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A chronicle of people, places, happenings, and creations we admire.
Båstad: Summer Playground in Southern Sweden
2016 SkiStar Swedish Open
Båstad on the southwestern tip of Sweden has long been a popular getaway and party capital to many Swedes and visitors from around the world. Over a two-week period, with it's (actual) sandy beaches, hotels and b&b's, beautiful countryside and the SkiStar Swedish Open (Men's 7/10-7/17) and the Ericsson Open (Women's 7/17-7/24), it's a relaxed atmosphere where top tennis professionals come after the gravity of Wimbledon, where one can kick back and enjoy themselves.
Accommodations
There are many attractive options for lodging in and around the area, from the many quaint and cozy b&b's to small inns to larger more luxurious hotels, most notably Hotel Skansen, which is located in the middle of the tournament grounds in Båstad.
Båstad Resort and Sports Complex
What's on this week
The SkiStar Swedish Open is one of those unique venues that affords an intimate experience viewing top players close up in competition. Hotels, shops, the marina and scenic beaches are a 'no-brainer' when it comes to a destination that thinks outside the tourism 'box'.
Krona o Stjärna Wireframe Tennis Line
The European grass-court season leading up to Wimbledon® is upon us, so we at Krona o Stjärna have been inspired to create the new Wireframe™ tennis t-shirt line. Based on the airy American Apparel sublimation tee, we have created a comfortable and stylish offering for tennis and sports enthusiasts of all ages; it's smart enough to dress up or down or be there in the fifth set of your finals match. The Wireframe™ tennis line will be available in our e-shop on June 14th.
The Story of the Yellow Jersey
As the Tour de France begins its second week of competition, there may be those who ask the question; "why the yellow jersey?"
In the very early 20th Century (1903), Henri Desgrange, founder of the French newspaper L'Auto (predecessor to today's L'Equipe) devised the race as publicity to increase newspaper sales, which happened to be published on yellow newsprint. The press had asked the Tour Director of the time to come up with a way for them to easily spot the race leader, ergo the Yellow Jersey was born.
But it would not be until 1919 when Eugéne Christophe (right) would become the first ever rider to wear the Maillot Jaune during the grueling race. He would only finish as high as 8th overall.
Eddy Merckx (1969, 1970, 1971, 1972, 1974) ©Getty Images
As the race grew more and more popular (and much larger) over the years and now generations, there have been more variations of such jerseys that recognize the best of the best of the Tour with jerseys recognizing the "King of the Mountain" (Polka Dot), Most Sprint Points (Green / Maillot Vert) Best U25 Rider (White / Maillot Blanc) as well as other lesser awards and classifications.
Bernard Hinault (1978, 1979, 1981, 1982, 1985) ©James Andanson/Sygma/Corbis
While this year's Tour is a world away in terms of bicycle technology, athletic capability and commercial attention, the yellow jersey bears no less importance, certainly a lot more now as the famous garment is looked upon globally as its own brand and a crucial vehicle in television and media.
Current Tour leader Chris Froome is fighting hard to keep back the challengers as the second Pyrenean stage goes through Tarbes / La Pierre-St. Martin.
Follow @letour on twitter
Eugéne Christophe, first man to wear 'Maillot Jaune" in the TdF
Greg LeMond (1986, 1989, 1990) ©ESPN Films
Chris Froome (2013) ©Reuters
adidas x Y3 Roland Garros 2015
©Images courtesy adidas, 2015
International stars Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Ana Ivanovic debut a new elegant collaboration between designer Yohji Yamamoto and adidas at this year's French Open. Lightweight materials and rich floral contrast make for a great combination of speed and style this summer.
UPDATE: Both Jo-Wilfried Tsonga and Ana Ivanovic made it into their respective Semifinals at Roland Garros. Well done!
©Courtesy ATP/WTA/FFT/Roland Garros
The Andrews Collection at RM Sotheby's: 1959 Lister-Chevrolet
RM Sotheby's has a very special example of British-American racing cars at auction today, Saturday, May 2--the 1959 Lister-Chevrolet. This gorgeous machine (Chassis No. BHL / Engine No. 3789935) with lightweight aluminum "knobbly' body that many Lister cars are famous for, is mated to a 436 bhp Small-Block Chevrolet engine making for a potent combination back then, and we suspect so even today. This cars holds lap records at Oulton Park, Goodwood and Spa, Belgium, has proper FIA paperwork and would make any serious collection complete.
$500,000-$650,000 (No Reserve)
Follow @rmsothebys
Images ©RMSotheby's / Andrews Collection
The Berluti Playtime Shoemaker Sneaker
French-Italian shoemaker Berluti have created a low-cut sneaker made in the spirit of a bespoke shoe out of a single piece of Palermo Venezia leather, ensuring enhanced comfort and durability. A great and unique statement on style and versatility this summer. This shoe comes in three colors; 'Savana' (pictured above) 'Purple Multico' and 'Mimosa'. Other patina options can be ordered on request.
$1,420.00 USD
Follow @Berluti