Who says chess is boring? 2

Wesley So may have not made it all the way to the top but his recent success in the recent FIDE World Cup should bring renewed interest in the sport at the local scene. The introduction of the rapid and blitz formats and the emergence of online coverage of the games make the game more exciting. Perhaps one more way to lure more public interest is to introduce young, female participants to the game. It may sound sexist, but no one can argue against the success of women's tennis now.

Chess have beautiful women players. Here's proof that brains and beauty mix well.

What's wrong with these sports heroes?

They are the best in their sports. They've got the trophies and the trophy wives. But still they manage to find relations outside of marriage. Don't they get enough at home? Obviously they don't do it for the companionship or the more stimulating conversations. But the other ladies are not even hotter than their wives.

Women's tennis album 16 - Amelie Mauresmo

Former world no. 1 Amelie Mauresmo announced her retirement. She reached no. 1 in 2004 but won both of her Slams in 2006.

She looks like she's separated at birth from Purefoods player Marc Pingris (last photo).

Who says chess is boring?

I've been following Wesley So's games online at the FIDE World Cup. Chess can be quite exciting specially if you're rooting for a countryman. Wesley did not disappoint. He managed to win over Ivanchuk and Kamsky, two very highly rated players. It is safe to say that he is the star of the tournament because of the big wins. He is the 2nd to the lowest rated player in the round-of-16 but his game is highly anticipated due to the prospects of another upset.

Bob Dylan's Christmas in the Heart

Bob Dylan recently released an album of Christmas songs. How does it sound? It sounds like somebody is making fun of the songs. It sounds like only hardcore Bob Dylan fans will like it.

But the man is far from being irreverent. He is being himself. That's the way he does songs. The album has to be treated as a novelty despite the traditional songs. Imagine the ear-grating gravelly drunk-like voice singing a Christmas song then blend (?) in Ray Coniff type back up singers and you've got this album.

Hey they say this is for charity. Proceeds will go to some charitable cause. My advice for non-Dylan fans is to give your money straight to that charity and spare your ears. No need to pop up this album for your holiday mood.

The front and back covers (the sleigh ride and the three kings scene) evoke traditional Christmas spirit. But with the inside cover he can once again be accused of irreverence. Reminds you of his Victoria's Secret MTV with Adriana Lima.

But I'm A Bob Dylan fan. To me he gets away with this.