Rose Bowl to be bought by Council

Eastleigh Borough Council has come to an agreement with Hampshire CCC to buy their Rose Bowl stadium and build a hotel on site.

The decision, which was made last night, December 15th, will see Eastleigh Borough Council buy the venue for £6.5m ($10m) to rent back to Hampshire County Cricket Club.

The council will invest almost £40m ($62M) in the Rose Bowl, which made a loss of nearly £900,000 (approx. $1,400,000) last year. £32m ($50) will be spent on the construction of a four-star hotel at the stadium which will comprise 175 bedrooms, conference centre and golf course.

The move is a controversial one by the Liberal Democrat-run council. The idea behind the investment is that the new development will benefit the local economy and create hundreds of jobs, as well as make the Rose Bowl a more profit making and viable international and test match arena, but local hoteliers have expressed their disquiet at the creation of such a high profile competitor.

Keith House, the Eastleigh Borough Council leader, has sought to reassure local businessmen of the legality and practicality of the decision.

“The council owns vast amounts of property across the borough, from hotels to shopping centres and office blocks. It’s just part of our ordinary business. We invest in property, we take the income from secure tenants and we use that to keep council tax down and ensure that our services are protected from cuts. We’ll own the site but we’re not going to be selling cricket tickets – that’s for the private sector to do”.

Godfrey Olsen, leader of the minority Conservative group, has criticised the move.

“It’s [The Rose Bowl] a superb venue and I would like to see it survive, but I still believe that this is outside the remit of the local authority to borrow money to fund the building and the ownership of a hotel at the Rose Bowl. Added to that now, they’ve decided to buy the Rose Bowl itself, which has been in a loss making situation for the past two or three years”.

Work on the hotel is expected to get under way in the New Year and is anticipated to take eighteen months.

BOA Likely to Test Out By-Law Against WADA Ruling involving Drug Cheats

World Anti-Doping Agency’s (WADA) ruling to allow convicted drug cheats back to the Olympics has been challenged by the British Olympic Association (BOA) chairman Lord Moynihan.

The BOA are one of the few countries not adopting this rule and instead will carry on not to allow serious doing offenders back into the Olympics. The BOA board have discussed testing their by-law in the Court of Arbitration for Sport.

But Lord Moynihan, the BOA chairman, would prefer to stick to his hardline stance by awaiting a legal challenge, rather than inviting one, it is believed some of his 18 fellow board members are likely to choose the more pragmatic course of seeking clarification, albeit reluctantly.

If that view prevails and last night it looked the more probable outcome  the CAS would decide whether to support the WADA, who say that the by-law goes beyond the sanctions they have laid down, or the BOA.

Speaking to iSportconnect, Sir Craig Reedie a former chairman of BOA and now an International Olympic Council member said: “The BOA by-law has been in force for 20 years and has stood the test of time. The present situation with a CAS ruling against the IOC Rule 45 weakens the fight against doping-in-sport. The BOA by-law is now scrutinised in light of the CAS decision. A full debate may result in a consensus view emerging and possible future amendment to the WADA Code.”

Should WADA win the case, Dwain Chambers, Britain’s leading 100m  sprinter who was banned for using the designer steroid tetrahydrogestrinone (THG) in 2003, would be eligible for next summer’s Olympics.

Cyclist David Millar, who confessed to taking erythropoetin (EPO), would also be free to help Mark Cavendish ride for the road race gold medal.

However, Lord Moynihan is unwilling to concede defeat to WADA, a position he laid out yesterday in a fierce attack on the agency’s role in a new ‘dark age’ of cheating.

‘We now have a situation where drugs cheats will be able to compete in London 2012,’ he said. ‘We must decide: is the outcome we want a watered-down, increasingly toothless gesture towards zero tolerance?’

Sarah Ellson, Partner at Field Fisher Waterhouse LLP (specialise in sports regulations) has delved into this topic on a iSportconnect discussion much deeper. “In professional regulation we regulate to “protect the public”, to “maintain and uphold standards” and to ensure “trust and confidence,” she said.

“Regulatory sanctions are aimed at this, and any punitive effect is acknowledged to be a by-product. It seems the language of the BOA is about punishment for cheats but when you focus on punishing there is a risk of disproportionate and inflexible sanctions. The sports’ bodies need to be clear about their intentions.

“It seems to me there is scope for bans which potentially last a lifetime but with the option of restoration (not overturning the ban but reviewing it after a minimum period of time). Such a model can maintain integrity and reputation in sport and keep out, for an appropriate period, those deemed unsuitable to compete.”

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Adidas Reveal Sales Increase of 18 per cent for First Quarter

The adidas Group has announced its first quarter results of this year, ed order with sales increasing by 18 per cent on a currency-neutral basis, pill as well as net income to shareholders up by 25 per cent.

The improvements come as a result of sales increases in wholesale, cialis retail and other businesses while group revenues grew 22 per cent to nearly £3bn (US$4.95bn), from £2.4bn ($3.96bn) for the same time period in 2010.

Herbert Hainer, adidas Group CEO, said: “We are off to a powerful start in 2011 with record first quarter results. 

“Strong double-digit growth in key markets such as North America, Greater China and Russia and the successful introduction of new products and campaigns by adidas, Reebok and TaylorMade underline the strength and desirability of our Group brands all around the globe.” 

An increase of 18 per cent in currency-neutral wholesale revenues was due to double-digit sales growth at both adidas and Reebok. 

Currency-neutral retail sales increased, mainly as a result of growth of comparable store sales, while revenues in other businesses were up 14 per cent on a currency-neutral basis, driven by sales increases at TaylorMade-adidas Golf.

In 2011, the adidas Group gross margin is forecasted to reach a level between 47.5 per cent and 48 per cent, which will benefit from positive regional mix effects. 

In addition, improvements in the retail segment as well as at the Reebok brand is believed to positively influence the adidas Group gross margin development.

Hainer added: “The strong start to the year affirms our confidence in reaching all our projections for 2011. Although the unfortunate events in Japan will certainly affect our business in this important market, our global strength will provide ample opportunities to cover the expected shortfalls. 

“As a result, our bottom-line guidance remains unchanged, meaning that 2011 will provide a fitting start to our strategic business plan Route 2015.”

Wildcats Super League Future in Jeopardy

English rugby Super League side, the Wakefield Trinity Wildcats’ have suffered a big blow in their attempts to move into a new stadium in 2012. The team are one of three, along with Salford City Reds and Castleford Tigers, whose attempt to obtain a renewal on their Super League license depends on an ability to acquire a new stadium by 2012.

A planning application for the construction of a community stadium at Newmarket, where the rugby league team was due to be major a tenant, has been referred by the Government to the UK Secretary of State and could well cause a long delay in the process

“With Super League licensing looking closely at facilities, this delay is a huge blow, rugby league has been synonymous with the City of Wakefield for 137 years and this delay could put that in jeopardy.” admitted Wakefield CEO James Elston.

He added: “We now need to conduct further meetings with the developer, the Community Trust and with other stakeholders to review the contingency plans that were put in place in the event of such a delay in planning.”

Formula One agrees UBS deal

Swiss bank UBS has signed a deal to become a global partner of Formula One.

The agreement will officially begin at the Singapore Grand Prix in September and F1 hope it will represent a turnaround following the exit of several financial institutions due to the global economic crisis.

Last year Credit Suisse Group ended its sponsorship of constructor BMW Sauber. Dutch-based financial group ING also quit as Renault’s title sponsor in 2009.

UBS refused to reveal how much the deal was worth, but an official statement did say: “commercial attractiveness was a key consideration.”

UBS Group chief executive Oswald Grübel said: “UBS has been searching for a global sponsorship platform that has appeal to our clients, promotes our brand globally and makes good commercial sense.

“Our new partnership with one of the largest and most popular sporting organisations in the world will fulfil all these criteria, and it constitutes a key element of our newly launched branding activities. The global reach of F1 complements the many local activities we support.”

Formula One’s commercial rights holder Bernie Ecclestone added: “UBS is a global company where performance, teamwork and superior execution are integral to their clients’ success. These values complement those of Formula One and I’m delighted to welcome UBS to Formula One.”

 

Walton Hall Park Identified as Site for New Everton Stadium

Premier League club Everton have suggested Walton Hall Park as the intended site of a new stadium to replace Goodison Park.

The Toffees have already met with Liverpool City Council to discuss the venture that would regenerate an area of north Liverpool. 

Chairman Bill Kenwright commented: “As I pass Walton Hall Park, arthritis I inevitably think that I am only a minute away from our beloved Goodison. I’ve also thought, ambulance if only it was available for our new stadium, viagra 100mg it ticks all the boxes. 

“It could be something very special for our city, the residents of north Liverpool and all Evertonians. 

“Of course, there’s an enormous amount of work to do but we are certain it’s an opportunity we should pursue with great commitment, endeavour and ambition. 

“To get every aspect right will take time as well as the continued support we’ve received to date from Joe Anderson and his colleagues at the City Council. That partnership will be vital.”

Mayor of Liverpool, Joe Anderson, added: “I am really pleased that we have identified this exciting opportunity. 

“We know that this is an area of the city that requires substantial investment and this project could bring this in a unique form. 

“Everton’s investment into this area would be the catalyst for a development which could make a real difference. 

“We know from other regeneration schemes that opportunities like this can lead to significant economic and social benefits. 

“We also see this as an opportunity to create an outdoor space with first-class leisure and recreational facilities that will really appeal to the local community. 

“This is a starting point for something which could be a real game changer for this part of the city.” 

Everton chief executive Robert Elstone said: “I have to thank Joe Anderson and the Liverpool City Council for the support shown to us to date and the resource they have committed to the project over the past four years. 

“Everton in the Community has demonstrated how sport can have a huge social impact in the local area and we would relish the opportunity to expand some of this work through this scheme.”

Gianfranco Zola to Grace the Soccerex Global Convention

Chelsea football legend Gianfranco Zola has confirmed he will be playing at the Soccerex Football Festival and speaking alongside Terre des Hommes on the opening session at the Corporate Social Opportunity (CSO) Zone at the Soccerex Global Convention, 6-10 September, Manchester.

The Football Festival will take place on the first two days of the Convention, 6th & 7th at City Square, outside Manchester City’s Etihad Campus. The festival will include local youth tournaments, competitions, prizes, entertainment and music, leading up to the world famous Legends Tournament where Zola will battle it out with the likes of Louis Saha, Carlos Valderrama, Faustino Asprilla and Dietmar Hamann.

The CSO zone is a new, interactive area within the Soccerex Global Convention’s exhibition hall that showcases best practice in how football can be used as a tool for social development around the world. Terre des Hommes, a federation of organisations working in 68 countries for children’s rights, will use a variety of case studies to highlight how major event organisers need to take measures to maximise benefits for and mitigate multiple risks on children. Zola will be discussing his own childhood, growing up with football, and how important football is as an educational and social vehicle, assisting with emotional behaviour and helping players become more focused, co-operative and socially integrated.

Zola enjoyed an impressive career at some of Europe’s top clubs including Napoli, alongside Diego Maradona, and Parma, before moving to English side Chelsea. In 2003 he was voted Chelsea’s greatest player ever. Since his retirement, Zola moved into managerial roles, with stints at the Italian U21 national side, West Ham and Watford, which he famously took to the play-off final in his first season in 2012-2013.

Gianfranco commented: “I’m excited about coming to Manchester to play in the Festival and to speak at the Convention. I hope my experiences will provide interesting thinking on a subject which is very close to my heart.”

For full information about the Soccerex Football Festival please visit www.soccerexfootballfestival.com. To find out more information about the Global Convention please visit http://www.soccerex.com/global // call +44 (0)20 8987 5522 // email enquiry@soccerex.com

John O’Neill Quits as IRB Rugby World Cup Director

John O’Neill AO has stepped down as International Rugby Board (IRB) Rugby World Cup Limited Director for personal reasons it has been revealed.

O’Neill has made a major contribution to the growth and development of the sport both in his former roles as CEO of the Australian Rugby Union, IRB Council Member, and more latterly in his role as Rugby World Cup Limited Director, which he has performed since March 2012.

Rugby World Cup Board Chairman Bernard Lapasset led the tributes: “It is with great sadness that the Rugby World Cup Limited Board has received and reluctantly accepted John’s resignation.”

“The Board would like to thank John for his exceptional contribution and his tireless dedication to strengthening the Rugby World Cup brand, profile and profitability for the benefit of the global Game.”

“There is no doubt that his vision, energy, expertise and leadership has been instrumental in delivering the strong foundations for what promises to be hugely successful Rugby World Cups in England and Japan, while driving forward a review of future delivery of our flagship event.”

O’Neill said: “For my own personal reasons, I have resigned as a director of RWCL, effective immediately. I wish the Board and management every success for both RWC 2015 in England and RWC 2019 in Japan.”

The IRB will discuss replacing O’ Neill at their next board meeting in March.

Oslo Apply for Financial Support from Government for 2022 Winter Olympic Games Bid

Oslo signaled their intent to host the 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics by applying for financial government aid today.

The application delivered by the City of Oslo together with the Norwegian Olympic and Paralympic Committee and Confederation of Sports was the next step following the June 5th approval by the Oslo City Council to officially seek the 2022 Winter Olympics and Paralympics.

“The Winter Olympics and Paralympics is an international celebration of sports and culture, viagra one where we will wish a heartily welcome to everyone to visit Oslo and Norway in 2022. It is our aim to create an event where everyone feels welcome, viagra 60mg ” said Governing Mayor of Oslo, Stian Berger Røsland.

With their concept “Games in the City’, Oslo will look to create the ultimate compact and urban Winter Olympics in the heart of the capital city itself. The venues will be located in a half-circle throughout the city, just 10 – 15 minutes from the Athletes and Media Villages. The Medal Ceremonies and culture events will be located in the city center.

Røsland continued: “Oslo is the only city on the planet that is able to organize the Winter Olympics in an urban setting. ‘Games in the City’ is a concept where – with very few exceptions – all competitions will take place within the city limits. We will use the city’s unique location between the mountains and the fjords, together with a good and stable winter climate to present international big city life in balance with fantastic experiences from nature.”

British Columbia to Host 2015 IPC Alpine Skiing World Championships

The International Paralympic Committee (IPC) announced today that the Panorama resort in Canada will host the 2015 IPC Alpine Skiing World Championships in Invermere, doctor British Columbia. 

The 2015 Championships, pill to be organised by Alpine Canada, are expected to draw 120 athletes from 24 February – 4 March 2015, and will be one of several major para-sport competitions Canada hosts in the next few years, as the nation will also hold some IPC Alpine Skiing World Cup events. 

The 2015 IPC Alpine Skiing World Championships will follow a successful 2011-12 World Cup final event at Canada’s Panorama Resort, as well as the Vancouver 2010 Games, which IPC President Sir Philip Craven described as the best Winter Games ever. 

Xavier Gonzalez, IPC Chief Executive Officer, said: “I am proud to announce Invermere as the host city for the 2015 IPC Alpine Skiing World Championships following the great Paralympic Winter Games that Canada put on nearly three years ago and last year’s World Cup final.” 

“I am delighted to see winter para-sport flourishing in Canada, and this will bring it to another level outside of the Paralympic Games.” 

Alexandra Starker, Canadian three-time bronze medallist in La Molina, said: “I’m really looking forward to the Championships, as the slopes of British Columbia are where I grew up skiing.”