Now that it's the final 2 days of competition, time for me to write about our stay here in Jakarta.

First of all, the arrival.

Most of us had smooth arrivals ahead of schedule, except the CAT and the Kitten. For some reason, Indonesia Air Asia aircraft were delayed 6 hours, the felines managed to reach hotel around 3 am on Friday morning local time.

Accommodation is well provided, though some of us had delayed check-ins. Reason being a ot of events are converged in the Hotel. Even got to see Malaysia's ex-DPM Anwar Ibrahim there. On a plus note, I got a free room upgrade to executive floor.

Hauge (and Krisna) were busy, allocating tickets and passes here and there, yet they made sure we get our dues in time for the matches. Thanks, Hauge (and Krisna too)!!!

We got to meet teams from Korea, China, even Malaysia and Indonesia. Some members posed for pics, others took time to give best wishes and the customary autograph.

On Thursday nite (after Uber semifinals) we had our first gathering supper at Furama. Lauren also joined us there. Around midnight (Malaysian time, not WIB), the sounds of a happy birthday song were piped in, an ominous signal of me getting older ......

Friday afternoon saw us witness a heartwarming and gallant fight from Malaysia, inevitably not enough to topple China. Similarly, hundred of million heart were broken when Indonesia Thomas Cup team suffered a similar fate. But what struck me most was the conduct of MAS and INA spectators, they carried their duties to the full, with great honour to the teams and to their countries. Obviously, these are people with very different backgrounds to some BC forummers who only know how to bash the teams ...... Win win honour, and lose with honour, that's the name of the game. And we are proud to say that we were part of it all.

It was also the first time that we unfurled our BC Banner in public during the tournament.

........and it is also time to "unfurl" the picutres.

Like they said " a picture is worth a thousand words"...hehe :D

we wanna see all the nice pics taken withe the players, the crowd, the BCers, etc...

He he, unfurling the pics will take some time as our "camera crew" is not equipped with broadband Internet and PC.

Well actually, the sessions finished too late for us to do immediate upload. Anyway, just completed our "official photoshoot" at the official hotel an hour ago, more pix are coming.

Now we are doing our "official shopping". Millions of Indonesian Rupiah need to be disbursed in aid of the economy.

On Thursday nite (after Uber semifinals) we had our first gathering supper at Furama. Lauren also joined us there. Around midnight (Malaysian time, not WIB), the sounds of a happy birthday song were piped in, an ominous signal of me getting older ......
Abang, wish u a blessed belated birthday! :)

YouTube - Happy Birthday - The Beatles (http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=glNjsOHiBYs)

http://www.arenaflowers.com/product_image/large/305-happy_birthday_balloon.jpg?1210841890

TQ Robin, u should be here.

Talking about b'days, we had another gathering last nite at Pondok Lagunas, with Krisna as well. Krisna distributed some T-shirts for us. TQ Krisna.

Even got to meet INA's old great, Mr Tan Djoe Hock. Still looks fit, as befits a former All-England champ.

Had a small b'day party with a small b'day cake, courtesy of Hauge. Yeah, I got the message, old men should stay away from sweet food .......

more reports like this, bro!!
its nice to read it:)

Hauge (and Krisna) were busy, allocating tickets and passes here and there, yet they made sure we get our dues in time for the matches. Thanks, Hauge (and Krisna too)!!!


You're welcome, abedeng... :D INA fans just want to be good hosts as best we can [because we know our country is 'not perfect' and the visitors most probably need assistance]... ;)

By the way, Hau-ge forgot his hp in the taxi today. :o The taxi driver is trying to give it back to him now. Hope he will get it soon... :p

TQ Robin, u should be here.

Talking about b'days, we had another gathering last nite at Pondok Lagunas, with Krisna as well. Krisna distributed some T-shirts for us. TQ Krisna.

Even got to meet INA's old great, Mr Tan Djoe Hock. Still looks fit, as befits a former All-England champ.

Had a small b'day party with a small b'day cake, courtesy of Hauge. Yeah, I got the message, old men should stay away from sweet food .......
I miss Jakarta a lot and I wish I could be there. :(

T-shirt? Can I have one? Hehe... :D

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was there? For Thomas Cup also?... Did his daughter Nurul follow him? Hehehe

I am at Jakarta Airport now.. Flight Delay... Sigh.. Cant catch the UC Final on TV back at home :(
The Gathering was fun... WIll Miss Jakarta Alots
Special thanks to hauge, krisna....
Btw, I've met Fung Permadi & have some talks with him.. He is so friendly :)

...
On Thursday nite (after Uber semifinals) we had our first gathering supper at Furama. Lauren also joined us there. Around midnight (Malaysian time, not WIB), the sounds of a happy birthday song were piped in, an ominous signal of me getting older ......
...
It was also the first time that we unfurled our BC Banner in public during the tournament.
..whoah, how can i totally forgot?!?!?:crying: :p..Anyway, a belated Happy Birthday to you, Abang Deng! A Prosperous and healthy yr for you, too!:) Yeah, WE'RE all getting older...:p ;)
Btw, has anyone seen the BC banner being shown on TV/live webstream??..If not, Abang Deng, is it possible for Hau-ge to bring it and unfurl it, one more time, on the TC's Final day??...:confused: :):cool:
...
Now we are doing our "official shopping". Millions of Indonesian Rupiah need to be disbursed in aid of the economy.
..:)...yeah, shop til you drop!...;)
...By the way, Hau-ge forgot his hp in the taxi today. :o The taxi driver is trying to give it back to him now. Hope he will get it soon... :p
:p..Oh my, lucky Hau-ge. A very nice taxi driver, indeed..:cool:
I am at Jakarta Airport now.. Flight Delay... Sigh.. Cant catch the UC Final on TV back at home :(
The Gathering was fun... WIll Miss Jakarta Alots
Special thanks to hauge, krisna....
Btw, I've met Fung Permadi & have some talks with him.. He is so friendly :)
..Sam, leaving early??..Anyway, safe trip back to your final destination. Hope you had a blast in Jakarta.:cool:

Hauge manage to find his phone. The Taxi driver actually drive to the location and pass him the phone

Hauge manage to find his phone. The Taxi driver actually drive to the location and pass him the phone

A lot of "losses" reported here, Misbun lost his phone and money, Xu Huaiwen lost her credit cards, Hauge losing a phone. Yup, we better not lose ourselves.

Last night, didn't manage to do any live commentary, my Blackberry cannot get GPRS signal.

Anyway, despite the girls' best efforts, INA lost to a much stronger CHN. Quite a mismatch, actually, other than the 1st doubles. I mentioned to Yong that it should have been Holland here. But they threw away their tie against INA probably 'cos they had to play two matches in one day.

The crowd was really supportive, I'm sure they knew the chances weren't too bright. The President was here, such that we had to be in the stadium by 4:30 pm in case we don't have seats.

This afternoon we're gonna play some baddy in Djarum, after that, on to the final clash (Korea vs China).

Datuk Seri Anwar Ibrahim was there? For Thomas Cup also?... Did his daughter Nurul follow him? Hehehe

Thats our PM in waiting.

You're welcome, abedeng... :D INA fans just want to be good hosts as best we can [because we know our country is 'not perfect' and the visitors most probably need assistance]... ;)

By the way, Hau-ge forgot his hp in the taxi today. :o The taxi driver is trying to give it back to him now. Hope he will get it soon... :p
usua Hau-ge... bz bz man... :D

abang din, hapi bday.. hahaha see u in Singapore Open.. :D

i'll be watching the finals tonite!!! beta hope to see the banner!! hahah :D

This morning at breakfast, Loh, Yong, Jimbo and I discussed on the sportsmanship of the INA supporters. Despite their team losing, all were supportive to the end.:):):)

Compare that against the ABC semis 4 weeks ago, when things got out of hand upon the exit of Koo/Tan ........:(

And we haven't even spoken about the many replies and threads that popped up upon Malaysia's exit, eg. asking WCH to retire, useless Hafiz, Koo/Tan not performing etc.

We lost, plain and simple. No blame game is necessary. Sure some players may not have performed to expectations, but at that point in time, that was our best lineup and we almost made it work.

This morning at breakfast, Loh, Yong, Jimbo and I discussed on the sportsmanship of the INA supporters. Despite their team losing, all were supportive to the end.:):):)


Maybe that's because we were quite realistic about our chances... :o despite our very high hopes... :p

He he, we are realistic too, the target was to steal one singles and two doubles from China. Going by MAS abilities, this wasn't out of the question. Especially given LCW's victory over Lin Dan.

Had a discussion with Misbun (who was staying in our hotel) yesterday before baddy session, he confirmed the strategy. He was not optimistic about Hafiz's chances against CJ.

In the baddy session, the Uncle group was made to taste humble pie. But no problem, we held our own pretty well against Jimbo's killer "one-time only" jumping smash. Some of managed to get back to hotel for a quick shower before the Thomas Cup final.

On the way to airport this morning, we came across pics of last night's action on a local newspaper owned by the cabbie driver.

What do you know; our Hauge and fastdrop was prominently shown in one of them.

Yup, we managed to bring the "incriminating evidence" with us. Loh and hcyong flying off to S'pore with it, to be displayed in the forum soon.

The action itself was pretty bland, other than the first doubles, Koreans were uncharacteristically error prone (2nd doubles) or give up too early (PSH 3rd game and LHI).

Anyway, thanks to Hauge, Krisna and others who have made it such a special event in Jakarta. For those who didn't manage to join us, you've missed on a lot. Too bad the schedule is so tight, we hardly had time to sample all delicacies and do some shopping.

THANK YOU, INDONESIA!!!!!

..in 2 yrs time, Uncle Din. Yes, in KL, that is. So, yes, i'm putting a lot of expectation on the M'sian BCers for another get-together....I know Hau-ge (and maybe Krisna) will be looking fw to it..;)

Thanks again for sharing the experiences and the side stories. Glad to hear everyone (BCers) had a wonderful & safe time.:):)
And last, i assume Lauren is on her way back to the States??...

See you (all), again, in KL!!:):cool: ;)

Have a safe journey back home. abedeng.
Once again a great thanks for arranging the accomodation for all of us BCers..
I guess Laurent might have to stay in JKT for a little longer .. since her face was captured on TV, there might be some modelling agencies in JKT will contact her for some Ads :p

Yup, Lauren will be looking forward to a few months of hard training in Djarum.

She won't be going back so soon.

so do u all manage to eat the dodol that mentioned by rudy from pontianak earlier?:D

Btw, I've met Fung Permadi & have some talks with him.. He is so friendly :)

I was in his car (with Hauge) after our "BC Thomas Cup" at Djarum Hall. Yes, he is a very nice lad... he was once of the best players in the world and beaten many players (uncle Wong, Peter Gade, etc...) enrouted to his 1999 World Championship (at Copenhagen) final but lost to Sun Jun :crying:

He looks very fit and I think he is still a good player now...

I was in his car (with Hauge) after our "BC Thomas Cup" at Djarum Hall. Yes, he is a very nice lad... he was once of the best players in the world and beaten many players (uncle Wong, Peter Gade, etc...) enrouted to his 1999 World Championship (at Copenhagen) final but lost to Sun Jun :crying:

He looks very fit and I think he is still a good player now...
how do u all manage to get a racquet and plays at the hall there?:)

how do u all manage to get a racquet and plays at the hall there?:)

Yes we did play a few games at DJarum Hall with Krisna's players... It was so fun watching them playing... Hauge... FastDrop... uncle Loh... haha... :D:p

Btw, BC has "GaoLing" as well... if u r not sure, just ask around... haha :p

This morning at breakfast, Loh, Yong, Jimbo and I discussed on the sportsmanship of the INA supporters. Despite their team losing, all were supportive to the end.:):):)

Agreed with Abedeng... INA fans are fantastic. They cheered the songs "Satu Nusa Satu Bangsa" (nice song).. NEVER in anyway they would boo their INA players though they lost tamely to KOR. They (INA fans) deserved our full respects... thanks INA fans for the great experience at the Isatora Stadium... priceless experience... I'll never forget for the rest of my life... thank you Indonesia... Ayu INA... Kau Bisa :)

NEVER in anyway they would boo their INA players though they lost tamely to KOR. They (INA fans) deserved our full respects... thanks INA fans for the great experience at the Isatora Stadium... priceless experience... I'll never forget for the rest of my life... thank you Indonesia... Ayu INA... Kau Bisa :)

We don't boo our players... but we're very sad inside our hearts... :crying: :crying: :crying: My friends were so dejected after our INA loss, we decided to play badminton ourselves in our own courts during the Thomas Cup Finals... :p

We shall be back! ;) It took Brazil's football team 24 years between their 1970 victory and their 1994 victory... Indonesia shall get Thomas Cup victory number 14... before 24 years have passed after 2004... :p

We shall be back! ;) It took Brazil's football team 24 years between their 1970 victory and their 1994 victory... Indonesia shall get Thomas Cup victory number 14... before 24 years have passed after 2004... :p

Brazil had five attempts after 1970 before getting there in 1994( 194,1978,1982,1986,1990).

INA have failed in 3 attempts after winning in 2002 (2004, 2006, 2008). Only two more to go!

It seems 13 is unlucky for INA

At least the INA Uber team manage to advance to the Finals after all these years. Much better than Malaysia.

Agreed with Abedeng... INA fans are fantastic. They cheered the songs "Satu Nusa Satu Bangsa" (nice song).. NEVER in anyway they would boo their INA players though they lost tamely to KOR. They (INA fans) deserved our full respects...
...
We don't boo our players... but we're very sad inside our hearts... :crying: :crying: :crying: My friends were so dejected after our INA loss, we decided to play badminton ourselves in our own courts during the Thomas Cup Finals... :p
...
...didn't the crowd boo Sony and maybe Taufik after their lost in the Group play vs. Thailand??...:confused:

I think the crowd didnt expect the INA Top players lose to Thailand.

as for INA, it's not easy to fill the shoes of retiring taufik, candra W, retired tony G, sigit B, etc. It take times. Some greats are born, not created.

I am glad that you guys enjoyed this Jakarta's trip.

With efficient hosts like Hauge and Krisna, what is there not to enjoy? :D

But with such packed schedule, time really flew.

And Krisna was right, the baddy session did apply some "ointment" to our "wounded" pride. Especially seing the "one-time only" jump smash in action.

All of us in Century Park have gone back, except the Cat and the Kitten, who will be flying off this afternoon.

I am glad that you guys enjoyed this Jakarta's trip.

Nope, we didnt really enjoy coz the most "anticipated" MS match between Uncle Loh vs Hauge did NOT take place :mad::D But judging from their 'on-court" performance, I'd put all my savings on Uncle Loh :eek::p He did very well, with his age, of coz :)

Nope, we didnt really enjoy coz the most "anticipated" MS match between Uncle Loh vs Hauge did NOT take place :mad::D But judging from their 'on-court" performance, I'd put all my savings on Uncle Loh :eek::p He did very well, with his age, of coz :)
good..I will make sure to make him RUN.....hehe

Hauge, don't tempt fate. Both Uncle Loh and Uncle Tony were able to handle the pace and the power from the guy with "one-time only" jumpsmash.

Hauge, don't tempt fate. Both Uncle Loh and Uncle Tony were able to handle the pace and the power from the guy with "one-time only" jumpsmash.
hm...may be " that guy" need to jump higher....or practice more to jump more often.....hehe

hm...may be " that guy" need to jump higher....or practice more to jump more often.....hehe

Nay... against u guys, my "one-time" jumping smash is more than enough to kill off everyone :cool: It's pity that i didnt get a chance to jump "twice" ;):D

Nay... against u guys, my "one-time" jumping smash is more than enough to kill off everyone :cool: It's pity that i didnt get a chance to jump "twice" ;):D

Hm....thought you'll on MC again today. :D

Hm....thought you'll on MC again today. :D

If Jimbo jumps twice, he will definitely need medical leave. :p

Hm....thought you'll on MC again today. :D

OOOiiiiii..... I am NOT MC KING :mad::mad::eek: But my legs a bit pain... where is my FREE TCG cream??? :rolleyes:

A word on Indonesian spectators:

Other than their support, they are really very committed. When it comes to buying tickets, they were there since morning, with children and wife in tow. There were so few ticket booths, and only in one place.

We are indeed fortunate not to have to jostle for tickets. The touts did anyone no favours, and the absence of season tickets is surprising, to say the least.

A word on Indonesian spectators:

Other than their support, they are really very committed. When it comes to buying tickets, they were there since morning, with children and wife in tow. There were so few ticket booths, and only in one place.

We are indeed fortunate not to have to jostle for tickets. The touts did anyone no favours, and the absence of season tickets is surprising, to say the least.

Yeah, badminton patriotism is INA's strength... :D :D :D ...however, "management" [including ticket management] is not INA's strong suit... :o :o :o

Yeah, badminton patriotism is INA's strength... :D :D :D ...however, "management" [including ticket management] is not INA's strong suit... :o :o :o
I believe its time for u to stand up for the management site of PBSI;)

Nay... against u guys, my "one-time" jumping smash is more than enough to kill off everyone :cool: It's pity that i didnt get a chance to jump "twice" ;):D

Hahhaah too bad i didnt have a chance to have a taste of your jumping smash.

OOOiiiiii..... I am NOT MC KING :mad::mad::eek: But my legs a bit pain... where is my FREE TCG cream??? :rolleyes:

Not until i get all my pictures...:p Btw...its TGC not TCG..

A lot of "losses" reported here, Misbun lost his phone and money, Xu Huaiwen lost her credit cards, Hauge losing a phone. Yup, we better not lose ourselves.

Haven't you forgotten that Xu also lost her shirt? :eek:
You know to whom lah! :D:D:D

good..I will make sure to make him RUN.....hehe

Hey, hey, don't bully an uncle hah! :mad:

Hauge is the man in Jakarta. He has been working hard to get tickets and solve any problem that fellow BCFers encountered. He is also been asked by coaches to get tickets for their friends and relatives.

Not forgetting Krishna for being a great host in arranging dinner for us plus the nice shirts and also make his court available for us to play with his friends as well.

Thanks again guys.

Agreed with Abedeng... INA fans are fantastic. They cheered the songs "Satu Nusa Satu Bangsa" (nice song).. NEVER in anyway they would boo their INA players though they lost tamely to KOR. They (INA fans) deserved our full respects... thanks INA fans for the great experience at the Isatora Stadium... priceless experience... I'll never forget for the rest of my life... thank you Indonesia... Ayu INA... Kau Bisa :)

INA has excellent fan base, but the Malaysian Thomas/Uber 2008 Campaign cheerleading squad is not too shabby either. On the day of the Uber q-finals (MAS vs KOR) and Thomas semis (MAS vs CHN), the cheerleading squad occupied almost 25% of stadium. Not bad at all. Most of them are University students. Brilliant choreography and creativity of rhythmic chants.

And like the INA supporters, they were there throughout from start to finish. Definitely better than the rowdy supporters in the ABC Tournament in Johor Baharu.

On the shopping front, we got to go to Plaza Senayan (just behind our hotel) as well as Plaza Semanggi (just across the highway from the Sultan hotel). I was personally thinking of going to Block M, but there is just no time.

Didn't buy anything much, more on enjoying the food and finding a Javanese dictionary for my dad.

In fact, we didn't spend that many millions. However, the millions not spent was still poured into the Indonesian economy, by way of payment of hotel bill. :D Yup, the hotel bill ran into double figures, in millions .......

INA has excellent fan base, but the Malaysian Thomas/Uber 2008 Campaign cheerleading squad is not too shabby either. On the day of the Uber q-finals (MAS vs KOR) and Thomas semis (MAS vs CHN), the cheerleading squad occupied almost 25% of stadium. Not bad at all. Most of them are University students. Brilliant choreography and creativity of rhythmic chants.

Not sure if u noticed. After Msia lost to CHN, they vanished and their seats were occupied by INA fans for the most anticipating match (INA vs KOR). Perhaps they just changed their jersey from Yellow (Msia team) to Red (INA team)? :D:p

i was quit surprised that many ina spectators had supported china tc team in the final :D

I naturally like walking, but never expected that I have to do "multiple escort service" .....

Yup, escorting people to the Sultan was my main duty, not tripod carrying personnel. That, and running SMS-es with Hauge .....

14 May morning, escorted sleepy Sam to meet up with Hauge (got nothing else to do, our rooms were not ready anyway)
15 May morning, escorted Jimbo to be official "team manager" of HK
15 May afternoon, escorted Loh to be official "team photographer" of USA
16 May morning, escorted Louisa and luyi80, "official masseurs" of team Germany (team Germany having been eliminated the night before)
17 May morning, escorted the gang for official photo shoot
18 May afternoon, escorted the gang to converge for trip to Djarum and baddy session

Next time, I will just point the way, and let them walk alone ..... :p

Not sure if u noticed. After Msia lost to CHN, they vanished and their seats were occupied by INA fans for the most anticipating match (INA vs KOR). Perhaps they just changed their jersey from Yellow (Msia team) to Red (INA team)? :D:p

Of course I noticed, but they stayed to the end of Malaysia's match, didn't they? That's what I meant by start to finish.

Not like here in Malaysia, spectators walk out even before the match ended.

I naturally like walking, but never expected that I have to do "multiple escort service" .....

Yup, escorting people to the Sultan was my main duty, not tripod carrying personnel. That, and running SMS-es with Hauge .....

14 May morning, escorted sleepy Sam to meet up with Hauge (got nothing else to do, our rooms were not ready anyway)
15 May morning, escorted Jimbo to be official "team manager" of HK
15 May afternoon, escorted Loh to be official "team photographer" of USA
16 May morning, escorted Louisa and luyi80, "official masseurs" of team Germany (team Germany having been eliminated the night before)
17 May morning, escorted the gang for official photo shoot
18 May afternoon, escorted the gang to converge for trip to Djarum and baddy session

Next time, I will just point the way, and let them walk alone ..... :p

wow... :D :D :) you are such a very nice guy..he..he jangan bosan.. bang :D :p

So who escorted Abedeng to be in what post?

i thought about starting a new thread for this, but a) it seemed quite vain, and b) i couldn't think of a better thread title than 'smashie54's face on the back page of The Jakarta Post!!' so this will have to do.

unfortunately, the computer i'm on doesn't have the plug-in needed to see if the picture shows up in the link, but i trust it's there.

the back page of the front section of the paper was devoted to the TUC (the top half at least, the bottom was an ad). the picture was about 7x9 inches (!!!) and the article next to it was 'England takes on RI in Thomas quarters'.. enjoy!

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2008/05/14/service-stare.html

i thought about starting a new thread for this, but a) it seemed quite vain, and b) i couldn't think of a better thread title than 'smashie54's face on the back page of The Jakarta Post!!' so this will have to do.


The rest of us already put our photos and faces on this thread [or the other one], so might as well you too, smashie... ;)

i thought about starting a new thread for this, but a) it seemed quite vain, and b) i couldn't think of a better thread title than 'smashie54's face on the back page of The Jakarta Post!!' so this will have to do.

unfortunately, the computer i'm on doesn't have the plug-in needed to see if the picture shows up in the link, but i trust it's there.

the back page of the front section of the paper was devoted to the TUC (the top half at least, the bottom was an ad). the picture was about 7x9 inches (!!!) and the article next to it was 'England takes on RI in Thomas quarters'.. enjoy!

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2008/05/14/service-stare.html
hello lauren:):p:D

the back page of the front section of the paper was devoted to the TUC (the top half at least, the bottom was an ad). the picture was about 7x9 inches (!!!) and the article next to it was 'England takes on RI in Thomas quarters'.. enjoy!

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2008/05/14/service-stare.html
Sorry, I didn't see any pictures!? :confused:

Sorry, I didn't see any pictures!? :confused:

They seem to have gotten rid of the image for some reason. I saw the image a few days ago, and my god, Lauren looked like a drug addict, rofl.

Never mind, found it.

I still stand by the drug addict assessment :D

supralover23, I hope you're a close friend of Lauren or something, cause that's a hurtful statement.

-dave

supralover23, I hope you're a close friend of Lauren or something, cause that's a hurtful statement.

-dave
Rofl, I bet kwun is going to get a kick out of this one.

supralover23, I hope you're a close friend of Lauren or something, cause that's a hurtful statement.

-dave

lol. yes. i know both of them and they are very close. :)

Never mind, found it.

I still stand by the drug addict assessment :D

can you attach the photo again?

Sure thing.

...........

..nice capture, shows how focus our Lauren is....Or is it maybe she's inspecting the feathers on that shuttle??...:confused: ;)
...
In fact, we didn't spend that many millions. However, the millions not spent was still poured into the Indonesian economy, by way of payment of hotel bill. :D Yup, the hotel bill ran into double figures, in millions .......
...not bad lah, i think it's worth it...:cool:
i thought about starting a new thread for this, but a) it seemed quite vain, and b) i couldn't think of a better thread title than 'smashie54's face on the back page of The Jakarta Post!!' so this will have to do.

unfortunately, the computer i'm on doesn't have the plug-in needed to see if the picture shows up in the link, but i trust it's there.

the back page of the front section of the paper was devoted to the TUC (the top half at least, the bottom was an ad). the picture was about 7x9 inches (!!!) and the article next to it was 'England takes on RI in Thomas quarters'.. enjoy!

http://www.thejakartapost.com/news/2008/05/14/service-stare.html
..Hope you had a wonderful time in Jakarta and hanging out with these BCers, Lauren!!..So, what do you think of these rowdy BCers??..:p :D;)..
*Hope to see you in early July for the U.S. Open!:cool:

Lauren was shy when we first met her, but by the time we got to the baddy session, she was already eyeing Jimbo threateningly. U see, Jimbo took her racquet without permission ......... yup, our naughty boy Jimbo does do a lot of things without permission ....... kakakakaka :p

Lauren was shy when we first met her, but by the time we got to the baddy session, she was already eyeing Jimbo threateningly. U see, Jimbo took her racquet without permission ......... yup, our naughty boy Jimbo does do a lot of things without permission ....... kakakakaka :p

aiya... wats the big deal? i got plenty of rackets at home... :cool: anyway, i didnt use her racket coz it wasnt my "taste" :rolleyes: I still prefer Gunawan's YY racket... solid like rock... :D

Lauren was shy when we first met her, but by the time we got to the baddy session, she was already eyeing Jimbo threateningly. U see, Jimbo took her racquet without permission ......... yup, our naughty boy Jimbo does do a lot of things without permission ....... kakakakaka :p

hmm... is she really that good? hmm... :rolleyes: U hv to see Cindy Shi or Kevin Han playing then... :eek:

Haiyah... taking peoples stuffs without permission is already not right lah.. no use of arguing. Anyway maybe she only have few rackets to use during her trip in INA. Unlike you who have many rackets to dispose.

He he, we are realistic too, the target was to steal one singles and two doubles from China. Going by MAS abilities, this wasn't out of the question. Especially given LCW's victory over Lin Dan.

Had a discussion with Misbun (who was staying in our hotel) yesterday before baddy session, he confirmed the strategy. He was not optimistic about Hafiz's chances against CJ.

In the baddy session, the Uncle group was made to taste humble pie. But no problem, we held our own pretty well against Jimbo's killer "one-time only" jumping smash. Some of managed to get back to hotel for a quick shower before the Thomas Cup final.
We took photo with Misbun and Rashid right after Misbun explained to us lengthy on how LCW beaten LD....

See our faces, u will know how happy we were, that time.....:D

hmm... is she really that good? hmm... :rolleyes: U hv to see Cindy Shi or Kevin Han playing then... :eek:
our L sister, Lauren, for sure plays much much much much more better than Louisa n Luyi80, no question on that....:D:D:D

1. INA hospitality
I can't tell you how grateful we are to both Krisna and Rudy.Both are such wonderful and generous hosts. Everything went smoothly and splendidly because of them.You can't imagine how glum our adventure would be if we had to queue up for tickets (and not get them) and not have our scrumptious supper after the last matches.We are just so lucky.
2. kwun
All these good things are made possible because of BCF and kwun. Amazing fortune and many thanks, kwun.
3. INA crowd atmosphere
This was quite a shocker for a first timer like me but a most pleasing one.On days when there were INA matches, great party music was played way before the matches started and the INA crowd just lived it up.It was like a carnival and the GER team gave something to the crowd. In response, one INA fan showed us how to dance to the fast music.Picture this.He was very round and his cross section was the same whichever angle you looked at him.When he danced , it's like a stack of Michelin tyres gyrating in vertical fashion!
The INA crowd cheer is unique.Now the stadium is filled 30 rows high and angled at 45 degrees.It's a combination of songs and word cheers(and so loud Tony Cheng wisely went equipped with ear plugs).The Indonesian songs are so beautiful and inspiring.(I can't imagine our Spore crowd joining in if they play the Spore songs in SPO). My favourite cheer has to be 'MENANG' (meaning 'WIN') It follows a certain beat sequence and all the INA fans would know when to cheer 'Menang'!Now all this INA cheer is spontaneous and unorchestrated.Like abedeng said, INA Istora crowd atmosphere is the ultimate.If there's one Badminton tournament venue to travel all the way for, it has to be INA.
4.MAS cheer
For once, I was rather impressed with the new MAS cheer. No longer the lame, 'Malaysia Boleh!' They broke it up into 'Go, Malaysia, Go! Boleh, Boleh,Boleh!' And when the MAS player lost a point,they encouraged by chanting,'It's ok, it's alright,Up your play (pace?) and fight, fight, fight!' Finally MAS cheer sounds right.I hope the MAS embassy arranges for a similar support in OG08.It can make a difference.
5. Tommy Bun
During the CHN vs KOR UC SF, Tommy Bun and I were seated next to each other.Tommy is pro-CHN and I'm pro- non-CHN.At first,the crowd was quite useless except for some CHN 'jia you'.After HHY got thrashed by XXF in G1, it was quite unbearable.So I started cheering for KOR and Tommy responded in kind for CHN.It was quite hilarious but the INA crowd remained neutral.Well, I can't match Tommy for volume, so I went for frequency and timing.This annoyed one old Caucasian guy who turned around, glared and chided the cheer source. The INA crowd saw that and reacted by cheering for KOR! Thus, you saw HHY nearly upsetting XXF in G2 with a score of 21/19. Had the INA crowd been triggered into action earlier, XXF might have lost G2 and possibly G3.Thereafter, the whole crowd band turned pro-KOR and Tommy's right in the centre, the lone voice cheering for CHN. He behaved bravely, unstinting in his support for CHN.(By the way, Tommy's a rather well-mannered young man;his posts may not reflect that probably because English is not his first language.)
6.Line judging and some umpires
The standard of line judging was superb. I met some line judges in the hotel and they said they were international line judges tasked mainly to line judge matches involving INA.It's great to see BWF taking real action. Let's hope they keep it up in OG08 to upkeep badminton as a respectable sport.
Some umpires did a great job in enforcing rules.In particular, preventing CHN players from exercising delay tactics.The Caucasian ones were best at umpiring matches involving CHN; the Asian ones were useless and nothing more than score-keepers.
7.Winners all
CHN won both the TC and UC but non-CHN also must be delighted because they beat WR1:
1.WS YJ beating XXF
2.WD Lee/Lee beating Yang/Zhang
3.MS LCW beating LD
4.MD Jung/Lee beating MK/SH although Jung/Lee in turn got beaten by JR/LP.

1. INA hospitality
I can't tell you how grateful we are to both Krisna and Rudy.Both are such wonderful and generous hosts. Everything went smoothly and splendidly because of them.You can't imagine how glum our adventure would be if we had to queue up for tickets (and not get them) and not have our scrumptious supper after the last matches.We are just so lucky.
2. kwun
All these good things are made possible because of BCF and kwun. Amazing fortune and many thanks, kwun.
3. INA crowd atmosphere
This was quite a shocker for a first timer like me but a most pleasing one.On days when there were INA matches, great party music was played way before the matches started and the INA crowd just lived it up.It was like a carnival and the GER team gave something to the crowd. In response, one INA fan showed us how to dance to the fast music.Picture this.He was very round and his cross section was the same whichever angle you looked at him.When he danced , it's like a stack of Michelin tyres gyrating in vertical fashion!
The INA crowd cheer is unique.Now the stadium is filled 30 rows high and angled at 45 degrees.It's a combination of songs and word cheers(and so loud Tony Cheng wisely went equipped with ear plugs).The Indonesian songs are so beautiful and inspiring.(I can't imagine our Spore crowd joining in if they play the Spore songs in SPO). My favourite cheer has to be 'MENANG' (meaning 'WIN') It follows a certain beat sequence and all the INA fans would know when to cheer 'Menang'!Now all this INA cheer is spontaneous and unorchestrated.Like abedeng said, INA Istora crowd atmosphere is the ultimate.If there's one Badminton tournament venue to travel all the way for, it has to be INA.
4.MAS cheer
For once, I was rather impressed with the new MAS cheer. No longer the lame, 'Malaysia Boleh!' They broke it up into 'Go, Malaysia, Go! Boleh, Boleh,Boleh!' And when the MAS player lost a point,they encouraged by chanting,'It's ok, it's alright,Up your play (pace?) and fight, fight, fight!' Finally MAS cheer sounds right.I hope the MAS embassy arranges for a similar support in OG08.It can make a difference.
5. Tommy Bun
During the CHN vs KOR UC SF, Tommy Bun and I were seated next to each other.Tommy is pro-CHN and I'm pro- non-CHN.At first,the crowd was quite useless except for some CHN 'jia you'.After HHY got thrashed by XXF in G1, it was quite unbearable.So I started cheering for KOR and Tommy responded in kind for CHN.It was quite hilarious but the INA crowd remained neutral.Well, I can't match Tommy for volume, so I went for frequency and timing.This annoyed one old Caucasian guy who turned around, glared and chided the cheer source. The INA crowd saw that and reacted by cheering for KOR! Thus, you saw HHY nearly upsetting XXF in G2 with a score of 21/19. Had the INA crowd been triggered into action earlier, XXF might have lost G2 and possibly G3.Thereafter, the whole crowd band turned pro-KOR and Tommy's right in the centre, the lone voice cheering for CHN. He behaved bravely, unstinting in his support for CHN.(By the way, Tommy's a rather well-mannered young man;his posts may not reflect that probably because English is not his first language.)
6.Line judging and some umpires
The standard of line judging was superb. I met some line judges in the hotel and they said they were international line judges tasked mainly to line judge matches involving INA.It's great to see BWF taking real action. Let's hope they keep it up in OG08 to upkeep badminton as a respectable sport.
Some umpires did a great job in enforcing rules.In particular, preventing CHN players from exercising delay tactics.The Caucasian ones were best at umpiring matches involving CHN; the Asian ones were useless and nothing more than score-keepers.
7.Winners all
CHN won both the TC and UC but non-CHN also must be delighted because they beat WR1:
1.WS YJ beating XXF
2.WD Lee/Lee beating Yang/Zhang
3.MS LCW beating LD
4.MD Jung/Lee beating MK/SH although Jung/Lee in turn got beaten by JR/LP.
and number 8, now me or rather the whole bc forums knows that you are a girl:):p:p

We took photo with Misbun and Rashid right after Misbun explained to us lengthy on how LCW beaten LD....

See our faces, u will know how happy we were, that time.....:D
..Louisa and luyi80, i'm giggling a bit looking at the 2 pics above (post #79). So much contrast. In the 1st pic, with Misbun, both of you guys were so playful, showing your arms, hands and giving 2 thumbs up. However, when i look at the 2nd picture, with Rashid, i notice you guys were so reserved, hiding everything aside or behind the back..?!?!..:confused: :);)
...
(pjswift's wonderful experiences snipped for brevity)...
..pjswift, thanks for sharing your own account of your experiences. Glad you enjoyed the happenings and gatherings!:):cool:

It was good to hear Misbun's analysis on Malaysia's fortunes, Olympic chances and performance of his charges. Indeed, he is a great coach, though he can't do much about Mr Yo Yo Hafiz. Hafiz did what he could, but Misbun admits it was not the best Hafiz could play, anyway Hafiz was always behind CJ in 4 areas including fitness and tactical play.

Misbun mentioned that LD was kept guessing about what type of play LCW was going to bring out. So when LCW played a more patient game ala French Open SS final during the start of the match, LD was unable to follow suit. He was more accustomed to high speed high pace game normally played out by both players.

Forgot to ask Misbun how Wong Mew Choo is holding up under his training. From what we see, her performance and speed has improved (beat HHY on account of fast paced rally alone) but still couldn't neutralize the power of tall Tine Rasmussen.

..Louisa and luyi80, i'm giggling a bit looking at the 2 pics above (post #79). So much contrast. In the 1st pic, with Misbun, both of you guys were so playful, showing your arms, hands and giving 2 thumbs up. However, when i look at the 2nd picture, with Rashid, i notice you guys were so reserved, hiding everything aside or behind the back..?!?!..:confused: :);)

..pjswift, thanks for sharing your own account of your experiences. Glad you enjoyed the happenings and gatherings!:):cool:
Errrrrrrrrrr....ok, I admit that we were so happy when taking photo with Misbun...why? that was right after he explained everything to us, there was interaction among us....as for Rashid, we went straight to him and asking for picture...no interaction between us...so, that's the reason why...

One more thing is that...we were so happy LCW beaten LD, and after all the explanation by Misbun, we became more happier...hahahahaha

I had taken photo with my super idol of all time (beside the great ZN)...Mr. Ong Ewe Hock...he is a nice guy...will post it once later....