Move Over, Popemobile, Here Comes the Jeepney

The Popemobile has always been the Holy See’s staple ride everytime he’s on the road, waving and interacting with the devotees. Over the years, this sleek holy heap has undergone a lot of changes and “pimping up”, including safety features and custom functions dedicated to the needs of the Pope to ensure riding comfort while roaming the cities he visits.

In the recent decades, Mercedes Benz has been the top favorite amongst Pope Francis’ predecessors. And along with the said car manufacturer that first built the Popemobile in the 1930s, many other car giants also got the chance to build one and had pledged to create the perfect vehicle cover-worthy car for the supreme pontiff. Most of them offer air-conditioning, bulletproof body and even revved-up engines.

This time, during his visit in the Philippines, absolute simplicity ensues with the touch of Filipino flavor… The Pope Jeepney!

The King of the Road meets His Holiness

The Jeepney-inspired Popemobile will be the “official” vehicle of the supreme pontiff for his entire visit in the Philippines. Three custom-built rides were commissioned to drive His Holiness around town. Along with this Jeepney Popemobile, a custom-built Isuzu D-Max will be also used for some of his trips in Manila, while the other Popemobile – A South Korean-made – will be used for his visit to the Haiyan-stricken province of Leyte in Visayas.

The Pontifex’ jeepney-converted diesel-powered chariot awaits and is expected to transport the pontiff around the city. In contrast to the usual colorful characteristics of the Philippine jeepney, the airbrush-laden vehicle was transformed into an all-white profile with the Pope’s coat of arms emblazoned onto the jeep’s long hood.

The typical 20-seater back passenger seat was converted into a spacious platform with three seats to accommodate the Supreme Pontiff and two of his constituents. The open-style windows conflicts the usual bulletproof glass enclosure that of the usual Popemobiles. This particular feature was specifically done in accordance to Pope Francis’ request to ride a vehicle that doesn’t encase him in a sardine can-like bulletproof glass.

The Icon of Philippine Culture in Four Wheels

Reminiscent of those “real” Jeeps that we usually see pampered and cloaked with Jeep covers in your next door neighbor’s garage, jeepneys are loosely taken from U.S.-issued Willys MB vehicles that were left behind by the American military after World War II. A back tub for passengers is then being replaced with a larger, longer and wider one to accommodate commuters.

Soon after, these refurbished jeeps became one of the most important modes of transportation in the Philippines. And thanks to Leonardo Sarao’s ingenuity, the mass production of jeepneys revolutionized transportation and commuting means, as well as the industrial and economic state of the country.

Albeit the origin of the jeepneys were loosely ripped-off from the rubbles of American surplus duting the World War II, it was fully-embraced by the Filipinos to the extent that it became a symbol of Philippine culture, art, hardwork and walk of life.

Pope Francis visits the Philippines from January 15 to January 19, particularly in Manila and Leyte Province.

What to do you think about the Philippines’ version of the Popemobile? Share us your thoughts about this by leaving a comment!

Old, Busted Cars Still Priced as Brand New!

Jay Leno may be notorious for his collection of land heap. But long before his reign as top automobile collection, there was a man by the name of Roger Baillon who would have kicked the living daylight out of Leno’s collection.

Apparently, the French transport business tycoon had collected more than a hundred units of vintage and rare cars during his astounding prime in the 50s and 60s. Ranging from Jaguar Type S 3.4L, Facel Vega to a Hispano Suiza H6B Cabriolet Million-Guillet, these automobiles were the ultimate chariots during the 30s until the 50s, as some of which were used and/or owned by celebrities, important personalities and royalties.

Photo courtesy: Artcurial.com

If only the luxury cars were still in top shape, these cars were ditched and left for dead in a private farm owned by the Baillon family, unrealized. Quite ironic to see none of these priceless automobiles have (or any evidence of “had”) car covers on them.

Where did all these cars come from?

It was told in some reports that Roger Baillon was an avid car collector back in the day. And quite obviously, he was, as the cars are not just your average “expensive” wagons. Some of these have a historical piece imprints, just like the said, Talbot-Lago T26 Cabriolet – a car previously owned by Farouk, King of Egypt – and the Ferrari 250 – as used by Shirley McLaine and Jane Fonda in the movie, Les Felins.

Furthermore, rarities are also included on the list such as the Ferrari 250 GT California SWB – which is according to Ferrari historians, only 37 units were manufactured. As for the endangered Maserati A6G 200 Berlinetta, it was reported that only 3 of these particular model were built during the time, making it one of the rarest cars in the world.

Luck turned its back on Baillon in the 70s when his company suffered major business fallout, and was forced to sell 50 of his 120 priced cars just to get by with the unfortunate event. 60 of which nearly went to oblivion until the recent discovery of these trove of vintage cars by the Baillon grandchildren.

Does it still have any worth?

Upon the recent re-discovery of these precious rides by Baillon’s grandchildren, it has been reported that the cars still have a hefty price tag despite the saddening condition. The cars are set to be auctioned in Paris on February, 2015, and will be facilitated by French auction house, Art Curial. As for the price? The collection could go up to a staggering price of £12,000,000 ($18,000,000) or even more.

This redefines the old saying, “One man’s garbage is another man’s treasure.”

Ice Golf: Putting Never Looked this Cool

Yes, you heard it right! There’s such a thing as ice golf. And since most of the winter-affected areas are forced to take a sabbatical from swinging and place a golf cart cover on their grass heap until the ice melts, why not try this rather unusual way of playing the good ol’ gentleman’s game instead of booking a flight down south for a needed tee off?

As far as the middle ages, ice golf – presumably along with hockey – has always been a favorite past time of the Dutch, as evidenced in the paintings of Auet van der Neer and Hendrick Avercamp. Since then, the rather unusual game of golf became very popular among Scottish as well as the game started to develop. In fact, even the renowned English writer Rudyard Kipling was a known snow golf fanatic, pushing the further advancement of the sport with the help of fellow writer and Sherlock Holmes creator, Sir Arthur Conan Doyle.

What’s the Difference?

Think of it as regular golf… Only in ice and with an edge! Winter Golf is usually played obviously on the snow and frozen lakes. More so, the course is relatively shorter than the usual golf we play in the fairways. Using colored ball instead of the traditional whites, this particular element keeps the players in the know as to where their balls land in the vast horizons of winter white.

Fashion and gear-wise, collared shirts and flowy trousers are replaced with a more resilient thermal wear and snow boots. And of course, winter golf is way more intense and exhilarating than regular golf, considering the terrain the condition most players endure during the game – making it more challenging and engaging.

Things to Consider when Playing Winter Golf

Photo courtesy: TimoHonkelaEnglish via Wikipedia

When deciding to play winter golf, first thing you need to have is a reliable set of wardrobe that can endure harsh condition. The cold weather is basically the number 1 challenge every player needs to take into attention, so you must ensure to wear proper attire and ditch the traditional tee shirts and sun visors for a while.

When it comes to gameplay, remember that snow golf basically has shorter courses, larger holes and softer playing surface. Hence, you must assess your gameplay, strokes and handicap, as the game experience is way too different from playing in the greens. Furthermore, the entire game is a bit faster and more “on-the-go”, that’s why it is highly recommended to stay hydrated during the game.

Overall, snow golfing isn’t as different as some, if not most golfers think. You can have the experience that plays at par with that of regular golf game. As of now, the popularity of this game is slowly making its way in the mainstream sports, and in fact has its own tournament.

To tell you straightforward, it’s worth the try!

No PGA and Ryder Cup for Tiger Woods This Year

Seems like we’re not going to see a lot of Tiger Woods for the rest of the year. According to last week’s golf news, the 38-year old golfer has been pestered with a nasty back spasm all season. This caused him a huge blunder in the recent PGA Championship at Valhalla, swinging a series of humiliating mess at six-over 148, and with just 5 strokes behind making the cut.

And then, as of today, August 13, the golf extraordinaire announces his withdrawal for the consideration to be the one of the potential picks for this year’s Ryder Cup due to doctor’s orders and trainer’s recommendation.

Here’s Tiger Woods’ official statement:

"While I greatly appreciate Tom thinks about me for a possible captain's Pick, I must take myself out of consideration… I have been told by my doctors and trainer that my back muscles need to be rehabilitated and healed. They've advised me not to play or practice now.

I'm extremely disappointed that I won't be ready for the competition. The U.S. team and the Ryder Cup mean too much to me not to be able to give it my best. I'll be cheering for the U.S. team. I think we have an outstanding squad going into the matches.”

Bring out the Tiger’s trusty golf cart cover for his equipment, as he won’t be using the cart in a long while. Thinking about it, perhaps it is safe to say that he’s doing the right thing by not taking the Ryder Cup shot, considering his performance for the entire year, with no major championships to his name. But despite that, I think letting him sit on sidelines for a while would be a plus factor, as there would be plenty of time for him to reflect and get his rhythm back to be able for him to compete in full-shape.

As for Tiger, himself, he is still optimistic in coming back as early as targeted from the injury, particularly in December for the World Challenge Tournament.

Wishing for his “loud roar” hopefully late this year!

Improving Your Putting Skills

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In the game of golf, aside from getting the best equipment like a golf cart cover, clubs, and shoes, it is said that putting is one of the most crucial skills a golfer should have. After all, putting is the shot that directly affects a golfer’s score when in a game. At the same time, putting is supposed to be a saving grace for golfers as it is the only shot that can be possibly executed without flaws. Yet, putting is definitely more than just targeting your ball into a hole in a straight line.

Just like any other skill in a sport like pitching in baseball and 3-point shooting in basketball, all the points for a perfect putt should be present, or else you might get frustrated. A great deal of patience, practice, and repetition are needed to prefect putting. While it is true that most golfers do not really warm to the idea of practice, it is a known fact that in order to increase one’s proficiency in putting, practice is needed. Practice plus the proper technique (actually, constant practice on proper technique) is an essential to polishing your putting.

For putting, you should be able to practice both your long and short putts. There are specific drills you can master to increase your putting skills.  For long putts, a good exercise would be to place a number tees in a semicircle on the back of a hole, within a radius of up to 2 feet. Then, putt five balls, making sure that every putt stays within the semicircle. Increase your putts’ distance as you improve. If you are not able to let you putts stay in the semicircle, repeat the exercise until you make it.

To practice your short putts, you can do what is commonly known as a round-the-clock exercise. You will need 12 balls for this, which you form into a circle around the hole. Arrange the balls so that it will resemble the face of a clock with the hole in the center. Now, putt all twelve balls, one after the other. Missing one ball should make you start from the beginning. As you notice improvement in your practice, you can choose to increase the distance between the balls. This will widen the clock’s face and lengthen the distance between the balls and hole. Also, why not give your golf cart a rest and cover it with a golf cart cover? Walk around to improve your cardio endurance.

Another essential skill that a golfer must have with regard to his or her putting skills is mastering the speed of the course or what is known in the golf jargon as your putt’s “break.” A lot of the putt’s break, aside from wind conditions and the force you put in the putt, relies in the contours of the green. In this respect, you should know how your ball reacts to a contour that is going up, going down, across a slope. That way, you will know how much force you are going to apply to each putt. You should also try out the course’s practice green so that you’ll know the speed of the greens, meaning the speed of the ball when rolling in the greens or grass.

The Right Time for Golf Accessory Shopping

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It is very important for golf players having the best equipment to play the game well. Aside from the luxury accessories like a golf cart cover and the best golf shoes, golf clubs are the primary things a golfer needs to play. Thus, golfers should know the particulars of shopping for golf clubs. For practical golfers, a particular useful knowledge is when would be the best time to buy golf clubs. After all, buying gold clubs at the right time can save you hundreds of dollars, which means you can have more money to spend on other things and up your golf game!

Golf clubs are available the entire year, but there are some periods throughout the year when buying them does not cause much of a dent in the golfer's budget. After all, there is no denying that golf is not the cheapest sport to play, with all the equipment needed like golf shoes and golf cart covers, and especially the golf clubs. So, unless a golfer is rolling in money, it would be best to know when it is a great time to take advantage of bargains for buying this equipment. Yes, there are actually times of the year when golf clubs do not cost as much. Here are some suggestions on seasons to look out for when spotting golf club price bargains:

Spring Months

It is one of the accepted facts about golf that the sport is most popular during the summer, when the courses are at their most conducive to play. The season before summer is spring, and avid golfers cannot seem to wait for it to be over for them to hit the greens and play. Manufacturers and sellers of golf clubs take the spring season as an opportunity for them to entice their market to prepare for the year's golf season. Moreover, new models of golf accessories during this season, making past season's merchandise "obsolete," and therefore, cheaper. Moreover, Father's Day, a celebration for most golfers is during spring, and those who want to give their golfer dads the perfect gift would surely consider buying affordable clubs.

Yes, that means that you have a few months (make it weeks) in spring to take advantage of discounts before the demand for golf clubs and accessories like a golf cart cover will spike. This will make their prices sky high. Take advantage of the time window to get the best golf accessories without making you poor.

Golf Club Shopping Without Breaking the Bank

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The game of golf is not exactly an affordable one. Playing golf requires skill, an affinity to waking up early (unless someone prefers to bake under the sun and play golf at noontime), golf carts (unless someone prefers to walk from one hole to another), and yes, lots of money to purchase the necessary equipment, including a golf cart cover and golf clubs.

Golf clubs have quite the hefty price tags, which can be pretty discouraging for people who are actively seeking more affordable sport options. Moreover, for a lot of people, getting golf clubs may actually help them in improving their golfing skills. In the first place, you cannot play golf without clubs! It is simply necessary equipment to play the sport. Playing golf without clubs is much like having a golf cart, but not having a golf cart cover. But here are some pieces of advice on what can be done lower the cost of playing golf.

Consider to Buy Used Golf Clubs

Budget golfers, if there are any, can have the option of buying used clubs. Aside from the shiny gleam of new golf clubs, there is not much of a difference between new clubs and used clubs that have been maintained properly. Moreover, used clubs can be bought at a fraction of the price of brand new golf clubs. Also, used clubs are not really so rare in terms of availability as most people think they are. Local pro shops actually sell used clubs, although not all pro shops have a used section. Major shops with a wide variety of clubs are expected to have used clubs. Pawn shops are also a good avenue to buy used golf equipment, especially clubs.

Of course, if brick and mortar shopping fails, online stores almost always have a solution at hand. Expect online auction sites to offer a lot of choices for shoppers of used golf clubs. The great thing about shopping for golf clubs online is that there is definitely a larger variety of clubs you can select from. With sellers from all over the world presenting all their clubs for you to buy, you have a wider selection, not to mention the more competitive process.