President Bill Clinton and James
Saturday, 31 October 2009
Friday, 16 October 2009
When James met JLS
JB, Marvin, James, Oritse, Aston
Humble, welcoming, warm, talented, friendly, inspiring. These are just a few of the many adjectives I could use to describe the pop band JLS.
Having watched the boys, like most of the country, progress on last year’s X Factor- the nation’s favourite Saturday night show- I was looking forward to speaking to the four lads who have, without sounding too melodramatic, transformed their lives in just over twelve months.
From their first audition, Simon and the gang were rubbing their hands together with glee, as they knew they had, potentially, the finest group to come out of the show that has made Mr Cowell a household name, a multi-millionaire and, to put it conservatively, a global phenomenon.
Although coming anything but first in a talent show like the X-Factor often spells the end for most acts, this really wasn’t the case for Jack the Lad Swing, as they are formally known. On the contrary, since leaving the show, they have gone from strength to strength, collecting fans like a stamp enthusiast collects you know what.
Having lived in Cardiff for the past six weeks I have, for some bizarre reason, forgotten how awful Bristol traffic is during the middle of rush hour. Arriving fashionably late, with about five minutes to spare, before I was to question the talented quartet, I was met by a barrage of blood thirsty hyenas– and that’s the politest way I could describe their fans!
Word had spread that the boys were in town and a crowd that seemed to contain most of Bristol’s teenage girls had assembled with banners, while the shy ones just swung their knickers around their heads, as they waited in the pouring rain to get a glimpse of the group.
As I was ushered passed the tight-knit security, which was made even stricter due to the attack on fellow X-Factor star, Leona Lewis, the day before, I was taken deep inside the venue to one of the many backrooms.
The place was crowded with instantly recognisable faces- a paradise for autograph hunters, but also hazardous for anyone not qualified in the Japanese art of Ju-Jitsu. As I battered my way through the rigid and rather intangible mess, I thought to myself, ‘how do these lads live, let alone thrive on such numbers everyday of their lives and come out unscathed?’
After being greeted by a tsunami of smiling faces, we exchanged pleasantries, shaking hands and sharing, what can only be described as a brief, but rest-assured, very masculine, man hug. “Pull up a seat James bruv,” Marvin exclaimed rather charmingly.
Having explained I was writing the feature for Cardiff University’s Gair Rhydd, pint-sized Aston exclaimed, “I love Cardiff- it’s a wicked night out”, to which I nodded and shared a mutual grin. Little did he know, like most students, I don’t really remember too much about my nights out!
You might think that you know JLS already as, for most of the British public, Oritsé, JB, Aston, and Marvin are part of the most successful group to enter Simon Cowell’s star-making vehicle. But what lurks behind the scenes is an altogether more interesting story of ambition, drive and determination to succeed in this rather harsh and fickle industry that tends to chew up and spit out almost everyone who tries their hand at it. “I was in a boy-band before we met, but it didn’t feel right,” Ortisé explained. “One day someone said to me ‘why don’t you form your own band?’, so I did.”
With his vision firmly in mind, Oritsé tirelessly trawled for people he believed could turn his boy-band super-group dream into a reality. He toyed with a number of different line-ups on his computer, pitting face to face, working out how they would fit together, before alighting on his dream team. “As soon as I saw the four of us, I knew it was perfect,” Oritsé said with a wry smile.
The boys soon formed a brotherly bond, giving all their time to rehearsals, polishing their act at studios in West London. Their fervour for the band bordered on the devotional. “It clicked immediately,” Aston mused.
Marvin interjected, “There was no time for time-wasters. If one of us was late for rehearsals, they’d have to pay for the time.”
The dream was not just to be slick and solid, it was to hit the pop world for six. Various parties within the boys families began mentioning the idea of trying for the X Factor. “We were quite anti the idea of going into it,” Oritsé recalls.
“We were of the opinion that we could get there through sheer hard work. For us, it was about creating our own path. We’d already won an award for best-unsigned act, we’d arranged photo shoots of our own and we were doing paid gigs by the time we entered. We had that level of achievement before any of the X Factor thing started. The Leona effect changed the perception of the whole show. The chance to become a global superstar existed through it now.”
From the outset, it was clear that JLS were not the usual X Factor fodder. A year’s worth of disciplined rehearsal had turned them into something special. “From the producers and the judges to the back-stage crew, they all said, they couldn’t believe we were a real group.”
The X Factor, however, was just the beginning for the talented four. Despite their early reservations to audition for the show, they are all delighted with the experience they gained. Aston explained, “The last year has just been everything we have ever wanted and more. It’s been absolutely amazing. Our first single debuted at number one- which is a dream come true for any new artist.”
Adding, “That sort of thing opens up so many doors for you that you didn’t even know existed. Without that platform it would’ve taken us much longer to get to where we are now. We’ve had the best start- it’s been incredible- but no way did we anticipate how quickly this would happen. It’s all down to our supporters. Everyone who supported us on the X-Factor, everyone who bought the singles, our tour tickets, our book- it all culminates with where we are now- we’re just so thankful and we’re all just over the moon.”
As their stellar debut single, ‘Beat Again’, marched its way out of radio speakers up and down the country, the infectious, addictive, street-savvy pop gem skewed perception of the four piece. “I think people might have expected a black Westlife,” says Oritsé. “But that wasn’t what we wanted to do. We have our own sound and you can hear it all the way through the album. The music we are making is exactly what we wanted to make.”
So, what advice would the band give anyone wanting to make it in this business? Aston responded, “The best advice is to practise, practise and practise. As Simon (Cowell) always says, you don’t have to be the best singer to make it in this industry. As long as you have that character and that personality on stage and, you bring something different that no-one else can do.”
Adding, rather philosophically, “You also need to believe in yourself. Maybe the first hurdle might not be the one for you, but the one after that could be.”
So is the dream becoming a reality? “Every day I have to pinch myself,” Oritsé said.
“It’s worked out exactly as I wanted it to. Getting a number one single was just the validation of that for us. We’ve put every single bit of our energy and devotion into making this record. There can’t be a first time for JLS again so we have to make this right. I never anticipated anything happening this fast for us but somewhere along the line the stars have aligned for us. And most of all it is about sharing the most incredible journey of your life with three other guys that share this ambition and love for what you do. I set out wanting a pop super-group and sometimes I have to say to myself ‘be careful what you wish for’, because it might just come true. Let’s just hope people love our album as much as we do.”
Towards the end of the interview, I explained to the boys that my girlfriend (Bryony Tooley) was a huge fan who, in a couple of months, was going to see them perform in concert.
Somewhat cheekily, perhaps, I asked the affable four whether they would record a message wishing her a happy birthday, as it was only a few weeks away. In unison, “sure” came back from each member of the band, at a speed Usain Bolt would be proud of.
Without hesitation they broke into song. With three clicks and a brief one, two, three, Marvin began the song, singing the top line, followed by the rest of the group. Having sung Happy Birthday, serenading arguably their biggest fan, the boys continued with another little message- “Happy Birthday Bryony- We love you, this is JLS. Have a good day hun.”
Birthday message for Bryony JLS by jamesdaviesmedia
Birthday message for Bryony JLS by jamesdaviesmedia
This gesture really was a testament to how nice they were. Although the boys have already been incredibly successful during the last year, they remain humble and realise they have their fans- as well as their talents- to thank for where they are today.
Before I left, I thanked each member individually, as it really had been a pleasure talking to them. “Give these to Bryony,” Aston said, as he passed over a handful of sweets and a book signed by them all.
As the famous saying goes, actions speak louder than words, and their polite manner says more than I could ever convey. Despite all the success, fame and wealth that has come their way, they have not let it turn their heads, nor have they let it dilute the straightforwardness that seems to have always been their way.
JLS: OUR STORY SO FAR, Published by Harper Collins.
Thursday, 17 September 2009
James talks to Ben Ainslie CBE
Ben with James
Knife-edge decisions, adrenaline rushes, extreme weather, bitter rivalries, heart-stopping races - they are all in a day’s work for sailing’s ‘Superman’, Ben Ainslie.At just nineteen years old Ben, an ambitious and ferociously competitive young man, won his first Olympic medal- silver in the 1996 Atlanta Games.
Ben has won four Olympic medals including successive gold’s in the last three Olympic Games, making him not only a British hero, but quite simply our greatest Olympic sailor ever. He is a true Olympic superstar, up there with the likes of fellow Olympians, Usain Bolt and Michael Phelps.
In addition to his three Olympic gold’s and one silver, Ben has won eight World and European Championships during his illustrious sailing career to date, been crowned ISAF World Sailor of the Year twice, and won British Yachtsman of the Year four times. Without question, Ben is the most accomplished competitor at work in British sport today. Although the likes of Chris Hoy, Lewis Hamilton and Rebecca Adlington, of course, deserve unreserved praise for all that they have achieved within their sports, the real adulation should be kept for Ainslie, who with a combination of dedication, stamina, tactical nous and an unrelenting level of ruthlessness, rarely witnessed before in British sport, has achieved almost all of his childhood dreams.
In an exclusive interview, Ben reveals the truth behind his incredible achievements and his plans to bid for a fourth gold, where it all began- on home waters- at the London Olympics in 2012.From his proudest moment, representing Team GB, to one tough decision that almost risked destroying his career, Ben gives an insight into his life and explains why he can’t be second best.
Ben Ainslie, CBE, was born in Macclesfield on February 5, 1977. As the son of Roderick Ainslie, one might expect a young Ben to take an interest in water sports- after all, his father captained the first Whitbread Round the World Race in 1973. Sitting in what can only be described as a box-room, Ben revealed how it all started and how he took his career to stratospheric levels. Rotating from side to side in a red swivel chair, Ben explains, “I was about eight when my family moved to Cornwall. It’s a great place for a kid to grow up, especially if you love the water because you’re by the sea. I was lucky, because we lived on the edge of a creek, off an estuary, so it was very easy to get down to the water and go out sailing whenever I wanted to.” He added, “My parents were keen sailors so they got me into the sport but purely from an enjoyment point of view. When I was nine I was given some hand me down, second hand dingy, which is what most kids learn to sail in and it went on from there.”
What started as a hobby, quickly turned into a way of life, and by the age of sixteen the talented sailor was already Laser Radial World Champion. Reflecting on his childhood, Ben said, “Where we lived was quite remote so it made catching up with my friends difficult, so sailing really became the big thing for me and my big focus as a kid. I came up through the youth divisions, like all other sports, so it was a gradual progression. It wasn’t one day that I suddenly woke up and decided I want to be a professional sailor or go to the Olympics. When I was 18 I won the Youth World Championships and three months later I won the Olympic trials for the ’96 Games. That was really the big turning point for me in terms of actually seeing it as a sport, where I could become a professional and I could do it full time.”
Looking rather relaxed, the Olympic legend revealed, “I think in many ways winning a silver medal was very good for me because it gave me the determination to go out four years later and work that much harder to go one step better- so it wasn’t all bad, although it was pretty frustrating at the time.” Four years later, Ben achieved every athlete’s dream, winning an Olympic gold at the Sydney Olympics in 2000.
Ben, a charming and affable spokesperson off the water, reveals just how ruthless he is on it, admitting to fierce rivalries, above all with the Brazilian, Robert Scheidt, yes that’s right, Scheidt, who robbed him of gold in his first Olympics four years previously. With a broad smile emblazoned across his face, Ben remarked, “It was an epic race with a man who has a fantastic name! It was one of those classic rivalries that had gone from ’96. In the four years leading up to Sydney, we were competing against each other in various events which either he or I would win. It came down to the final race in Sydney and I basically had to take him out- so it was some pretty aggressive tactics.”
Looking somewhat relieved, as he relived the marathon duel, Ben added, “It was incredibly intense but I managed to get there and do the job, so it was a huge relief. When you’ve got that sort of fierce rivalry against somebody, to actually come out on top was a massive relief more than anything.” What Ben did, to beat the Brazilian in Sydney, has been questioned in some quarters and regarded as unsporting by certain critics - not by me, I might add. Looking a little bemused, Ben explained, “It was a little bit frustrating at the time. There were a few sporting commentators who didn’t know anything about sailing who were questioning the fairness of it, but actually within the history of sailing it wasn’t that new and certainly I didn’t break any rules. It was just very aggressive sailing. But sometimes in any sport, that’s what you need to win”
In place of the tall and friendly man on shore, a darker and more driven character began to emerge. So, I wondered, where does this ruthless streak come from? After a brief pause, Ben said, “I don’t know. Like in all sports you have to be ruthless at certain points to get a result and to win.”
After the Sydney Olympics, Ben, who is an Honorary Doctor of Sport, at Southampton University, changed focus and spent fourteen months with the One World Challenge America’s Cup campaign. In 2004, Ben competed in the Athens Olympics and again won gold in the larger Finn class, only to return to the Cup, competing with the Emerates Team New Zealand as an after guard member and ‘B-boat’ helmsman. His most recent win was gold at the Beijing Olympics in 2008. Ben commented, “The gold in Beijing was very special because it was my third consecutive gold which meant a lot.”
So has Ben dared to imagine what it would be like to be coming home for the gold medal, on home water, in Weymouth with the union flags flying? After a brief chuckle, Ben said, “It’s a scary thought. Winning a gold medal on home waters- where I grew up, learned to sail and trained- would be a pretty surreal feeling and something very special.”
It’s no secret that the British Olympic Association are targeting a number of key sports for medals- rowing, cycling and sailing are top of that list. It has been argued that these are all fairly exclusive sports, as you have to have a certain amount of backing behind you in order to compete. This argument however doesn’t stand up with the affable Olympian. "I think there’s always a bit of a misconception. All Olympic sports at the top level are elite, but if you go down to the grass roots in sailing, I think it’s one of the highest participation sports in the UK. The big thing is to encourage the youngsters to get involved and make them realise it’s not that hard at the grass roots to get into a sport. It’s then up to you to take it as far as you want."
Although kids all over the globe dream of representing their country and becoming the best in their chosen sport, Ben rather humbly admits he couldn’t have imagined achieving all he has. “When I was a kid I dreamed of maybe going to the Olympics and somehow winning a gold medal, and perhaps one day being involved with the America’s Cup, but I never dreamt I would be where I am today, but I doubt most people do.”
The affable sailor continued, “I think if you love doing something and you’re inspired, you set about on the track to try and do as well as you can and who knows where it will take you.” He added, “My success has been a result of a number of different things. Obviously a huge amount of hard work, which you need in any sport, but I’m also really fortunate to be supported by great people- coaches and sponsors. It’s amazing, with individual sports you only see one person out there competing, but the team normally behind these people is huge- so I’m very fortunate with the support I get.”
Having expressed his desire to race at the next Games in London, what advice would the charismatic Olympian give to those who wish to follow in his footsteps and, if possible, emulate all he has achieved? “The key is to enjoy it and to get involved. Sailing I think has come a long way in the last ten years. The likes of Ellen MacCarthur have really brought sailing into the living room and she’s really helped promote the sport, but it’s still got a long way to go.”
Close to the Wind, by Ben Ainslie, Published by Yellow Jersey.
Wednesday, 16 September 2009
COMING SOON: In conversation with Sir Stirling Moss
James interviews motor-racing legend, Sir Stirling Moss
Monday, 24 August 2009
Meeting David Beckham
David with James I'll take that as a compliment: David copies my shoes after our meeting. David
What David's sister, Joanne, thought of my article
James Davies chats to the former England captain and football's biggest star at The Home Depot Center- home of the Los Angeles Galaxy- as he prepares for the World Cup and limbers up for, potentially, the season of his life.
Having spent the last five weeks travelling much of the United States and visiting the likes of New York, Hollywood, New Orleans, Las Vegas and San Diego, to name but a few stop-off points, with three of my best friends, I didn’t think life could get much better, particularly after hearing I had graduated from university with the grade I had slaved away all year to achieve, and was about to start the latest chapter in my life.
That illusion, however, was smashed to smithereens after discovering what the next twenty four hours had in store for me.
As I sat sunning myself on one of California’s finest shores, eating a beautiful piece of fresh swordfish in the glamorous and highly affluent Newport Beach, I took a well-deserved sip of my cocktail and checked my email - as I so often did, much to the annoyance of those I was travelling with - to find my request to spend the morning with the Los Angeles Galaxy, and their star player David Beckham, had been accepted.
“Can you come out to our training session at 11am on Thursday, at The Home Depot Center?” read the email. “David should be available to the media after training.”
As I sat in my sun lounger punching the air in delight, having secured a meeting with the game’s most famous son, I unsurprisingly sent my response at a speed Usain Bolt would have been proud of. “Thanks Patrick, that’s great. I really look forward to seeing you and the team tomorrow.”
Although our meeting wouldn’t be the one to one sit down interview I had really wanted, it was a starting point and an opportunity to meet and question, in my opinion, England’s finest number seven and, more importantly, my footballing hero, along with a handful of other journalists from around the world, ahead of the Galaxy’s game against the European champions, Barcelona.
Preparing for the day ahead, I placed my alarm clock within an inch of my ear. I wasn’t leaving anything to chance. As my alarm screeched, waking half the campsite, I crawled out of my tent, dragging myself to the shower to try and gain some sense of consciousness. As the cold water dripped momentarily onto my forehead, I began to run through what I would ask the world’s most famous ‘soccer’ player.
For some, David Beckham has been, for most of his career, one of the best footballers on the planet and let’s face it, someone who has worked his socks off to achieve all he has throughout his illustrious career. For others, he is a global sex symbol, fashion icon, multi-millionaire and one half of the world’s most famous and readily talked about celebrity couples. For me, however, David is quite simply, as anyone who knows me will tell you, the footballer I wanted to be as a child.
As a little boy, I grew up awe-struck by his ability on the field and despite his sending off against Argentina during the World Cup in 1998, I remembered his performance days earlier against Columbia in which he scored a magnificently marvellous trade-mark free kick. Despite that faux-pas, I stuck by the world’s most exciting player.
My earliest memory of the soccer superstar, however, came in 1995 against Wimbledon as I witnessed him caress the ball into the net from the halfway line.
Although that was a spectacular moment and, for any other professional player, a career- defining couple of seconds, it was merely a highlight in David’s career. My true appreciation for the player nicknamed ‘Golden Balls’ came during the nail-biting stalemate against Greece.
David was extraordinary that day, single-handedly guiding the national team to the World Cup finals. For a 13-year old boy, there was no greater role model. Living through moments like that Greece goal and the penalty against Argentina are irreplaceable moments I will cherish for the rest of my life.
From the modest parks of Leytonstone to the glamorous showbiz setting of Los Angeles, David Beckham has made it to the top with his sheer hard work and determination.
Having spent the best part of a week in sunny California, I was only too aware of the relentless heat. Although I usually enjoy dressing smartly for occasions such as this, the Californian sun was unbearable and made me think twice about sporting a suit. Nevertheless, I excitedly buttoned up my slightly creased white shirt and put on my favourite tie.
Hopping into the Jeep we had been driving throughout the course of our trip, I placed my sunglasses on the top of my head to complete the L.A. look, and made my way down the highway in search of the American dream. Driving across wasn’t so much a chore as I was incredibly excited about the prospect of the day’s events. The hot West coast sun thumped down on to my already sun-burnt face.
Once I had arrived in Carson- the home of the L.A Galaxy and England’s David Beckham- I was ushered passed some of the strictest security I have ever come across, to one of the clubs exclusive parking spaces.
Having arrived about two hours before the team were due to train, I was able to soak up the atmosphere and walk around the place that has, in recent years, been at the forefront of a tsunami of press attention, since David’s arrival two summers ago.
The anticipation was enormous as I explored the fascinating surroundings while I waited.
Soon, Patrick, the affable Director of Communications, collected me and took me through yet more security on our way over to the training field. As the players began to emerge, a smile grew on my face.
Like a school team on games day, the players walked out with bags slung over their shoulders and shirts un-tucked and with the background noise of chatter and joking.
What struck me the most was their dedication and skill. Although the standard in Major League Soccer has been criticised, the players made the people’s sport look so easy, yet stylish, composed and clinical.
Players flung themselves around all morning, chasing the ball during games that featured three-a-side and one-touch passing. The sheer competitiveness was overwhelming.
None of the squad was content with passing the ball round the opposition. They all felt the need to try new and inventive tricks to embarrass their colleagues, creating a monumental amount of banter amongst the side. But the professional side of what they were doing shone through. It wasn’t a simple game or a half-hearted training session they were taking part in, but a gruelling practice monitored by Bruce Arena.
Before the team even kicked a ball, they were led around the pitch several times to warm up. They then stretched off at every corner and, once they were well prepared, gathered together for a team talk.
Having watched the entire training session, Patrick took me deep into the stadium, away from prying eyes, where I would get my opportunity to speak to David. With endless newspaper column inches devoted to one of the most talked about men in the world, it seems that we know everything there is to know about David Beckham. Or do we? Set beneath the ground, the venue for our meeting was fascinating. It was a labyrinthine maze full of staircases, corridors and rooms.
Holding tightly to his three boys, David slowly came into sight. Ushering his children through to one of the many rooms, he disappeared for a minute or two, only to re-appear with a broad smile emblazoned across his instantly recognisable face.
As David headed towards the media scrum, that had converged at the end of the long passageway, I must admit I was rather taken aback with the rather casual and laid back way he sauntered down the dimly- lit corridor. He didn’t, as many might have cynically expected, traipse in with an entourage, or turn up decked-out in designer gear. Instead, in stark contrast, he was accompanied solely by his three children where he was, from what I could see, performing his fatherly duties.
Wearing a tightly-fitted grey t-shirt, jeans and a smashing pair of glittery blue shoes and with his hair all immaculately in place, David greeted everyone with a smile. Although he was a little smaller and a little leaner than I had anticipated, he seemed to be perfectly at ease with himself.
After shaking hands and quickly exchanging pleasantries with him I, along with the handful of other media present, began questioning him. I just stood there, transfixed, staring at him, studying his every move and listening to every word he spoke.
Say what you will about Beckham - and a lot has been made over the years by members of the media - although not by me - that he isn’t the brightest or most articulate guy in the world - he spoke intelligently, thoughtfully, openly and frankly. Never once did he waver or decline to answer a question, or try to skirt an issue.
When answering a question about the recent reaction by L.A Galaxy fans over his decision to play in Europe, which has caused a minor ruckus, David just charmingly said: “I’m just trying to ignore it as much as I can. I think that’s the way you have to deal with these things. I’ve had it a lot worse than I’ve had here.
“After ’98 it was at its worst- but I’ve had it bad in a number of different places I’ve played- it’s just part of the game.
“When it happens, it can sometimes become a distraction not just for myself but for the team, the team have done well to deal with the situation.”
He added: “I’ve got the support of the players, the management and the owners and for me that’s the most important thing. I’m happy to be back and I’m happy to be playing with these players and with this team. I’m enjoying it.”
With all media outlets firing at all cylinders, in a media scrum that seemed to suffocate David for space, I waited for my chance to fire a couple of questions of my own.
Amongst the crowd of American twangs came my English accent. Immediately David looked up and smiled at me- I think he had found it rather comforting to hear the tones of a ‘Brit’.
With his attention fixed firmly on me, I began to explain to the superstar that I was in the States on a road trip, to which the affable midfielder smiled. “What would you advise me do while I’m here in L.A?” I asked.
Without a hint of hesitation, David enthusiastically retorted, “Go to the beaches.”
Before adding: “There are quite a few nice beaches out there. L.A life is great. The weather’s great and people are always good to you. You’ll have a good time while you’re here.”
I was impressed with the genuine niceness of the man who is, at times, all too easily and unfairly criticised.
And when asked about his three boys, David said with a huge smile: “Having my children was the most important thing to me. When Brooklyn was born football came second. Having my family is my proudest achievement.
“I’m a very proud father and love to be with my three boys. We like to play on the beach and do normal things like that.”
Having played for Manchester United, Real Madrid and A.C Milan-three of the biggest clubs in the world- as well as captaining his country, where does this insatiable drive that seems to be instilled in our finest football icon come from?
“My drive has come from my parents, my family and the clubs that I’ve played for and the mangers I played under.
“When you play under some of the managers I’ve played under, if you don’t have that drive then you don’t get in the team, so I have been brought up on it from an early age. My drive to succeed will always be insatiable.”
He added: “It was the way I was brought up and it’s the way I’ve always played. Every club that I’ve been at has driven me to success. Once it’s in you, I don’t think it will change.”
Having reached the pinnacle of sporting success himself, what advice would he give the next generation of footballers who wished to become the next David Beckham and, if possible, achieve all he has accomplished throughout his illustrious career?
“I’ve been lucky with my career but I’ve worked hard to achieve what I have.
“Kids out there, if they want to become a professional footballer then you have to work hard and enjoy it.
“I’ve enjoyed my whole career and I’ll be very honoured to enjoy it until it finishes.”
Asked about his plans after retirement, he said he wanted to make up for lost time with his family. You could tell from the way he lovingly talked about his wife and kids that he is a devoted family man, and that he hates to be away from them for any length of time.
It was refreshing to meet an athlete who keeps things in perspective. David Beckham is the most famous sports star in the world but, instead of puffing his chest out, he remembers what’s most important in this world: his family.
But for all the fuss and humdrum that goes with being the most famous footballer in the world, David is a down to earth man who is unquestionably more approachable than others who have less talent than he does in his little toe- the one on the left foot!
Although he is proud of his admirable success and he is proud of his wife and children, he is, beneath all that star-like veneer, an ordinary person, which was refreshing to find.
A first-rate footballer? Yes. A first-rate person? Without question. Having waited many years to meet my hero, I was not disappointed and he was just the way I hoped he would be. Thank you David.
It was only on the way home, though, that I was able to reflect on a wonderful day.
Not only had I spoken to and met a great ambassador of the game but the player who has mesmerised, influenced and inspired me, and countless millions around the world. The day also confirmed what I had been thinking for a long time. ‘Becks’ is back to his best and the World Cup is on its way home!
David Beckham: My Side - The Autobiography by David Beckham, Published by Harper Collins.
Having spent the last five weeks travelling much of the United States and visiting the likes of New York, Hollywood, New Orleans, Las Vegas and San Diego, to name but a few stop-off points, with three of my best friends, I didn’t think life could get much better, particularly after hearing I had graduated from university with the grade I had slaved away all year to achieve, and was about to start the latest chapter in my life.
That illusion, however, was smashed to smithereens after discovering what the next twenty four hours had in store for me.
As I sat sunning myself on one of California’s finest shores, eating a beautiful piece of fresh swordfish in the glamorous and highly affluent Newport Beach, I took a well-deserved sip of my cocktail and checked my email - as I so often did, much to the annoyance of those I was travelling with - to find my request to spend the morning with the Los Angeles Galaxy, and their star player David Beckham, had been accepted.
“Can you come out to our training session at 11am on Thursday, at The Home Depot Center?” read the email. “David should be available to the media after training.”
As I sat in my sun lounger punching the air in delight, having secured a meeting with the game’s most famous son, I unsurprisingly sent my response at a speed Usain Bolt would have been proud of. “Thanks Patrick, that’s great. I really look forward to seeing you and the team tomorrow.”
Although our meeting wouldn’t be the one to one sit down interview I had really wanted, it was a starting point and an opportunity to meet and question, in my opinion, England’s finest number seven and, more importantly, my footballing hero, along with a handful of other journalists from around the world, ahead of the Galaxy’s game against the European champions, Barcelona.
Preparing for the day ahead, I placed my alarm clock within an inch of my ear. I wasn’t leaving anything to chance. As my alarm screeched, waking half the campsite, I crawled out of my tent, dragging myself to the shower to try and gain some sense of consciousness. As the cold water dripped momentarily onto my forehead, I began to run through what I would ask the world’s most famous ‘soccer’ player.
For some, David Beckham has been, for most of his career, one of the best footballers on the planet and let’s face it, someone who has worked his socks off to achieve all he has throughout his illustrious career. For others, he is a global sex symbol, fashion icon, multi-millionaire and one half of the world’s most famous and readily talked about celebrity couples. For me, however, David is quite simply, as anyone who knows me will tell you, the footballer I wanted to be as a child.
As a little boy, I grew up awe-struck by his ability on the field and despite his sending off against Argentina during the World Cup in 1998, I remembered his performance days earlier against Columbia in which he scored a magnificently marvellous trade-mark free kick. Despite that faux-pas, I stuck by the world’s most exciting player.
My earliest memory of the soccer superstar, however, came in 1995 against Wimbledon as I witnessed him caress the ball into the net from the halfway line.
Although that was a spectacular moment and, for any other professional player, a career- defining couple of seconds, it was merely a highlight in David’s career. My true appreciation for the player nicknamed ‘Golden Balls’ came during the nail-biting stalemate against Greece.
David was extraordinary that day, single-handedly guiding the national team to the World Cup finals. For a 13-year old boy, there was no greater role model. Living through moments like that Greece goal and the penalty against Argentina are irreplaceable moments I will cherish for the rest of my life.
From the modest parks of Leytonstone to the glamorous showbiz setting of Los Angeles, David Beckham has made it to the top with his sheer hard work and determination.
Having spent the best part of a week in sunny California, I was only too aware of the relentless heat. Although I usually enjoy dressing smartly for occasions such as this, the Californian sun was unbearable and made me think twice about sporting a suit. Nevertheless, I excitedly buttoned up my slightly creased white shirt and put on my favourite tie.
Hopping into the Jeep we had been driving throughout the course of our trip, I placed my sunglasses on the top of my head to complete the L.A. look, and made my way down the highway in search of the American dream. Driving across wasn’t so much a chore as I was incredibly excited about the prospect of the day’s events. The hot West coast sun thumped down on to my already sun-burnt face.
Once I had arrived in Carson- the home of the L.A Galaxy and England’s David Beckham- I was ushered passed some of the strictest security I have ever come across, to one of the clubs exclusive parking spaces.
Having arrived about two hours before the team were due to train, I was able to soak up the atmosphere and walk around the place that has, in recent years, been at the forefront of a tsunami of press attention, since David’s arrival two summers ago.
The anticipation was enormous as I explored the fascinating surroundings while I waited.
Soon, Patrick, the affable Director of Communications, collected me and took me through yet more security on our way over to the training field. As the players began to emerge, a smile grew on my face.
Like a school team on games day, the players walked out with bags slung over their shoulders and shirts un-tucked and with the background noise of chatter and joking.
What struck me the most was their dedication and skill. Although the standard in Major League Soccer has been criticised, the players made the people’s sport look so easy, yet stylish, composed and clinical.
Players flung themselves around all morning, chasing the ball during games that featured three-a-side and one-touch passing. The sheer competitiveness was overwhelming.
None of the squad was content with passing the ball round the opposition. They all felt the need to try new and inventive tricks to embarrass their colleagues, creating a monumental amount of banter amongst the side. But the professional side of what they were doing shone through. It wasn’t a simple game or a half-hearted training session they were taking part in, but a gruelling practice monitored by Bruce Arena.
Before the team even kicked a ball, they were led around the pitch several times to warm up. They then stretched off at every corner and, once they were well prepared, gathered together for a team talk.
Having watched the entire training session, Patrick took me deep into the stadium, away from prying eyes, where I would get my opportunity to speak to David. With endless newspaper column inches devoted to one of the most talked about men in the world, it seems that we know everything there is to know about David Beckham. Or do we? Set beneath the ground, the venue for our meeting was fascinating. It was a labyrinthine maze full of staircases, corridors and rooms.
Holding tightly to his three boys, David slowly came into sight. Ushering his children through to one of the many rooms, he disappeared for a minute or two, only to re-appear with a broad smile emblazoned across his instantly recognisable face.
As David headed towards the media scrum, that had converged at the end of the long passageway, I must admit I was rather taken aback with the rather casual and laid back way he sauntered down the dimly- lit corridor. He didn’t, as many might have cynically expected, traipse in with an entourage, or turn up decked-out in designer gear. Instead, in stark contrast, he was accompanied solely by his three children where he was, from what I could see, performing his fatherly duties.
Wearing a tightly-fitted grey t-shirt, jeans and a smashing pair of glittery blue shoes and with his hair all immaculately in place, David greeted everyone with a smile. Although he was a little smaller and a little leaner than I had anticipated, he seemed to be perfectly at ease with himself.
After shaking hands and quickly exchanging pleasantries with him I, along with the handful of other media present, began questioning him. I just stood there, transfixed, staring at him, studying his every move and listening to every word he spoke.
Say what you will about Beckham - and a lot has been made over the years by members of the media - although not by me - that he isn’t the brightest or most articulate guy in the world - he spoke intelligently, thoughtfully, openly and frankly. Never once did he waver or decline to answer a question, or try to skirt an issue.
When answering a question about the recent reaction by L.A Galaxy fans over his decision to play in Europe, which has caused a minor ruckus, David just charmingly said: “I’m just trying to ignore it as much as I can. I think that’s the way you have to deal with these things. I’ve had it a lot worse than I’ve had here.
“After ’98 it was at its worst- but I’ve had it bad in a number of different places I’ve played- it’s just part of the game.
“When it happens, it can sometimes become a distraction not just for myself but for the team, the team have done well to deal with the situation.”
He added: “I’ve got the support of the players, the management and the owners and for me that’s the most important thing. I’m happy to be back and I’m happy to be playing with these players and with this team. I’m enjoying it.”
With all media outlets firing at all cylinders, in a media scrum that seemed to suffocate David for space, I waited for my chance to fire a couple of questions of my own.
Amongst the crowd of American twangs came my English accent. Immediately David looked up and smiled at me- I think he had found it rather comforting to hear the tones of a ‘Brit’.
With his attention fixed firmly on me, I began to explain to the superstar that I was in the States on a road trip, to which the affable midfielder smiled. “What would you advise me do while I’m here in L.A?” I asked.
Without a hint of hesitation, David enthusiastically retorted, “Go to the beaches.”
Before adding: “There are quite a few nice beaches out there. L.A life is great. The weather’s great and people are always good to you. You’ll have a good time while you’re here.”
I was impressed with the genuine niceness of the man who is, at times, all too easily and unfairly criticised.
And when asked about his three boys, David said with a huge smile: “Having my children was the most important thing to me. When Brooklyn was born football came second. Having my family is my proudest achievement.
“I’m a very proud father and love to be with my three boys. We like to play on the beach and do normal things like that.”
Having played for Manchester United, Real Madrid and A.C Milan-three of the biggest clubs in the world- as well as captaining his country, where does this insatiable drive that seems to be instilled in our finest football icon come from?
“My drive has come from my parents, my family and the clubs that I’ve played for and the mangers I played under.
“When you play under some of the managers I’ve played under, if you don’t have that drive then you don’t get in the team, so I have been brought up on it from an early age. My drive to succeed will always be insatiable.”
He added: “It was the way I was brought up and it’s the way I’ve always played. Every club that I’ve been at has driven me to success. Once it’s in you, I don’t think it will change.”
Having reached the pinnacle of sporting success himself, what advice would he give the next generation of footballers who wished to become the next David Beckham and, if possible, achieve all he has accomplished throughout his illustrious career?
“I’ve been lucky with my career but I’ve worked hard to achieve what I have.
“Kids out there, if they want to become a professional footballer then you have to work hard and enjoy it.
“I’ve enjoyed my whole career and I’ll be very honoured to enjoy it until it finishes.”
Asked about his plans after retirement, he said he wanted to make up for lost time with his family. You could tell from the way he lovingly talked about his wife and kids that he is a devoted family man, and that he hates to be away from them for any length of time.
It was refreshing to meet an athlete who keeps things in perspective. David Beckham is the most famous sports star in the world but, instead of puffing his chest out, he remembers what’s most important in this world: his family.
But for all the fuss and humdrum that goes with being the most famous footballer in the world, David is a down to earth man who is unquestionably more approachable than others who have less talent than he does in his little toe- the one on the left foot!
Although he is proud of his admirable success and he is proud of his wife and children, he is, beneath all that star-like veneer, an ordinary person, which was refreshing to find.
A first-rate footballer? Yes. A first-rate person? Without question. Having waited many years to meet my hero, I was not disappointed and he was just the way I hoped he would be. Thank you David.
It was only on the way home, though, that I was able to reflect on a wonderful day.
Not only had I spoken to and met a great ambassador of the game but the player who has mesmerised, influenced and inspired me, and countless millions around the world. The day also confirmed what I had been thinking for a long time. ‘Becks’ is back to his best and the World Cup is on its way home!
David Beckham: My Side - The Autobiography by David Beckham, Published by Harper Collins.
Wednesday, 15 July 2009
Remembering Michael
As the entire world gathers in shock to mourn and honour the memory of Michael Jackson, James Davies- who in March attended the press conference at which Michael spoke enthusiastically about his forthcoming This Is It tour- proudly presents this personal tribute to the star, whose musical genius and creativity earned him the undisputed title: 'The King of Pop'.
For followers of the entertainment world, June 25th, 2009, will be a day they will never forget. Michael Jackson, the greatest pop star of all time, collapsed in his rented Californian home and was whisked by ambulance to the Ronald Reagan UCLA Medical Center, in Los Angeles, where doctors frantically tried to revive him, after he had suffered suspected heart failure.
As the news of the shocking crisis spread, worried fans gathered outside the hospital and other spots throughout the country-and the world-to pray for the beloved singer. Sadly, when Michael Joseph Jackson tragically died, two months shy of his 51st Birthday, it seemed as though the whole world suddenly stood still and went into mourning.
The outpouring of grief, from his fans, has been tremendous and something rarely matched in the history of music and entertainment, but that's the power of a man who was called a King, crowned a King, and truly was, as, his dear friend, Elizabeth Taylor once declared, "the King of pop, rock and soul".
The 'King of Pop' talking ahead of his comeback tour at London's O2 Arena
Millions of people around the world will have their own memories of Michael. I'm no different, other than the fact I was fortunate enough to grace the great man’s presence, while he was in London promoting his final This Is It tour. Having been invited to Michael’s press conference, shortly before his death, I was able to see, up close, the man who, with the mere mention of his name, is able to stop the world go by.
The excitement that surrounds the superstar is incomprehensible to someone who hasn’t ever seen or experienced it. Even hours before his arrival there was an unexplained buzz amongst all those who were lucky to be in the vicinity. We all knew 'The King of Pop' was coming. As an admirer of his work, I was incredibly excited to be part of 'HIStory' and couldn’t wait for his comeback.
Standing within three metres of Michael, I was able to see, firsthand, the pandemonium that surrounds the singer, wherever he goes. The chorus of screams is insatiable and one that does not go unnoticed, with him responding, in his characteristic tone, "I love you, I really do, from the bottom of my heart."
Despite the world’s fascination with his appearance, up-close, he looked well and, dare I say it, normal. But what struck me most about Michael, was the aura he exudes. His mere presence sends a crowd, of even hard-nosed journalists, wild, who are hanging on his every word. This is something that few entertainers have or ever will have, but I suppose that is what made Mike special. The man’s charisma.
The magnitude of Michael Jackson's star power is almost impossible to overstate. His influence on music and culture has been immeasurable. During his lifetime, he has smashed sales records, pushed creative borders, broken racial boundaries and influenced generations of pop, R&B and hip-hop stars. But there was never a doubt that Michael was going to be a star. When the Jackson 5 exploded onto the music scene in 1969, the world found out what his family had known for a long time- Michael was special.
As a child, the spotlight loved him, and he loved it. Even when sharing the stage with his four talented older brothers- Jackie, Tito, Jermaine and Marlon- and recording on a Motown label full of legends, the pocket-sized singer, with the big voice and magnetic smile, stood out. The musician, who was born to perform, had the rare achievement of being a mass cultural phenomenon- twice. First in the late 1960's, as a cherubic 11-year old with his brothers in the Jackson 5 and again with the release of his solo recordings.
When the group were put together by their father Joseph, they were instant sensations, putting four albums at the top of the pop charts in 1970 alone.
With singles such as ABC and I Want You Back, the Jackson 5 became the darlings of millions, and made genre and chart distinctions irrelevant with their universal appeal. 'Jacksonmania' began with bubblegum soul.
Michael would do it again, 12-years later, with Thriller, which became the biggest-selling studio album in history, and brought sweeping changes to the music industry and redefined the word 'superstar'.
Even though Michael's 1979 solo album, Off the Wall, went multiplatinum, that was a mere prologue to the Thriller supernova that followed, and its success could not prepare the world for the cultural tsunami that was Thriller.
On stage, Michael brought applauding audiences to their feet with acts of genius that transformed the entertainment world, racking up enough awards to fill a personal Hall of Fame.
One defining moment for the talented showman came on a March evening in 1983, during the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Forever television special. After performing a few numbers with his brothers, from his Jackson 5 days, Michael, at the tender age of 24, in two short breaths, black shoes and sequined socks, takes over.
"Yea, those were the good old days…those were magic moments," he tells the audience, as he pants for air.
"But, I especially, like the new songs."
Suddenly, thunder. The thumping beat of Billie Jean, sent fans to their feet screaming. Jackson struck a pose on stage, clasping his black fedora hat and the now infamous white sequined glove. His black jacket and silver vest glittered as white socks peeked from under his black trousers. Then he erupted into a flurry of fluid dance moves as he launched into the song. But it was not until three minutes and 40 seconds into the song that Michael introduced his most unforgettable move: the fluid, gliding, seemingly airborne, moonwalk.
Taking four short, sliding steps backward, Michael danced into history- unknowingly changing the world that night. Four steps. That was it. No pyrotechnics, no backup dancers, just a man, one glove and four monumentally memorable steps that seemed to defy the law of gravity. It is no exaggeration to say Jackson’s surreal dance step triggered a lasting transformation of music, dance and pop culture.
Seen by 47 million people, the Motown special created even more of a frenzy around the singers 1982 album Thriller, helping him become, arguably, the first African-American artist to truly own the mainstream, turning him into the biggest superstar of his and, perhaps, any generation. It would be his coronation as 'The King of Pop'.
For nearly four decades, Michael Joseph Jackson brought the world to its feet with his incredible voice, innovative dance routines and catchy pop lyrics. There was no one bigger than Michael and his longevity and record sales speak for themselves. For roughly ten years, starting in 1982, no celebrity could hope to approach Jackson’s level of global fame and influence, nor has any since.
When the world lost Michael, it lost one of its few international superstars. From his work with his brothers, The Jacksons, to his international success with the Billboard-topping Thriller and Bad, to his anticipated 50-run show in London, he was truly at the pinnacle of pop culture.
His extraordinary gifts were shared by all of us as he excited our senses with music and dance, as exemplified in the epic albums Thriller, and Bad and the sounds and beat of Billie Jean. His stage presence was always an extravaganza.
He offered everyone his music and love with a white-gloved hand extended out to all. He contributed his time to so many worthy causes as he truly believed We are the World. But what's more, Michael loved to create magic, to put something together that was unusual, something so unexpected, that it blew people's heads off, something ahead of its time. The moonwalk was just that, sending adrenalized kids scurrying to their kitchens in white socks, trying to master the move. When Billie Jean aired on MTV in 1983, Jackson became the first African-American artist ever featured on the emerging channel and inspired fans around the globe to copy his rhinestone style.
The glittering white glove became Michael's singular accessory soon after it made its TV debut on Motown 25. So synonymous was it with Jackson's image that it morphed into one of his nicknames, 'The Gloved One'. Like Marilyn Monroe’s white dress or Dorothy’s ruby slippers, the glove ceased to be merely an item of clothing. It was part of a persona.
Lost amidst the eccentricities that increased later in life, many people may have forgotten the huge volume of time and money Michael donated to charity. He was always ready to give back to those who were less fortunate and never forgot his own humble,blue-collar roots. He gave into the tens of millions of dollars to charities over the years- even including his entire cut from one of his incredibly successful world tours.
Michael Jackson will be remembered as the 'King of Pop', as an enigma who may never be completely understood. While his 50 years on this Earth were entirely too short, his light flickered so bright when he lived that it has left an indelible mark on everyone who has ever listened to his music, or been helped by this gentle and sometimes tortured soul.
We now celebrate Michael’s life’s work as we reach out and eternally hold that gloved hand and remember him forever in his music. Perhaps, somewhat fortuitously, Michael knew these would be his last performances.
Michael would do it again, 12-years later, with Thriller, which became the biggest-selling studio album in history, and brought sweeping changes to the music industry and redefined the word 'superstar'.
Even though Michael's 1979 solo album, Off the Wall, went multiplatinum, that was a mere prologue to the Thriller supernova that followed, and its success could not prepare the world for the cultural tsunami that was Thriller.
On stage, Michael brought applauding audiences to their feet with acts of genius that transformed the entertainment world, racking up enough awards to fill a personal Hall of Fame.
One defining moment for the talented showman came on a March evening in 1983, during the Motown 25: Yesterday, Today and Forever television special. After performing a few numbers with his brothers, from his Jackson 5 days, Michael, at the tender age of 24, in two short breaths, black shoes and sequined socks, takes over.
"Yea, those were the good old days…those were magic moments," he tells the audience, as he pants for air.
"But, I especially, like the new songs."
Suddenly, thunder. The thumping beat of Billie Jean, sent fans to their feet screaming. Jackson struck a pose on stage, clasping his black fedora hat and the now infamous white sequined glove. His black jacket and silver vest glittered as white socks peeked from under his black trousers. Then he erupted into a flurry of fluid dance moves as he launched into the song. But it was not until three minutes and 40 seconds into the song that Michael introduced his most unforgettable move: the fluid, gliding, seemingly airborne, moonwalk.
Taking four short, sliding steps backward, Michael danced into history- unknowingly changing the world that night. Four steps. That was it. No pyrotechnics, no backup dancers, just a man, one glove and four monumentally memorable steps that seemed to defy the law of gravity. It is no exaggeration to say Jackson’s surreal dance step triggered a lasting transformation of music, dance and pop culture.
Seen by 47 million people, the Motown special created even more of a frenzy around the singers 1982 album Thriller, helping him become, arguably, the first African-American artist to truly own the mainstream, turning him into the biggest superstar of his and, perhaps, any generation. It would be his coronation as 'The King of Pop'.
For nearly four decades, Michael Joseph Jackson brought the world to its feet with his incredible voice, innovative dance routines and catchy pop lyrics. There was no one bigger than Michael and his longevity and record sales speak for themselves. For roughly ten years, starting in 1982, no celebrity could hope to approach Jackson’s level of global fame and influence, nor has any since.
When the world lost Michael, it lost one of its few international superstars. From his work with his brothers, The Jacksons, to his international success with the Billboard-topping Thriller and Bad, to his anticipated 50-run show in London, he was truly at the pinnacle of pop culture.
His extraordinary gifts were shared by all of us as he excited our senses with music and dance, as exemplified in the epic albums Thriller, and Bad and the sounds and beat of Billie Jean. His stage presence was always an extravaganza.
He offered everyone his music and love with a white-gloved hand extended out to all. He contributed his time to so many worthy causes as he truly believed We are the World. But what's more, Michael loved to create magic, to put something together that was unusual, something so unexpected, that it blew people's heads off, something ahead of its time. The moonwalk was just that, sending adrenalized kids scurrying to their kitchens in white socks, trying to master the move. When Billie Jean aired on MTV in 1983, Jackson became the first African-American artist ever featured on the emerging channel and inspired fans around the globe to copy his rhinestone style.
The glittering white glove became Michael's singular accessory soon after it made its TV debut on Motown 25. So synonymous was it with Jackson's image that it morphed into one of his nicknames, 'The Gloved One'. Like Marilyn Monroe’s white dress or Dorothy’s ruby slippers, the glove ceased to be merely an item of clothing. It was part of a persona.
Lost amidst the eccentricities that increased later in life, many people may have forgotten the huge volume of time and money Michael donated to charity. He was always ready to give back to those who were less fortunate and never forgot his own humble,blue-collar roots. He gave into the tens of millions of dollars to charities over the years- even including his entire cut from one of his incredibly successful world tours.
Michael Jackson will be remembered as the 'King of Pop', as an enigma who may never be completely understood. While his 50 years on this Earth were entirely too short, his light flickered so bright when he lived that it has left an indelible mark on everyone who has ever listened to his music, or been helped by this gentle and sometimes tortured soul.
We now celebrate Michael’s life’s work as we reach out and eternally hold that gloved hand and remember him forever in his music. Perhaps, somewhat fortuitously, Michael knew these would be his last performances.
"These will be my final shows in London. This will be it. When I say this is it, this really will be it. This is my final curtain call!"
Michael Jackson lived the last hours of his life doing what he was born to do. He will always be 'The King of Pop'. May he now rest in peace.
jamesdaviesmedia.co.uk
Michael Jackson lived the last hours of his life doing what he was born to do. He will always be 'The King of Pop'. May he now rest in peace.
Mike at his best
jamesdaviesmedia.co.uk
Sunday, 7 June 2009
An interview with Sir Jackie Stewart
Sir Jackie with James
He made his name as one of the all time greats behind the wheel. Winner of three Formula One Championships, 27 Grand Prixs and ranked in the top ten drivers of all time, Sir Jackie Stewart OBE, is one of the most highly regarded names in global sport. On the track Sir Jackie’s story is an inspirational one of drama, drive, determination, danger, excitement, tragedy, controversy, glamour and, of course, massive success.
Beyond the sport, his life is a compelling tale of battling against the odds and achieving world-wide recognition as an outstanding sportsman, a role model and a highly accomplished and well-respected businessman.From growing up in a Scottish village, to the racetrack of Monaco, Sir Jackie Stewart has led a ‘chequered’ and eventful life. Revealing all, however, the former race ace explains, "everything has not always been champagne and parties."
Although Sir Jackie will be 70 in June, it seems evident he has no intention of slowing down, as he motored into the room at some speed. Born, as he put it, "in a wee village" called Milton, Sir Jackie explained his love of fast cars began, at a tender age, while he worked at his dad’s garage. Although it is not a surprise, racing became Sir Jackie’s passion; it was during a chance meeting, with a customer, that put the young apprentice on the road to becoming a world champion.
As he sat sipping a glass of Coca Cola, the Dumbarton-born Scot, who left school at 15, explained, "I was preparing, what I would call, some club racing vehicles for a racing enthusiast, who was not allowed to drive himself. One day he came in and asked me if I would like to do a wee event as a reward for all the work I had done on his car. I finished second. He then came back and said ‘what about doing the next one?’ I won. I was never really aware that I had any skills as such for racing, but once I got a taste for it, I definitely wanted to do it again. From there, it was then a kind of rocket ship."
His first attempts were impressive. A young Jackie showed exceptionally quick reflexes and a cool demeanour behind the wheel, demonstrating his incredible hand-eye co-ordination. Despite his eminent rise to the top, Sir Jackie was, by his own admission, "a failure in the making."
Twiddling with the phone cord next to him, he explains, "I was a failure educationally. I’m a dyslexic so my school years were by far the unhappiest of my life. In those days, as it still is in some places, dyslexia was never identified. You were just stupid, dumb, or thick. These were difficult times because it’s humiliating not being able to read or write, and do all the things everybody else does so easily."
He added, with what can only be described as a real sense of sadness, "Dyslexics need to understand that they can achieve and they can succeed. Einstein was dyslexic, Leonardo Di Vinci was dyslexic, Churchill was dyslexic, Steve Redgrave is dyslexic. These are just a few examples. The great shame is that a number of dyslexics will never reach their full potential."
Nevertheless, his harsh Scottish school days are what instilled in Sir Jackie the will to triumph. Like many dyslexics wee Jackie had an overwhelming desire to prove himself in life. Rocking back and forth, the affable racer said, "Because you cannot do the things that people your own age can do so easily you’re made to feel inadequate. You feel humiliated and you have no self esteem. I had a terrible complex but managed to rise over it through sport. Now it doesn’t really worry me that I can’t read or write correctly, and it doesn’t bother me that I don’t know the alphabet."
Sir Jackie mused, "I do look back and wish my teachers were here to see me now because they and the educational system had totally written me off."
The triple Formula One world champion, who last stood on top of the winners’ podium in 1973, the year he retired, is clearly proud of all he has achieved. So, I wondered, what does it feel like to be the fastest man on the planet?
Launching into what can only be described as a vivid description, he explains, "The adrenalin is unbelievable, but a good racing driver doesn’t make it look like he’s going that fast."
In 1966, while racing at 164mph in the rain, Jackie Stewart left the track, crashing into a tree during Spa-Francorchamps. He remained in the upturned car while the vehicle's fuel poured onto him. "The tiniest spark would have made me a human bonfire," he said. After this near-death experience, Stewart became an outspoken advocate of Racing Safety. Sounding somewhat frustrated, Sir Jackie explained, "In those days, if you were racing for a five year window in formula one, there was a two out of three chance you were going to die, which is a ridiculous average. People did not think racing drivers needed to think of safety because they were seen as gladiators and if you were killed that was your full awareness before you went in there. I thought that was all wrong. I thought I was being paid for my skill not for the risks I was taking."
Having tirelessly campaigned for racing safety, Sir Jackie became incredibly unpopular with a number of those involved in the sport. He boycotted, campaigned and protested and was involved in a very major change in the safety of racing, making him more than just a wizard at the wheel. In an emotional tirade, the Scot explained, "It needed to be done because there was a period in 1968 where four of our drivers died in consecutive months. When that happens to you and you’re constantly going to funerals and you’re witnessing the grief and the devastation, when it doesn’t have to happen, I realised I had to do something."
Sir Jackie, a man of immense charisma, charm and integrity, to this day remains a superstar and someone with legions of loyal fans around the world. Rather humbly, he admits he understands the joy his fans feel when they meet him, as he, too, has those he gets excited about meeting. "When I first met Peter Sellers, the Beatles, Elizabeth Taylor and the Queen I did get slightly star struck. But you often find these people are just as anxious to meet you as you are of meeting them. The real stars don’t need to act or behave in a manner that lets people think they’re something different. Although I’m Sir Jackie Stewart, I’m still the same Jackie as I’ve always been."
Winning is Not Enough: The Autobiography, by Jackie Stewart, Published by Headline.
Saturday, 2 May 2009
An Interview with Shane Warne
James with his childhood hero, Shane
A message, the charming, Shane wrote for
my school friend, Peter Holmes
During his playing days, Shane Warne was without doubt a special cricketer. He was the finest spin bowler of them all with many going as far as declaring him the greatest cricketer to ever play the game. That assessment would accommodate not only his skill as a bowler, but also his gift as an entertainer.
From the moment the spin star bemused Mike Gatting just over sixteen years ago with that fizzing first delivery, Warne has dominated the game and frustrated many of those standing at the other end of the wicket with, not only his mesmeric talents as a cricketer but also with his barbaric competitive streak, which has helped him, throughout his career, ruthlessly tear sides apart.
Although the charismatic legend made his name from a number of different turning deliveries, the affable Warne, who has 708 Test wickets to his name, doesn't spin off the field. The straight talking Aussie, who has a very physical presence, spoke frankly and was reluctant to pad a way any questions preferring, instead, to hit them for six, saying, "ask whatever you want mate."
Now retired from the international game, you are more likely to catch the leg spinning legend around a poker table than you are on a cricket pitch, as he tries his hand in the professional game.
The tanned Aussie explains, "I’ve played poker my whole life. I probably started as a 12 or 13-year-old with matchsticks. But I've only really been playing tournaments in the last three years, but I've really developed a passion for it."
Throughout his illustrious cricketing career, Shane was very good at playing mind games against his opposition, but has he ever tried dropping a few choice insults at the table? "Well, a few of the Yanks at the World Series all thought they were 'Eddie the Expert'. They thought they knew exactly everything about every hand, so occasionally there was a bit of sledging going on, but most of the time it was all pretty relaxed and I'd just go about my business and keep my mouth shut. I don’t really say much."
Adding with his mischievous school boy look, "Give me another year or so…"
Shane, who was born in Ferntree Gully, Australia, begins to talk about his childhood, making the room come alive. He says, with no sense of regret, "I used to get the cane a lot for misbehaving. At school, I wasn't the sharpest tool in the box so if I didn’t understand, I would act the fool. I would then have to go down and see the principle who would practise his golf swing with six of the finest."
Jokily adding, "I must have enjoyed it because I kept on going back."
'Warney', as he is known affectionately by his thousands of loyal fans, has basked in the glory of no fewer than seven Ashes series wins, taking an incredible 195 wickets in 36 Ashes tests, leaving many of England’s batsman bamboozled on more than one occasion. Not only have his outstanding achievements on the field revitalised the art of leg-spin, but they have made it sexy. Without knowing it, Warne has played a major role in the development of the game.
So what is the secret to facing the world's most successful leg spinner? Shane revealed, "Just watch the hand and how the ball comes out of the hand and you'll know exactly what's happening."
When Warne, the cigarette-smoking, beer-swilling sportsman, packed in the jet-set life style of an international cricketer two years ago, many found it incomprehensible that he actually even thought about leaving the sport when there was clearly so much more there for us to enjoy. A smiling, Shane explains, "A lot of people said you’ll get to an age when you’ll know when it’s time to retire, but I didn’t get that. But then I did and I knew it was my time. It’s better they say to you why did you, then why didn’t you?"
The legend, however, really began in England during that famous Test match of 1993 when he bowled Mike Gatting with the 'ball of the century'. A moment of cricketing history was born, changing his life forever. Shane humbly says, "It was a fluke. To do that on your first ball when you’re nervous and you haven’t been playing for long and you’re playing against England and Mike Gatting, who’s a superb player, to just land it was a fluke."
The legend, however, really began in England during that famous Test match of 1993 when he bowled Mike Gatting with the 'ball of the century'. A moment of cricketing history was born, changing his life forever. Shane humbly says, "It was a fluke. To do that on your first ball when you’re nervous and you haven’t been playing for long and you’re playing against England and Mike Gatting, who’s a superb player, to just land it was a fluke."
Shane made spin bowling sexy with that one bowl, and single-handedly transcended the sport. Soon fast bowlers were shoved to one side with leg-spinners coming to the fore.
But what struck me most about this loveable rogue was that he didn’t actually ever dream about being a top class cricketer.
Stretched out in his seat, Warne explains, "Being a Victorian it’s all about Aussie Rules Football and I wanted to play Aussie Rules when I was growing up, but I wasn’t good enough."
Astonishingly confessing, "I just played cricket in the summer because most of my buddies did, but I was a batsman not a bowler."
With his blond hair, sparkling blue eyes and general Aussie beach-bum appearance he explains, "The bowling didn’t really interest me because I was being whacked around and I wasn't very good. It's tough being a spinner when you’re not that good and it's quite embarrassing as a youngster when you're bowling double bouncers or the ball goes over the fence and they can’t find it."
He explains, "My success has been down to hours and hours of practise. I could always spin the ball, but the accuracy came a lot later."
So were those rumours true that Warne, the man who had been at the forefront of England's downfall on so many occasions, was really going to come and coach the three lions? With a wry smile and a brief chuckle Shane says teasingly, "I wouldn’t rule anything out."
Although Warne's life has been plagued by scandal and controversy both on and off the field, that is all part of the legend, and he will forever be remembered for torturing batsmen with his flight, guile, spin and mystery, all factors which mean England can breathe a sigh of relief that they do not have to face him in this summer's Ashes.
Saturday, 21 March 2009
An Interview with Lord Sebastian Coe
Lord Coe with James
Lord Sebastian Coe will forever be remembered as one of the finest athletes to represent Great Britain, after winning four Olympic medals and setting an astounding eight world records, in middle-distance running.
Coe who studied economics and social history at Loughborough University, began his running career at the tender age of 12 after joining Sheffield's Hallamshire Harriers, and it was here, between studies, a teenage Coe trained and began to win county and school championships at 3,000m, 1,500m and cross country.
His father Peter, who was also his coach, cleverly built on his son’s potential with a lot of technical and weights work. It paid off, with Coe winning his first race in 1977, during an 800 metre event at the European Indoor Championships, in the aptly named, San Sebastian, Spain, setting the pace for the rest of his career.
Now, as chairman of the 2012 organising committee, Lord Coe is once again the man at the centre of the world's greatest sporting event.
As the press began to tuck into the vast array of biscuits, and cakes on offer, as part of the mini buffet put on for the launch of John Keddie's book Running the Race, Lord Coe took his opportunity to swiftly slip into the press conference before the hoards of reporters, who had gathered, had time to notice his arrival. Dressed in a smart blue suit, with his hair neatly arranged, there was a certain film star quality about the two times Olympic gold medallist. It is not just the way he presents himself that projects this image, but the way he assertively holds his lean 5'9" frame too.
On entering the room he quietly made his way to the front, scanning the several rows of seats, as he anxiously looked for somewhere to sit. After spotting his designated place, he hurriedly sat down, picked up a copy of the book he was promoting from the pile that he and the author were to sign later, and began to read the foreword he had written.
The buffet had proved a fine and welcome distraction for Coe who for, some reason, seemed to want to keep a low profile, enabling him to sit alone. Although this was the first time I had been in Lord Coe's presence, it was immediately clear what type of man this celebrated Olympian was. Despite his willingness to keep himself to himself, there was a certain air of authority and unquestionable confidence that only the most successful athletes possess.
After introducing myself, Lord Coe rather charmingly moved his belongings that were stacked up on the seat next to him, and invited me to sit down. Before I could begin the interview, Lord Coe, or Seb as he wished to be called, insisted on getting us both a cup of tea. As he went to fetch the drinks, I wondered where I should start the interview. Not only has he had a fascinating career, but he has had an enthralling life too.
Back in his running days he was one of athletics' greatest middle distance runners. Not only has he won two Olympic gold's but, in 1979, he was voted BBC Sports Personality of the Year after breaking three world records, in just forty-one days. With an engaging enthusiasm, he said, "I trained and raced for 12 years before I made an Olympic Games, so for me winning an Olympic gold was the culmination of hundreds of thousands of miles of running, weight sessions and coaching paying off. But I suppose the first thing you feel finishing an event with a great result is relief, because you don’t feel you’ve let down all the people who’ve been helping you along the way. You’re also glad it’s over for the moment, although you soon get back into the mindset of wanting to be a better runner next time round."
But it is not just on the track that Lord Coe has excelled. In 1992 he became a Conservative MP, working alongside William Hague, and now holds the prestigious position of Chairman of the 2012 organising committee, where, arguably, he won his greatest ever race by bringing the Olympic games to London.
The London bid was initially way off the pace and when the five candidate cities were shortlisted, London was rated third behind Madrid and favourites Paris. But with the timing that he showed so often in his illustrious running career, Coe helped London produce the late charge that was required to pip their French rivals. His combination of world record-holding pedigree, political experience, and his general affability played an undeniable part in the bid’s success, giving it an air of authority that was hard to ignore.
It seemed somewhat fitting that he played such a pivotal role in persuading the International Olympic Committee (IOC) to award London the 2012 Games as he has a wonderful history with them. "The Olympics are the greatest sporting event there is."
Eliciting each question with a short speech, he continued, "They transcend sport. There is no other non political gathering that brings people together in such profusion and with such a wonderful vision. It’s not the panacea for all human ills, but it sure goes a long way to driving all sorts of values. Just look at the values of both the Olympics and Paralympics. The values of respect, friendship, courage, determination and sheer will to overcome adversity. This is something only sport can manage."
Despite Beijing's meteoric success Lord Coe, who once ran an astonishing seventeen miles one Christmas morning, assures me he is not suffering sleepless nights over the awesome responsibility. "I’ve broken 13 world records in my time. I don’t intend to break a fourteenth and be the first organiser of an Olympics to bring them in late. Of course we will have a fantastic Games. We have a wonderful propensity in this country to doubt our ability. We have fantastic examples of excellence at every level, whether it’s in the arts, sciences, in the quality of our policing or armed services. And yet we sometimes enter a tunnel of despair about it, which few other countries actually do."
The newspaper headlines were inevitable after Britain’s Olympic success. 'It’s great to be British!'; 'Britannia rules the Games!' And who can blame them? It was, after all, a terrific summer full of success for Team G.B, with Great Britain firmly sat in fourth place in the medals table.
Lord Coe proudly boasts, "We’ve got a very good funding programme at elite level now with more money going into elite level sport than ever before. Although money is important it’s not the sole part of the story. You need athletes with hunger and commitment, as well as world class coaching and great administration to win gold medals. Excellence costs."
Despite his obvious confidence about success both in the medals table and in the running of the 2012 games, Lord Coe certainly has a lot of work to do over the next three years as Chairman of the organizing committee. However considering the achievements of his career to date, he seems like the perfect man for the job.
The National Student March 2009
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