RethinkTrends

RethinkTrends
RethinkTrends

Alok Chakraborty

World Baseball Classic: History & Iconic Moments

World Baseball Classic: History & Iconic Moments

Sports /

World Baseball Classic History  Founded in 2006, the World Baseball Classic (WBC), held at irregular intervals, is an international baseball tournament for the players of the national teams who are part of the World Baseball Softball Confederation (WBSC). Since its inception, 5 tournaments have been held so far, with the latest edition hosted by Japan from 8th March to 21st March’23. The event over the years has been one of the most viewed baseball events of all time.   Inspired by the FIFA World Cup format, the World Baseball Classic pits men’s national teams against each other in a single-elimination tournament to claim the prestigious World Baseball Classic Trophy. World Baseball Classics Inc. proposed the idea to the World Baseball Softball Confederation. (WBCI) when the International Olympic Committee decided to drop baseball from the Olympic sport.   The World Baseball Classic (WBC) is typically held in March during pre-season spring training, allowing professional players to prepare for their regular seasons in MLB, NPB, or the KBO League. However, while MLB pitchers are often absent due to conditioning limits set by their teams, the event still manages to feature a star-studded lineup of batters. As a result, the WBC consistently delivers exciting matchups and high-level competition, showcasing some of the best offensive talent from around the world. The Format:   Initially, in 2006, World Baseball Classic consisted of 16 teams. But with its growing popularity among the fans, in 2023, number of teams was increased to 20. Originally, it was decided that the tournament is to be hosted every after four years. But due to several circumstances, including MLB’s suggestion to reorganize the international calendar in 2013 to better manage the players. It was during that phase that WBSC decided to award the title of “World Champion” to the WBC winner given that the Classics facilitate direct qualifications and adhere to anti-doping rules.   The current format of World Baseball Classic is made up of 4 rounds: i. The Qualifying Round ii. A First Round iii. A Second Round iv. A Championship Round  The format is simple and straight forward. 20 teams are divided into 5 pools, each consisting of four teams. Seeded nations with higher rankings determine the pools they will be placed in with Top 12 ranked teams gaining automatic qualification to the first round. The remaining 8 teams play through an extra qualifying round to earn a spot in the tournament.   After all, 20 teams are announced, the first round of the World Baseball Classic tournaments commences in a round-robin format, with every team playing against the other three teams in their pool. The top two from each pool advance to the second round, which is again held in a round-robin format.   From the second round, top two teams from each pool go through to the championship round from where knock-out round kicks in. The semi-final features the top 4 teams in a single-elimination format. The winners of the semis make it to the grand finale. The winner of the final is crowned the World Baseball Classics champion.   Winner List of World Baseball Classics  2006: The inaugural year when World Baseball Classics kicked-off. It was held in March’06 with 16 national teams participating in the tournament. The tournament was held over a period of 19 days across multiple venues comprising USA, Puerto-Rico & Japan. The championship round was held at PETCO Park in San Diego, California. The final was between Japan & Cuba with Japan winning the first-ever World Baseball Classics championship.    2009: The 2009 World Baseball Classic was also held in various locations around the world. The tournament was played over a period of 21 days, from March 5 to March 23, 2009, with games held at several different venues.  The first round of the tournament was held in Tokyo, Mexico City, Toronto, San Juan, and Miami. The second round was held in San Diego and Miami. The championship round was held at Dodger Stadium in Los Angeles, California, with the four remaining teams playing in a single-elimination format to determine the winner of the tournament. Japan once again won the tournament, defeating South Korea 5-3 in the championship game.  2013: The third edition of World Baseball Classic was held in March 2013 with 28 teams participating in the qualifying rounds and 16 teams participating in the main tournament. The final was between Puerto Rico and the Dominican Republic, the latter won the championship after making an appearance in the 2006 final. The impressive feat of being unbeatable throughout the tournament made the Dominicans a force to be reckoned with in the sport. Major league players like Robinson Cano, Jose Reyes, and Edwin Encarnacion led the strong team.   2017: 2017 World Baseball Classic marked the fourth edition of the tournament. It was hosted around multiple venues including Seoul, Miami, Tokyo, and Jalisco. The final was played between United States and Puerto Rico, making it the third final appearance for the Puerto Ricans. United States went on to win the championship by 8-0 scoreline. United States featured a star-studded lineup of major league players like Marcus Stroman, Andrew McCutchen, and Christian Yelich. The tournament also saw the debut of Israel in the tournament and went on a run to finish 6th in the tournament.   2023: The 2021 World Baseball Classic tournament was halted due to the outbreak of Covid-19 pandemic. The tournament took place in 2023, with Shohei Ohtani earning the Most Valuable Player award and Japan claiming the championship. Shota Imanaga was named the Winning Pitcher, and Masataka Yoshida made the All-World Baseball Classic Team. Japan was crowned the champion for the 3rd time in the history of World Baseball Classic and regained their supremacy over the sport.   Iconic Moments in World Baseball Classic  The spectacle and the fun World Baseball Classic has provided over the years is simply awe-inspiring. And while there are countless moments which would make into any highlight reels, the following five are the standout moments in the World Baseball Classic so far: Japan’s victory in

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Top 10 All-Time Leading Scorer in NBA History

Top 10 All-Time Leading Scorer in NBA History

Sports /

Since its inception, many greats and legends have graced the court of National Basketball Association (NBA). But only some have truly reached the potential and etched their name on the history of the sport. Be it a thrilling last-minute buzzer-beater or a flying slam dunk, there are numerous ways a fan can classify to rank these greats. But we are taking a straight-forward approach. A statistical method to list the top 10 All-time leading scorers in NBA history. If you want to know the GOATs of basketball, you might want to give this article a read. Top 10 All-time goats of sports history But for the purposes of this blog, we will be only looking at the career stats of some of these great NBA players and rank them in order of the points they scored during their playing career. Who makes it to the top? Read to find out. Three-time NBA MVP Moses Malone scored over 27,000 points during his playing career. 10. Moses Malone Known as “The Moses” for leading his team to glory and fame, Moses Malone played a powerful central player who had an excellent rebounding ability, supreme post-up moves and was an invincible scorer. He is known for his incomparable physicality and stamina. Moses Malone featured in over 1,300 regular-season games, and 134 play-off games. He has played for the likes Utah Stars, Spirits of St. Louis, Buffalo Braves, Houston Rockets, Washington Bullets, Atlanta Hawks, Milwaukee Bucks, and San Antonio Spurs. However, his greatest ever appearance was for the Philadelphia 76ers, helping them secure a championship in 1983. In the finals against the Los Angeles Lakers, Moses Malone scored 38 points and grabbed 24 rebounds, single-handedly guiding the 76ers to their first-ever championship victory. Apart from these, Moses Malone has been awarded NBA MVP 3 times, secured NBA All-Star finish for 12 times, and holds 8 All NBA selection. Games Played: 1,329 Points Scored: 27,409 9. Carmelo Anthony Carmelo Anthony Ranked 9th in the All time Leading Scorer in the history of NBA. (Source: Marca) Nicknamed Melo, Carmelo Anthony is a powerful scoring forward with a versatile offensive game and an ability to score from anywhere on the court. Influential both on and off the court, Anthony scored a career-high 62 points in a game against Charlotte Bobcats in 2014. He has also featured 10 times in the NBA All-Star teams and 6 times in All NBA selection. Over his long illustrious career, Anthony has played for Denver Nuggets, New York Knicks, Oklahoma City Thunder, Houston Rockets, Portland Trail Blazers, and Los Angeles Lakers. Games Played: 1,260 Points Scored: 28,289 8. Shaquille O’Neal NBA legend Shaquille O’Neal amassed over 28596 points over his long career. (Source: The Indian Express) AKA Shaq, he was a dominant center player with exceptional size, strength & athleticism. Known for his ability to overpower his opponents in the post, Shaq remains a legend of NBA. The greatest match he ever played was against the Los Angeles Clippers in 2000 where he scored 61 points and grabbed 23 rebounds in the game. He has played for Orlando Magic, Miami Heat, Phoenix Suns, Cleveland Cavaliers, Boston Celtics, and most prominently for Los Angeles Lakers. Over the years, he has won 4 NBA Championship, won 3 times NBA Finals MVP, features in 15 NBA All-Star teams, and 8 times in All-NBA selection. Games Played: 1,207 Points Scored: 28,596 7. Wilt Chamberlain Popularly known as Wilt the Stilt and the Big Dipper, Wilt Chamberlain holds the record of scoring maximum points in a game that still stands today. On 2nd March 1962, Chamberlain scored 100 points against the New York Knicks and went on to become one of the all-time leading scorers in the history of NBA. As a central player, Chamberlain’s playing style involved strength & agility which allowed him to dominate the court. Chamberlain has secured 2 NBA Championship trophies, made it into 4 All-Star Game MVPs, 2 NBA MVP finals, 7 scoring titles, 11 rebounding titles, and 4 regular season MVPs. He has played for Philadelphia/San Francisco Warriors, Philadelphia 76ers, & Los Angeles Lakers. Games Played: 1,045 Points Scored: 31,419 6. Dirk Nowitzki Mostly played as a power forward, Nowitzki is known for his shooting ability and one-legged fadeaway jump shot. His scoring, rebounding and leadership abilities earned him the much-needed fame and glory in the NBA history. A one franchise man, Nowitzki spent his playing career with Dallas Mavericks and led them to their first NBA Championship, scoring 21 points in the game 6 of the NBA finals against the Miami Heat. Nicknamed the Dunking Deutschman, Dirk has won 1 NBA championship, 1 regular season MVP, 15 All-Star Game appearances, 12 All-NBA Team selections and 1 Finals MVP. Games Played: 1,522 Points Scored: 31,560 5. Michael Jordan Known for his competitiveness and all-round defensive and offensive playing style, Michael Jordan is a legend of the sport. A pop-culture icon, Jordan’s dunking style and mid-acrobatics earned him the name, “Air Jordan.” One of the greatest games he ever played was against Utah Jazz despite battling a stomach virus. This performance has become known as the “Flu Game” and is considered one of the greatest individual performances in NBA history. He went on to score 38 points, grabbed 7 rebounds and dished out 5 assists in the game. Michael Jordan has amassed 6 NBA championships during his playing career with 5 regular season MVPs, 6 NBA Finals MVPs, 10 scoring titles, 14 All-Star game appearances, and 11 All-NBA team selections. He played for the Chicago Bulls & Washington Wizards. Games Played: 1,072 Points Scored: 32,292 4. Kobe Bryant Known for his shooting ability, footwork, competitiveness, Kobe played as a shooting guard for Los Angeles Lakers. Also known as the Black Mamba, he was a driving force to bring back Lakers into prominence in early 2000s. On 22nd Jan’06, Kobe scored his career-high 81 points in a single game against Toronto Raptors. Kobe Bryant has won 5 NBA championships, 1 regular season

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10 Healthiest Citrus Fruits & their Benefits

10 Healthiest Citrus Fruits & their Benefits

Health /

Looking for some of the healthiest citrus fruits? Here is a list of the top 10 citrus fruits and their benefits for you to enjoy.    10 Healthiest Citrus Fruits and their Benefits.   Lemon   Did you know a lemon tree can produce a box (about 600 pounds) of lemons annually? It is one of the healthiest citrus fruits out there. Lemons are bright yellow citrus fruits widely cultivated for their sour, zesty taste, fragrant peel, and juice. Native to Asia, it is often used in cooking, baking, cleaning, and even skincare. Lemons are enriched with vitamin C, antioxidants, and citric acid, which help detoxify the body, improve digestion, and brighten the skin. It has a sour taste and is commonly used in Jewish and Middle Eastern cuisine because of its savory skin and juice.   Lemons can be consumed in many ways, but my favorite is the classic way to drink a chilled lemon soda on a hot summer day. Oh! That sparkling fresh feeling.     Orange   Oranges are the most popular citrus fruits known for their sweet and juicy taste. It is often eaten fresh but can also be used in many recipes, from salads to desserts. Oranges are one of the most popularly consumed citrus fruits worldwide. Oranges have a sweet and slightly sour flavor, making them a versatile ingredient featured in many dishes.     A famous orange recipe is a tangy orange sauce with orange juice, soy sauce, honey, and chili flakes. A popular Chinese-American dish featuring crispy coated chicken and orange chicken.   Tangerines   Tangerines are smaller and sweeter than oranges and are often eaten as a snack. They can also be used in salads or in desserts. One famous recipe that uses tangerines is the ‘Tangerine Sorbet.’ This refreshing dessert is made with tangerine juice, sugar, and water and is perfect for a hot summer day.     Tangerines are small, sweet, and easy-to-peel citrus fruits native to China. They have thin, loose skin that separates easily from the pulp. Tangerines are tangy yet sweet, making them a popular snack or ingredient in salads and desserts.     Blood Orange  Blood oranges are a variant of orange with dark red flesh. Sweet and slightly sour, it is often used in cocktails and as a side dish. A famous recipe using blood oranges is the ‘Blood Orange Margarita.’ Made with tequila, lime juice, and blood orange juice, this cocktail is perfect for a party or a night out.    Blood oranges are orange with distinctive dark red flesh and a sweet, slightly sour flavor. Rich in anthocyanins, it is an antioxidant that gives it its unique color and health benefits. Blood oranges are often used as a side dish in cocktails, desserts, or salads.    Grapefruit     Grapefruits are larger than oranges and have a sour and bitter taste. It is often eaten for breakfast or added to salads. A famous recipe using grapefruit is grapefruit and avocado salad. This refreshing salad features grapefruit chunks, avocado, arugula, and honey-lime dressing.    Native to Barbados, it is often eaten for breakfast or in salads. Grapefruits are rich in vitamin C, potassium, and fiber, which help reduce inflammation, regulate blood pressure, and promote healthy digestion.     Lime      Lime is a small citrus fruit with a sour taste. It is often used in cocktails and Mexican cuisine. A famous recipe using lime is a margarita. This classic cocktail is perfect for a night out with friends and is made with tequila, lime juice, triple sec, and salt, served in a salt-rimmed glass.    Lime is rich in vitamin C, flavonoids, and limonoids, which strengthen the immune system, fight free radicals and prevent cancer. It is often used in cocktails, sauces, marinades, or as a garnish in Mexican and Southeast Asian cuisine.     Kinnow    Kinnow is a tangerine and orange hybrid widely grown in Pakistan and India. It has a sweet and citrusy flavor and is often eaten raw or added to salads. A famous recipe used by Kinnow is Kinnow Jam. This sweet and savory spread is made with Kinnow juice, sugar, and water and is perfect for breakfast toast. Kinnows are rich in vitamin C, fiber, and antioxidants to improve skin health, boost immunity and reduce the risk of chronic disease.    Sweet Lime   Sweet limes are a type of lime that is sweeter than regular limes and are often used in Indian cuisine. One famous recipe that uses sweet lime is Sweet Lime Soda. This refreshing drink features sweet lime juice, soda water, and a pinch of salt.   Sweet limes have thin and smooth skin and juicy pulp inside. They can be eaten as a snack or used in drinks, desserts, or chutneys. Sweet limes are rich in Vitamin C, antioxidants, and minerals, which help improve digestion, boost immunity, and maintain healthy skin.    Clementine   Clementines are a type of tangerine with a sweet, juicy flavor. It is often eaten as a snack or added to salads. A famous recipe using clementines is clementine cake. This delicious cake has clementine peel and juice, almond flour, and eggs.    Clementines are small, seedless citrus fruits that are a hybrid of tangerine and orange. Native to North Africa, it is famous for its sweet and juicy taste. Rich in vitamin C, folic acid, and fiber, it supports heart health, boosts brain function, and regulates blood sugar levels. Clementines have thin skin and are accessible to peel, making them easy to eat as an ingredient in salads and desserts.    Citron     Citron is a large citrus fruit similar to a lemon but with a thicker and rougher skin. It has a tart and acidic taste and is commonly used in Jewish and Middle Eastern cuisine for its fragrant zest and juice. Citron is rich in Vitamin C, flavonoids, and limonoids, which help protect against oxidative stress, boost immunity, and promote liver function.    One famous recipe that uses citron is Etrog Jam, a traditional Jewish spread made with citron fruit, sugar, and water, often served during the holiday of Sukkot.   The bottom line   Citrus fruits are

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10 most underrated movies of all time to watch

10 most underrated movies of all time to watch

Entertainment /

There are excellent films. There are poor films. Then there are films that were criminally underappreciated but have finally received the recognition they merit. The film industry is inundated with hundreds of movies every year, so many that we can overlook the underrated gems that are overshadowed by blockbusters and movies that are painfully dull but will still receive nominations during award season (shade, but no shade). But that’s over now. Finally, from corny rom-coms to motivational true story movies, we’re giving the films that ought to be sleeper hits the roses they merit while we still have the chance. Here are some of the most underappreciated but most deserving movies of all time. The Iron Giant (1999) “The Iron Giant” is a 1999 animated science fiction film directed by Brad Bird. The plot follows a young boy named Hogarth Hughes who discovers and befriends a giant alien robot that has crashed on Earth. As the government becomes aware of the robot’s existence, Hogarth must protect his new friend from being destroyed. Despite receiving positive reviews from critics, “The Iron Giant” did not perform well at the box office upon its release. However, it has since become a beloved cult classic among fans of animation and science fiction. One reason for its underrated status may be due to its release during a time when traditional hand-drawn animation was losing popularity to computer-generated animation. Additionally, the film’s marketing campaign may have been ineffective in generating interest. The themes of “The Iron Giant” center around the dangers of war and the importance of empathy and understanding. The relationship between Hogarth and the robot highlights the power of compassion and connection, even between beings that are vastly different. The film’s impact can be seen in its influence on later animated films, as well as its messages of peace and understanding that remain relevant today. Blade Runner (1982) “Blade Runner” is a 1982 science fiction film directed by Ridley Scott, adapted from the novel “Do Androids Dream of Electric Sheep?” by Philip K. Dick. The story takes place in a dystopian future where genetically engineered replicants are used for dangerous work in off-world colonies, but are banned on Earth. Harrison Ford plays Rick Deckard, a retired “Blade Runner” tasked with hunting down a group of rogue replicants led by Roy Batty (Rutger Hauer), who have returned to Earth seeking answers from their creator. The film received mixed reviews upon its initial release, with some praising its stunning visuals and philosophical themes, while others criticized its slow pacing and convoluted plot. However, over time, “Blade Runner” has become a cult classic and is now widely regarded as one of the greatest science fiction films of all time. The film’s initial critical reception may have been due to its departure from traditional sci-fi tropes at the time, as well as its ambiguous and thought-provoking themes, which may have been difficult for some audiences to fully grasp. Additionally, the film’s multiple cuts and different endings may have also contributed to its initial confusion and mixed reviews. “Blade Runner” explores complex themes such as identity, humanity, and what it means to be alive. The film’s central question is whether the replicants, despite being artificially created, deserve the same rights and freedoms as humans. This question continues to be relevant today, as we grapple with the ethical implications of artificial intelligence and robotics. The film’s impact on science fiction cannot be overstated, as it has influenced countless other films and TV shows in the genre. Its dark, neo-noir visual style has become iconic, and its themes and ideas continue to inspire new generations of sci-fi storytellers. The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford (2007) “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” is a 2007 Western film directed by Andrew Dominik, based on the novel of the same name by Ron Hansen. The film follows the last months of infamous outlaw Jesse James (Brad Pitt) and his eventual assassination by Robert Ford (Casey Affleck), a member of James’ gang who becomes obsessed with the idea of killing him for fame and fortune. The film received critical acclaim upon its release, with many praising its slow-burning tension, stunning cinematography, and powerful performances, particularly by Brad Pitt and Casey Affleck. However, it was a commercial disappointment, failing to recoup its budget at the box office. The film’s lack of commercial success and slow pacing may have contributed to its underrated status. Additionally, its release was overshadowed by the success of other films during the awards season, such as “No Country for Old Men” and “There Will Be Blood”. At its core, “The Assassination of Jesse James by the Coward Robert Ford” is a character study of two men: Jesse James, a charismatic but troubled outlaw, and Robert Ford, a young and insecure member of his gang. The film explores themes of fame, obsession, betrayal, and the nature of heroism. Its nonlinear structure and atmospheric score create a haunting, dreamlike atmosphere that adds to the film’s impact. The film’s impact on the Western genre is significant, as it challenged the traditional portrayal of heroes and villains and humanized its characters in a way that was not often seen in Westerns. It also marked a turning point for Brad Pitt’s career, showcasing his range as an actor and his ability to play complex, nuanced characters. Brazil (1985) “Brazil” a 1985 dystopian science fiction film directed by Terry Gilliam. The story is set in a dark, bureaucratic society where the government’s power is absolute and individuals have no rights or privacy. The protagonist, Sam Lowry (Jonathan Pryce), is a low-level government worker who becomes disillusioned with his meaningless job and falls in love with a woman who has been wrongly accused of being a terrorist. The film received positive reviews from critics, with many praising its surreal visuals, dark humor, and powerful commentary on the dangers of totalitarianism. However, it was not a commercial success at the time

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Formula 1 vs Grand Prix

Formula 1 vs Grand Prix

Sports /

What is the difference between Grand Prix and Formula 1? Formula 1 is a specific type of Grand Prix racing that adheres to the set of rules set defined by Federation Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA). Whereas, Grand Prix racing refers to any type of auto racing held on closed circuits. These circuits can be on public roads or built for a specific purpose.   Most of the people today interchangeably use these words which is incorrect. Grand Prix is a class of automobile racings that can include MotoGP for motorcycle racing or FIA World Endurance Championship for sports car racing.   But colloquially, if you find anyone using the term Grand Prix without any additional qualifiers, they usually refer to Formula 1 racing.  Why F1 is called the Grand Prix? Formula 1 (F1) is often called the Grand Prix (GP), a term originating in France meaning “grand prize.” The first Grand Prix race took place in France in 1906. The term Grand Prix has since become synonymous with international motorsport events, including Formula 1. In F1, the term is used to refer to the individual races on the calendar, such as the Monaco Grand Prix or the Italian Grand Prix.  F1 races are known for their high levels of speed, skill, and technology, and the Grand Prix events are some of the most prestigious and popular motorsport races in the world. The term Grand Prix has come to represent the pinnacle of international motorsport, and is recognized and celebrated by fans and drivers alike.  Understanding Formula 1 race format: Formula 1 championship consists of series of individual race events, hosted across different continents, countries, and circuits. Each circuit pose a different challenge to the drivers. For 2023 Formula 1 championship, a total of 23 races have been scheduled. At the time of writing this blog, 3 of the Grand Prix have been completed. Bahrain Grand Prix, Saudi Arabian Grand Prix, and Australian Grand Prix have been completed.   The Belgium Grand Prix at the Circuit de Spa-Francorchamps is regarded to be the trickiest of all because of its unpredictable weather conditions and high-speed corners. The track also offers elevation changes and presents fast & flowing corners. The Monaco Grand Prix is very popular and is crash-prone, mainly because of its narrow lanes.   What are the three days of Grand Prix race? The three days of a typical Formula 1 race weekend are:  Friday – Practice sessions: On Friday, there are two practice sessions that are held to allow drivers to get familiar with the track and to fine-tune the car’s setup. The first practice session usually lasts for 90 minutes, while the second session lasts for an hour.  Saturday – Qualifying: On Saturday, there is a third practice session that lasts for an hour, followed by the qualifying session. The qualifying session determines the starting grid for the race on Sunday, with the fastest driver securing pole position. The qualifying session is split into three parts: Q1, Q2, and Q3, with the slowest drivers being eliminated after each part.  Sunday – Race Day: On Sunday, the main event takes place, which is the race. The race is typically 300 kilometers or a maximum of two hours long, depending on which comes first. This race is the most important part of the weekend, as it determines who earns points towards the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. The race start time can vary depending on the location of the circuit and the time zone.  Schedule of F1 2023: Winning F1 championship vs winning grand prix:  Winning grand prix is like winning a battle in F1 context. Whereas, winning the f1 championship is like winning the war.   The points system for winning a Grand Prix in Formula 1 (F1) has changed over the years, but the current system, introduced in 2010, awards points as follows:  1st place: 25 points 2nd place: 18 points 3rd place: 15 points 4th place: 12 points 5th place: 10 points 6th place: 8 points 7th place: 6 points 8th place: 4 points 9th place: 2 points 10th place: 1 point  In addition to these points, there is an additional point awarded to the driver who sets the fastest lap of the race, provided that they finish in the top 10. If the driver with the fastest lap finishes outside the top 10, the point is not awarded.  Drivers earn points in each race, which accumulate throughout the season to decide the Drivers’ and Constructors’ Championships. The driver and constructor with the most points win the titles.  Which Grand Prix is the grandest of all? The Monaco Grand Prix is one of the most prestigious and famous Formula 1 races in the world. It is held annually on the Circuit de Monaco, a street circuit located in the streets of Monte Carlo and La Condamine in the Principality of Monaco.  The race first took place in 1929 and has been held every year since, except in 1951. The Circuit de Monaco is known for its tight, twisty layout, which makes overtaking difficult and requires high levels of driver skill and precision.  The race weekend typically includes three days of practice and qualifying sessions, followed by the race itself on Sunday. The Monaco Grand Prix is known for its glamour and prestige, with many celebrities and VIPs in attendance.  The race has been won by many famous drivers, including Ayrton Senna, Graham Hill, and Michael Schumacher. The current lap record for the circuit is held by Max Verstappen, who set a time of 1:14.260 in the 2021 race.   You can catch all the live action on F1 TV. 

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Top 10 All-time goats of sports history

Top 10 all time goats of sports history

Sports /

We all have a favorite sport. Even more, we all have a favorite player. These affiliations mean different fan bases, debating over who is the greatest of all times. Are you a fan of Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo? Do you advocate for Federer or are you a die-hard fan of Nadal? Whose side are you on: Michael Jordan or LeBron James? Who is the greatest of all time goats of sports history Fanbases around the world are split on whose the greatest of all times. And these topics make up for good debates. And while everyone agrees, these lists are subjective, nonetheless, the following list has been curated keeping in mind the general opinion of the fans. For convenience, this blog lists the top 3 goats of sports history from 10 different sports. So, without further ado, let’s get started with the list. Read till the last to find out if your favorite has made the list. 1. Football (Soccer):  Lionel Messi: 7 times world-record holder of Ballon d’OR award, 6 times European Golden Shoe winner, 10 La Liga trophies, 7 Copa del Rey titles, 4 Champions League titles, and 1 World Cup Winner medal, Lionel Messi is the most decorated footballer of all times. The Argentine wonder followed in the footsteps of Diego Maradona, Leo went on to surpass El Pelusa to become undisputedly the greatest ever footballer to have graced a football pitch. Messi spent 21 years with Barcelona before moving to Paris Saint–Germain reuniting with his Barca teammate Neymar. Messi’s goal tally now stands at 803 and has made over 1000+ appearances.   Cristiano Ronaldo: A brand in himself, CR7 is the highest goal scorer in the history of the sport and is undoubtedly one of the goats of sports history. With 832 goals, 5 Ballon d’OR, 4 European Golden shoes, 7 league titles and 5 UEFA Champions Leagues trophies, Cristiano is the greatest player this generation has witnessed. Combined with Leo, these two giants have dominated the sport for over 2 decades and remains the greatest rivalry ever. A supreme athlete and the most followed man on Instagram, Ronaldo has defied laws through his sheer perseverance. From Madeira to Manchester, and from Bernabeu to Allianz, the man has conquered 3 of the top European leagues to etch his name in the history of the sport. Pele & Maradona: The two of the classics, Pele & Maradona made everyone fall in love with football. Between them, they have 4 World Cup trophies (3 for Pele & 1 for Maradona) and over 1200+, these two are absolute legends of the games. Inspired generations after them, they have popularized South American flavored football on the global platform. Any list in football is incomplete without these two legends featuring in it. 2. Basketball: Michael Jordan: Owing to his extraordinary leaping ability to stay in the air for the longest, Michael Jordan got the name Air Jordan for a reason. His competitive spirit, scoring ability, and clutch performances on the biggest of stages, makes him the G.O.A.T in the history of NBA. Having won 6 NBA Championships (1991, 1992, 1993, 1996, 1997, 1998), 6 NBA MVP finals, and 5 NBA MVP, he holds a legendary status in the sport. Having spent the majority of his career with Chicago Bulls, Michael Jordan was an inspiration to many who followed in his footsteps. LeBron James: 4 times NBA Championships winner, with 4 NBA Finals MVP and 4 NBA MVP, many experts and analysts consider LeBron in the same bracket as Jordan. His versatility, all-round skill, consistency, longevity, and scoring prowess rightly earned him the name “King James”. Drafted to Cleveland Cavaliers in his first season, LeBron won two championships with Miami Heat before making his move LA Lakers where he is still going strong winning his fourth title in 2020. Kobe Bryant: Known as Black Mamba, Kobe Bryant is an absolute legend of the game. With 5 NBA Championships with his lifelong team LA Lakers, Kobe had an amazing scoring range, a wide range of offensive moves and a deadly jump shot. Kobe has also been awarded 2 times NBA finals MVP and an NBA MVP to his name. He had a huge cultural impact and was an inspiration both on and off the court. In January 2020, the world of sports was shocked by Kobe’s tragic helicopter crash that led to an outpour of tributes from his peers and fans alike. His tragic passing in 2020 left a massive void in the sports world, but Kobe’s legacy as one of the goats of sports history remains unmatched. G.O.A.T. 3. Cricket: Sachin Tendulkar: The Master-Blaster who has amassed over 15,000 runs in Test cricket and 18,000 runs in ODIs, making him leading run-scorer in the history of all formats of the game. Known for his cover and straight drive, he his wristy and has world-class hand-eye coordination. His victory in the 2011 World Cup further solidified his place as one of the goats of sports history. Don Bradman: With a test average of 99.94, Sir Donald Bradman is the greatest Australian cricketer, leading the Aussies to many memorable victories. His iconic pull shot, and his quick footwork led him to score 29 centuries in just 52 test matches. Bradman is known for his technique and consistency, and remains the greatest cricketer even today. Mahendra Singh Dhoni: Known for his calm demeanor, tactical acumen, and excellent leadership skills, Dhoni is regarded as one of the greatest cricketing captains of all time, having led the Indian team to numerous victories in all game formats. Dhoni made his debut for the Indian cricket team in December 2004 and went on to play 90 Test matches, 350 One Day Internationals (ODIs), and 98 Twenty20 Internationals (T20Is) for India. He is also the only captain in the world to have won all three major International Cricket Council (ICC) trophies – the 2007 ICC World Twenty20, the 2010 and 2016 ICC World Cups. Dhoni because of his composed demeanor

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Science behind this top 5 organic makeup brands 

Lifestyle /

Did you know that skin care is the largest category in the cosmetics industry, accounting for approximately 40% of the market share? The need for organic makeup brands has been increasing now more than ever. And the global cosmetics market size was valued at USD 532.43 billion in 2020 and is expected to advance at a CAGR of 5.9% from 2021 to 2028. Makeup has been with us forever in different forms around the world. The South Africans used to put kohl to line their eyes, while the Greeks used crushed berries to color their lips. Gradually with the advancement of humans and technology, makeup also revolutionized. In the 20th century, makeup became more widely available and popularized in the film and fashion industries. Today, makeup has evolved to become a multi-billion dollar industry worldwide. Organic and natural makeup emerged when women started getting irritations from all the chemicals used in their products. And it was not limited to just ordinary brands. Chemicals were involved in every product, from luxury makeup to drugstore products. Women had no choice but to continue with the existing products. Seldom did they question the use of chemicals in their everyday products. But, our curiosity did not let us live with the question of why chemicals are used in the products used to beautify our faces. If you are wondering about the same, then continue reading. Why are chemicals added to makeup products? Preservatives: Chemicals are commonly used in cosmetics to prevent bacterial growth and spoilage due to the presence of water and other natural ingredients in cosmetics. Emulsifiers and Stabilizers: Many makeup products contain a combination of water- and oil-based ingredients that can separate without using chemical emulsifiers and stabilizers. Pigments and Frangrance: Chemicals are commonly used in makeup products to provide colors such as blushes, eye shadows, and even foundations. And the ingredient that makes our makeup smell like a dessert out of the oven or a fresh flower plucked from the garden is also a chemical. Texture and Consistency: Chemicals can create the desired texture and consistency of makeup products and are used to control the thickness or thinness for a smoother application. Active ingredient: Some chemicals are used as active ingredients in cosmetics, like the protectant of your sunscreens or an anti-aging compound that protects your skin from fine lines. The presence of chemicals does not stop the use of the products. While most people are accustomed to these products and do not care much, some saw a significant gap in the industry and took it upon themselves to revolutionize the makeup industry. And that’s how organic and natural makeup started coming into the picture. If you have been looking for some beauty brands that are completely natural or organic, you are at the right place. But first, know the difference. Kirsten from the iconic brand Kjaer Weis explains that a natural ingredient is taken from the field. However, for an ingredient to be organic, it has to come from a field that has been chemical-free for at least 3 years. Now that you know the difference, let’s dive into the top five organic makeup brands and the science behind their products. Top 5 Organic Makeup Brands Kjaer Weis by Kirsten Kjaer Weis Starting with the luxury beauty brand, Kjaer Weis is an award-winning brand that uses natural or organic ingredients for its products. Made in Italy, they create products free of parabens, silicones, petrochemical emulsifiers, and synthetic fragrances. They manufacture high-performing and long-lasting products. Key Ingredients: The prime ingredients used in their products are Shea Butter, Dios Corea Batatas, Rosehip Seed Oil, and Sweet Almond Seed Oil. They are very transparent with their ingredients and have listed the entire list on their website. Get to know the brand: “Kjaer Weis is leading the movement with high-performing, luxury makeup that is, as everything should be, organic and sustainable.” It is “Simple but not plain. Beautiful but always genuine.” Founded by Kirsten Kjaer Weis, a Danish Makeup Artist living in NYC, this beauty brand has just the right ingredients and perfect packaging. KW blended the two most compromised things in the beauty industry – quality and packaging – and has become a leading name in the organic beauty industry. Even their packaging is sustainable and, at the same time, gives you a luxurious feel when you hold it. Their best-selling products include Cream Blush, Tinted Moisturizer, Eye Balm, Im-Possible Mascara, and The Beautiful Oil. W3LL PEOPLE This clean and natural beauty brand was acquired by E.L.F. Cosmetics in 2020. They create their products from plant-powered ingredients and manufacture cruelty-free products. Their aim is to make clean and natural beauty accessible to everybody. Key Ingredients: Their key ingredients include ethically sourced botanicals like Green Tea, Turmeric, Pomegranate, Rosehip, and Broccoli Seed Oil which make revitalizing cosmetics that are nourishing and soothing. Get to know the brand: Founded in 2008 by Shirley Pinkson, James Walker, and Wendi Berger, W3LL PEOPLE is a cosmetics brand that is natural, organic, and environmentally conscious. Before working together for WP, the three founders were involved in their ventures. Pinkson was a celebrity makeup artist, Walker had a background in marketing and branding, and Berger brought business development skills to the table. Today, WP is a leading brand that caters to manufacturing clean, natural, and organic makeup for people worldwide. And their products are free from toxicity entirely. Their best-selling products include Mascara, Foundation, Stick Blushes, and the Power Palette Eyeshadow. They also have a skincare range along with brushes and tools. AU Naturale Cosmetics Founded by Ashley Prange, a former nuclear analyst in Washington, Au Naturale is a bold and long-lasting color cosmetics brand free from harmful chemicals that cause breakouts or irritation. Key Ingredients: Their prime ingredients include Meadowfoam Seed Oil, Jojoba Seed Oil, and Mica. Get to know your brand: Ashley left her job and took the matter into her own hand when harmful chemicals found in makeup products caused her to break out. She

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How is Oscar 2023 different from the Golden Globes

How is Oscar 2023 different from the Golden Globes?

Entertainment /

It is that time of the year when movie and television buffs await in anticipation as to which of their favorite actors, actresses, and movies have made it to the top. From the dresses worn by celebs on the red carpets to acceptance speeches, and from occasional bouts to crazy after parties, Oscars & Golden Globes are the two most talked about award ceremonies the industry offers. While Ricky Gervais has been patented with Golden Globes, Jimmy Kimmel has been hosting Oscars for some time now. This shows how every aspect of these award shows becomes a talking point. Oscar & Golden Globes remain the two most high-profile and significant award shows for the entertainment fraternity. Recently, the Oscars for 2023 has been awarded. Often, viewers use these award shows interchangeably without knowing which is which. This blog will answer questions like How Oscar is different from Golden Globes, how they differ in categories, celebration, trophy, judging panel, and more. Read till the end to know which is better. Trophy: Oscar, aka The Academy Awards, has been the most prominent trophy. Designed by MGM art director Cedric Gibbons, it is a figurine depicting a knight standing over a reel of film holding a crusader’s sword. George Stanley created the 3-dimensional sculptor, and the world-renowned statuette took its shape. The figurine stands 13 ½ inches tall and weighs around 8 ½ pounds. The film reel on the statue depicts five spokes signifying five primary & original branches of the film industry: Actors, Directors, Producers, Technicians, and Writers. The Golden Globes, on the other hand, was designed by the then president of Hollywood Foreign Press Association (HFPA), Marina Cisternas depicting a golden globe (literally) wrapped in filmstrip perched on a pedestal. The globe is plated in gold, stands 10.75 inches tall, and weighs 5 ½ pounds. History: Both the Golden Globe and Oscar are highly recognized in the film industry. They have been here for a long time and only gained prominence as the years passed. The very first Academy Awards were held on 16th May 1929. Back then, it was nothing compared to the shenanigans we see today. It was held in a private dinner setup at the Hollywood Roosevelt Hotel in L.A. that lasted only 15 minutes instead of the four-hour marathon it has become today. The Oscars recognized only 12 categories back then and were held once every two years. Since NBC or ABC took the broadcast rights, more categories were added, and the ceremony was broadcasted. Golden Globes started on 20th January 1944, hosted at the 20th Century Fox studios, L.A., California. The first Golden Globes was hosted to honor the best in film-making, consisted of only six categories, and was never broadcasted. Only in 1957, when NBC got involved, the award ceremony started broadcasting. Categories: Oscar consists of 24 categories and is strictly restricted to films including best makeup, best soundtrack, best editing, best mixing, best visual effects, and more, apart from the staple best actor, best actress, best screenplay, best director, and best producer. Golden Globe award consists of 25 awards, where 14 are from movies, and 11 are from television. Each category is divided into movies and television and encompasses international works. Judging Panel: The winners of the Oscars are decided by the Academy of Motion Pictures Arts and Sciences, consisting of some 9000+ people. The Academy is an international organization with an invite-only membership policy. The Golden Globe, however, is bestowed by the Hollywood Foreign Press Association, a non-profit organization of international journalists across 55 countries with over 100 members. Ceremonial Celebration:  Oscar forms part of the EGOT (Emmy, Grammy, Oscar & Tony) collection, a feat only a few have achieved. While ceremonial celebrations are the same for both, the incidents at Oscar are far more talked about than Golden Globe in general, including Will Smith slapping Chris Rock. This in no way means Golden Globe is without controversy. Their lack of black members in the panel raised questions about their diversity. HFPA today is becoming more and more diversified. The glam & glitz of both award ceremonies is unprecedented. The red carpets, the star attendances, the speeches, the charismatic hosts, and the occasional slip-ups & hiccups are all part of show business. And these two epitomize that in every way. Conclusion While both the awards have their gravity and aura, if you ask a celeb or a fan, everyone will rate the Oscars higher than Golden Globe. I don’t know if the trophy is shinier, but Oscar is regarded as the holy grail for the Hollywood community.

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Oscar 2023 Winners to Watch

Oscar 2023 Winners to Watch

Top Trending /

Hosted by Jimmy Kimmels for the 3rd time, 12th March’23 saw the 95th Academy Awards being presented. Held at the Dolby Theatre, Los Angeles, California, this Oscar was the first of many with many first-timers either making it to the nominations and for some, eventually winning it. A total of 23 categories of awards were handed to the winners. Here’s a full list of winners from Oscar 2023: 1.Best Picture Winner: Everything Everywhere All At Once Nominations: All Quiet on the Western Front, Avatar: The Way of Water, The Banshees of Inisherin, Elvis, The Fablemans, Tar, Top Gun: Maverick, Triangle of Sadness, Women Talking. 2.Best Actor Winner: Brandon Fraser, “The Whale” Nominations: Colin Farrell (The Banshees of Inisherin), Austin Butler (Elvis), Bill Nighy (Living), Paul Mescal (Aftersun) 3.Best Actress Winner: Michelle Yeoh, “Everything Everywhere All At Once” Nominations: Ana de Armas (Blonde), Cate Blanchett (Tar), Andrea Riseborough (To Leslie), Michelle Williams (The Fablemans) 4.Best Director Winner: Daniel Kwan & Daniel Schienert, “Everything Everywhere All At Once” Nominations: Martin McDonagh (The Banshees of Inisherin), Steven Spielberg (The Fablemans), Todd Field (Tar), Ruben Ostlund (Triangle of Sadness) 5.Best Original Screenplay Winner: Everything Everywhere All At Once Nominations: The Banshees of Inisherin, The Fablemans, Tar, Triangle of Sadness 6. Best Supporting Actor Winner: Ke Huy Quan (Everything Everywhere All at Once) Nominations: Brian Tyree Henry (Causeway), Judd Hirsch (The Fablemans), Brendan Gleeson (Banshees of Inisherin), Barry Keoghan (Banshees of Inisherin) 7. Best Supporting Actress Winner: Jamie Lee Curtis (Everything Everywhere All at Once) Nominations: Angela Bassett (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), Hong Chau (The Whale), Kerry Condon (The Banshees of Inisherin), Stephanie Hsu (Everything Everywhere All at Once) 8. Best International Film Winner: All Quiet on the Western Front (Germany) Nominations: Argentina, 1985 (Argentina), Close (Belgium), EO (Poland), The Quiet Girl (Ireland) 9. Best Animated Feature Winner: Guillermo del Toro’s Pinocchio Nominations: Marcel the Shell with Shoes On, Puss In Boots: The Last Wish, The Sea Beast, Turning Red 10. Best Adapted Screenplay Winner: Women Talking Nominations: All Quiet on the Western Front, Glass Onion: A Knives Out Mystery, Living, Top Gun: Maverick 11. Best Visual Effects Winner: Avatar: The Way of Water Nominations: Top Gun: Maverick, The Batman, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, All Quiet on the Western Front 12. Best Original Score Winner: Volker Bertelmann (All Quiet on the Western Front) Nominations: Justin Hurwitz (Babylon), Carter Burwell (The Banshees of Inisherin), Son Lux (Everything Everywhere All at Once), John Williams (The Fablemans) 13. Best Original Song Winner: Naatu Naatu (RRR) Nominations: Applause (Tell It Like a Woman), Hold My Hand (Top Gun: Maverick), Lift Me Up (Black Panther: Wakanda Forever), This is a Life (Everything Everywhere All at Once) 14. Best Documentary Feature Winner: Navalny Nominations: All That Breaches, All the Beauty and the Bloodshed, Fire of Love, A House Made of Splinters 15. Best Documentary Short Subject Winner: The Elephant Whisperers Nominations: Haulout, How Do You Measure a Year, The Martha Mitchell Effect, Stranger at the Gate 16. Best Cinematography Winner: James Friend (All Quiet on the Western Front) Nominations: Darius Khondj (Bardo, False Chronicle of a Handful of Truth), Mandy Walker (Elvis), Roger Deakins (Empire of Light), Florian Hoffmeister (Tar) 17. Best Costume Design Winner: Black Panther: Wakanda Forever Nominations: Babylon, Elvis, Everything Everywhere All at Once, Mrs. Harris Goes to Paris 18. Best Animated Short Winner: The Boy, the Mole, the Fox and the Horse Nominations: The Flying Sailor, Ice Merchants, My Year of Dicks, An Ostrich Told me the World is Fake and I Think I Believe It 19. Best Live Action Short Winner: An Irish Goodbye Nominations: Ivalu, Le Pupille, Night Ride, The Red Suitcase 20. Best Film Editing Winner: Everything Everywhere All at Once Nominations: The Banshee Of Inisherin, Elvis, Tar, Top Gun:” Maverick 21. Best Sound Winner: Top Gun: Maverick Nominations: All Quiet on the Western Front, Avatar: The Way of Water, The Batman, Elvis 22. Best Production Design Winner: All Quiet on the Western Front Nominations: Avatar: The Way of Water, Babylon, Elvis, The Fablemans 23. Makeup & Hairstyling Winner: The Whale Nominations: All Quiet on the Western Front, The Batman, Black Panther: Wakanda Forever, Elvis

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Does knowing Golf Ball Types improve your game?

Does knowing Golf Ball Types improve your game?

Sports /

Golf Ball Types Does knowing Golf Ball Types improve your game? Short answer, No. Why? Because if you are a beginner, you must know many other things about Golf to swing those clubs. But if you are a pro (low handicap and scratch golfers), knowing different ball types and features like high compression core, multi-layer construction, hardness, required driver spin, or amount of wedge spin you need to add will add much more to your game. If you are competing at the world championship level, where the difference between the players is next to nothing, knowing the Golf Ball Types can be the differential to winning a triple crown or even career grand slams. Experts and veterans who have spent years studying and playing this sport prioritize Golf Ball types to enhance their performances. While advanced players can get more distance out of any golf ball and control their shots better, intermediate players need to know about golf ball types to make that leap. Details like dimple patterns on the ball, cover, and core of the golf ball all become relevant once you understand the basics. While some golf ball types favor professionals, some are custom-made for beginners. So, how do you find the difference, find the right one for you, and make a difference in your style of play! Read this blog to find out. Types of Golf Balls: Broadly speaking, golf balls are widely categorized into four types: Tour Performance:Tour performance types of golf balls are the most expensive and are ideal for low handicap and scratch golfers who have a faster swing speed. Tour performance of golf balls is optimal for long distances and spin. They are made of 3-5 layers. Tour Value: These types of golf balls are almost similar to Tour Performance Golf Balls, but Tour Value Golf Balls have a low compression rating, less spin, and are reasonable. They are made of 3 layers. Straight Distance: These golf balls are built with a large core thin outer layer and do not perform an excellent short game with wedge spin. They are made of 2-3 layers. These are designed for long distances, fly straighter, and are cheaper than Tour Value golf balls. Soft Distance: Made of 2-3 layers, they are designed for golfers with slower swing speeds. These are specially designed for amateur golfers who will get more distance with less side-to-side spin with these balls. Factors making critical differences to the types of Golf Balls: Here are the factors you should be paying attention to while deciding on the kind of golf ball for practicing: Dimples:  A low-handicap would opt for 500 dimples, whereas a newbie would prefer 300. And trust me, this has got nothing to do with the design. The dimples serve a particular and vital purpose: providing spin and distance. Someone who doesn’t know how to spin or control the spin would opt for fewer dimples. Whereas the professionals would opt for the highest amount of dimples. Cover:  Typically, golf balls are made of either of two materials: Urethane & Surlyn. Urethane delivers the highest spin on wedge shots. Hence, it is used in tours. Surlyn covers are more rigid and more durable compared to Urethane. The rugged exterior allows the Surlyn to travel the distance. Still, Urethane, because of its soft surface, gives more control to the shot and is prone to easier marking. Compression:  Compression is a crucial factor for golf ball types. Compression is the ability of the golf ball to handle the high-speed impact. It also determines flexibility, allowing the ball to recoil without breaking apart when hit. For starters, low compression allows more distance but comprises the control. Low-handicaps prefer high-compression golf balls because they offer more control over the ball. Layers:  As the sport underwent a series of upgrades over the years, so did the golf balls. From horsehide and feathers, the golf ball has come a long way. From cover to the core, golf balls incorporate several layers to keep up with technological advances. Each golf ball of various layers adds something unique to every golfer’s ability. These subtle variances help golfers get the most out of their playing style. The basic are piece golf balls perfect for beginners and for the driving range. The layers keep on increasing progressively. The 5-layered golf balls are apt for low handicaps and offer tour-level performance. Hardness:  The harder the ball, the further it will travel. The softer the ball, the easier to add more spin. Although the more rigid balls offer more control in terms of hitting them straight, the softer balls are preferred by the pros. Color:  While color may seem vague and doesn’t affect the game’s technicalities or style, people with vision issues are advised to choose balls that are visible over a long range. Conclusion: Mastering golf requires aligning many factors like picking the right club, your swing motion, understanding wind and terrain details, etc. Golf ball types are not the first thing you want to focus on while learning. As you gradually progress as a golfer, you must handle different golf ball types. Knowing golf ball types can add those finishing touches to your overall development as a golfer.

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