Channel Pro - May 2007

OLT

ROAD

TRIPPIN’

Take a vacation from the daily grind and indulge your passion for summer sports.

By John Danielowich

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ONE LAST THING: THE LIGHTER SIDE OF CHANNEL PRO LIFE

As summer approaches, thoughts invariably turn to lazy days and leisure activities. This year, instead of getting burned at the beach, why not indulge your passion for sports? Whether you’re a family vacationer or the day-tripping type, there’s a summer sports activity for you. And if this little list doesn’t float your boat, check out www.roadtrips.com or www.sportstravel.com for more ideas. Hot dog, anyone?

1. REV YOUR ENGINES

Start your summer off in high gear with a trip to the legendary Indianapolis Motor

Speedway on May 27 to witness the 91st running of “The Greatest Spectacle in Racing.” Join

300,000 of your closest friends and
experience the thrill of Formula 1
racing at its absolute finest. It’s just
minutes from downtown and the Indianapo-
lis International Airport, so you can enjoy
the city and make it to the track in time to
catch every lap. For more information,
including the lowdown on tickets and
lodging, visit www.indy500.com.

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3. SADDLE UP FOR SARATOGA

For those of you who like a fast pace of
the equestrian kind, say good-bye to
summer (and maybe some hard-earned
cash) at the Saratoga Racetrack in
Saratoga Springs, N.Y., on Travers
day, August 27. The Travers Stakes,
held each year at this historic,
charming track, is a stunning coda
to what’s always a thrilling racing
season. Book hotel reservations now,
and stay downtown so you can walk to
the many bars and restaurants; a short
cab ride gets you to the Saratoga
Performing Arts Center to see live
entertainment, or play 18 at the
Saratoga Spa Golf course. Go to
www.saratogaracetrack.com for race
and lodging information.

JOHN DANIELO WICH is a freelance writer, sports enthusiast, father, and husband living in Framingham, Mass.

2. HALL OF FAME A HOME RUN

Even if The Boys of Summer is not your favorite beach read, die-hard baseball
fans should make the pilgrimage to Cooperstown, N. Y., to visit the National
Baseball Hall of Fame at least once. If you haven’t been yet, go during Hall of
Fame Induction weekend, July 27-30, to witness Cal Ripken Jr. and Tony Gywnn
become part of baseball history. Then lose yourself for hours (or the whole day)
in the Hall of Fame. When you find your way out, wander around town and check
out the many specialty shops for gear and memorabilia. And don’t leave without
quaffing a pint or two of Old Slugger at the Doubleday Café. For information, go to
www.baseballhalloffame.org/hof_weekend.