10 great events from around the world to cheer - USA Today

Good article on sporting events you need to see from around the world

10 great places to cheer with the crowd

Posted 7/8/2010 7:30 PM | in USA Today

Some travelers will cross continents to watch a game. Robert Tuchman understands. The author of The 100 Sporting Events You Must See Live (Benbella Books, $17.95) says visiting a famous venue and attending a legendary competition can be a thrill of a lifetime. He shares some favorites with Larry Bleiberg for USA TODAY.

Tour de France France:

A few decades ago, many Americans would have scratched their head at this choice. But that was before Lance Armstrong brought the three-week bicycle race into the mainstream. Spectators often wait hours just to watch cyclists whiz past, but Tuchman says it's about the experience and the beautiful setting, from the Alps to the finish on the Champs-Elysées in Paris.

Chicago Cubs game Wrigley Field:

"It's not about seeing the Cubs," says Tuchman. "Rarely or never are they a good team. It's really about taking you back in time." The Chicago neighborhood stadium feels out of the 1920s, with spectators watching from surrounding rooftops and neighborhood bars packed with fans. 773-404-2827

Ironman World ChampionshipKona, Hawaii:

This grueling triathlon covers spectacular scenery on the Big Island of Hawaii. The competition takes place in Kailua-Kona Bay and across lava fields, leading to the big finish on Ali'i Drive in Kona. Tuchman says it's not made-for-TV drama. "It's real athletes and a real sport."

National Baseball Hall of Fame InductionCooperstown, N.Y.:

 Every professional baseball player dreams of joining the sport's elite in this quaint upstate New York hamlet. Few ever make it. "It's a great little town that's all about baseball, and it just comes alive during induction weekend,"

Michigan vs. Ohio State college football gameAnn Arbor, Mich.:

Every other year, the University of Michigan plays host to its Big 10 rival at Michigan Stadium, or the Big House, as die-hard Wolverines call it. Ann Arbor is packed with fans, and there's electricity in the air, Tuchman says. "If you can attend one college football game a year, this is it."

U.S. Open Tennis Tournament Queens, N.Y.:

Tuchman suggests going to early matches at the nation's premier tennis competition, which allows spectators a chance to sit up close and watch the best players in the world. "The atmosphere is different than your typical tennis event. It's in New York, and it's kind of rowdy."

Midnight Madness at the University of Kentucky Lexington:

 College basketball practice can't start until a designated day in mid-October, so players once took the court at midnight. Now, because of NCAA regulations, the action starts about 9 p.m. In Lexington, the event attracts more than 20,000 fans. "Kentucky does it better than any other school," Tuchman says. The Wildcats invite back former players for a huge pep rally and dunking contest. "It's something kids camp out for. If you do it as an adult, it will be one of those throwback nights to college."

Daytona 500Daytona Beach, Fla.:

The kickoff of the NASCAR season, offers a great excuse to visit Florida in winter. You'll never forget the 168,000 screaming fans, but Tuchman says Daytona itself is a reason to come. Prior to the February faceoff, the track hosts Speedweeks, a series of races, parties and activities leading up to the big day. "If there's one racing event, this is it."

Montreal Canadiens vs. Toronto Maple Leafs hockey game Toronto:

 Tuchman says hockey is one of the most exciting sports to watch live, and nowhere more so than in hockey-crazed Canada's largest city. Toronto and Montreal are rivals in politics and culture as well as sports, so you can feel the tension in Air Canada Centre, especially in the upper-level seats. "When you put together teams from two cities that live and breathe hockey, you walk in and feel the emotion."

Nathan's Hot Dog Eating ContestConey Island, N.Y.:

Don't laugh. Tuchman insists this annual July 4 faceoff is a legitimate sport, requiring training and even garnering coverage on ESPN. More than 30,000 fans pack the corner of Surf and Stillwell avenues to watch the masters of competitive eating. Could you down 68 hot dogs in 10 minutes? For a more traditional thrill, stroll down the block to the Cyclone roller coaster.