of who is in the tournament.

For tankagas road warriors, Maryland is a destination of choice for other reasons. Lots of lacrosse-centric activities and attractions are here. Ditto accommodations downtown or on light rail/water taxi lines.

We're counting down to NCAA Men's and Women's Lacrosse Championships, to be held in Baltimore Memorial Day Weekend, 2010. But until then, let's look at some of the other lacrosse tournaments that bring youngsters from all over the East Coast to Tankagas State.

Lax Splash, Timonium, June 6-7

Part of the Aloha tournament network, the Lax Splash tourney celebrates its 10th year in 2009. 160 teams participated in 1999. Since then, the tournament has grown steadily, now hosting more than 7,000 participants watched by nearly 20,000 attendees. The event, now considered the largest youth lacrosse tournament in the nation, is divided across 47 fields in 13 different locations, with the major hub of activity at the Timonium Fairgrounds.

Beach Lax Festival, Ocean City, June 6-7, 13-14

More than 200 lacrosse teams participated in the annual Beach Lax Festival over two weekends in and around Ocean City. 2009 is the 11th year for the girls (98 teams, June 6-7) tournament and fourth year for the boys (122 teams, June 13-14)

The purpose of the tournaments recognizes the end of the rec league season, the end of the school year, and the beginning of summer. But ultimately they celebrate family commitment to youth sports and Maryland's love affair with lacrosse.

Shades of Blue in Annapolis

In a few days, Navy-Marine Corps Memorial Stadium will be filled with family and friends watching the Class of 2009 receive their commissions. But today, the festivities are of a different sort. NCAA men’s Division I Lacrosse semi finals take place in a double header starting around noon. Although face-off is a few hours away, tailgate troops are mustering, an occupation in foreign shades of blue.

The distinctive periwinkle of Johns Hopkins anchors the best site, the stadium’s south side. From the look of their compound, they’ve been here a while. (Not surprising since they have the shortest commute.) Just off Rowe Boulevard a swarm of Prussian blue hoodies, armed with a large cooler, takes the hill by the courthouse. The delegation from Duke has arrived.

Closer to Route 50 is the pale (“God must be a Tarheel because the sky is . . .”) Carolina blue regiment, followed a Duke stray carrying yet another cooler.

Alas, the only glimpse of Navy blue appears on the trim on UVA’s uniform, as the hometown Mids were torpeded in Durham last week. I’m guessing there will probably be more than a few of them in the stands by game time, though. Lacrosse, even when Navy isn’t playing, enjoys great popularity here. So do tailgates.

(Note: UVA’s bastion on the north side is already rocking, but Wahoos are universally regarded as tailgating pros. so they might have arrived last night.)

But enough singing the blues ! This time next year, the NCAA Championship Series will take place Memorial Day weekend in Baltimore and it promises to be the best yet. For the first time, the Women's championship will be in town the same weekend, taking place at Johnny Unitas stadium in Towson. So enough of singing the blues. After next week, the countdown begins in earnest. If there’s one thing Marylanders do better than anyone, it’s lacrosse.

Grinding with Gatorade

It was a sad day when action sports fans learned the AST Dew Tour was not returning to Maryland in 2009. Though popular and well received at Camden Yards in 2007 and 2008, scheduling difficulties prevent a 2009 event.

Fortunately for aspiring grinders, an element of the Alliance of Action Sports (which also includes Dew Tour) did plan a return to Charm City. Literally and figuratively. The Free Flow Tour, an amateur competition now sponsored by Gatorade, made a return to Charm City Skatepark in Canton for the second stop on a 53 stop national tour that allows regional winners to compete for the chance to participate in the pro tour.

So May 23rd I took the tunnel to East Baltimore to one of the best known skateparks in the state, where 70 young skaters were competing to win a trip to Salt Lake City and possibly a shot at the pros.

Charm City is as unpretentious as East Baltimore itself. It was difficult to find, being located under O’’Donnell Street rather than on it. Getting in required a few trips across railroad tracks. (I tried not to think of Gus Vansant’s Paranoid Park)and reminded myself it’s not so different than Camden Yards 20 years ago.)

But this facility has all the characteristics of a popular hangout for one of the fastest growing sports in the country, starting with a complete lack of pretense.

While some may find the location gritty and industrial, others rate it rad. Never having been in another indoor skate facility, I'll leave the ambiance evaluation to the cognoscenti.)

One thing I do know –– in this culture, there really is very little mainstream. Individualism is key, and Charm City‘s character is apparent just as soon as you open the door.

Imagine a floor about the size of a basketball court, covered in ramps, steps, platforms and rails made of unfinished plywood and decorated with graffiti and stickers. One corner has an elevated kidney shaped bowl. In the center is the newly-constructed podium, covered in Gateorade tape, which doubles as a new skate obstacle for the course.

Competitive skateboarding is a spectator sport, even at this level. Charm City has an observation deck outside the party room and snack area. There are plenty of parents and siblings, many of whom are regulars. Charm City has a team, and produces other competitions during the year. One of the mothers told me their events were very well organized, drawing enthusiasts from throughout the region.

Today’s event is skatepark (not vert) only. It begins with a jam –– several competitors on the course at the same time, doing individual routines (while trying not to collide with anyone else doing THEIR own routine.) This is a spontaneous skill demonstration, and judges grade based on difficulty of tricks performed and ability to adapt to conditions and competition.

An integral part of the competition (again, a cultural thing) is the music. In a word, LOUD. Pulsating, rhythmic, totally incomprehensible, and very LOUD. Enough to drown out the occasional freight that shakes the building as it rumbles a few feet away.

The heats and skate-offs will last several hours as the field is winnowed down. Because this is an open competition, there are no geographic restrictions for competitors. Although greater Baltimore produces skilled skaters, (many nurtured at Charm City,)the top honor -- a trip to Salt Lake City for the national prize -- went to fifteen-year-old Alex Longcamp of Aurora, Indiana, who wowed the judges with some fancy stunts during the final jam session. Kadian Maxwell and Tyler Thomas, both of Baltimore, finished second and third.

The day didn't end there. Once the tournament ended, it was skate time again for the regulars eager to try some of the moves they just saw. Such is the allure of the skateboarding world -- watch one, do one, teach one . . . and hang loose.

Miss you, Dew-dettes. Hope your Tour will bring you back to Baltimore soon.

See the Pix:
http://www.allisports.com/content/charm-city-2009-free-flow-tour-skate

Try It!!
Charm City Indoor Skatepark
4401 O'Donnell Street
Baltimore, MD 21224
Tel: (410)-327-7909
www.charmcity.tv

Polo in Poolesville

It may be the “Sport of Kings,” but other than Prince Charles, I don’t know anyone who plays. Or how, for that matter. So the prospect of learning more about the sport of polo and seeing an international competition in my home state was entirely too intriguing to miss. That’s why, the week before the equine event most associated with Maryland, I journeyed to Poolesville (Montgomery County) to catch a few chukkers and find out why it is so popular here.

The event was the annual America’s Cup of Polo, held May 8-9 for the first time at the Capitol Polo Club. The Range Rover-sponsored tournament matched a US team against a contingent of Australian all-stars, but participants in the various exhibitions were from all over the world. So were the spectators, many from embassies and international corporate sponsors.

The America's Polo Cup is a philanthropic event, benefiting Journey for the Cure Foundation, and supporting science grants and cancer research. Because modern polo has its origins in the cavalry of the British Commonwealth, international competitions traditionally have a strong military presence.

(Polo was also part of the US army training regimen. George Patton swung a mean mallot and kept a string of ponies when he was stationed at Camp Meade in 1919.)

The US Polo Cup always includes a salute to the military, an impressive part of the festivities. What it doesn't include are coolers or infield volleyball games. This new addition to Maryland equestrian competition is distinctly different from the one running at Pimlico next week.

The first eye opener of the day was the venue. The Capitol Polo Club is located near Poolesville, a little northwest of the Washington Beltway. The park is nearly 600 acres of fields and wooded terrain, part of an equestrian conservation trust. (More on EPIC later) The multi-purpose facilities include three full size polo fields, an outdoor arena, indoor arena and impressive grandstand and clubhouse.

With floating flags and billowing tents, it looked like the tournament grounds at Camelot. Alas, unlike Camelot, rain was permitted to fall and the mud factor was rather intense. Another good reason to have the military around. The ever-resourceful Coast Guard dispatched their chopper. The hovering Zamboni smoothed the playing surface, blew out the bogs, and demonstrated rescue at sea maneuvers prior to the main event. Semper Paratis, indeed.

Despite soggy conditions, the exhibition matches (round robin chukkers among US teams) and the tournament were played before an enthusiastic crowd, where the US defeat the Aussies 4-2. The Beautiful People (and hopefully the handy Coast Guard) will be back next year when the US takes on India. (I don't remember reading this in Rudyard Kipling, but evidently India was a real polo powerhouse during the Empire days.) However, you don't need to wait until next year to capture the flavor of this elegant event.

Media coverage:
MAY 16, 8:00 PM - Prime Time half hour special

Check it online:
http://www.americaspolocup.com/theevent.php

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Facts about Polo:
Polo was once an Olympic sport, last played in the 1936 Berlin games.

Sorry, southpaws, Polo is a right-handed sport. You can swing on the left side of the horse, but the mallot must be held in the right hand. No switch-hitting.

What’s a chukker? A segment of a polo match. There are three chukkers, consisting of seven minutes, in a match.

Where to See it in Maryland:
Polo is played throughout the year. Capitol Polo Club hosts three seasons of polo. In the Spring and Fall they play arena polo, and late spring/summer they play the full grass grounds Beginning in June, the club practices on the grass on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays. Every Sunday they host a match at 3:00pm, which is open and the public is encouraged to attend

Why Maryland?
Large military presence, international community, and agricultural/equestrian heritage. Polo requires large tracks of flat terrain, and these elements exist in the Washington metropolitan area.. (Polo is also popular in Northern Virginia, and is played on the National Mall in DC.)

Can I Play?
If you’re willing to take lessons. Polo isn’t exactly a pick-up sport and most of us never get any closer than a Ralph Lauren logo, but Maryland has more than one training program. Capitol Polo Club has a beginners program. Check it out at: http://www.capitolpolo.com/
More advanced training is available at Red Eagle Ranch at: http://www.redeagleranch.com/

NEXT WEEK: Grinding with Gatorade