Chi-Town, Olympics, and Six Man, Oh My!

It's about to be an event-filled two weeks as I head on vacation from my real job.  Having just touched-down in Chicago, we'll be exploring the Midwest this upcoming week.  Then on Friday, it's the opening ceremonies and the 2012 London Games will be underway.  Finally, July 31 is Six Man in Manhattan Beach.  No, I don't have the date wrong, and yes, you're looking at the correct calendar.  The legendary tournament and beach party is now on a weekday to deter the large crowds.  I'll be there to see the effect this has on the fun-tivities.  Keep the feed rolling!

2011 6 Man Tournament: Recap

The 2011 6 Man Volleyball tournament in Manhattan Beach, the 50th Anniversary of the Charlie Saikley event btw, was a great scene as always.  This year had a different vibe early on, as the sand wasn't as packed as in years past.  That definitely changed by about 1pm, so perhaps everyone was just getting a lazy start due to the marine layer that dominated the morning.  Here's a few of the photos I took during this year's tourney, and why I always say that if you haven't been....GO.  Set Your calendars for ONE YEAR FROM TODAY.  August 4, 2012...Celebrate Obama's Birthday in Style, like this....

Team WWF Huddles up, prior to dominating

Luke Walton can't help himself, has to run through the ring...

It quickly became apparent what the players are up to during the NBA lockout.

Kevin Love tries to show Jordan Farmar how it's done; an exercise in futility, no doubt.

...but he does know how to negotiate with the ref, regardless of what court he's on!

Luke gets pumped after his teammate puts up the monster block

Preview: Some Photos of 6-Man's Past...

A view of the scene from the pier.

Where I plan to start the day.  Remember, no booze
on the beach!  Just @ the bars & house parties.

Lots of people, lots of sponsors, lots of fun!

Fun costumes from Twister themed....

...to WWE!

There's even B-list celeb sightings like Luke...

...Coach Pete...

...and B-Griff.  But now that he's actually played a full regular season, he may be
too cool for 6-man.  I'm keeping my eyes peeled for someone, though!

6 MAN!!!!

Holy Hot-Bodies, Batman!  Have you been before?  If not, you've been missing out.  THIS SATURDAY, head on down to the Manhattan Beach pier as early as you can- heck, stop at the Kettle for breakfast, and then wade through the sea of beach-partying animals in all kinds of costumes to watch some quality 6-on-6 beach volleyball....where every participant is stone sober. rrriiiiggghhhttt.

Anyway, it's quite an event and it is a HUGE scene, so if you haven't been before, head on down and check it out this Saturday!  I'll be sure to follow with a post of some teaser photos to further entice attendance...

Check out the link for more info on the International Surf Festival (the formal name of the event).... http://www.surffestival.org/