SPORT

As I'm sure everyone knows, Melbourne is seen as the sports capital of Australia and we haven't been disappointed.

On Friday 1st Feb we went to the Twenty20 Cricket between Australia and India at the MCG. Although it wasn't the best batting match due to the Aussies totally demolishing the Indians, the atmosphere was brilliant. Around 85,000 people there and lots of banter between the supporters. Had a few drinks, despite the queues and worked out that you could down a couple of beers before getting to the till... good work. The MCG was amazing with so many people there and we're looking forward to seeing an AFL game there.

Zoe's decided to go for Geelong as that's who Joel our housemate supports. It just so happens that they won the competition last year for the first time in about 30 years and are predicted to win it this year again. Zoe is a glory hunter! I'm going for Western Bulldogs, as a mate here Ben works for them. Can't wait for the 'footie' season to start up here as apparently there's just heaps of banter and chat about it everywhere.

On the way back from Hockey training the other day we had a drive to the Grand Prix course nearby. Part of it's on normal roads that are used for everyday traffic during the rest of the year, so we go to drive round the actual track for a bit. It's being held in March so not long. Apparently you can here the race going on from just about anywhere in Melbourne and we might make it to the actual race if we can get hold of some tickets.

We're also off to the races pretty soon, as our apartment is about 2 minutes walk from the 'Moonee Valley Racecourse'. Looking forward to winning some money! We also stumbled on a 'Breakdancing Workshop' the other day in Federation Square (middle of town.) We watched lots of 'experts' and kids performing their moves for a little while, they were very good. Despite my best efforts, Zoe refused to get involved and show off her famous 'Salter Shoulder Stand'. (Those on Portsmouth Hockey Tour '07 will remember her winning a dance off with it!) We also saw a guy doing amazing keepie-ups using a soccer, sorry Foot-ball. Will try and get a video up on the site soon.

There's just sport going on everywhere all the time. It's brilliant. Very good 'train-hard, play-hard' philosophy out here, with most matches and training sessions being followed up by a few beers no matter where you are. Even managed to get involved in a game of poker after training the other night and stayed in till the last five of about 12 people, but didn't take the whole lot. Flakey, could have done with your help mate!!!

CULAYBA

Nick/Lamby

Break dancing

Footie keep ups