Latest news with #AuntSally
BBC News
8 hours ago
- Sport
- BBC News
Aunt Sally world champion targets back-to-back world titles
The reigning Aunt Sally world champion has said it would be "amazing" to retain his title, and win it for a record fourth Goodall, from Kidlington, is hoping to win back-to-back world championships during the competition at the Charlbury Beer Festival on 55-year-old told the BBC that he would need "a lot of luck" and "a few beers on the day" to extend his record of three Sally is a pub game, played almost exclusively in Oxfordshire, which involves throwing sticks to knock a small wooden block, called a dolly, off a short metal pole. Explaining the game, Mr Goodall said it was "completely different" to the often compared fair ground game coconut said he had "brilliant memories" of being introduced to it by his Dad when he was aged "about 12 or 13"."I was instantly hooked," he added. The Aunt Sally World Championship began at the Charlbury Beer Festival in 2011, with Mr Goodall winning it three times since then - in 2015, 2017 and his chances this year, he said: "There's a lot of good players there so you just need a bit of luck on the day, a bit of luck in the drawer and how players play against you on the day.""It would be amazing [to win it], it was amazing winning it last year for the third time, and Saturday would be just as good," he asked if he had any tips for budding Aunt Sally players, he said it was "difficult to explain how to hold a stick, or how to throw it - because everybody's got a different action, different throwing technique". The game sees players take part in three legs, with each having six attempts each leg to knock the dolly from a metal pole, called the iron, from 30ft (9.1m) origins are somewhat debated, with some theories suggesting it dates back to the 17th century or even earlier. You can follow BBC Oxfordshire on Facebook, X (Twitter), or Instagram.
Yahoo
10-06-2025
- Health
- Yahoo
What No One Tells You About Detox Diets (And What Actually Works)
At some point in our lives, many of us hit a turning point. We vow to clean up our eating, get back to the gym, or maybe even join a fitness community for extra accountability. These are all great steps toward a healthier lifestyle. But as soon as we begin making those positive changes, there's another common trend that tends to pop up in our feeds and conversations: the detox craze. You've probably heard the buzzwords — weekend cleanses, juice fasts, body flushes, colon resets, and those infamous "master cleanse" drinks made from lemon juice, maple syrup, and cayenne pepper. These programs often come with bold promises: instant weight loss, glowing skin, boundless energy, and even a six-pack after three days of near-starvation. Here's the thing: these types of detoxes simply don't work. Before I get labeled as anti-detox, let me be clear — I do believe in detoxification. But the term has been co-opted and misused by marketing companies that want to sell you a shortcut in the form of expensive powders, teas, or pills. Real detoxification doesn't come in the form of a miracle drink or a colon cleanse. It comes from supporting your body's natural ability to eliminate waste and toxins. By definition, 'detox' refers to medical interventions used to rid the body of dangerous substances like alcohol, drugs, or heavy metals. It's not about punishing yourself for enjoying a slice of French silk pie or overindulging during the holidays (thanks a lot, Aunt Sally!). The problem is that most people see detoxes as a way to 'undo' their poor eating habits. Everyone is on the hunt for a miracle cleanse that will erase all indulgences. But that's not how our bodies work. Our bodies are incredibly smart. The liver, kidneys, lungs, skin, and even our digestive tract are constantly filtering, processing, and eliminating toxins. As long as these organs are functioning properly, they do not need help from cayenne shots or activated charcoal supplements. What's more, many so-called detox programs rely on extreme calorie restriction, which can actually do more harm than good. Severe fasting can cause blood sugar crashes, hormone imbalances, and loss of lean muscle. And let's be honest — most people can't sustain them for more than a few days. So why do people think detoxes work? In many cases, it's not the 'cleanse' itself, but what you stop doing during it. By eliminating alcohol, quitting sugar, fried foods, and highly processed snacks for a few days, you'll naturally feel better. But that improvement didn't come from a powder or potion — it came from cutting out the junk and giving your body a break. So if detox teas and juice fasts are out, what actually works? The answer is much simpler than you think: eating real food — especially fruits and vegetables. Instead of focusing on quick fixes, let's talk about long-term strategies that support your body's detox pathways every single day. A 'real food detox' isn't about deprivation or extreme restriction. It's about feeding your body nutrient-dense, anti-inflammatory foods that support liver function, improve digestion, reduce bloating, and boost energy naturally. This isn't about becoming vegan or giving up everything you love. Personally, I still enjoy poultry, fish, dairy, and whole grains in moderation. But I've also discovered the undeniable power of produce. The average American diet is made up of mostly processed foods, grains, sugar, and animal products — with only about 5% of calories coming from fresh fruits and vegetables. That's shockingly low, considering what an essential role plants play in our health. Fruits and vegetables are loaded with fiber, antioxidants, phytonutrients, and the vitamins and minerals your body needs to thrive. They help you feel lighter, more energized, and clearer-headed — all without starvation, expensive programs, or harsh 'cleansing' side effects. The CDC (Centers for Disease Control and Prevention) highlights several benefits of a produce-rich diet: Reduced risk of chronic diseases, including heart disease, diabetes, and certain cancers Improved digestion and gut health due to high fiber content Natural support for immune health Low in calories and fat, yet incredibly filling and hydrating There are dozens of fruits and vegetables that naturally support detoxification, but here are a few standouts to start with: Cucumbers – Made of 95% water, they help flush out toxins and keep you hydrated. Beets – Support liver function and are rich in antioxidants like betalains. See more health benefits of beets! Leafy greens (spinach, kale, arugula) – High in chlorophyll, which can help neutralize toxins. Lemons – Rich in vitamin C and can support digestion and liver health (just don't rely on them alone!). Garlic – Contains sulfur compounds that help activate liver enzymes responsible for flushing out toxins. Broccoli – Contains glucoraphanin, which supports detoxification enzymes in the liver. Apples – High in fiber and help regulate digestion and blood sugar. See more great sources of fiber! Blueberries – Packed with antioxidants to combat inflammation and oxidative stress. You don't need to juice them, although healthy smoothie recipes and juices are great options. Simply roasting veggies, adding them to soups, or blending them into sauces can make a huge difference. Eating real, whole food consistently is far more effective than relying on short-term cleanses. Instead of falling into the detox trap again this year, try this mindset shift: support your body every day, not just after a weekend of indulgence. Focus on habits like: Drinking plenty of water (with lemon, if you'd like!) Eating a variety of colorful produce daily Limiting processed foods, alcohol, and added sugars Moving your body regularly through exercise and walking Getting quality sleep and managing stress These are the things that truly reset your body — and they're sustainable for life. So if you've been tempted by the flashy packaging of detox teas or the promise of a 'flat belly in 3 days,' take a pause. Remember that your body is already detoxing — every minute of every day. You don't need to shock your system. You just need to support it. And the best way to do that? Eat real food. Load up on fruits and vegetables. Move your body. Breathe deeply. Rest. Hydrate. It's not glamorous, but it works. And better yet — it's something you can stick with. Trust your body. Give it the nourishment it needs, and it will thank you — no lemon-cayenne shots required.
Belfast Telegraph
07-06-2025
- Entertainment
- Belfast Telegraph
Beauty pageants are easy targets while real discrimination against women still goes unchallenged
After the new Miss Northern Ireland was crowned this week, there was a debate about beauty contests on Radio Ulster. It's one of those issues that manages to be both a red herring and an Aunt Sally at the same time. It's a red herring because beauty pageants haven't been part of everyday culture for 40 years. They are back there with George Best in a Belfast hotel room with a suitcase full of £20 notes and Miss World in the shower.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
New averages mean changed line-up for Spires
OXFORD Spires will boast a changed line-up tomorrow, with new averages coming into force, when they take on the Sheffield Tigers, tapes up at 7:30pm, writes Leon Foster-Hill. Craig Cook will ride at number two, partnering Maciej Janowski, whilst Peter Kildemand moves to the reserve position. Kildemand put in his best performance of the season against Belle Vue last week and could be a real trump card in the reserve berth where he can replace any rider. Mr Consistent, Charles Wright, moves to the tough number five berth with Erik Riss partnering Rohan Tungate at three and four. READ ALSO: The latest Aunt Sally results from Oxford league The Spires will need to be at their absolute best with the Sheffield Tigers putting in some impressive performances this year and being the first team to defeat Ipswich Witches this season, last Thursday at Owlerton. Jack Holder is in a rich vein of form having just won the Polish Grand Prix and the team also boasts previous Cheetah and Spire Lewis Kerr. Oxford remain in fifth place, one point ahead of King's Lynn Stars, so a win is vital to keep their push for the play-offs on course. Oxford Spires: Maciej Janowski, Craig Cook, Erik Riss, Rohan Tungate, Charles Wright, Peter Kildemand, Luke Killeen. Sheffield Tigers: Jack Holder, Anders Rowe, Josh Pickering, Justin Sedgmen, Chris Holder, Lewis Kerr, Leon Flint. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE TO THE OXFORD MAIL ONLINE (Image: Newsquest) The Oxford Cheetahs look to make their second semi-final of the year when they travel to Scunthorpe on Friday night in the second leg of the Knockout Cup. Oxford have a healthy 20-point advantage from their home leg and the Scorpions have only managed one win so far this season, making the Cheetahs favourite to progress. They go into the meeting with a slightly new look as Dan Gilkes has been sidelined with a nasty knee injury, which has allowed the Oxford management to give Latvian Francis Gusts another outing, albeit in the Championship rather than the Premiership. Oxford team manager Peter Schroeck said: 'We are gutted for Dan and our fans who took him to their hearts with his 100 per cent commitment on track and we wish him a speedy recovery. This does give Francis a further opportunity to establish himself in British Speedway.' Gusts will ride at number four, partnering Cameron Heeps, whilst Jordan Jenkins will take the number five position. The Oxford Chargers have their second home meeting on Sunday when they face the Edinburgh Academy, tapes up at 3pm. Edinburgh top the National League with two wins out of two. Oxford Chargers: Jody Scott, Jacob Clouting, Arran Butcher, Ashton Vale, Darryl Ritchings, Max Broadhurst, Senna Summers. Edinburgh Academy: Connor Coles, Kyran Lyden, Matt Marson, Sam McGurk, Dayle Wood, Mark Parker, Lee Harrison.
Yahoo
21-05-2025
- Sport
- Yahoo
Tens of thousands raised for charity by former non-league stars
MORE than 70 former non-league players from yesteryear will battle it out in a charitable round of golf this weekend. It is the fourth year running that teams captained by ex-Banbury United man Mark O'Hara and former Oxford City player Steve Jenkins will go head-to-head. This year's golf day will take place at Oxford Golf Club on Sunday, with 36 players on each side. Among them include former Nottingham Forest, Aston Villa and Leicester City midfielder Garry Parker, plus ex-Oxford United and Witney United striker Jamie Cook and former Coventry City midfielder Martin Singleton. READ ALSO: The latest Aunt Sally results from Oxford league O'Hara, who is currently losing 2-1 after the first three years, said: 'Years ago, we would kick lumps out of each other, but we've stayed good mates and not one year has anyone not turned up. 'Players of my era didn't miss a game of football. We'd play Tuesday and Saturday, and the Sunday league used to be massive, and we'd just get on with it. 'We'd kick lumps out of each other. It used to be very competitive in the 80s and 90s.' The annual golf day has raised more than £23,000 for Cancer Research UK, with an additional £6,000 collected this year, including a £4,000 donation from event sponsors Hartwell Automative Group. O'Hara said: 'Everybody is there for the competition side of it as well, and it's very competitive. Last year, Jenks didn't speak to me for six holes. 'It's a friendly rivalry and we all go out together after. We'll go down the Cowley Road or into Jericho, and there are a few who'll come for the night out after. This year, we'll have the bank holiday the next day to recover though.' The golf starts at 1pm with evening out to follow at approximately 7pm, when all ex-players will be welcome. To donate, please visit:
