As I draw the curtains on this series, marking the final chapter of the Fifth Year journey that commenced in January, I find myself immersed in the realm of sports. While my collection of posts in this category may not be abundant, they carry tales that might intrigue you.
Running: The Long-Distance Melodies
Though I am not a runner by nature, I’ve played the role of a steadfast supporter to a few dedicated long-distance runners over the years. The rhythmic footfalls, the determination etched on their faces—it’s a saga I’ve been fortunate to witness. The allure of the track led me to the illustrious Drake Relays, a cherished tradition in my life. Moreover, the journey extended beyond, taking me to Eugene, Oregon, a pilgrimage to the World Championships.
In this post, I delved into what it truly means to stand by a long-distance runner, exploring the camaraderie and dedication that come with it.
Life, however, isn’t always as seamless as the stride of a runner. There was a year, a rarity, when the Drake Relays were absent from my calendar. The burdens of work tied us down, prompting us to miss that fleeting moment. Little did we know that destiny had its own plans, as the pandemic of 2020 swayed in, eclipsing the following year as well. A return was anticipated, yet wavering motivation coupled with memories of frosty weathers and rain-soaked days lingered, challenging our commitment. The resolve to face the elements wavered, as detailed in my earlier post—enduring the cold, contemplating the rain—a feat not easily undertaken.
Basketball: Bouncing Through Passions
My heart beats in sync with the rhythm of basketball—a sentiment rooted in my past. The spirited games of my high school days paved the way for an enduring affection for the sport. In a time when NBA games were reserved solely for Sundays, my family would gather around the screen, enraptured by the magic. The Boston Celtics held a special place in my heart, their triumphs etched in my memories. The NBA’s charm may have dimmed, but my passion for college basketball burns bright.
The pinnacle of my basketball jubilation arrives with the NCAA tournament—a symphony of competition and camaraderie. Yet, this post, titled “March On!” uncovers layers beyond the basketball court, intertwining stories of spring’s arrival, a Florida escapade, spring training, and the crescendo of basketball’s allure.
In “Fired Up for Basketball,” I unveil my lifelong affair with the sport. From the courts of high school to the grandeur of the NBA, culminating in the realm of college basketball. A symphony that evokes pure delight as I witness the game’s soul unfold.
Amidst the game’s evolution, a sartorial transformation played its part. The 1990s witnessed an unconventional shift, as basketball shorts transformed into flowing garments reminiscent of skirts. A quirky trend that has once again taken a turn, this time in reverse. As I observe the courts today, the shorts have reclaimed their essence, discarding their elongated past. A musing on the resurgence—Are Basketball Shorts Getting Short Again?
Tennis: A Love Story Across the Courts
Tennis, a realm where my words have danced the most. The professional stage, whether beheld in person or through the screen, stirs a symphony within me.
My introductory rendezvous with tennis bore the post “Tennis Anyone?”—a chronicle of the Australian Open, a yearly spectacle imbued with the thrill of anticipation. Yet, the time zone tangle often leaves me yearning, the dawn and dusk denying a seamless connection.
Amidst the cheers, the court has witnessed its share of controversy. My perspective on the Serena Williams conundrum unfurls within the pages, a testament to the debates that echo in the world of sports.
Wimbledon, the epitome of tennis grandeur, weaves rules that transcend the courts. The decree of white apparel, an ode to tradition, stood unyielding. However, winds of change rustle, revealing a subtle evolution slated for 2023—a small concession for female players, the freedom to adorn dark undershorts, an embrace of comfort during times of nature’s rhythm.
Tennis, a sport where love is measured in points and deuces. Yet, the scoring system bewilders many, a puzzle that shrouds the essence. With a touch of humor, my post “Weird Tennis Scoring” unravels the enigma, unraveling the complexities that baffle even seasoned enthusiasts.
A role often overlooked but pivotal nonetheless—chair umpires and line judges. Their domain witnessed transformations in the wake of COVID. The advent of technology, a silent referee, evoking questions yet embracing progress.
And thus, the final chapter unfurls, a retrospective journey through these five years. An expedition where words have woven the tapestry of my experiences, a narrative shared and cherished. As the curtain falls, a heartfelt hope resonates—for you, the reader, to have found solace and delight in this voyage back in time.
