Hi Everyone!
A year of qualifying for the Olympics has finally ended! I would like to be able to say that I am exhausted, as many of the players on tour are most likely feeling, but to be honest, despite the busy travel schedule, I am feeling great! I was always giving myself the rest I needed during my travels, and as a result, I am feeling fresh and ready for the final push for Beijing.I ended my year with some of my toughest matches of the year at the Canadian International here in Montreal. Unfortunately, I didn't win the tournament, but lost in the semi-final in the battle of my life, against Andrew Smith of England. The score was 21-17, 18-21, and 22-20, right down the wire. Yesterday, I also had a very hard match against Kestutis Navickas of Lithuania, winning it 21-17 in the third. Overall, I played well in the tournament, staying calm and composed even when facing numerous tight spots. It is a good start off to my three month preparation for the Olympics. Yes, that's right, I have qualified now for Beijing; I have finished this year as the number one internationally ranked men's singles player from Canada, which guarantees my spot on the team.
I've got a week in Ottawa before taking off to Jakarta for the Thomas Cup finals. Myself and the rest of the team are very much looking forward to this experience. Badminton is Indonesia's national sport and so we are expecting a packed house of spectators to come cheer us on
I will keep you all updated on the progress towards Beijing. It will be three months of the best training of my life, and I will be looking to shine in Beijing like never before!
Take care!
Andrew
ANDREW ROBERT DABEKA
(c) 613.222.3302
www.AndrewDabeka.caPrevious emails:Apr 19, Apr 6, Mar 30, Mar 25, Mar 13, Mar 6, Feb 19, Jan 23, Jan 21, Dec 14, Nov 25, Nov 17, Nov 1, Oct 24, Oct 9, Sept 29, Sept 8, Sept 1, Aug 14, Jult 31 and July 10, 2007
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