Saturday, September 29, 2007
Sports
The Buzz
What’s movin’ and shakin’ in the world of sports
The Hawks’ Joe Johnson
CREDIT: Scott Cunningham/Getty Images |
Ice Birds begin title defense: While they’ve got a long way to go to match the Braves’ run of 14 straight division titles, the Thrashers begin the 2007-08 season Friday, Oct. 5, looking to repeat as Southeast Division champs. The Washington Capitals visit Blueland for a 7:30 p.m. game featuring a banner-raising ceremony honoring last year’s division title. Every fan in attendance gets a mini replica banner. Plans for a Keith Tkachuk punching bag night have not yet been approved. For tickets: 866-715-1500.
Wake up with the Hawks: The Thrashers and the Georgia Force both won division titles last season while calling Philips Arena home. Well, the Force have since bolted back to Gwinnett County and the Thrashers will be severely challenged to repeat. So maybe it’s time for the Hawks, who opened camp this week, to rise up and get the job done this year. But don’t hold your breath, folks; we’re talking about a franchise in the midst of the NBA’s longest playoff drought. Still, a new season always brings hope, and fans have a chance to catch Mike Woodson’s latest power/small forward-laden bunch in action Saturday, Oct. 6 at Philips for an open house and live practice. Doors open at 9:30 a.m., and the practice runs from 10 a.m. to 12:15 p.m. No food or beverage will be provided, but all those in attendance will receive a complimentary ticket to a 2007 pre-season game.
Start your engines: The 10th Anniversary Petit Le Mans takes off Saturday, Oct. 6 at Road Atlanta. The annual 1,000-mile, 10-hour endurance race begins at 11:15 a.m. on the recently repaved 2.54-mile, 12-turn track. Audi will be seeking its eighth straight Petit Le Mans title against a strong field including a fleet of Porsche RS Spyders and Acura prototypes. And if racing isn’t your bag, step over next door at Chateau Elan for some golf or a nice European-style spa. French maid not included. Tickets: 800-849-7223 (RACE).