TIGER JAMMED

Last weekend, Tiger Woods and friends rocked the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas and raised over $1.5M for his foundation and other local charities. Prior to the show, VIP guests attended the Tiger Jam X reception, which featured a silent auction. Items up for grabs and final bids? A putting lesson with Tiger Woods at the 2007 Target World Challenge: $95,000. A trip to the 2008 Olympic Games in Beijing, China: $125,000. A “meet and eat greet” and lunch with Bon Jovi: $64,000. A Buick Enclave autographed by Tiger: $50,000. The Tiger Jam concert featured Jon Bon Jovi-still looking good after all these years, and should-have-been-auctioned-off hot-hot-hottie, Chris Daughtry, who’s arms I would have gladly placed an extremely high a bid on. Video from Tiger Woods Jam 07 can be seen here.

I LOVE PAPI
Yesterday, David Ortiz, (Beast o’ the Red Sox), visited the Jeremiah E. Burke High School in Dorchester, Mass, to ask students: “How would a scholarship help you fulfill your potential inside the classroom and out in the community?” The beast, along with Reebok, have launched the Reebok 4 Real Education and Community Program, which will provide product to the school and scholarships to two deserving students.

“In my situation, I really think I had a good life as a kid, because I received a lot of love from my parents and family and I had a really good education and that was one of the most important things,” Ortiz told the attentive audience. “We didn’t have the financial status, but they gave me the most important thing that goes with it” education, love and teach people how to care. And because of that, I worked extra hard.” As a guide in writing their essays, the students will be encouraged to use Ortiz’s professional success and personal commitment to helping disadvantaged youth. U.S.-based Reebok employees will review the entries and vote for the two essays they think best answer the question. The winners will be guests at the July 3rd Red Sox game at Fenway Park. In addition to the scholarships, Reebok will provide fitness equipment and product to the school. On behalf of Ortiz, Reebok will also award a $2,500 scholarship to each of two students in Ortiz’s native Dominican Republic.

MAN V HORSE

After the Reebok 4 Real Education launch yesterday, it was announced that the campaign will be rolled out to other schools around the world with Reebok hotties and artists including Thierry Henry, reggaeton recording artist Daddy Yankee and Cincinnati Bengals Bad Boy Chad Johnson. Which leads me to this interesting little blurb…Chad will race against a horse at River Downs on June 9 to benefit the charity Feed The Children. It will be simulcast to over 400 outlets in the U.S. and South America and be dubbed “Man vs. Beast.” Johnson and the horse will break from different distances “calculated to create a photo finish.” You may think this sounds like they pulled the idea outta the air, but historically, its a real event. They’ve been hosting Man V Horse marathons in Llanwrtyd Wells (Wales) for over 25 years! In 2004, Hew Lobb was the first man to win the event, which pits man (on foot) against horse.

WHEN IN ROME

I always thought it was the hot Italian men and the shopping that kept me returning to Rome each year, but I guess I was wrong. Scientists have discovered particles of cocaine and marijuana, as well as caffeine and tobacco, in the air of Italy’s capital. Calling their study “the first in the world to show the presence of particles of cocaine suspended in the atmosphere of the city,” the researchers said they took samples in Rome, the southern city of Taranto and in Algiers in North Africa. Nicotine and caffeine were detected in all three, “showing how widespread consumption of these substances is and how they remain in the atmosphere,” state-funded CNR said in a statement. So, when in Rome, remember to inhale deeply and avoid those back-alley 420 scooter runs.

DREW CAREY V US SOCCER

At a VIP invitation-only event on Tuesday, June 5 from 7-10 p.m. at The Home Depot Center in Carson, Calif., Drew Carey will play five players from both the U.S. Men’s and Women’s National Soccer Teams in FIFA Soccer 07 on the Xbox 360 video game and entertainment system from Microsoft, and for every game he loses, he’s throwing in $10,000 bucks to benefit the Mooch Myernick Memorial Fund. Drew will square off against such hotties as the self-described EA Sports king and U.S. National Team edible Landon Donovan, and World Cup veteran Kasey Keller, among others. After every game, a ticket will be drawn from the winner’s pot for a chance to win gift packs that will include: signed jerseys from all the participating U.S. Soccer players, an autographed football from San Diego Charger LaDainian Tomlinson, a signed jersey from Manchester United and England bulldog Wayne Rooney, an autographed game jersey from Memphis Grizzlies Paul Gasol, two EA SPORTS Xbox 360 game libraries, three nights accommodation at a Doubletree Hotel, and a much more. And starting June 6th on Ebay, look for an Xbox 360 Elite signed by Drew and the U.S. Soccer participants which will be auctioned off for charity.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.

CHELSEA IN GHANA

“As a Chelsea and Ghana player it is great to make a commitment to helping children in Africa and other areas of the world. I am particularly looking forward to getting involved in my home country”.
Michael Essien, Right To Play Athlete Ambassador.

A few smoking hot Chelsea babes, including Michael Essien, and their sultry manager Jose Mourinho, have arrived in Ghana for the first humanitarian mission between Chelsea and Right to Play. Chelsea’s first global charity partner, Right to Play aims to improve the lives of children in the most disadvantaged areas of the world by using the power of sport and play for development, health and peace.

“Everyone at the club is fully behind the work of Right To Play and we are all proud to support them,” said Mourinho. “Sport, particularly football, has a certain power. It is a world language, something where cultural difference does not matter. Because it is the world language you can reach everybody and if you have a big status in the game you have a big responsibility to use that power properly. And what better way to use it than for kids around the world to be healthier, fitter, fight disease, war, poverty. Football can and should help with this. It also reminds you that there are more important things than football.”

CALM DOWN

Everybody just needs to calm down. Yes it is true, for the first time since 1973, no men from the US will play in the second round at the French Open. All nine American hotties entered in the clay-court Grand Slam lost their opening matches. Robby Ginepri, Andy Roddick, James Blake, Vince Spadea, Justin Gimelstob, Amer Delic, Robert Kendrick, Sam Querry and Michael Russell, gone. But why such angst? I’ll certainly miss James Booty Blake, and didn’t enjoy the condescending look on Igor Andreev’s face when he sent Andy Roddick home packing, but there’s still pa-lenty of ultra-fine creatures to captivate us during the event.

Hottie Mikhail Youzhny, the sexy Russian Justin Timberlake look-a-like who lost the Dubai Final to the Swiss Mister, is still a very active participant in my dancing ovaries. Spanish treat Carlos I-need-mo Moya, has a very strong foothold on my libido, as does blonde from down under, Lleyton Hewitt. And of course, Spanish delicacy Rafael Nadal is driving this cougar insane. I love my US hotties, but for this event, I’m honed in on a little European flava.

MOMENTUM

Nike. Just the word itself turns me on. In their latest spot, Momentum, they essentially capture every beautiful nuance of the finest Spanish treats. The TV spot currently airing in Spain, stars (ah-hem) our tapa, Rafael Nadal, Pau Gasol, Ronaldinho (who is actually Brazilian), Sergio Ramos and Fernando Torres. The hotties are seen in a Fight Club scenario where a rowdy crowd eggs them on. Nadal responds with a series of nasty volleys that sent me over the edge, Gasol dunks a basketball against four defenders and Ronaldinho juggles a soccer ball before shooting a 25-foot basket using his foot. The crowd is silenced. Tag: “Just do it.” Also, be sure to watch the making of Momentum for extra, must-see footage of the beasts in action.

STREET CENSUS

Speaking of flava, you gotta check out this new website. Street Census ‘brings you the latest on what’s in and what’s out, what’s hot and what’s not and ranks them for your pleasure.’ Their latest list? The top 10 worst-best athlete rappers. You can listen to Allen Iverson’s 40 Bars, C-Webbs Gansta Gansta, Haters by Mensa reject Ron Artest, and even princess Kobe rapping with 50 Cent. All top ten athlete-rapper songs are available, so if you’ve got your earplugs ready, check it out. Other cool ‘lists: ESPN’s 50 Greatest Boxers of All Time, and the Top 5 Blaxplotation Flicks. I’d like to see a Top Five Most Overlooked Hotties List and a Where the Hell is Carmelt-in-my-mouth-Anthony in-the-off-season chart.

LOAN ME DAVID BECKHAM
So David Beckham gets recalled to England’s national team and the Galaxy gets their panties in a twist. Once again, everyone needs to chill out. FIFA has warned the Galaxy that they will not be able to prevent David Beckham from playing in friendlies for his country. Galaxy President & GM Alexi Lalas “only wants to release [Beckham] for competitive internationals, but FIFA insists the club will have no choice if Beckham continues to be picked by England manager Steve McClaren.” Lalas said, “I don’t want to stand in the way of a player representing his country but we have to be prudent and understand they have to be the appropriate games. I would think they would have to be competitive matches.” In London, Sam Wallace reported Beckham has a clause in his contract with the Galaxy that “stipulates he can play for England whether he is selected for Euro 2008 qualifiers or friendlies.” Beckham is “adamant that he will not be prevented from representing England and would even invoke FIFA regulations that dictate players must be released for international duty.” (ESPNSOCCERNET.com)

First of all, Beckham has already generated enough revenue for the Galaxy to pay his salary plus-some. Secondly, this is the way the rest of the entire world plays soccer, lending out their players to various clubs. The Galaxy could actually benefit from Beckham playing in the friendlies if they would embrace this move and use it an opportunity to introduce US soccer fans to European soccer. And although US Soccer will never reach the same religious proportions as it has elsewhere, can’t we just stop trying to dominate everything in the world and take a cue from Beck’s, because after all, they’re not called ‘friendlies’ for nothing.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.

MONACO GRAND PRIX

Between the Monaco Grand Prix and Indy 500, there was a ton of pavement covered this weekend. First, enormous props go to the Speed Channel, specifically, Peter Windsor, for his A+ pre-race reporting skills from Monaco. Windsor didn’t just work the crowd, but instead, walked us through a maze of impromptu interviews with some racing babes and even tried to bust into an interview with Jude Law before he was shoved aside. Windsor didn’t miss a beat, continued to push his way through the crowd and earned himself a gold-star for his unparalled interview skills. To watch this man in action, check it out here.

And I’m starting to feel like a broken record…uber-sexy Spaniard Fernando Alonso (McLaren-Mercedes) captured his second straight victory at the Monaco Grand Prix this Sunday, followed by, yeah you know it- British beast Lewis Hamilton. (Thereby reaching the leading position of the F1 World Championship.) Brazilian Felipe Massa (Ferrari) was third runner up. The event was littered with celebrities, bling, and a certain younger brother of Lewis Hamilton…Nick (R). To watch real-time action of the winners spornographically spraying each other with champagne, you can also check that out at the Athlebrites group on YouTube.

FRANCHETTI AND ASHLEY WIN INDY 500

Yesterday I continued my motor-sports marathon with the Indy 500. I cringed when Milka crashed, cheered for Danica as she held her own, and really wanted Tony Kanaan to pop his cherry and win his first Indy. Unfortunately, rain halted the race after 113 of their scheduled 200 laps. At that point, Tony Kanaan was leading and there were enough laps on the books to call it an official race. But when the rain stopped and the cars went back to racing, Kanaan got kissed by a crash that caused him to lose precious time and effectively give the victory over to Scottish hottie Dario Franchitti.

Which leads me to this question…what the hell is wrong with Ashley Judd? Yeah I know they’re married. Yeah I know she supports her husband. Yeah, we get it…but Ashley, YOU didn’t win the race. Did anyone else notice that when her hot hubby removed his helmet, Ashers leaned in to give him a kiss and he brushed her aside? “He won like a true gentleman,” she said after the race while she ran around like a chicken with her head cut off. Don’t get me wrong; I don’t mind her, at least not yet. (She is dangerously close to obtaining Longoria status though) I was just blown-away by how out of place she seemed, and how hubby Franchitti thanked everyone for the win, except his adoring wife.

IAN POULTER DESIGNS ME

Painfully reminding me that I need to be at the BMW PGA Championships next year, Ian Poulter teased the hell outta every bone in my body when he unveiled the European Tour Golf Collection at Wentworth. His head-covers do scare me a little bit, however, if carefully placed on an appropriate sized club, they could be very useful for some non-golf activities…Beginning in July, check out www.europeantourshop.net for the Ian Poulter collection.

MICHAEL VICK WAS THERE
Ah, yes…it was just a matter of time before someone came forward for their 15 minutes to confirm that Michael Vick was indeed fighting dogs. ESPN has reported that Michael Vick was at a dogfight in 2000 and is “one of the heavyweights” in the sport. The network Sunday cited a police informant whom a dog-fighting investigator called extremely reliable. “That’s who bets a large dollar,” the informant said on the show ‘Outside the Lines’. “And they have the money to bet large money. As I’m talking about large money, 30 to 40 thousand, even higher. He’s one of the heavyweights.” When asked how he knows Vick bets that amount, the informant said, “because I’ve seen it.” The informant said his dog beat Vick’s dog in 2000, the year before Vick was chosen by the Falcons with the first overall pick in the NFL draft. Investigator David Hunt said information from the informant has “resulted in the arrest of several individuals over the past few years, numerous search warrants, as well as convictions.” Surry County (Va.) Commonwealth attorney Gerald Poindexter said Friday he is confident charges will be brought in the investigation of a possible dog-fighting…two words for ya Vick. Ha Ha.

R.I.P.

Too bad Michael Vick wasn’t jetskiing this weekend…the body believed to be New England Patriots player Marquise Hill was found by searchers Monday, a day after he was reported missing following a jetski accident on Lake Pontchartrain. “The family will have to make positive identification,” Capt. Brian Clark of the Louisiana Wildlife and Fisheries Department said. “But the body we found was that of Mr. Marquise Hill.” Rest in peace my friend, rest in peace.

**ATHLETE CHARITY EVENTS CALENDAR**
There are so many worthwhile charity events, but it seems like we never hear about them until after the fact. I’m about to change that. In efforts to keep you all up to date, I have added a new category (link on the right) which will list all upcoming Athlete-Charity-Foundation Events. The calendar will be updated as events are announced, so please check back frequently to make sure you don’t miss an opportunity to give something back to the good-guys who entertain us year round. And if there’s an event not listed, please email me, I don’t care if it’s in China or New York, just tip me off so I can give props and together we can help make the world a better place for the beneficiaries of the Athletes’ Foundations & Charities.

***THIS WEEK: STR8 TLK WITH ANDY MACDONALD***
Students from six (6) New Hampshire elementary, middle and high schools will this week participate in a motivational program hosted by Andy Macdonald, the world’s top-ranked professional vert skateboarder. Through the “STR8 TLK” program sponsored by Verizon Wireless, Macdonald will tour Dover Middle School, Dover High School, Greenland Central School, Seabrook Elementary, Seabrook Middle School, and Rye Junior High School. For all the details…check out the Athlebrity Calendar.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.

TAPAS FOR DINNER

Today, I plan on devouring a massive serving of tapas. Starting with a small plate of extra large Spanish olives served on a bed of pink shirts. Then onto a main course of gently aged and perfectly stretched biceps, followed by an extra large serving of Rafael ala Mode. Eat up peeps; the French Open begins on Sunday.

SHEVCHENKO AND POULTER

The Athlebrity gods have been so good to me lately that I don’t know what to do with myself. On Wednesday, during the BMW Pro-Am championships at the Wentworth Golf Club, my spornographic dreams came true when Ian Poulter teed off with Andriy Shevchenko. Flashy Poulter is a huge Arsenal fan, and played in a (ah-hem) four-ball with Chelsea babe Shevchenko and former Arsenal players Lee Dixon and Ray Parlour.

TIME TO BADA-BLING

Oh how time flies…it’s hard to belive it’s been almost a year since I Bada-Blinged, and now the countdown has started. On July 20-22, Chris Webber will be hosting his second annual C-Webb’s Bada-Bling Celebrity Weekend in Las Vegas. This fantastic event includes celebrity (Athlebrity) poker, golf and a Soiree to include live music and an auction. Confirmed hotties that will be parading around the event include Nas, Kelis, Charles Barkley, Kenny Smith, Juwan Howard, Scot Pollard, Doug Christie (and his wife of course), and some of my Motor City Pistons Beasts. All proceeds benefit Webber’s Foundation, so you can party without guilt while helping out a worthwhile cause. In case your memory needs jolting, here’s last years Bada-Bling review. (July 31st, 2006).

MICHAEL VICKS ROAD TO RUIN
I’d like to take a moment to thank the 81.6% of you who agree with me that Michael Vick lacks any credibility. In a recent poll conducted on ESPN.com, readers were asked: Do you believe Michael Vick’s (asinine) statement that he WASN’T involved in the dog fighting at a home he owned (and then sold to his friend the day after it was raided)? 81.6% of you called ‘bullshit’ while the remaining 18.4% of you are apparently retarded.

And poor Drew Rosenhaus. When the agent heard that his client Clinton Portis made statements that seemed to support dog fighting, it didn’t go over too well. “I’ve had dogs my entire life and I personally find dog fighting cruel, vicious and evil,” he said Wednesday. (Portis was asked Monday about the investigation into possible dog fighting at Atlanta quarterback Michael Vick’s Virginia home. “It’s his property; it’s his dogs,” Portis told a Norfolk, Va., television station. “If that’s what he wants to do, do it.”) So Rosenhaus did what any respectable agent would do. He sat down with the Reject Portis and talked to him about it. “He said, ‘Drew, I didn’t mean for the way that came out. All I was saying, I wasn’t condoning dog fighting. I wasn’t condoning Michael Vick’s conduct. All I was saying is that people should give him the benefit of the doubt until he’s been charged or found guilty,” Rosenhaus said. LOL. If that’s what he meant, why didn’t he say it when the cameras were rolling? The agent then immediately began a public relations campaign to clear Portis’ name. I’d say it’s too little, too late. (But I still love ya Drew).

I WANT A PAIR

Seriously, I really need a pair of these Big Papi Loafers…The Boston Globe reports that Reebok “has created a second shoe” for Sexy beast David Ortiz, but the Big Papi Soquas “aren’t for sale,” according to gossip columnists Beggy & Shanahan of the Boston Globe. Reebok sent Ortiz 55 pairs of the leather loafers “bearing [his] smiling face over the toes” during Spring Training, and sources said that Reebok “just ordered up another 60 pairs” for him. Reebok VP/Sports Marketing Todd Krinsky said, “We’re considering having a limited number of pairs available [for consumers] in the near future.” I suggest ya’ll email Todd Krinsky and urge him to release these yummy Papi treats to us consumers. (Todd.Krinsky@reebok.com)

**ATHLETE CHARITY EVENTS CALENDAR**
There are so many worthwhile charity events, but it seems like we never hear about them until after the fact. I’m about to change that. In efforts to keep you all up to date, I have added a new category (link on the right) which will list all upcoming Athlete-Charity-Foundation Events. The calendar will be updated as events are announced, so please check back frequently to make sure you don’t miss an opportunity to give something back to the good-guys who entertain us year round. And if there’s an event not listed, please email me, I don’t care if it’s in China or New York, just tip me off so I can give props and together we can help make the world a better place for the beneficiaries of the Athletes’ Foundations &Charities.

THIS WEEKEND!!!

TIGER WOODS FOUNDATION: TIGER JAM
Tiger Jam presented by AT&T is a unique benefit concert showcasing premier musical talent each year to raise funds for the Tiger Woods Foundation. This year marks the 10th anniversary of Tiger Jam with rock legend Bon Jovi returning to the stage on May 26, 2007, at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.

VIVA ITALIA
.
They came. They saw. They conquered.

I’m willing to bet that Dolce & Gabbana had a hand in dressing the best soccer team in Europe. With AC Milan flags hanging from the cockpit window, the Champions landed at the Milan airport looking exceptionally fine in their red-black color scheme, holding roses and donning those sexy medals around their necks. And yes Paolo, I will accept the rose. The hotties then took the Trophy on a parade through the streets of Milan, circled my ovaries, and landed dead-center on my libido.

ANDY RODDICK GETS PUMPED

Oh Andy, Andy, Andy. If ONLY those were your arms you might not have lost today. The eternally sexy Roddick was spanked outta the quarterfinals of the Hypo Group International by Frenchy Gael Monfils. Perhaps Andy has been distracted by the latest cover of Men’s Fitness? The obvious doesn’t need to be stated, Andy got airbrushed. Which is a shame really, cuz dude if fine without any touch-ups, and I actually prefer a leaner Roddick. Andy responded to the Photoshop job performed on his cover shot: “I spent the last few weeks in Austin really focused on my training and getting back into shape…but pretty sure I’m not as fit as the Men’s Fitness cover suggests…little did I know I have 22 inch guns and a disappearing birth mark on my right arm. I saw the cover for the first time when I landed after Rome…it was pretty funny…I walked by the newsstand in the airport and did a total double take …I can barely figure out how to work the red-eye tool on my digital camera…whoever did this has mad skills…maybe Rafael Nadal wants his arms back?…if you can manage to stop laughing at the cover long enough, check out the article inside, the photo shoot on the boat was pretty cool..and I recognize the person in those photos…”

MONACO HEATING UP

If these beasts can’t sell you on Formula One I don’t know who can. Brazilian Ferrari driver Felipe Massa: HOT. British Honda driver Jenson Button: HOT. German BMW-Sauber driver Nick Heidfeld: HOT. Italian Toyota driver Jarno Trulli: Hot.

And British McLaren-Mercedes driver Lewis Hamilton: HOTTEST. If you’ve been following my libido, you know that Hamilton is quickly becoming the Athlebrity of the Year. Why? Because after the second practice session of the Monaco Formula One Grand Prix, Hamilton came in third. Alonso clocked the best time followed by Finnish Ferrari driver Kimi Raikkonen and then Hamilton. But it came with a price. After a nearly perfect season so far, the 22-year-old rookie suffered his first crash during the second practice for this weekend’s event. (Hamilton was unhurt, but his car suffered some damage on the left side.) “Today was the first time I ever drove a Formula One car around Monaco and it was awesome,” Hamilton said in a team statement. “I found out how unforgiving the track can be when I went off in the second session. … I made a tiny mistake and the back of the car slipped a little and that was it. There is just no room for error in Monaco.” Hamilton won in Monaco in Formula 3 and GP2 over the last two years, and is now looking for his first Formula One victory. He comes to the race as the youngest driver ever to lead the championship, after finishing in the top three in his first four races, a Formula One record. The drivers have a traditional off-day on Friday, with qualifying on Saturday. Sunday’s race is 78 laps. (MetroNews)

NEW HOOPS SITCOM?
According to one of my favorite bloggers, Quibian Salazar-Moreno (AOL Black Voices), Kenny Smith is teaming up with Jamie Foxx to produce a new project for TBS. “It’s a show that we are developing,” Smith told The SportsInterview.com. “It is myself, Jamie Foxx, our writers Lamont Ferrell, and Jamie Foxx’s team consists of Marcus King. We have been doing an interesting show about an NBA player that has to live at home. That’s the basis of it. It’s a sitcom, obviously. A guy living at home with his family, a young guy who just makes the NBA.”

CHRIS PAUL HELPS REBUILD

Chris Paul (New Orleans Hornets) unveiled of a new basketball court at Sarah T. Reed High School as part of the Toyota Tundra Turnaround program in New Orleans. Reed Athletic Director Gavin Lewis said his school had to play all of its home basketball games on the road last season because Hurricane Katrina flooded its gym and Sarah Reed has not recovered as quickly as some of the other areas in the city. “These students need this because there is nothing out there right now,” Lewis said. “Not many stores have opened or community places for kids to do something. So to be able to have something where they can come and play basketball or volleyball like this gym is exciting for the area.” It’s also very exciting for us Athlebrities-who-give-back-are-hot subscribers. “I love to give back, and what’s special about New Orleans is the people,” Paul said Tuesday. “I’m excited about getting back here. Everywhere you go, anybody find out that you are with the Hornets, they say like, ‘Man, we support you.’ I love that feeling.” And for that, Chris Paul earns a mighty-mighty-good-man nod. (Nola.com)

BMW PGA CHAMPIONSHIPS

It’s oh-so-sultry in Surrey England right now as some fine creatures from the wonderful world of golf tee off for the BMW Championships. Giving me reason to watch, flash-kat Ian Poulter, and two Swedish babes, Johan Edfors and Robert Karlsson. I have no idea who Karlsson is, but my eyes are enjoying him. And I know I don’t need to sell you on Edfors…those arms, white pants and ideally poised belt buckle? I’d say a fitting substitution for our missing kitten Villegas.

ANTE UP FOR AFRICA
This may be a bit random, but I gotta give props when they are due. Actor Don Cheadle and poker player Annie Duke announced the Ante Up For Africa tournament July 5 at the ’07 World Series of Poker, which will help raise awareness about the crisis in Darfur. There will be a $5,000 buy-in, and while players are not required to make a donation to enter the tournament, Duke and Cheadle are asking winners to donate half of their prize money to the Enough Project and the Int’l Rescue Committee. Wonder if Lebron James knows how to play poker?

BORJE SALMING BARES ALL

Dude is 56 years old and NOW he takes it all off? Hockey HOFer Borje Salming has posed for 31 nude paintings by artist Johan Wattberg. Ten will be displayed in Stockholm tonight and the rest will be shown in Toronto this fall. The paintings aren’t quite eligible for our sporn collections but would certainly give Oscar Wilde fodder for a Dorian Gray sequel.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.

LIVERPOOL CAUGHT IN THE JAWS OF DEFEAT

AC Milan fans want their marbles back, the po-po are protesting, the riot police are out in full force and the Liverpool fans have proven themselves to be litter bugs…what a scene in Athens today.

Starting things off, retired head-butter, Zinedine Zidane graced the stadium with his hotness while giving out ‘footballs’ to young soccer fans. While outside the stadium, AC Milan fans were more interested in getting the Parthenon Marbles returned from the British Museum in London. Greek governments have lobbied Britain for two DECADES to secure the return of the Marbles, which were removed and taken to London during the Ottoman occupation of Greece by the British ambassador Lord Elgin. Sorry kids, but after two decades, I’d say concentrate on the marbles taking the field today and give up rescuing something that no one has any idea what you’re talking about.

Oh my Paolo Maldini. Those eyes…legs…lips…marbles…I guess I’d fight for two decades to keep Maldini and his legs on the field. I’d also fight for some Kaka and his luscious lips…these are men worthy of banners and decades of fighting for.

The first half was uneventful until Filippo Inzaghi got things started in the 44th minute when he took a pass from Pirlo (on a free kick) and slammed that beautiful ball into the net for a 1-0 AC Milan orgasmic lead. The second half: 82nd minute…Inzaghi again quiets Liverpool and makes it 2-0. Legendary would be an understatement. I dare the commentators to say ‘Liverpool is the best’ one more time. Liverpool was able to wipe some egg off their face with a goal in the 88th minute, but in the end, they couldn’t stop Paolo Maldini and his boys from grabbing the coveted trophy, and it seems that finally, AC Milan has been avenged.

Liverpool played their hearts out, and trust me, I’m not a fan but can give props when necessary. Sexy captain Steven Gerard and his pasty boys took so many shots on goal that I was sure they’d spank my hot-Italians. And when the camera panned to Peter Crouch, topless, getting ready to take the field, I was painfully reminded why I support AC Milan and not Liverpool. The Liverpool fans also gave me good reason to cheer for my Italian creatures. Clearly it’s a no brainer that AC Milan fans are much easier on the eyes than some Liverpool supporters.

For the seventh time in history, AC Milan are the Champions of Europe.

LEWIS HAMILTON GETS BLINGED

Now were talking…F1 rookie sensation, Lewis Hamilton is living the high life. Hamilton will be wearing Steinmetz diamonds on the side of his racing helmet during the Monaco Formula One Grand Prix. “I’m blinged out. I got bling on my helmet, how cool is that,” cooed the sexy 22-year-old rookie at a presentation organized by the diamond company, which is a McLaren team sponsor.

Both Hamilton, and double world champion teammate Fernando Alonso, will wear helmets with ‘Monaco 07′ written in white diamonds on the side. Both helmets will then be auctioned for charities chosen by the drivers. (Guardian)

ENOUGH WITH THE EXHIBITIONS

The only good thing that might come of this is if Pete Sampras can school the Swiss-Mister. At least that what I’d hope for. The current number one will face the former number one at the Venetian Macao Tennis Showdown, Saturday, November 24th in the People’s Republic of China. In the 2001 Wimbledon, Federer beat Sampras in the only match they previously played. Sampras holds the most Grand Slams (14), the most Wimbledon Titles, (7), and holds the record for the most number of weeks as world No 1, (286). Nick Freyer, senior vice president, IMG Tennis, Asia: “Roger contacted Pete in Los Angeles (of course he did!), and Pete invited him to play at his house. They hit a few balls, played some points then some sets. The scores were close and Pete was thrilled with the way he played. From this game the idea of a Tennis Showdown was born.” Of course it did! And how did the Swiss-Mister perform against Sampras at this friendly home-game? “The game was close and Pete was playing great tennis, but not good enough to beat me. I won’t be telling you the score though!” Federer said, “The tennis was so good that we felt it was a pity not to share the shots, energy, and excitement with the world one more time. We are both delighted to be visiting Asia and Macao and putting on a great game for our many fans in the region.” Translation: Federer needs to feed his ego.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.

MESMERIZED BY MALDINI

Captain Paolo Maldini is set to return for AC Milan in the Champions League final after being declared fit to play. He’s also been declared more than fit to play with my libido.

Andrea Pirlo and the AC Milan babes are fired up to battle those pasty Liverpudlians and claim their 7th European crown. “We are a great team and they will have to be on their guard not only because of me but because of the quality of the rest of my team-mates,” he said. “Likewise, we will have to be careful with Liverpool because they have great players too.” Liverpool should be afraid, especially of Brazilian beast (Ricardo) Kaka (above). The tasty midfielder struck three of Milan’s five goals in the semi-final tie against Manchester United and is currently the top scorer in the competition with 10 goals. “Kaka has been very important for us this season,” said Pirlo. “He has shown yet again what a great player he is.” Indeed! And there’s nothing like being in a pub full of Milan fans all chanting Kaka at the top of their lungs…just another reason why it is A Beautiful Game.

PGA CHARITY TOURNEMENT: ON LINE
World Golf Tour, in collaboration with PGA.com, today introduced the Beta version of its new online golf game with the launch of the PGA.com Charity Challenge Tournament. For the first time ever, we can get a taste of the worlds most authentic online golf experience and help children in need…On-line golf experience AND help kids? The month-long competition showcases World Golf Tour’s 3D photo technology, while benefiting three educational charities: Teach For America, Sheltering Arms and After-School All-Stars. Sponsors PGA.com, TaylorMade-adidas Golf, Walters Golf, Mandalay Bay, Hint Water, and Golfnow.com have teamed up with World Golf Tour to award $30,000 in prizes to participants of the challenge. Throughout the competition, 10 winners will receive prizes each day, including TaylorMade r7 Irons, TaylorMade Burner Drivers, adidas polo shirts, and a trip to Las Vegas with accommodations at Mandalay Bay – plus a round of golf at the Bali Hai Golf Club. The Grand Prize includes a trip for two to Hawaii, with four rounds of golf. Players can access the free game at: www.pga.com/home/contestsandpromotions/index.cfm.

The only thing missing is a 3D comparison of Camilo Villegas crawling. These two shots of our golf kitten at the Players illustrate just how consistent the beast is while lining up his shot. Notice the placement of his hands? Same grip on the (ah-hem) shaft, same placement of his perfectly sprawled fingers…just enough hip-lift to make us wonder what’s left between he and the green…the vein in his tan-strong bicep popping in exactly the same place…the look of concentration on his flawless face…I do belive our Camilo can do no wrong.

FINALLY

And not to ignore the other golf hottie who’s got a hold on my libido, Adam Scott. Looks like our Burberry babe is luring as many women to the greens as Villegas. Props to this mom for using her daughter effectively. Now will someone pa-leeze put on one of my cute Fore Play hoodies and get your ass on the green!

CLINTON PORTIS IS AN IDIOT
Yesterday, investigators failed to clear Michael Vick of involvement in his dog-fighting operation. Commonwealth’s Attorney Gerald G. Poindexter and investigators met at the Surry County Government Center to review evidence of the case for the first time. Brown said he didn’t expect an indictment to come this week, but the time frame for legal action would likely be “weeks, not months.” This week, there have been two people, of questionable intelligence, to actually support Vick on this. This first is Vicks neighbor, Ernest Hardy, who has lived in his doublewide trailer since 1973. “I have a natural gift for observing things,” Hardy said, “and I haven’t seen or heard any evidence of dog-fighting. If it had been going on, it seems like I should have heard something.” Key word: Doublewide trailer. Reason for his comments: Lets check his bank account and find out. (USA Today).

And then there is Clinton Portis. Portis’ recent comments on Michael Vick reflect a severe lack of intelligence. “I don’t know if he was fighting dogs or not, but it’s his property, it’s his dog,” Washington Redskins running back Clinton Portis told WAVY-TV in Virginia. “If that’s what he wants to do, do it. I think people should mind their business.” When told that dog fighting is a felony, Portis replied, “It can’t be too bad of a crime. You want to hunt down Mike Vick over fighting some dogs? I know a lot of back roads that have the dog fighting if you want to go see it,” he said. (Watch the video here). Throughout his comments, Portis is seen with another idiot, laughing and making light of the situation. Hello- there is a camera and microphone in front of you-it might not be the best time to support ILLEGAL dog fights. Clinton Portis is a complete idiot, and his comments proved it. Educate yourself before you open up your pie-hole again, pa-leeze.

BEST BUDDIES

This is definitely an event that Clinton Portis and Michael Vick could have benefited from. NFL poster child, Tom Brady made a smoking hot appearance at an event benefiting Anthony Kennedy Shriver’s Best Buddies International. The organization is dedicated to enhancing the lives of people with intellectual disabilities by providing opportunities for one-to-one friendships and integrated employment.

KARMA’S GONNA GET CHA

HA! LeBron James choked last night and was held to ten points as Sheedy and the Pistons delivered some karma to the Darfur-snubbing reject. Pistons take game one 79-76 of the NBA Eastern Conference finals.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.

HOTTIES CHECKED IN

It should be illegal to use the words “hotel” and “AC Milan” in the same sentence. But the gods are smiling upon us, and the smoking hot Milan babes have descended upon southern Athens (Greece) in preparation of the much-anticipated (UEFA) Champions League Final. Captain of my heart, Paulo Maldini, checked in, and as of today, he’s well enough to play what could be his last game. I’m fine with it as long as he continues his modeling career.

Thousands of AC Milan and Liverpool fans have already arrived in Athens amid major police security measures to deter those unruly hooligans. I’m willing to bet one million dollars on a massive riot prior to, and immediately following the match. I even heard that the police plan to protest on Wednesday, leaving the fans to fend for themselves. (Hence my reason for skipping this game in person). And in case you’re not in the loop, this isnt just a match, it’s THE match to watch. In 2005, Milan faced Liverpool and was ahead 3-0 at halftime. Liverpool answered back on penalty kicks and AC Milan was humiliated. For millions of Milan fans, this is a blood game rooted in revenge, and its gonna be one a hell of a final.

BEATE UHSE

Now this is a company I’d like to do business with. Namely, to purchase some of their recently pulled items. Beate Uhse is a sex-chain shop which, prior to last years World Cup, produced a special brand of beer called ‘69’. The beer contains an extract of Muira Puama, an ‘aphrodisiastic plant’ from the Amazon. And now, the good peeps at the shop have just settled a lawsuit with Michael Ballack and Oliver Khan. The company marketed two vibrators under the name “Michael B” and “Olli-K”. While they deny naming the wonderful toys after our Chelsea babe Ballack, or Bayern Munich’s goalkeeper, they still removed the items from their shelves and paid the big boys off. The 6.7 inch long vibrators were advertised as “cuddly” and “cheeky,” and thankfully not modelled after the boys themselves. Maybe if they actually made 12” long toys, the boys wouldnt have sued? “We never had any intention to make a connection between the vibrators on sale in our shops with the names of ‘Olli K.’ and ‘Michael B.’ and the footballers,” company spokesperson Assia Tsernookoff insisted at the time. Why not? Its genious!!!!!

YOU DON’T HAVE TO ASK ME TWICE

They don’t have to ask me twice to Just Do it. Spanish band Estopa’s members Jose Munoz (2nd L) and his brother David Munoz (3rd R), Baller Pau Gasol (Grizzlies) (3rd L) and our Spanish delicacy Rafael Nadal (2nd R) were all on hand for an advertising spot in Barcelona. My libido can only pray it was a Nike-Beate Uhse collaboration.

IRA NEWBLE

In Newark, Dave D’Alessandro wrote something you all should be paying attention to. Its something I’ve brought up before and I’ll bring up again. D’Alessandro writes: The NBA tonight should “introduce its TV audience” to Cavaliers F Ira Newble, who is writing a letter asking the Chinese government “to use economic and diplomatic pressures” to end the fighting in Darfur. Cavaliers F LeBron James has NOT signed the letter, and D’Alessandro notes Nike has “extensive business” in China. D’Alessandro wrote of James, “If his life ambition is truly to be a ‘global icon,’ he will ultimately be exposed for being nothing more than a bogus piece of marketing until he uses his influence in ways that would benefit the public good.” I recently asked a friend in the business his take, and he felt that LeBron is staying out of politics the same way Michael Jordan did during his career. Maybe IF Jordan was paying attention to the situation back then, we wouldn’t be in this position now. It doesn’t take much to change the world, and LeBron could do just that. He should get his hands dirty and be a real role model. In this day and age, it’s OK for athletes to speak up. I really don’t think Nike is gonna drop him for supporting a worthy cause, but I do think his fans may think twice about buying a pair of Nikes with his name on them. (At least I wont buy anymore of ‘em). Newbie said: “It’s a protest to wake people up. China has the 2008 Olympics and that’s an event that will have the attention of the world. It’ll be known that many NBA players are expressing their concern about this issue. China has a large NBA fan base. This will definitely get their attention.”

Also getting their attention is the new China Merchant Bank NBA affinity card. The three-year licensing deal with the NBA includes team and league logo rights, but no player rights. NBA officials said that the agreement “includes a media buy and will feature [POS] promotional rights in 400 branches in major China markets.”

WOMEN TAKING OVER INDY 500?

You go girls! IRL rookie Milka Duno (R) has joined Danica Patrick and Sarah Fisher in qualifying for the Indianapolis 500, making it the first time three women qualified for the race in the same year. The 91st Indianapolis 500 will held on May 27th.

MOVES MAGAZINE MOVES ME

I may not be the target audience, but I’m all over this one. MOVES Magazine is the first publication dedicated to covering and uncovering the fast-paced lifestyles of hot professional athletes. MOVES’ features include articles pertaining to the high-life most hotties live. It covers travel, real estate, finance, family, health & fitness and for our purposes: Athlete Profiles. This isnt a mag you can find in your local bookstore, its distributed to team locker rooms and training facilities, active and retired players, team hotels and charter flights, to athletes’ homes, to agents, team executives and coaches, national events like the Super Bowl, Pro Bowl, U.S. Open, NBA-All Star Weekend, Indy 500, player events, parties, along with charity and golf events throughout the entire year. If you love these beasts as much as I do, check out the digital on-line version here. It’s filled with beautiful glossy photos of our babes, their sports cars, homes, and just about every luxury afforded to these fine men.

As always, thanks for reading. Delinda
delinda@athlebrities.