Cosmic³

WE HAVE MOVED HOME!!!!!!

2011-02-08T07:39:00.000-08:00

The future of Cosmic Bike Polo can now be found here:

NEW COSMIC SITE

Come over and see us....

Crack Fox Capped Mallet Head TM

2010-11-28T14:39:00.001-08:00

Cosmic Winter League 10/11 Fixture 3

2010-11-28T10:56:00.001-08:00

We played our 3rd league fixture today down Newington vs newbie team JAH.

Ray was the ref and kept scores with his little helpers....

-Mat

LDNBFF/KRH/KNSTNZ POLO

2010-11-14T13:12:00.000-08:00

Here's a short edit by Rupert of the London BFF as well as footage from his recent trip to Karlsruhe and Konstanz....mixed to two good sound tracks.

LDNBFF/KRH/KNSTNZ POLO from Snoopert on Vimeo.

Looks like fun times were had.

Cosmic needs to get back on the road.

-Mat

PoloMotion, Utrecht, October 23/24 2010

2010-10-26T04:52:00.000-07:00

PoloMotion was part of the BikeMotion Benelux Expo which ran for 3 days over this last weekend. 32 teams competed on a slick indoor court, though the surface was nowhere near as slippery as last February's Greif Masters Court.

Format was the Karlruhe Wheel, with teams playing 6 qualifiers each and the top 8 going through to knock-out finals. I formed a team with Bianca and Jamal, we named ourselves Bride of Franklinstein, and we had a heck of a lot of fun. We won all 6 qualifier games, finishing 3rd in the rankings for the finals. We then demolished Berlin's Rakete in 4 minutes, before succumbing to Karlsruhe's Shark Attack in a tense 4-3 semi-final.

Bambule took the trophy, which was definitely a deserved win. Sharks came second and we tied for 3rd with Polosynthese.

All in all an awesome weekend of polo. Lots of friendly faces, great games and plenty of laughs. As a team, we'd never previously played together, but this won't be our last outing. We might need to change the team name next time though. Dutch Cosmic anyone?!

COSMICV2...

2010-10-19T14:05:00.000-07:00

COSMICV2 = the darker side of polo....welcome all the crazies, cross dressers and child haters!

-Mat

ESB V Braked

2010-10-09T15:11:00.000-07:00

Oh my....

Ted...we need to talk!

-Mat

A Cosmic Wedding

2010-10-07T01:06:00.000-07:00

On Tuesday 5th October in Amsterdam...a cosmic tandem of unity was united between Cosmic Tom and Cosmic B....yay! Congrats guys....we're so happy for you both!!!

Here's to cosmic love and happiness! xxx

Oh...and guys...now you're a Mr and Mrs, you've got to get one of these...

Then not before long...maybe one of these...

-Mat

The London BFF 14th - 17th Oct

2010-10-03T05:34:00.000-07:00

Don't forget during 14th - 17th October the Bicycle Film Festival roles into London town.

Celebrating 10 years of the festival...the film line up is looking awesome. From the usual unique mini shorts to exclusive docu's, such as the awesome film all about BMX legend Matt Hoffman as well as an anniversary showing of ET...the film which made every kid want a Kuwahara BMX!

Our good friend Brendan Mcnamee of BAD Polo and Blunt Films, has two films being shown this year in the Urban Bike Shorts collection.

One is ''12 Miles of Style' a film about the now famous Tweed run which takes place in London every year.

The other is a creative edit called 'We've got it on tape' and features Bike Polo from recent tournies as well as some more unique footage - watch carefully and you might see the beautiful silhouettes of Toddy and I.

To view the full film listing and buy tickets check here

In addition to the BFF there's the annual BFF Bike Polo Tourney, which this year will be on Sunday 17th at Newington Gardens Court.

The format for this years tourney is a bit different, as the focus is more on games being 'experimental'. With this, a few standard Bike Polo rules have been changed and no-one can play with their usual team or with players they've played with before. As a result...cosmic have split to form the following experimental super teams...

Toddy, Gabes (Apples), Aidan (BAD).

Mat, Em (Apples), Greg (MGM Paris).

The format has been controversial to Bike Polo purest...but regardless I'm sure it's gonna to be a fun day....so get down and support!

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 Cosmic vs Team Grizzly

2010-09-30T17:24:00.000-07:00

A whole lot of cosmic pressure....5 banging goals and one hell of a post whacker...

-Mat

COUNT THAT!

2010-09-25T01:50:00.000-07:00

Thanks to an epic performance by Rory, East Van come from 4-0 down to take the win over Seattle's Smile in the East Van Crown.

Rory MVP!

Amazing Bike Polo Final Game from brawcast on Vimeo.

-Mat

Schwalbe Tyres

2010-09-25T01:18:00.000-07:00

On behalf of our sponsors...

-Mat

Resist Bike Parts Co.

2010-09-19T03:07:00.000-07:00

Resist is a new bike parts co. from the dudes behind Volume BMX.

Basically, the feeling was that Volume had always meant to be a 100% BMX focused...but in recent years, what with the success of the Cutter and Thrasher 700c frames, Volume increasingly had eyes on other areas of the bike market. As a result, the original vision behind the Volume brand had slipped away a bit. So, the launch of Resist now means there is a new platform to release all sorts of nonBMX bits n pieces...which leaves Volume to go back to following it's true roots in BMX - awesome plan I think.

So fingers x'd we might start seeing some Bike Polo parts from Resist in the near future.

Watch this Resist space.

-Mat

Beautiful BMX Edit

2010-09-19T02:56:00.001-07:00

The filming in this short BMX edit is stunning...you gotta love any thing shot in slow mo...

7D 1000 fps from Oton Bačar on Vimeo.

-Mat

Pac Bike Polo Top Tube Pad - Review

2010-09-19T02:16:00.000-07:00

The good guys at BLB have given us each a custom made top tube pad which has be specifically designed to hold mallets and produced by Canadian bike bag brand PAC.

I was so in need of this item because using cut inner tubes as mallet straps just wasn't fitting the image + now my cable and (rusty) top tube get's a bit of protection!

Having now used the pad for a few weeks I can honestly say the design is spot on for function. The design itself is simple...the pad is of a tough material construction with full length velcro closure. Then to strap the mallets on (fits two comfortably), two lengths of velcro at either end of the pad are used, which wrap around the mallet shaft holding firmly in place - simple, but effective.

My pad is in solid black (an assortment of colours are available) with a little PAC tag stitched on one side. Overall, the design is very clean and does it's job perfect. The only downside is I can no longer see the 'eye of cosmic' sticker which is stuck on the top tube, thus I can't look at it to gain cosmic strength. I'm sure the eye will burn through the pad eventually, but perhaps a cosmic x pac colour way is needed?

Anyway....the standard PAC Bike Polo top tube pad is def worth a purchase.

Available now to buy for £25 from BLB and Big Mamafor EU distro .

-Mat

Cosmic Balloon Art

2010-09-18T04:03:00.001-07:00

See at the Haunch of Venision Gallery ...

-Mat

Shop14 London Open in Pictures by Agata

2010-09-17T16:05:00.000-07:00

Here's a few great pictures from the London Open taken by the wonderful Agata...

Toddy sinking the pool balls by just the power of cosmic vision....

A missed cosmic face...

The whole London Open players and supporters...

To view the full set check here

-Mat

Shop14 London Open Best Bits Video

2010-09-17T15:59:00.000-07:00

Here's a really awesome best bits video of the London Open...nice to see me rocket one past L'Equipe at 2,40sec in....

London Open 2010 Highlights from Jon Marshall on Vimeo.

This is exactly why I play and love polo...great fun times!

Thanks Jono and Polo.

I miss the cosmic summer of 2010!

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 Making of the Trophy

2010-09-16T15:46:00.001-07:00

Nice...

WHBPC BERLIN 2010 The making of the Trophy from romabikepolo on Vimeo.

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 Cosmic vs The Odds

2010-09-16T15:32:00.000-07:00

Just found this nice edit of our first game on the double elim day us vs The Odd's, who were the North American Champs...tough draw...and hell, we nearly, I mean should have had them.

With 1.30min left on the clock and after us going 3-2 up from Toddy's wheely take to goal, I should have ended the game due to a clear shot on goal...but I was going super fast on the break and could feel the dude chasing me hard. With the pressure there, I shot late only to hit the post! The good damn post! 9 times out of 10 I would have got that in...but it wasn't to be. I left the shot so late, I didn't even have the space to turn away from goal, so ended up crashing into it. Then Chris from The Odds picked up the loose ball went on the attack and to his credit scored a great goal to suddenly make it 3-3 with less than a min left. I went from hero to zero - sucked hard!

Then The Odds applied ridiculous physical pressure...body checks, charges, hassles on the keeper, but it paid off and they got the winner with 8 secs to go!

Painful result.

whbpc2010 cosmic 1 from D-TOX on Vimeo.

After that game, we knocked Malice out (sorry) and with it ended one of the longest team relationship in London Polo history (team BAD are still the only original team together from the early London day)...

MALICE RIP!

Just found this one too...the moment when El Club knocked out The Odds...Euro sweetness!

Watch carefully at 18 sec in when Lucas comes up against Chris with a legal shoulder to shoulder, only for Chris to push him off with his hand. He was good at doing that kinda stuff...he was all over me in our game. But I still he's fast with skills and rides a FBM, so I'll allow it....just!

El club contra The odds from mybeautifulparking on Vimeo.

-Mat

Cosmic Toddy Cam

2010-09-09T15:15:00.000-07:00

Cut and supplied by Brendan at Blunt.

-Mat

The Joust v.2

2010-09-09T09:00:00.000-07:00

The FleetVelo Joust version 2 has just gone into production and it's looking good.
The frame is now built for 135mm rear hub and can now take 2.0 tyres (though 2.5 with a bit more space would be awesome).

This is the first prototype which has been set up for adjustments.

After seeing version 1 at the Worlds, I was really excited about seeing the new version and would love to get my hands on one.

I've been looking a lot at frames built for 26" wheels pretty much all of them are too long especially mtbs. Jump / trial frames are an option but I don't like the builds so much.

The market is about to get flooded with 26" trick frames so more options will be available yet all of these will have long top tubes for bar spinning.

I think the Joust is the nearest there is to what I want....

-Todd

CULT

2010-09-02T16:41:00.000-07:00

CULT the NOS (new old skool) BMX brand...doing it how a bike brand should.

Here's a walk through of the Cult Clubhouse with Big Rob-o...

Cult Walk Through from Yawn BMX

Toddy should start offering walk throughs of his cosmic bedroom full of charms and trinkets...I've heard a lot of magic goes down in there between certain hours of the day.

-Mat

DIY Court

2010-09-02T15:58:00.000-07:00

Maybe it's time London found some dead space and built a court like this...

Everyone chipping in for a sheet of ply.

Excited to see Polo in Tokyo...cosmic holiday destination next Autumn?

Be good to see some Asia rep in the Worlds next year.

-Mat

Cosmic Mallet - May 2009

2010-09-01T14:26:00.000-07:00

I was just going over some old images from the days when Cosmic first formed right up to the present day, and was really surprised to see how much we've progressed! Even the game we play today and all the equipment we use is so far from what we started out with. Bikes have been and gone, beards have grown, team logo has changed, tournaments have been played, friends have been made, and god knows how many mallets we've been through!!!
So nice to look back at our history and have so many fond memories.

And throughout all the changes, it seems the 'eye' has always been with us.

Long live Cosmic!

-Todd

Cosmic Polo Bike Build Project

2010-09-01T07:53:00.000-07:00

Stage one complete...thanks Ryan...

Now just need to prime and spray, before digging deep in the pockets for a few new parts.

-Mat

Dans Ta Gueule, Puceau

2010-08-31T15:38:00.000-07:00

The biggest brand in polo has just launched on youtube with a bunch of short stings...

I like Pimp/On the most. But no surprise that the vid with the most views is the Porno one starting Guthrie...if he doesn't flash enough leg on court...now he goes all the way to flash his Dans Ta Gueule, Puceau! I mean, c'mon man, there's really no need for that.

-Mat

Cosmic at The Shop14 London Open

2010-08-31T05:55:00.000-07:00

Spotted some nice photographs of cosmic at the Shop14 London Open taken by Luis Davis...

For the full set check here

-Mat

The Shop14 London Open Final Edit

2010-08-30T06:12:00.000-07:00

Here's the final between Chicago's Machine Polotics vs Team Frown (aka Smile) from Seatle...

London Open 2010 Final from Jon Marshall on Vimeo.

A tourney 'highlights' edit is in the works.

Missing tourney season already!

-Mat

Who's the new cosmic one...

2010-08-29T04:34:00.000-07:00

- Who are you and what you do off the Bike Polo court?

I'm Rupert (aka Snoops), off the court I make bags, watch BMX vids, declutter, cook well, watch good films and get really good shut-eye.

- What's your Bike Polo background?

One and a half years in the game. I started playing in Manchester, I formed Netto Superstars with Chan and Mirek. We played together for about 8 months, placing in the top ten at the first EHBPC and finishing second in the London BFF 09. I moved back to London just over a year ago, began playing Buffalo Bill of Moving Target Magazine and Mark Horatio in Three Beards. I had an awesome time playing with them and am very grateful for times on and off the court we shared. Now I'm playing with cosmic, we were the highest ranking UK team at the The London Open our first tournament together, which bodes well for the future.

- What motivates you to play Bike Polo?

I have a funny relationship with Bike Polo. Sometimes I play for fun, just to knock the ball about and do silly tricks, but then there are the tournaments and league fixtures where I can feel myself taking it more seriously and it becomes my sport. Bike Polo is my sport and is my past time.

- Describe your playing style in three words?

Slow, fast, goal.

- What's the new bike set up you're now rolling on?

I ride a DAMP Cycles Butterbean. I approached Per (DAMP owner) when I saw the first pictures of his Butterbean frame, I told him it could be great for Bike Polo with a few tweaks. He's a lovely guy, a long email conversation begun about how it could be more specifically for Bike Polo. So after a few tweaks he sent me a frame to test. So far I'm loving it, it turns on a dime, it's built tough and the craftsmanship is top notch. Very clean welds, good design and the paint finish is a rubberized matt black. I ride freewheel, 700c 27-18, rear brake.

- What's your take on Bike Polo at the moment?

Bike Polo is getting interesting, it is in transition. I started for fun, I got good, I now play for sport. I feel that is what is happening to everyone world-wide. We are all aware that this thing we used to do for fun is now bigger than we ever imagined and we are on top of it. Right now, players are still in control and that's a beautiful thing. Although, I fear soon, there will be tournaments popping up that are not arranged by players. This could change the game for the worse, but right now, this is an amazing time be a part of Bike Polo.

- Why did you join cosmic?

I joined cosmic to play Bike Polo at the highest level. It helped that Mat and Todd are good friends and a joy to play with.

- What are your visions for the team?

My visions for cosmic are that we play as a team of equal thirds, that we play own game and no one else's and that we only get better. I want to be UK and European champions next year, anything else is a bonus. I think it's possible but it's going to be tough.

- Where do you most want to play Bike Polo next?

I want to play Bike Polo in Barcelona, the Spanish players excite me. They play so fast and are new to the game but so far are good. And I heard they have a circular court with lights till 2am!

- Here's a quick fire cosmic test...answer a or b.

1. a) wizard - b) magician.

2. a) squares - b) triangles

3. a) telepathy - b) hypnosis

4. a) dragons - b) unicorns

5. a) thunder - b) lightning

6. a) deep ocean - b) deep space

7. a) believer - b) dreamer

1. a) wizard

2. b) triangles

3. a) telepathy

4. a) dragons

5. a) thunder

6. b) deep space

7. b) dreamer

- Say three words to close this interview...

play, more, polo.

Thanks

Shop14 London Open Bicycle Images

2010-08-28T04:34:00.001-07:00

Some nice portrait shots from the London Open...

To view full set view here

-Mat

Brooks @ WHBPC2010

2010-08-27T09:27:00.001-07:00

Mat repping as always!
Therese in there too!
Awesome

-Todd

Another Cosmic Bike...

2010-08-26T07:25:00.001-07:00

With so much Polo having gone down this summer, esp over the past month, thought I'd take some time off the court. But of course not off a bike, so I decided to dust of the blue tarpaulin in the garden and build up my other cosmic bike...my 2007 Metal Rebel Contender.

The basic bike spec is...

2007 Metal Rebel Contender 20,75TT in mint green with new cosmic decals.

Rear Union purp 36h cassette hub on a chrome Primo rim with an amber wall tyre.

Front Union black 36h hub on black Odyssey rim with an amber wall tyre.

Odyssey Twombolt 175mm cranks with Odyssey Twisted plastic pedals.

Odyssey Race forks with Union and S&M cock pit.

Currently the build is brakeless, but I might put a Union rear U brake on depending how I feel...its been awhile since I rode BMX let alone rode freewheel brakeless.

Cheers to John and Kev at Volt BMX/ for hooking me up with new parts....atleast my bike looks back in fashion...if I don't.

There's a few from London Polo who have recently bought either 20" or 24" BMX's, so the plan is just to take it easy and go for a few low key sessions in between Polo throw-in nights...basically have a bit or fun!

Fingers x'd no-one gets hurt!

Also, on going through some archive tape I found this very short edit from an evening session probably back around 2006, at a spot we used to ride called 4Feathers. Think it might still be open to ride, but with a different set up. Was an awesome winter hang out from 2004 - 07.

Wish I had more footage of our riding and the scene back then...good times!

-Mat

DVS x Cadence Holiday 2010

2010-08-25T08:59:00.000-07:00

To follow up from the successful Summer/Fall10 DVS x Cadence colaboration story, for Holiday10, there is a fresh new range of clothing as well as an updated version of the Milan CT shoe (removed toe box panel) in very stealthy waxed canvas, as well as a high version. Both are very nice...

I'm really into wearing my current Fall10 Milan's and they're holding out good, despite some heavy tourney wear action...so I'm looking forward to slipping my sweaty feet into the new editions.

Check the DVSxCadence blog out for product and general bike related updates.

-Mat

The Shop 14 London Open in Pictures

2010-08-25T05:14:00.000-07:00

Here's a few cosmic pictures from last weekend's Shop 14 London Open...

A cosmic magical blur:

To see more cosmic pictures as well as all sorts from the tourney, view this Flickr Pool

Thanks again to Jono, Andy, all those in the London community who helped make this tourney happen and of course to all those who came to play and support.

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 in Pictures

2010-08-24T07:15:00.001-07:00

Here's a few cosmic pictures from the WHBPC 2010...

The first batch of pictures are from the always great photography of Guidoline.

The eye of cosmic is always watching:

You can see the full batch here

This second batch of very professional pictures are taken under the name of Just Ekosystem.

One for the sponsors:

Cosmic Tom, always in his smart shoes:

Cosmic Tom with a trademark classic shot follow through:

Rotten Apples Emily hugs up next to Cosmic Tom:

Cosmic Mat focused on the ball:

The full batch can be viewed here

This third batch are taken by London Polo player and all round nice dude Rob aka Slamm.

Cosmic's No.1 Wag:

Cosmic Tom in the purple eye of cosmic:

Cosmic Mat in a early AM throw-in aka pick up session:

More cosmic believers:

Cosmic Todd charging in:

Cosmic closing in on Clowns game 1:

Cosmic vs Machine Polotics:

To view all the awesome pictures taken by Rob during the WHBPC check here .

Hopefully more great visual moments from WHBPC 2010 to come...

-Mat

The Shop 14 London Open Results

2010-08-24T05:28:00.000-07:00

Weekend just gone saw the first London Open take place down at our South London polo hang out, Newington Gardens.

60+ teams from around UK (many new ones), Europe and US (East Van, Chicago's Machine Polotics and Seattle's Frown aka 2 part Smile), got involved to win the best trophy and prize bag I've ever seen in polo.

The tourney on day 1 followed the Swiss rounds system...a format that was new for most of us. It worked well apart from the software not having a default to prevent re-fixtures...eg we had to play Machine Polotics twice on day 1...making that a total of 3 times in a week...tough situ to play the 2nd best team in the world that many times. But at least we got a win against them and a new transatlantic rivalry relationship. Then on day 2 it went to a top 32 double elim, until the final which was just 1 game...a new experiment, which on this occasion the winners were from the loser bracket. Making the result kinda controversial esp from the US supporters corner...who wanted a double elim final. But overall the format worked good - big pat on the back to Gabes of Rotten Apples for taking care of that. Also, to note...the reffing and goals were of a good standard too.

The level of play from the top teams was awesome and to see so many great players on our home courts was a treat which will be hard to match.

Teams that were on fire and got some great results were...

London's Elks and Cogs (esp Emmet, who has really stepped up his game this summer - our little cosmic bro) which was awesome to see, because both teams are unfortunately breaking up now due to other commitments outside of polo.

Apples got a win over BAD on day 1, only for BAD to then get a win back on day 2.

East Van were strong with their heavy yet polo skilled man Rory leading their team into day 2 unbeaten and continuing to power through till meeting Polosynthesis, who beat them to put them out of the tourney...2nd time in a week that has happened...as they ended East Van's hopes in the Worlds too. Will that start a North American vs Euro team grudge?

L'Equipe 'we are the robots' was in the mix at the top as usual. Manu was firing in the goals in his normal marks man style, but for me, it was Mario who stood out the most on L'Equipe. He was playing his keeper roll well but this weekend came out field a lot more to help assist as well as get on the score board at several key times. Since seeing him out on the court more I've really got to like his style...he's still fixed but I hear he might go freewheel on his new build. L'Equipe finished 4th as their tourney was ended by the top performing Euro team of the weekend...Polosynthesis.

The 2 outfield boys David and Mo were awesome all weekend. Their passing flow and shooting power is sweet to watch and devastating to play against - they had us good in our first game on day 2! And with Anna holding the goal tight, they really are a team who is getting better and better results with a 2 out, 1 perm in formation. Their losers 1/4 final game against L'Equipe was insane. They went 3-0 up which I've seen no team do against the Euro champs. But of course you can never write off L'Equipe and they pulled it back to 3-3. But then David scored some kind of crazy opposite backside BB shot from a tight angle, which sent the crowd into a roar. Then he finished the game off with a trade mark hard hitter....boom! A young fresh Euro team beating L'Equipe in such a manner was def not on expected. The result was the upset of the weekend and got David a well deserved MVP. But the dream of a Euro vs US final was not to be, as Polosynthesis was beaten by Team Frown.

The biggest, most feared team present at the Open was Chicago's Machine Polotics...attending as they were on the way back from Berlin as world champ runners up and with Lefty Joe still on scary form they powered their way to the final, only losing on route to cosmic v2...hell yeah! And despite a great performance in the final (they show such team commitment) they lost to fellow US team, Team Frown.

So it was Team Frown who were crowned London Open champs and take home the most premium of trophies as well as each a custom built Shop14 bike...so jealous! They played consistent, clean, team polo all weekend, which was a pleasure to watch. Good Dave, who was subbing for Dustin, hence why a smile became a frown, was on top form, with Leon and Seabass aka Seaweed, showing why they are 2 of the best players in the world of polo and def gave an education to some of us London locals. Well done guys...happy for your win.

As for cosmic v2...it wasn't an easy debut tourney for us. Not only did we have big teams early, Machine Polotics twice on day 1 and Polosynthesis first on day 2, it was strange to play with out Tom and have our usual eyes on court. However, as the games came, we all started to settle into the new formation and Rupert showed exactly why he's on the team. He scored some epic big goals and made some trademark defensive moves and long passes. It was a fun weekend and to finish 5th with strong results against Machine Polotics, DTGP and ELKS was an awesome achievement for us. From here, I know we will only get stronger and the cosmic vision will head into a new dimension.

Overall, what a wicked weekend and fitting way to end a great summer of polo. Massive pat on the back to Jono and the whole London community (incl. my girl and voted no. 1 WAG, Therese, for all the pasta she cooked) who helped make the event happen and to everyone who played, supported and got pissed at the after party....great times - my new fav game is dice!

I heart bike polo!

So the final top 7 results (based on exiting stage of tourney not games played and goal difference) are as follows...

Winners. Team Frown - Seattle, USA.

Runners up. Machine Polotics - Chicago, USA.

3rd. Polosynthesis - Franfurt, Germany.

4th. L'Equipe - Geneva, Switzerland.

Tied 5th. Cosmic - London, UK.

Tied 5th. East Van - East Van + Melbourne, Australia.

Tied 6th. BAD - London, UK.

Tied 6th. DTGP - Paris, France.

Tied 7th. Apples - London, UK.

Tied 7th. Camel Toe.

Tied 7th. H+M's - Euro Mixed team.

Tied 7th. Grizzly - Mixed French team.

Pics and video to follow.

See you all in London next year!

-Mat

L'Equipe go Burly...

2010-08-24T04:47:00.000-07:00

So after both Manu and Mario broke their frames (the most tourney winning frames in Euro polo) during this past week, they both decided to drop into Tokyo Fixed Gear to each purchase a brand spanking new Volume Cutter ...jealous...but maybe a little bit of cosmic has rubbed off on them!

Looking forward to seeing the builds. But polo better watch out...because L'Equipe have now got the tools to hit even harder.

However, Lucas will still be rolling on his unique polo masher...apparently he's grown very attached to it...guess why change a winning set up.

See you guys on a court soon...always a pleasure and a lesson to watch and play against.

-Mat

East Van Crown 2010

2010-08-24T03:27:00.000-07:00

Toddy...the East Van Crown needs you!

-Mat

I Love My Bicycle - An FBM Doc

2010-08-23T16:58:00.000-07:00

If you don't know already cosmic is a big fan of FBM Fixed FBM BMX. The bike co. is rider owned, rooted in BMX, has a true passion for the riding lifestyle and of course produces awesome hand built products.

So last year when they screened a documentary all about their turbulent history at London's BFF I was straight in there to buy a ticket to watch.

The film was awesome, not only because of the content and great story told about FBM but also it brought a lot of personal memories back about my own early days in BMX and finding the love of my bicycle. Those early days in BMX have now long passed me by. However, I now have polo and am experiencing similar exciting, fun and new moments but with the added benefit of more mature eyes. So, I still take great inspiration from the ideas and passion FBM have.

Anyway...the film, directed by Joe Stakun, is available on DVD but has also just been put up on Least Most for a limited time only in order for people who didn't see it at the BFF to watch it now - for free, cheers!

So go watch and enjoy.

I heart my and your bicycles!

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 Confirmed Rankings

2010-08-23T11:10:00.000-07:00

For those who didn't know...out of the 64 teams who qualified for the champs, here are the confirmed top 32 ranked bike polo teams in the WORLD for 2010...

World Champions. Beaver Boys - Milwaukee - Brian, Joe, Eric

Runners up. Machine Polotics - Chicago - Lefty Joe, Ben, Matt

3rd. L'Equipe - Geneva - Manu, Mario, Lukas

4th. Toros - Munich - Eddie, Pablo, Andi

5th. Fuck the Border - USA/Canada - Jonny, Kevin, Alexis

6th. Smile - Seattle - Dustin, Seabass, Leon

7th. Cosmic - London - Mat, Todd, Tom

8th. Polosynthese - Frankfurt - Anna, Mo, David

9th. El Club - Barcelona - Kico, Tom, Lucas

10th. Trefoil - Canada - Chris, Alex, Pieter

11. Strange Brew - Canada

12. Dans Ta Gueule, Puceau - France

13. The Odds - USA

14. Bambule - Germany

15. Candy Colored Clowns - Germany

16. La Schmoove - UK

17. BAD - UK

18. Profane Lobotomy - USA

19. Apples - UK

20. MGM - France

21. Shark Attack - Germany

22. Massive Cogs - UK

23. Joel and the Jankey Mallets - USA

24. Apologies - France

25. Rolling Hoods - France

26. Tough Shit - Germany

27. EHFXD - Netherlands

28. Los Manguis - Spain

29. Li Carbonari - Italy

30. Riding in Circles

31. Malice International - UK

32. Iron Ponies - Switzerland

The top teams were determined by games played and the lower teams were by rounds won and by goal difference.

-Mat

After the Worlds...

2010-08-22T06:19:00.000-07:00

Mat has already blogged below about our performance at the World Championships in Berlin where we finished up 7th overall, but I wanted to add my own take on events, particularly since the Worlds marks the end of my first Cosmic spell, or rather the start of a short sabbatical. But before I get all teary-eyed, let's just savour that fact for a moment - 7th best in the World. This is a huge achievement for a team who have been playing together for only 15 months, and it's a big slap in the face for all those who predicted that no European teams would make it into the top-10. As it turned out, 5 European teams made it to that final stage, so the whole European bike polo community has a lot to be proud of. It was a thrilling tournament giving us the chance to play against some teams we hadn't encountered before as well as some old rivals. And no tournament is complete without a Cosmic/Rotten Apples encounter, and Berlin's 20+ minute Golden Goal battle was one of the most intense and emotional moments I have experienced in any sport, let alone bike polo.

Last December I moved to Amsterdam, and this forced Cosmic into a long-distance relationship. Yet despite not being able to practice regularly we have continued to develop as a team, and to continue taking our polo to new levels. We've managed to finish up the 2010 international season with a great string of results behind us. Now however, with London's Winter League 3 on the horizon, the time has come for me to step aside, and for Mat and Todd to have a regular 3rd with whom they can train and practice as a team on a regular basis. Snoops is the ideal player to take up the Cosmic mantle, and though it'll be a very different team, I expect it to be every bit as successful as the original Cosmic3.

From the Greif Masters in Karlsruhe last February, until the World Championships in Berlin last week, Cosmic reached the final of every single tournament we entered. Included in this are victories at the EAST Festival, Cycle Coo and the UK Championships in London. Cosmic have made lots of friends all around the world, and I consistently hear people refer to us as the most exciting team to watch in polo.

Several of these tournaments featured Cosmic debuts from members of the London polo family - with Emmet, Hassan and Snoops all riding under the Cosmic eye. Which leads me to this thought. Unlike many teams in polo who insist on never using substitute players, Cosmic are not bound by always having to play as the same three players. There have been 6 Cosmics in 2010, all doing their bit to advance the Cosmic cause, and for us it is much more important that the Cosmic team represents, than keeping the line-up rigid. Cosmic is about strength of the triangle, and the fluidity of our game allows for different players to make up the 3 vertices. The Cosmic family is going to continue to grow and grow, both in London and further afield.

For now, here's to everything we've achieved over the last year - it's been one hell of a ride.

Welcome in...

2010-08-20T03:03:00.001-07:00

The family just grew as cosmicv2 is born!

Pic from Slamm

-Mat

GOrilla is dead...

2010-08-20T02:39:00.000-07:00

Looks like Dans Ta Gueule Puceau Team DTGP are going to need a new frame sponsor...

The death of GOrilla bikes confirmed over on Prollyisnotprobably

Real shame to hear, as I liked what GOrilla as a company was doing...good team, good looking product and good film edits...here are a few of the nicest...

KILROY - Teaser I of IV from Gorilla Bicycles on Vimeo.

Gorilla in Paris from Gorilla Bicycles on Vimeo.

GOrilla RIP

-Mat

Adidas Skate go cosmic...

2010-08-20T02:20:00.000-07:00

Just spotted over on the Leeds Fixed Gear blog links to the new skate & create videos on Transworld Skateboarding go check the Adidas Light, Shape, Color video...very cosmic!

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 Review on FBM

2010-08-20T01:47:00.000-07:00

Sean Mccormick writes a sweet review for FBM on his trip to Europe for the WHBPC2010

view here

Nice to see pics of myself and Toddy in there along with the original cosmic FBM Sword.

On the mention of the Sword...after getting up and close (try hard into the court sidewall close) with the prototype FBM polo frame which Nick from The Odd's is running, I'm busting to get my hands on the first production one...it looked so awesome! All the right details were there...def one of the best polo bikes out there right now.

Sean, keep us updated on due dates for the polo Sword.

And good to meet you man!

-Mat

The London Open

2010-08-19T06:31:00.001-07:00

Just to remind you...this weekend in South London's it's the first London Open.

Over 40 teams from across the UK as well as Europe and the U.S will battle it out to win the keys to our great city.

Cosmic will be playing but in our new V2 format...exciting times.

So come down and support.

For info check here and here

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 Final

2010-08-19T06:18:00.000-07:00

So here it is...the WHBPC 2010 final in Berlin between two arch U.S rivals, the Milwaukee Beaver Boys playing in purple (good colour) vs Chicago's Machine Polotics in their yellow v-neck T's.

The two teams had already met in the winners bracket a few games earlier in a game which was much more of an equal battle...but Beaver Boys took that game putting Machine Polotics into the loser bracket game against L'Equipe.

When the U.S rematch was on in the final, most of the court side watchers were shouting for Chicago to win. They were top guys, despite beating us 5-1 in our second game of the tourney (cosmic lessons from that game) and were a pleasure to watch play. However, the final was done and dusted by the Beaver Boys in under 5 mins. Crazy quick...and to note that the Beaver Boy who scored all 5 goals is still riding fixed....old skool!

But overall Beaver Boys deserved the win and title of worlds best, I have a lot of respect for them as they are def an awesome team, with some great skills.

Enjoy...

-Mat

Best goal of WHBPC 2010?

2010-08-18T06:29:00.000-07:00

During our first game on the knockout day of the WHBPC 2010 against The Odds (winners of NAHBPC 2010), Toddy scored one of the best goals I've ever seen...some say it was goal of the tournament.

The game was mid way through. The Odds had pulled themselves back to 2-2 after being 2-0 down. The ball had just gone behind our goal. I took it to the corner and created space in order to make a long cross court pass to Todd, who was racing up fast on the right wing. With that, Todd popped the fastest wheely to take the pass onto his right side. He then continued to dribble the ball down the center of the court at pace before calmly shooting it into the back of the net. The crowd went wild. It was such a fluid movement, from taking my pass to scoring the goal.

When asked what was going through his mind as he popped the front the wheel at such pace, Toddy just replied...

"I just needed the ball on my right side and my wheel was in the way, so I just got it out of the way"

Ha...no wheely, no goal!

-Mat

7th...

2010-08-18T06:01:00.000-07:00

...is now Cosmic's polo world ranking - epic!

Full WHBPC 2010 report, with photo's and video's, to come.

Till then, just to say, huge thanks to Berlin for putting together such an incredible event. The worlds polo scene really mixed and came together for the first time, which will only help it to grow and gain more support on a global level.

Also, it has to be mentioned now that Europe proved how serious it's game really is. A lot of words and statements about the standard of European polo have been taken back this past weekend.

It was said that no UK team would finish top 10 and that the US would dominate over Europe in the final rankings. This turned out not to be the case. True, is was an all American final, but it nearly wasn't. Many big US teams took defeats and Europe had 5 teams in the top 10. An amazing finish when you consider most European cities/teams haven't been playing polo for more than a couple of years. It just shows that our commitment and dedication to progression is paying off. Big love to the European family!

Can't wait for next years worlds.

-Mat

Warning...

2010-08-10T14:22:00.000-07:00

Spotted on a recent trip away...

-Todd

DVS Keirin Pack

2010-08-09T08:35:00.000-07:00

On the mention of DVS...they've just worked on a range of silhouettes inspired by Keirin racing colours...

For more info jump over to The Footdown

If you think these are colourful, just wait till they release the Cosmic Toddy...you can imagine the colours and print story there...

-Mat

Cosmic Love...

2010-08-09T08:19:00.000-07:00

Cosmic are proud to now roll Schwalbe tyres on our wheels and DVS Shoes on our feet.

Big thanks to both companies for your support.

-Mat

BBC London News

2010-08-09T07:48:00.000-07:00

To follow on from the recent interview I did with BBC News London about the re-emergance of hardcourt bike polo, this short (very short) edit was broadcasted on the London BBC News throughout the day on 02.08.10.

Shame it couldn't have been slightly longer to include a bit more footage and info on the 'modern' game and considering it was aired on the lunchtime news, atleast mention details on where to play weekday 'slackers' polo.

Hopefully I didn't come across as a twat...I only said the bit about fun and wanting to stay acting like a kid by riding my bike inorder to take the edge off all the competitive team comments I mentioned and details of the weird cosmic rituals we do before each game.

Anway...Carhartt should be happy with a bit of product placement...ha! The BBC's tight restrictions on advertising let that one slip through!

-Mat

iCOSMIC

2010-08-09T06:43:00.000-07:00

On syncing my iphone recently, thought I'd upload these cosmic polo related iphoto's...

-Mat

Oh no...

2010-08-09T06:36:00.000-07:00

...the printer made a typo on the new cosmic stickers...

But thankfully it was only on the packaging.

The new 'eye of cosmic' stickers available along with reprints of the 'cosmic box' logo...

-Mat

EHBPC 2010 Final Geneva Cosmic vs L'Equipe

2010-08-08T12:27:00.000-07:00

A real nice edit of the EHBPC 2010 put together by the Cycle Oxford guys....I love the scene of Toddy and I having a knock about to the sound of the city Church...nice moment.

Bike Polo - EHBPC 2010 in Geneva from Cycle Oxford on Vimeo.

-Mat

I just wanna ride...

2010-08-07T03:25:00.000-07:00

Watching BMX edits just makes me wanna ride...especially when it's filmed at London spots...no polo films gives me those feelings, apart form when I watch cosmic play that is!

Home sweet home skills from the UK Coalition team...

Coalition UK Team - James Reynolds from Ben Green on Vimeo.

Coalition UK Team - Vinnie Mayne from Ben Green on Vimeo.

Coalition UK Team - Dan Paley from Ben Green on Vimeo.

-Mat

London Type Polo Bike

2010-08-06T09:16:00.000-07:00

-Mat

Cosmic Promo T-shirts

2010-08-06T06:59:00.000-07:00

Hot off the printing press, here they are....cosmic's first batch of promo T-shirts.

Okay, these are just the cads....but trust me, they will look cosmic!

We have two design options both printed on Gildan Ultra 2000 stock.

Design 1. is the 'eye of cosmic' logo in a 2 colour (black/violet) print screened large on the back of a white T. The front is blank. This designed on our Team T's that so many people have come up to us asking for.

Sizes available are Men's S, M , L, XL. Price is £15.

Design 2. is the 'cosmic box' logo in a 1 colour (black) print screened on the chest to the size 25cm wide (print on cad is smaller than production version) on a heather grey T. The back is blank.

Sizes available are Men's S,M,L,XL. Price is £10.

Alternatively buy both options together for £23!

Currently we have very limited stock. So if you wish to buy any, please either drop us a mail at cosmic3bikepolo@gmail.com or pm MAT on the lfgss forum. We prefer cash in hand on collection, but can post for an additional fee (you'll get some free cosmic stickers though) and can take cash via paypal.

Alternatively, we will bring a bunch to sell at the Worlds...so just come up to a cosmic with Euro's in your hand to purchase.

-Mat

10mins Edit of EHBPC 2010 Final

2010-08-05T16:40:00.000-07:00

So after weeks of waiting and hoping someone in the Euro polo scene was going to post up footage of our game against L'Equip in the EHBPC final, we've had to concede to the fact we may never get to see the game in full.

All we have is a short, but intense edit from good friend Brendan of BAD Polo and Blunt Films.

It only shows our 1st goal to go 1-0 up, but it's still well worth a watch HERE

Then it's off to put it in the cosmic archives.

Just hoping there will be more footage available of games from the Wolrds floating around on the megaweb.

-Mat

XGames 16

2010-08-05T13:24:00.000-07:00

The action sports media circus that is XGames just finished up for it's 16th year.

It's not a comp supported by all but you can't deny the riding level in this competition is insane...just check out the big air finals for an example...triple whips, double front flips, 15foot flairs...ridiculous...although none of em beat a wheely goal!

Someone who can throw down style amongst any media circus is Chase Hawk...short edit, but sweet stuff...

QUINTIN QUICKIE: CHASE HAWK from aaron on Vimeo.

-Mat

WHBPC 2010 Update

2010-08-04T03:49:00.000-07:00

With the World Champs only just over a week away...that's come round quick! Prep for the tourney is well under way.

The poster and schedule is printed...

Yesterday the courts got a bit of TLC...

Don't see Rik of Rotten Apples in the photo below...sure the Berlin dudes could do with his helpful hands. Rik was pretty much the groundsman at London's Downham court. Rik...you bring any worms?

And all the teams are confirmed...

The line of teams who qualified to take the original open spots are HERE

Then on Friday 13th there's a preliminary tournament to grab a further 14 spots. The list of teams who will battle it out for these are HERE

So with the tournament made up of the worlds best teams from 3 continents, playing in a wicked city and in weather predicted to stay sunny and hot all weekend, things are set to be epic!

For up to date news, info and results check HERE

-Mat

More Cosmic Love

2010-08-04T03:30:00.000-07:00

We've been sent a few photos from MGM's Greg...

Further proof of the great cosmic love...my face in the 3rd photo says it all...

The eye's of cosmic push up for the attack:

To check the full selection HERE

Also, Greg's team MGM from Paris have a bike polo blog worth checking HERE/

See you Paris guys in Berlin!

-Mat

How many hipsters...

2010-08-03T04:05:00.000-07:00

...can you fit in a Jazz?

Yeah...got those damn fixter hipsters off the streets and into a Honda!

A pretty funny car commercial...

-Mat

Profile Racing

2010-08-03T03:32:00.000-07:00

Oh yes....

Now available in hardcourt bike polo format...48h!

Just pick a cosmic colour!

Profile Polo

-Mat

Another HBP Specific Set up

2010-08-03T03:02:00.000-07:00

Seen over in London this week, this is Parisian Marc's of Apologoies brand new Dodici...

It's a much more beefed up version (more clearance, fatter tubeset, 1 1/8 headtube) of Marc's original which I think he bent several times soon after getting.

The frame and forks (Marc, you gotta change that 3 tone paint job - horrid ;-) ) can take either v or u brakes and much wider tyres. It looks pretty tricked out.

Look out for this prototype at the Worlds and then perhaps production versions soon.

-Mat

Baaammmmm!

2010-08-03T02:48:00.000-07:00

There goes an Aerospoke!

Lesson? Don't tuck in for a skid in wet conditions!

Clip taken from a Fixed blog in Finland.

-Mat

EHBPC 2010 Geneva Cosmic vs Apologies

2010-08-02T14:41:00.000-07:00

Here's another of our games from the group stages of day 1 at the EHBPC 2010 in Geneva.

Cosmic vs Apologies.

The game was fast paced with end to end action, back to back goals, a few school boy mistakes (my blind back pass fail) and an epic crash.

We won 4-3...with Tom scoring 3 of the 4...his 3rd being an awesome Tomasito TM

-Mat

Horrorscopes!

2010-07-30T03:27:00.000-07:00

I'm not one to look at horoscopes though looking up at the stars is a magical thing.

Today however..., I looked mine up.

Virgo - 30/7/2010

'A rare 'Cosmic Cross' is happening! This 'T-Square' will bring change to the world... and it will bring change to YOUR life'.

!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!WTF?!

Obviously there was a little more to it than that but that's how it finishes!

Woah! Cosmic Cross!

Now to invent a set play called the T-Square! Rad!

-Todd

Cosmic on Carhartt Blog

2010-07-29T06:28:00.001-07:00

Carhartt UK have just given us some props on their blog for our efforts at the EHBPC.

http://www.thecarharttstore.co.uk/news/

Thanks again guys for your support and help with the 'eye of cosmic' team t's. They looked awesome both in person and in all the pics. So many people came up to us asking if they could buy them...unfortunately not, but hopefully a run of promo t's will be done in time for the Worlds.

-Mat

EHBPC 2010 Geneva Cosmic vs 24H Polo People

2010-07-29T05:39:00.000-07:00

Here's our opening game against 24H Polo People in the group stages on day 1 at EHBPC 2010.

Playing in our fresh white eye of cosmic x carhartt team T's, we decided to go ahead with the rolling 3 out format from the start and it worked out well (and only got better as we progressed in the tourney).

The 3 out format gives you a tighter grasp on possession and more triangle passing options. But you can only play this format during the right times in the game. Still there are moments that require a solid keeper and doubling up in the D.

Overall, think we created the most clear chances and had some great team moments that lead to shots on goal. But unfortunately we failed to convert more than we did. I put those misses just down to us warming up.

24H Polo People had their moments too as we let them slip through our defence. They played well and gave a fair game.

We won 2-0 within the 10min game time.

A good win for our first game.

More cosmic games from the EHBPC 2010 to follow.

-Mat

2010-07-29T03:02:00.000-07:00

Toddy is one of the most committed players out there...especially when he puts on the eye of cosmic. Amongst all the Toddy tatts, he has the hardcourt scars to prove it!

This short clip was taken from the game against Apologies Accepted at the EHBPC 2010. Check his front Marathon Plus tyre roll almost all the way off the rim. The noise of the rubber skidding is awesome!

Think Toddy visited the courtside first aid tent more than any other play that weekend.

No pain...no gain....that's cosmic commitment!

-Mat

Pedro's Bike Tool Co.

2010-07-27T07:52:00.001-07:00

Here's a neat bike tool from Pedro's...

Named the Trixie, this compact tool is designed specifically for fixed gear riders. Made from hardened steel, it boasts the following essential features...

- 15mm box end wrench

- lock ring hook

- 8, 9, 10 box end wrench

- 5mm hex

- and of course the all important bottle opener

Nice!

-Mat

Charge Bikes

2010-07-27T06:52:00.000-07:00

Charge (chargebikes.com) is a UK based bike frame and parts manufacture who a few years ago slipped into the commercial market dominated by the massive US bike companies to offer on trend quality bikes at an affordable price.

Their off the peg Fixed/SS set up the Plug, must have sold up into the 1000's by now and is still one of the best complete entry full set up options out there.

But Charge aren't happy with just offering standard stuff, they also do a range of more specific frame sets and parts as well as a collection of softgoods.

Personally, I like what Charge are doing. They are UK based, who support many aspects of riding and if they can continue to design and release on trend stuff, their future in the bike market looks solid.

Here are a few of my fav products currently available from Charge as well as some new ones due for release in 2011...

The new Fuse gloves :

The Chopstick Seat Post:

The Bucket Saddle :

The Scissor V2 prototype :

Keeping the same geometry as the Scissor V1, the new design will have a mid size bb for fitting BMX cranks and new curved chainstays to fit wider tyres.

The Hob:

This is the new Fixed/SS set up based on the classic sloping downtube design for the ladies - looks rad.

-Mat

EHBPC 2010 Geneva Cosmic vs Apples

2010-07-26T11:02:00.000-07:00

Here's some slightly edited footage of our first game against Rotten Apples (London) in the elimination day at the EHBPC. Cosmic won the game 5-1.

Not an easy game to play in or a nice feeling win due to the close relationship we have between us all. Apples is family to Cosmic so playing against each other competitively is hard, but it was a win we needed to take.

Still, the game is a good watch and the sideline commentary given at the beginning by Aidan and Brendan of BAD (London) is hilarious.

More teamcosmicfilms to come...

-Mat

DVS X Cadence

2010-07-26T10:30:00.000-07:00

These past few seasons, DVS Skate Shoe Co. has been working closely with Cadence Clothing to release a series of bike riding inspired skate kicks.

This stealthy pair is the Milan CTC...

I think they came out looking pretty sweet.

Available at http://www.flatspot.com/ and other premium skate/bike shops.

C'mon Adrian...you know Cosmic's address...pop a few pairs in the post please.

-Mat

Vintage Puncture Repair Kits

2010-07-26T06:31:00.000-07:00

Found these cool vintage tin puncture repair kits...

-Mat

BBC London News

2010-07-26T05:35:00.000-07:00

They say all press is good press...but only if you actually get a mention in the first place.

A recent article written by BBC London News unfortunately failed to really give the London HBP scene much promo (no mention of the LFGSS forum, the LHBPA or the forthcoming London Open) or capture the true position of the 'modern' game.

Instead, the article which includes quotes by myself (but credited with the wrong name - it's Mat Horwood of Cosmic thanks), focuses on the tired old story of HBP progressing from Grass Polo (which was once an exhibition sport at the 1908 Olympic Games) and how 'modern' players hand make mallets and 'customise' their bikes...blah blah blah.

Despite myself and other London HBP players providing plenty of content about the now in HBP, non-players appear to only get caught up in the romance of the history, the hands on approach to the game and whether HBP will become an Olympic sport.

My opinion is HBP is not really a sport, it's more of a lifestyle. The game is still very much in it's development stage where it's trying to find it's direction. We use our hands to make our tools out of necessity, as we are the architects of our game but I'd much rather a HBP company make high standard mallets and bikes for me. There are still few rules or governing bodies outlining what is right or wrong. Sure, there needs to be more structure applied to some aspects of the game - esp in tournament situations. But at the moment, the freedom means there's more creativity and experimentation happening - which right now is what's important.

I see HBP staying some what 'underground' for several more years to come. The best thing we (the players) can do is keep growing the scene amongst ourselves (bike lovers) and getting companies and people involved who are focused only on the development of the game. As playing momentum continues HBP will grow but in my eyes it's going to take a long time before it's ever taken as a 'sport' let alone be in the Olympics.

For me, the biggest attraction to HBP is that it's by the players for the players...meaning one can achieve, gain and input what ever one wants from HBP - basically it's there for you.

http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/london/hi/people_and_places/2012/newsid_8845000/8845620.stm

http://news.bbc.co.uk/local/london/hi/people_and_places/2012/newsid_8842000/8842236.stm

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/uk/8177668.stm

-Mat

EHBPC 2010 Geneva Elimination Bracket Results

2010-07-23T06:30:00.001-07:00

Here are (some not great) pics of the two brackets for Sundays double elimination stage of EHBPC 2010...

Winner's Bracket:

Loser's Bracket:

Our results from the elimination stage in day 2 on route to the final were as follows...

Lausanne : 5 - 0 win

Rolling Hoods : 5 - 2 win

Rotton Apples : 5 - 1 win

El'Club : 4 - 3 loss

Polo Synthese : 4 - 3 win

Rotton Apples : 5 - 0 win

El'Club : 5 - 2 win

L'Equipe : 5 - 4 loss

The results from days 1 group games were...

24 Hour Polo People : 2 - 0 win

Wiener Blud : 5 - 0 win

Apologies Accepted : 4 - 3 win

Catania : 5 - 0 win

Tough Shit : 1 - 1 draw (same result as in Karlsruhe)

Hopefully all scores will be available to post up soon.

-Mat

Milwaukee Bike Co. HBP Forks

2010-07-23T06:14:00.001-07:00

Doug D from the Hardcourt Bike Polo blog has worked with Milwaukee Bike Co. to design these specific HBP forks....

Doug explains the concept here...

"I was thinking about the convenience of having one spare wheel to replace the front or rear, especially in tournament situations. A 120 mm spaced fork made specifically for polo would mean more interchangeability, less spare parts, more gearing options for us single speed and fixed riders. And it would mean that any bike with this fork would breath polo."

Quite a neat idea, especially as there is nothing more annoying than carrying loads of spare stuff when travelling to tournies.

-Mat

Camden Council Cycling Awareness

2010-07-23T05:59:00.000-07:00

This post is not about a 'cool' or 'trendy' bike related topic but actually a short video by Camden Council regards road cycling awareness.

When not on the HBP courts, I'm normally riding on London's hellish roads amongst the millions of other users. I do my best to be seen and ride 'ahead' of the traffic but unfortunately many 'commuter' cyclist don't. As a result accidents, some sadly fatal, occur too often these days.

The most recent increase in bike accidents are involving either HGVs or buses crushing riders on their undersides (ie blind sides). These accidents could be reduced if only both riders and drivers look and think more before putting each other in such dangerous positions.

So just thought this was worth a post...

Look out for each other!

- Mat

Adidas Silas Skate Shoe

2010-07-23T05:23:00.000-07:00

As Cosmic looks for a HBP shoe sponsor...we can only dream of the opportunity which has landed the way of skater Silas Baxter-Neal.

I've spent many years in sneaker stockrooms and coloured in CADs, but visiting the archive vaults at Adidas HQ in-order to design my own signature shoe, would be a wet dream come true.

Nice film and kicks (although not a very Cosmic colour up) by Adidas...

- Mat

D.A.M.P Bicycles

2010-07-23T04:35:00.000-07:00

D.A.M.P Bicycles is a small bike co. hailing from Sweden but which is already starting to get noticed in the global Fixed/Bike Polo scene and with positive responses.

The frame which has brought them the most interest on all the Fixed Gear blogs is the Butterbean (shown below in black).

Designed specifically for Fixed tricks riding, the Butterbean has many unique frame features that makes it suitable for current 700c riding trends, such as...

- wide fork and chainstay spacing for fat tires

- a curved seat tube, again to help fit big tires and give a tight wheelbase

- a rear wishbone and headtube gussets to add strength

- perfect geometry for bar spins and twists.

The frame also has some nice finishing details, such as chrome rear stays and a tidy metal wing badge on the wishbone.

700c trick frames are def progressing fast, so it's nice to see a small bike co. in the mix moving things forward.

Check this short film of their tricks team rider thrashing the Butterbean...

A day out with Mårten from Boonphotography on Vimeo.

Now, this is where things get more interesting...

Since the Butterbean started getting press, lots of people where talking about rumours of a HBP (Hardcourt Bike Polo) specific version, not only being designed but actually one already on route to a London player.

Well...we've had inside knowledge to know that this is true! Infact not only is the vibrant red version shown below heading to Jono Marshall of London's Elk's but a stealthy black one will be under the powers of a Cosmic player very soon.

Both London players have worked closely with D.A.M.P to convert the Butterbean to meet the needs of HBP. The basic frame design and wide tire clearance stays the same, but the geometry has been slightly tweaked and removable front and rear v-brake lugs have been added.

At the moment, the frame set is made to order, but hopefully if the feedback on the Polobeans ride is any where close to how good it looks from the pictures, D.A.M.P could be onto a winner!

I can't wait to see this frame set on the court...

For more info on the Polobean and other products from D.A.M.P, drop the nice guys an email at hello@bikebydamp.com

or check their website and facebook page

http://bikesbydamp.com/

- Mat

The Cosmic Family

2010-07-23T04:30:00.001-07:00

Mat, Therese, Toddy, B and Tom...

Taken by Todd's camera on auto whilst sitting on Geneva's sand bank under the rubber trees.

Good times!

-Mat

EHBPC 2010 Geneva Streaker

2010-07-23T03:53:00.000-07:00

Just as the ref was giving his 'fair play polo' speach to us and L'Equipe before the final started, a streaker jumped over the barriers and ran round the court flapping his bits about. It was a hilarious moment which helped break any tension building for the game.

Once the streaker had done his run and jumped back into the crowd, the ref shouted on the load speaker...'any one for naked polo?'...London shouted back...'Todddyyyyy!!!'...

Nothing like a bit of Euro Trash....

EHBPC 2010 Final - naked run from budapestbikepolo on Vimeo.

-Mat

EHBPC 2010 Geneva Photos

2010-07-23T03:36:00.001-07:00

Loads of great pictures from last weekends EHBPC in Geneva are already floating around the megaweb.

Here's a small selection taken of Cosmic....more to follow.

Here's a few links to photo collections that are def worth viewing...

www.guidoline.com

www.patricio-michelin.com

www.picasaweb.google.fr

-Mat

Cosmic at the Euros!

2010-07-20T04:10:00.000-07:00

We're just back from this weekend's EHBPC finals in Geneva where 48 teams from all over the continent came together for the second European Championships. Cosmic finished in 2nd place - losing the final to home team and reigning champions L'Equipe. We held them to 4-4 after half an hour of play and we peppered their goal with shots right to the end, but those guys are strong and fast and sadly they ended up making the winner.

All 3 Cosmics played out of their skins - I think it is the best we have ever played, both as individuals and collectively as a team.

Our good friend Alex Schindel of Shark Attack (who also put on a great performance in the elimination) sent through these pics, taken just moments after we finished the final.

We (together with our bikes) are all feeling a bit battered and broken, but still riding high on the spirit of a perfect polo tournament. More thoughts and photos to follow in good time, but for now our special thanks and love go to Bianca and Terese - all weekend long they gave us support and cheers, new mallets and fresh water, high-5s and lots of laughter, and so much more besides. Big Cosmic love to you two lovely ladies x

The Eye of Cosmic Team T

2010-07-14T03:31:00.001-07:00

Toddy collected our new Cosmic3 team T's last night, just in time for us to rock at the Euro's this weekend.

I've been so excited to get these back from the printers and I'm stoked, because they've come out totally awesome!

The new team T (the Eye of Cosmic) is printed on the 100% cotton Carhartt Pocket T and comes in purple (Cosmic's winning colour), white and an awesome heather grey. Each T has the Eye of Cosmic logo carefully screenprinted in a single colour as a waist hit on the front and then large on the back, in full colour with Cosmic text (so players will see how sweet the logo is when we ride past them - ha ha!)

Massive thanks to our clothing sponsor Carhartt for funding the T's and of course Stuart at Lovenskate who worked his arse off to print them in time - we're gonna wear them with pride on Saturday.

Here's a short film on Stuart from Lovenskate...

Inside Lovenskate from Craig Jackson on Vimeo.

Also, coming soon...

Cosmic promo stickers, T's, and other little magical charms and trinkets.

so keep an eye out for availability!

- Mat

The EHBPC 2010 Geneva

2010-07-13T15:31:00.000-07:00

The journey to Geneva for the EHBPC 2010 begins...

Updates to follow...

- Mat

Cosmic Vision

2010-07-13T15:03:00.000-07:00

The new polo vision...

- Mat

The Eye of Cosmic

2010-07-09T04:47:00.001-07:00

...is always watching.

-Mat

Cosmic Triangles

2010-07-09T04:41:00.001-07:00

...in triangles we trust.

-Mat

Restoration Project

2010-07-09T03:55:00.000-07:00

Spotted this run down ice hockey court in Sweden...

It just begs to be restored into a beautiful outdoor summer Polo court.

-Mat

Pocket Time...

2010-07-09T03:53:00.001-07:00

-Mat

Swedish Classics

2010-07-09T03:48:00.000-07:00

-Mat

FBM Sword Polo

2010-07-08T15:18:00.000-07:00

Oh yes...

Crandall, please make this happen!

-Mat

Moon Polo

2010-06-30T06:10:00.001-07:00

-Todd

Cosmic Training

2010-06-29T16:04:00.000-07:00

Well what can I say?...
Seems someone knows me a little 'too' well! haha

New Cosmic team kit moving forward?

-Todd

Birth of Big Air

2010-06-24T14:22:00.000-07:00

This isn't a Polo film...but I sure hope it will be screened at this years London BFF...

Matt Hoffman is a BMX legend - PERIOD!

Not only did he keep BMX alive during the dark days, he is and always will be one of the most influencial extreme athletes of all time - even Evil Knievel was a fan, so much so that Hoffman released a signature BMX in Knievel's honour.

Hoffman carved the way to prove that what people thought was not possible actually can be - although often at a painful price.

Hoffman's take on life is remarkable - 'you get only one, so use it' .... And hell, has he!

-Mat