1
WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP SKIING
According to the official brochure, this will be 'a spectacularevent in a unique place', and 'a party for people who appreciateencounters in a special way.' The location is certainly stunning,set on a plateau at altitude amid a lake landscape. The sportshouldn't disappoint, either - even the British are improving, giveor take the odd injudicious use of a nasal spray - and there'salways plenty of apres-ski to fall back on.
Where & when: St Moritz; 1-16 Feb.
Tickets: Call 00 41 848 800 800, or book online atwww.skiwm2003.ch
TV: Live coverage on British Eurosport; highlights on BBC.
2
GOLF: THE MASTERS
With the Augusta magnolias in bloom and the fairways lined withGeorgia pines, the Masters signals the start of the new golfingseason in earnest. Last year saw the world No 1, Tiger Woods(above), storm to a second successive win, becoming only the thirdplayer - after Jack Nicklaus and Nick Faldo - to win back-to-backMasters. Could there be an historic hat trick this year? Tickets aresold out, so book your 2004 slot now.
Where & when: Augusta, USA; 10-13 Apr.
Website: www.masters.org.
Packages: Available from the American Golf Holiday. Includesadmission, flights, accommodation and transfers/ car hire. Practiceround from pounds 1,590, tournament from pounds 3,290 (023-80465885; www.americangolfholiday.com).
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
3
AMERICAN SUPER BOWL XXXVII
The thrilling climax to the NFL season, which last year saw 'thegreatest day ever in Boston sports', as the underdog New EnglandPatriots beat the St Louis Rams in front of a gripped nation.
Where & when: San Diego; 26 Jan.
Tickets: Ticketmaster (001 619 220 8497).
Websites: www.nfl.com; www.superbowl.com
Packages: Official NFL agent Indigo Sports Tours offers five-dayVIP tour (flights, accommodation, hotels, guide, VIP match ticket,hospitality, plus players' gala dinner), from pounds 3,499 (0870-1121 212; www.indigoholidays.com).
TV: Live on Sky Sports and Channel 5.
4
FOOTBALL: INTERNATIONAL FRIENDLIES
England's first international of 2003, a warm-up for the year'sEuro 2004 qualifiers, sees them take on Australia at Upton Park.Will the clamour for Sven- Goran Eriksson to pick Everton's teenageprodigy Wayne Rooney (above) see the 17-year-old get a game? Willthe Antipodeans spoil the party? Elsewhere, Berti Vogts' Scotlandtake on the Republic of Ireland as they enter the post-McCarthy era.
Where & when: Upton Park, London; and Hampden Park, Glasgow; 12Feb.
Tickets: England vs Australia are already sold out, but forScotland vs Rep Ireland, go to www.hampdenpark.co.uk or www.fai.ie.
TV: Live on BBC (regions vary) and Sky Sports.
5
THE CHELTENHAM FESTIVAL
The world's National Hunt racing community - and you'd beforgiven for thinking that most of them come from Ireland -converges on the spa town of Cheltenham for three days of top-classracing, gambling and drinking. The feature race on the Tuesday isthe Smurfit Champion Hurdle, while Wednesday's Queen Mother ChampionChase attracts the fastest and bravest steeplechasers. Thursday isGold Cup day, which last year saw Best Mate triumph.
Where & when: Cheltenham; 11-13 Mar
Tickets: Call 01242 226226 or 01242 513014, or book online atwww.cheltenham.co.uk
TV: Live coverage and highlights on Channel 4.
6
CRICKET WORLD CUP
Ruthless and uncompromising. No, not Robert Mugabe, although thedescription fits, and watching how his country hosts its matches (ornot) will be an intriguing backdrop to the subplot of sport. But incricketing terms, it sums up Australia, who swept aside Pakistan inthe 1999 final at Lord's, and remain the best in the world.
Where & when: South Africa/Zimbabwe; 8 Feb-23 Mar.
Tickets: For information, visit www.cricketworldcup.com.
Packages: Official agents Indigo Sports Tours offer flights,accommodation, transfers and guaranteed tickets from pounds 1,399(0870-112 1212; indigoholidays.com).
TV: Live coverage on Sky Sports.
7
WIMBLEDON
Britain hasn't won since Fred Perry's triumph in the Thirties, sohopes will rest on Tim or Greg. Lleyton Hewitt beat Henman (above)in the semi last year before whopping David Nalbandian in the final.in the women's singles, a repeat of the Serena vs Venus Williamsfinal would be as unexpected as exorbitant strawberries.
Where & when: All England Club; 23 Jun-6 Jul.
Tickets: Some seats and plenty of ground passes sold on a first-come, first-served basis until the second Thursday.
Website: www.wimbledon.org.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
8
THE AMERICA'S CUP
The richest race series in world yachting reaches its conclusionwhen the holders, Team New Zealand, take on the winners of the LouisVuitton Cup. The best-of-nine finals for the latter event started on11 January, pitting the Oracle syndicate from San Francisco againstAlinghi of Switzerland. No tickets required.
Where & when: Auckland; 15 Feb-1 Mar.
Website: www.americascup.yahoo.com
Packages: Flights, transfers, seven nights in a four-star hoteland three- day America's Cup Cruise, from pounds 1,119(www.ebookers.com; 0870-043 3822).
TV: Highlights on BBC (tbc).
9
POWERGEN CUP FINAL
Formerly known as the Tetley's Bitter Cup, the Rugby Union's FACup final reaches the quarter-final stage next weekend, whenGloucester meet Saracens, Bath play Northampton, and Harlequins faceLeicester. Last year's winners, London Irish, play host to Rotherhama week tomorrow.
Where & when: Twickenham; 5 Apr.
Tickets: Through competing clubs or authorised corporate agents(0845- 305 0900 or 01423 874874).
Website: www.rfu.com.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
10
THE GRAND NATIONAL
The world's most famous horse race, where Red Rum achievedimmortality, takes place on a four-and-a-half-mile course at Aintreeover 30 of the most demanding fences on the planet, including theChair and Becher's Brook. The ante-post favourites at the turn ofthe year included David's Lad (above), winner of the 2001 IrishNational and subject of a pounds 25,000 gamble for this race by onepunter back in December.
Where & when: Aintree; 5 Apr.
Tickets: 0151-522 2929.
Website: www.aintree.co.uk/website/index.html.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
11
WORLD INDOOR ATHLETICS CHAMPIONSHIPS
Seven months on from the stunning success of the ManchesterCommonwealth Games, Birmingham will be the next British city to hosta major sports event. Competitors from 140 countries are expected,although home attention is likely to focus on local athletes such asAshia Hansen (above), Mark Lewis-Francis and Katharine Merry. TheChampionships will also be the last major event for the Welshhurdling legend, Colin Jackson.
Where & when: National Indoor Arena, Birmingham; 14-16 Mar.
Tickets: Almost sold out, but call 0121-767 4117 or visitwww.wica2003.com for updated information.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC; live on BritishEurosport.
12
GOLF US OPEN
Tiger Woods - who else? - claimed last year's title, his eighthMajor, when he won the US Open at Bethpage, New York, after atournament interrupted by lightning storms. This year's action movesto Illinois, where the home contingent will probably featurestrongly. But after a triumphant 2002 Ryder Cup, could ColinMontgomerie (above) put another one over the Americans and win anelusive first Major?
Where & when: Olympia Fields, Illinois; 12-15 Jun.
Tickets: Sadly, it's sold out, but you can request a 2004application form by emailing adavis@usga.org.
Website: www.usopen.com.
Packages: American Golf Holiday offers admission, flights,accommodation and transfers/car hire from pounds 1,800 (023-80465885; www.americangolfholiday.com).
TV: Live on Sky Sports.
13
WORLD CLUB CHALLENGE: ST HELENS VS SYDNEY ROOSTERS
A one-off match between the best from the English Rugby SuperLeague and the Australian and New Zealand National Rugby League. StHelens (above) qualified with a last-gasp 19-18 win against Bradfordin the Super League Grand Final. The WCC is the ultimate trophy inclub football, aiming to justify claims of being the world's best.But in 10 previous matches, British clubs have won six times. How'sthat then?
Where & when: Reebok Stadium, Bolton; 14 Feb.
Websites: For information including ticket availability, visithttp://uk.rleague.com/wcc or www.saints.uk.com.
TV: Live on Sky Sports.
14
FOOTBALL: WORTHINGTON CUP FINAL
Often seen as the poor relation of domestic football, thetournament has had a shot in the arm this season, with evenManchester United seemingly taking it seriously. Their two-leg semi-final against holders Blackburn Rovers (above) concludes this week,with the prize a place in the final against either Liverpool,winners in 2001, or Sheffield United of the First Division.
Where & when: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff; 2 Mar.
Tickets: From participating clubs; call 0870-558 2582 or visitwww.millenniumstadium.co.uk.
Website: www.football-league.premiumtv.co.uk.
TV: Live on Sky Sports and ITV1.
15
THE BOAT RACE
Oxford and Cambridge contest the most famous race on water over afour- and-a-half-mile course from Putney to Mortlake. This year'sevent is the 149th staging. Oxford won last year, but Cambridge holdan overall lead, 77-70. There was one dead heat, in 1877. Up to250,000 people will take to the riverbanks as the contest takesplace, unusually, on a Sunday this year. The best vantage pointsinclude pubs at the start and finish (for the full list, visit theofficial website), and along the riverbank at Hammersmith.
Where & when: London; 6 Apr.
Tickets: None required.
Website: www.theboatrace.org.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
16
WORLD FIGURE-SKATING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Punch-ups, skullduggery, obtuse judging decisions, shady links tothe Mafia and no end of arguments over artistic interpretation...perhaps that explains the sport's enduring appeal. The championshipsreturn to America for the 11th time since New York hosted theinaugural event in 1930. The world's finest, including various 2002Olympic medallists from Russia (such as Irina Slutskaya, above) andCanada, are expected.
Where & when: Washington DC, USA; 24-30 Mar.
Tickets: Call 001 202 661 5061 or book online.
Website: www.2003worlds.com.
Packages: www.ebookers.com offer flights, transfers, sevennight's accommodation and All-Event ticket from pounds 995 perperson (0870-043 3822).
TV: Live on British Eurosport.
17
THE LONDON MARATHON
Paula Radcliffe (above) made the race her own last year, when sheset a new course record to kick-start an extraordinary year;naturally, she's due back to defend her title. The annual gatheringof around 30,000 obsessive participants - ranging from eliteathletes to club runners, to all manner of fun runners in improbablylarge furry costumes - will be cheered from Greenwich to the Mall byup to half a million spectators along the route.
Where & when: London; 13 Apr.
Tickets: None required.
Website: www.london-marathon.co.uk.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC; live on BritishEurosport.
18
RUGBY UNION: SIX NATIONS - ENGLAND VS FRANCE
The first match of the 2003 Six Nations has all the ingredientsto be the decider. A storming autumn for Clive Woodward's side,which saw three wins over the Southern Hemisphere, will make his menfavourites. But France, Six Nations champions in 2002, will not godown without a fight. Other key battles come on 22 February whenEngland (above) play in Wales; on 22 March, when they host Scotland;and 30 March, when they travel to Ireland.
Where & when: Twickenham; 15 Feb.
Tickets: Twickenham authorised corporate agents (0845-305 0900;01423 874874).
Website: www.6nations.net.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
19
RUGBY LEAGUE CHALLENGE CUP FINAL
Wigan (above) beat St Helens in last year's showpiece, and bothwill expect to make it to the final again. Neither will enter thefray until February, however, when the 12 Superleague clubs go intothe fourth-round draw. Until then, the likes of Russia's MoscowLocomotiv or former winners Leigh Centurions (who meet in the thirdround this month) or even Swinton, Barrow or Hunslet, will bedreaming that it might be themselves, not the big boys, who areheading to Cardiff.
Where & when: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff; 26 Apr.
Tickets: From participating clubs; call 0870-558 2582 or visitwww.millenniumstadium.co.uk.
Website: www.rfl.uk.com.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC; highlights on SkySports.
20
FIRST TEST: ENGLAND VS ZIMBABWE
This should herald the start of summer and a Test renaissance forEngland against opponents who seem more mortal than the Aussies. Butgiven the political situation, the fixture itself could yet be on asticky wicket. The match is due to be one half of a two-part series,the second of which is scheduled to be the first-ever Test atDurham's Chester-le-Street ground, from 5 to 9 June.
Where & when: Lord's Cricket Ground, London; 22-26 May.
Tickets: MCC Ticket Office, Lord's, London NW8, and online atwww.mcctickets.com.
Website: www.lords.org.
TV: Live coverage on Channel 4; highlights on Sky Sports.
21
WORLD CURLING CHAMPIONSHIPS
Canada loves curling like no other country, with 1.2 millionregular participants at more than 1,250 clubs across the country.It's huge on television, and this event will attract almost 200,000spectators to the rinks. And who are the reigning world and Olympicwomen's champions? Great Britain (or more specifically, Scotland,above), of course. What do you mean, you'd already forgotten aboutthe Stone of Destiny?
Where & when: Winnipeg, Canada; 4-13 Apr.
Tickets: 001 204 927 2875.
Website: www.wcc2003.ca.
TV: Live coverage on British Eurosport.
22
TENNIS: DAVIS CUP FIRST ROUND: AUSTRALIA VS GREAT BRITAIN
Could the British team win something down under, or will they betrounced by the Aussies? With Lleyton Hewitt (above), the world No1, on the home side on home soil, it could unfortunately be thelatter. And the slow courts have been specially selected to make thevisitors, already under- strength after Greg Rusedski's withdrawal,even more uncomfortable. Oh well, there's always the atmosphere.
Where & when: Sydney Intl Tennis Centre; 7-9 Feb.
Websites: For information, including tickets, visitwww.sydneytennis.com.au or www.daviscup.com.
Packages: One-week tour, with match tickets, hotel and flights,from pounds 1,499 (Travel Portfolio 01284 762255).
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
23
EMBASSY WORLD SNOOKER CHAMPIONSHIPS
Once upon a time, this event was the most-watched sportingspectacle in the country, a fortnight of baize and balls that peakedin popularity when Dennis Taylor sank Steve Davis on the last blackin the mid-Eighties. The 18-17 final scoreline was replicated insimilar dramatic fashion last year. Expect a steely defence fromreigning champion Peter Ebdon (above), who'll be looking to becomethe first ever first-time champion to successfully defend his crown.
Where & when: Sheffield; 19 Apr-5 May.
Tickets: 0114-249 6006.
Website: www.embassysnooker.com
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
24
EURO 2004 QUALIFIERS
Not quite make-or-break time for the home nations in their questto reach Portugal for Euro 2004, but Sven-Goran Eriksson's Englandneed a good result against Turkey, Berti Vogts' Scotland need pointsin Lithuania, and Mark Hughes' (above) resurgent Wales can do theirchances no end of good by coming home from Yugoslavia with somethingto show.
Where & when: England play Turkey in Sunderland, Scotland travelto Lithuania, Wales to Yugoslavia, Republic of Ireland to Albania,and N Ireland host Greece; 2 Apr.
Tickets: Generally via FAs or host stadiums. For furtherinformation, call English FA (020-7745 4545); Scottish FA (0141-6166000); Welsh FA (029-2037 2325); N Ireland FA (028-9066 9458); RepIreland FA (00 353 1 662 7828).
Websites: www.uefa.com; www.thefa.com; www.scottish fa.co.uk;www.faw.org.uk; www.irishfa.com; www.fai.ie.
TV: England vs Turkey & Albania vs Rep Ire live on Sky Sports;highlights on British Eurosport.
25
THE DERBY
The first two of racing's five Classics come during Guineasweekend on 3-4 May at Newmarket (for tickets, call 01638 675500),but the Derby is the most prestigious, taking place over a mile anda half on the unique switchback circuit on Epsom Downs. Expect tophats and tails, a fairground, jellied eels and more bookmakers thanyou shake your wallet at. Last year's winner was High Chaparral,trained by Ireland's Aidan O'Brien, who also trains this year's ante-post favourite, Brian Boru (above).
Where & when: Epsom; 7 Jun.
Tickets: Call 01372 470047, or book online.
Website: www.epsomderby.co.uk/website.
TV: Live coverage on BBC.
26
TENNIS FRENCH OPEN
The courts of Roland Garros have a habit of throwing unsungheroes into the spotlight, highlighting the craftsmanship of playerswho relish the more skilful, eye-catching approach that the relativeslowness of the clay allows. Last year, Albert Costa (above) beatcompatriot Spaniard Juan Carlos Ferrero to the men's title for hisfirst Grand Slam title. The boom-boom approach won out in thewomen's event, when Serena Williams beat sister Venus in adisappointing finale.
Where & when: Roland Garros, Paris; 26 May-8 Jun.
Tickets: For information, send an SAE to Service Billetterie, 2avenue Gordon Bennett, 75016 Paris.
Website: www.rolandgarros.org.
Packages: Executive hospitality (four-course lunch, champagnebar, box seats but not transport) available from Sportsworld,official agents to the tournament, from pounds 430-pounds 980 (01235554844).
TV: Live on British Eurosport; live and highlights on BBC.
27
GOLF: THE OPEN
The world's most prestigious golf tournament saw an incrediblefinale last year, with South Africa's Ernie Els (above) eventuallywinning a sudden-death head-to-head with Frenchman Thomas Level atMuirfield after an unprecedented four-man play-off. For 2003, theevent moves back to England, to Royal St George's, when this mightjust be the time for an English Rose (Justin Rose) to make his markin a Major event.
Where & when: Royal St George's, Sandwich, Kent; 17-20 Jul.
Tickets: Call 01334 460000 or book online.
Websites: www.opengolf.com; www.royalstgeorges.com
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
28
EUROPEAN CUP FINAL FOOTBALL
Remember last year, when the European Cup final was at HampdenPark and the omens proclaimed so loudly that Manchester United'sAlex Ferguson (above), then due to retire, would lift the trophy inhis home city as a final hoorah? It didn't happen, of course, thewin or the retirement. So what do the omens signal this time? Thecritics are saying Ferguson's heyday is over, but United have beencoasting in Europe, and the final is at their home ground, OldTrafford...
Where & when: Old Trafford, Manchester; 28 May.
Tickets: From participating clubs. For more information, call thevenue (0870-757 1968).
Websites: www.uefa.com; www.manutd.com.
TV: Live coverage on ITV1.
29
FA CUP FINAL
The world's oldest knockout football tournament saw thetraditional haze of romance in the third round, with minnowsShrewsbury eliminating Everton and First Division Wolves upsettingmighty Newcastle United. The likelihood is that neither will stillbe on course in May to win the trophy. For a start, top-divisionteams have won it every year since West Ham in 1980, and Shrewsburyand Wolves both have English managers - a species that hasn't liftedthe Cup for eight years.
Where & when: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff; 17 May.
Tickets: From participating clubs. Call 0870-558 2582 or visitwww.millenniumstadium.co.uk.
Website: For ticket details nearer the event and otherinformation, visit www.theFA.com.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC; live on Sky Sports.
30
STELLA ARTOIS TENNIS CHAMPIONSHIPS
The covers come off at the Queen's Club, a light drizzledescends, the Brits are mostly eliminated in the first round, andthe genial old members retire for more Pimms. Ah, bliss - the grasscourt season is upon us. If all goes to form, Tim Henman (above)will do well but lose to an Australian in the final. Othertraditional Wimbledon warm-up tournaments worth a look include theNottingham Open (16-22 June) and the women's InternationalChampionships at Eastbourne in the same week.
Where & when: Queen's Club, London; 9-15 Jun.
Tickets: Hotline opens 9 Apr. See website for details, or writeto the Queen's Club, Palliser Road, London W14.
Website: www.queensclub.co.uk/stella.htm.
TV: Live and highlights on BBC; live on British Eurosport.
31
SWIMMING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
British swimming has undergone something of a renaissance sincethe appointment of an Australian, Bill Sweetenham, as the nation'stechnical director. A gold-sodden Commonwealth Games was testamentto that, even though it was still Sweetenham's home country who leftthe pool with the most medals. In Barcelona, all eyes will be on theAussies again, not least Ian 'Thorpedo' Thorpe (above), set to bethe best freestyler in history.
Where & when: Barcelona; 20-27 Jul.
Tickets: Information will be available on www.bcn03.org from theend of the month.
Packages: Available from www.ebookers.com. Weekend breaks(flights and accommodation only) from pounds 195 (0870-043 3822).
TV: Live coverage on British Eurosport.
32
FOOTBALL: FIRST DIVISION PLAY-OFF FINAL
It's been billed as the most single valuable match in thefootball's world calendar - and rightly so. To the winners, a placein the Premiership, which will see their income jump by aroundpounds 20m over the next season. To the losers, heartbreak, and backto the cash-strapped Nationwide League and the lending office at thelocal bank. Such pressure can do little for the nerves, but somehowthis fixture has still produced several classic encounters.
Where & when: Millennium Stadium, Cardiff.; 26 May.
Tickets: From participating clubs. Call 0870-558 2582 or visitwww.millenniumstadium.co.uk.
Website: www.football-league.premiumtv.co.uk.
TV: Live coverage on Sky Sports and on ITV1.
33
RUGBY UNION: HEINEKEN EUROPEAN CUP FINAL
Today sees the final pool matches before the nitty-gritty reallybegins, and Leicester (with Louis Deacon, above) discover whetherthey have what it takes to defend the title they won last year. Theholders face Neath this afternoon, while Toulouse, who've been thestrongest Gallic side so far, travel for a showdown at London Irish.Whatever happens this afternoon, it's arrivederci Viadana, and theend of the road for Cardiff and Sale.
Where & when: Lansdowne Road, Dublin; 24 May.
Tickets: For up-to-date information, visit www.ercrugby.com.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC; live coverage on BritishEurosport.
34
ROYAL ASCOT
How many baskets of plastic fruit can one person squeeze onto asingle hat? Is purple the new yellow? Is brown the new black? Wholet the oik without the penguin suit loose among the toffs in theRoyal enclosure? And was that really the Queen placing her own betwith cash at Honest Eddie's? There's also a menu of top-classracing, the centrepiece of the whole meeting being the Gold Cup,which should establish the finest stayer in the game.
Where & when: Ascot; 17-20 Jun.
Tickets: Call 01344 876876 or book online.
Website: www.ascot.co.uk.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC.
35
FOOTBALL: TENNENTS SCOTTISH CUP FINAL
Celtic have won the Scottish Cup 31 times, Rangers 29; they have35 runners-up appearances between them, too. So the Old Firm'sdominance points to a meeting between them at some stage in the Cup.Expect them to meet before the final, with the victor ultimatelyprevailing, or to meet in the final. They did last year, and Rangerswon a thriller 3-2, with a team including forward Peter Lovenkrands(above).
Where & when: Hampden Park, Glasgow; 31 May.
Tickets: From participating clubs. Call the venue for moredetails (0141- 620 4000).
Websites: www.hampdenpark.co.uk; www.scottishfa.co.uk.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC Scotland; live on SkySports.
36
ATHLETICS WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS
The cream of world athletics gathers in Paris, where Britishinterests will hopefully focus on Paula Radcliffe in the 10,000m andthe nation's best young sprinters, Dwain Chambers (above) and MarkLewis-Francis, looking for a dream British 1-2 in the men's 100m.The official Championships brochure could be written for the trio.'Everyone can now choose their ideal package,' says one section,where the multi-session ticketing options include 'Emotion' and'Intense' experiences.
Where & when: Paris; 23-31 Aug.
Tickets: Book online at www.ticketnet.fr.
Website: www.paris2003saintdenis.org.
TV: Live coverage and highlights on BBC; live coverage on BritishEurosport.
37
GOLF: USPGA CHAMPIONSHIP
Every so often, one of golf's Majors throws up an unexpectedwinner. Last year, it happened at the USPGA, where Rich Beem(above), a journeyman more famous for his drinking exploits andpartying attitude than his driving practice and short game, took thetitle at Hazeltine after a stirring final round when he pipped TigerWoods by a stroke. Don't expect a repeat of this, though, in thelast major of 2003.
Where & when: Oak Hill, Rochester, US; 11-17 Aug.
Tickets: For information, email 2003champ tickets@pgahq.com orbook online.
Website: www.pga2003.com.
Packages: The American Golf Holiday. offers admission, flights,accommodation and transfers/car hire from pounds 995 (see No 2).
TV: Live coverage on Sky Sports.
38
CYCLING: TOUR DE FRANCE
The most punishing bike race in the world, won by America's LanceArmstrong (above) in recent years, celebrates it centenary. For2003, a prologue and 20 stages cover a total of 3,350km in 23 days,including seven mountain stages and three spectacular mountainfinishes. Or why not catch the manic sprint-finish along the Champs-Elysees on the final day?
Where & when: France; 5-27 Jul.
Tickets: None required.
Website: www.letour.fr.
Packages: Sporting Tours offer trips ranging from four days totwo weeks, including transport, accommodation and guides, frompounds 199-pounds 1,850 (0113- 284 3617; www.sportingtours.co.uk).
TV: Live coverage on British Eurosport; highlights on ITV2.
39
MOTORCYCLING: SUPERBIKES WORLD CHAMPIONSHIP
One of the largest sporting crowds of the year in Britain willgather at Silverstone as the Superbike World Championship - the bestriders in world racing on the most exotic machines - rolls intotown. It's always a breathtaking spectacle, and that's just thecrowd. Expect speeds of up to 180mph and the odd spectacular spill.The show also moves on to Brands Hatch in Kent on 26-27 July.
Where & when: Silverstone; 15 Jun.
Tickets: Call 0870-6060 611 or book online.
Websites: www.octagonmotorsports.com; www.worldsuperbikes.com.
TV: Live coverage on British Eurosport.
40
ROWING: HENLEY ROYAL REGATTA
Britain has had more than its share of world-class rowers inrecent years, and Henley serves to demonstrate it also has a decentsprinkling of toffs to cheer them on. For those not participating inthe serious sport (heats start on the Wednesday, finals on theSunday), there'll be plenty of nibbles, champers and hob- nobbing onthe banks. Blazers and cravats not always optional. A fireworksdisplay on the Saturday is provided for the proletariat.
Where & when: Henley-on-Thames, Oxfordshire; 2-6 Jul.
Tickets: Limited enclosure tickets on the day. For authorisedhospitality packages, call 01491 637721; for general information,call 01491 572153.
Website: www.hrr.co.uk.
TV: As yet unconfirmed in the UK.
41
FOOTBALL: WOMEN'S WORLD CUP
Women's football is huge in America, China and Scandinavia, butis still struggling to build a large spectator base in Britain. The2003 World Cup, expanded to see 16 teams competing in the finals forthe first time, is unlikely to change that, since England waseliminated in the play-offs by France. But an intriguing contest ina fascinating location is still on the cards. Expect the hosts andthe USA (the reigning champions) to thrive.
Where & when: China; 23 Sept-11 Oct.
Tickets: Details to be announced. See www.fa.org.cn/en orwww.fifa.com.
Packages: Will be available through the authorised agents, ChinaHolidays. Itineraries and prices TBC (020- 7487 2999;www.chinaholidays.co.uk).
TV: As yet unconfirmed in the UK.
42
CRICKET: FIRST TEST - ENGLAND VS SOUTH AFRICA
By the time the South Africans (above) start their summer tour toEngland, the World Cup will be a distant memory (unless Englandmanaged a miracle and won it) and the green shoots of England'srecovery will have been analysed into oblivion (unless Zimbabwe'stour was called off). This first Test of five against the SouthAfricans will prove a better indicator. The other test dates areLord's (31 Jul-4 Aug), Trent Bridge (14-18 Aug), Headingley (21-25Aug) and the Oval (4-8 Sept).
Where & when: Edgbaston; 24-28 Jul.
Tickets: 0121-446 5506.
Websites: www.warwickccc.org.uk; www.lords.org.
TV: Live coverage on Channel 4; highlights on Sky Sports.
43
GOLF: THE SOLHEIM CUP
The legacy of Karsten Solheim (above), this biennial tournament,which had its inaugural match in 1990, sees the top European-bornplayers from the Ladies' European Tour face the top US-born playerscompeting in a format similar to the Ryder Cup. The Europeans lastwon in 2000 at Loch Lomond, but lost out in 2002 at the InterlachenCountry Club in Minnesota. Back on 'home' turf, a side likely to befull of Scandinavians (and the odd Brit) will be hoping to prevail.
Where & when: Malmo, Sweden; 12-14 Sept.
Tickets: http://tickets.eviantour.com.
Website: www.pinggolf.com/solheimcup
Packages: American Golf Holiday offers admission, flights,accommodation and transfers/car hire from pounds 1,200 (see No 2).
TV: Live coverage on Sky Sports.
44
THE BRITISH GRAND PRIX
Last year's British Grand Prix was memorably slammed by theFormula One supremo, Bernie Ecclestone, for being poorly organisedwhen he got lost on his way to the paddock after being dropped offby helicopter. Dark murmurs persist that the fixture's place onfuture calendars is far from safe in the future. No such uncertaintyis likely to surround this year's race itself. If the 2003 seasongoes anything like 2002, a Ferrari will win (and come second), andone of them will be driven by Michael Schumacher (above).
Where & when: Silverstone; 20 Jul.
Tickets: Call 01327 850258 or book online.
Website: www.bgp-f1.com.
TV: Live coverage on ITV1.
45
COWES WEEK
The largest and most prestigious international sailing regatta inthe world lasts for eight days in the Solent waters off Cowes, andfeatures some 1,000 boats split into 36 classes, competing over arange of courses. Around 8,000 sailors are involved each day, withamateurs of all ages and walks of life up against world and Olympicchampions. For those not involved on the water, there are myriadentertainment options, a lot of them featuring copious amounts ofalcohol.
Where & when: Isle of Wight; 2-9 Aug.
Tickets: None required.
Website: www.cowesweek.co.uk.
TV: Possible highlights on regional ITV1.
46
RUGBY UNION: WORLD CUP
France arguably provided the most drama and passion of the 1999World Cup, defeating New Zealand in an epic and thrilling semi-final, only to lose 35-12 to Australia at the final hurdle. Theholders are now hosts, but whether the Southern Hemisphere willdominate may depend on what kind of year England have.
Where & when: Australia; 10 Oct-22 Nov.
Tickets: Limited availability from mid-2003; details atwww.rugby2003.com.au
Packages: Packages from one week to 40 days, including flights,tickets and accommodation, from around pounds 1,500. Trywww.ebookers.com (0870-043 3822); Indigo Sports Tours (0870-1121212; www.indigoholidays.com); Travel Portfolio (01284 762255).
TV: Live and highlights on ITV1 & ITV2.
47
TENNIS: US OPEN
Flushing Meadow really comes alive for the atmospheric, floodlitnight games, an often raucous experience, the likes of which areunimaginable in the leafy confines of Wimbledon. The arena providedthe perfect setting for last year's classic all-American finals, notleast the remarkable redemption of Pete Sampras (above) after hebeat Andre Agassi. The Williams sisters (who else?) contested thewomen's final, with Serena winning (again).
Where & when: Flushing Meadow, New York; 25 Aug-8 Sept.
Tickets: Vist www.usopen.org for updated information.
Packages: Available from www.ebookers.com, including flights,accommodation and match ticket(s) from pounds 499 (0870-043 3822).
TV: Live coverage on Sky Sports; live coverage on BritishEurosport.
48
RACING: THE BREEDERS' CUP
The Breeders' Cup World Thoroughbred Championships, to give thisglitzy day of racing its official title, brings the internationalseason to a close, crowning the quickest sprinters and the besthorses the turf can offer. Expect another planeload of Europeanhorses - such as Rock of Gibraltar (above), who went agonisinglyclose in 2002 - in search of glory this year.
Where & when: Santa Anita, USA; 25 Oct.
Tickets: 001 626 574 6366.
Websites: www.breederscup.com; www.santaanita.com.
Packages: Available from Indigo Sports Tours. Prices tbc; thetypical 2002 five-day package included flights, hotels, transfersand admission for pounds 779 (see No 3).
TV: Live on attheraces (satellite tbc).
49
RALLY OF GREAT BRITAIN
Norway's Petter Solberg (above) set a marker for the future whenhe secured his maiden victory in the world championship in this racein 2002, with a brilliant drive on the final day. Britain's RichardBurns looked in contention until he crashed into a tree on thepenultimate stage, which pretty much sums up what can go wrong whenyou spend three days racing through muddy forests in pursuit ofglory.
Where & when: Cardiff; 7-9 Nov.
Tickets: Go to www.ukmotorsport.com/ rallyofgb/2003 for details.
TV: Highlights on British Eurosport.
50
CRICKET: CHELTENHAM & GLOUCESTER TROPHY FINAL
Between 7 May, when the opening round of the year is played, and30 August, when the final takes place at Lord's, the counties (orcountries, in Scotland's case) will battle it out for the honour oftaking home the most highly prized trophy (formerly the NatWestTrophy) in the domestic game. Yorkshire won it last year and face anopener on 7 May at Cambridgeshire. Scotland start by playing lastyear's losing finalists Somerset at the Grange.
Where & when: Lord's; 30 Aug.
Tickets: MCC Ticket Office, Lord's, London NW8, or online atwww.mcctickets.com.
Websites: www.cricinfo.com; www.lords.org.
TV: Live coverage on Channel 4.
NB: Details were checked at the time of going to press, but areliable to change.
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