+++The OFFICIAL Speed BAG 2010 Thread++

[Biff]

I hope Tim doesn't mind....

I proclaim this the Official SB 2010 Thread. Anyone attending, please feel free to add to this thread, as well as those of you who could not make it.

I intend to post nightly updates of the days activities with pix and vids. I checked with the hotel and there is high-speed internet access. My only concern is that the post-bagging activities may impair my ability to post updates!!!! But I'll do my best.

Tim is on his way already. I spoke with him earlier and he's hoping to roll into Keyport in the very early afternoon. All is going well with him and the family on their road trip to Jersey.

AK, myself, Deano and his Dad will all be there by late afternoon. I think Skunk's plane gets in Thursday night. I plan to host a welcome to Keyport, NJ party in my hotel room tomorrow night. Anyone, and everyone is invited.

NOTE: as I was typing this, I just got a call from Deano. He and his Dad are in Las Vegas, and their flight tomorrow is on schedule. I didn't get a chance to ask him if he won BIG in Vegas. I guess we'll find out tomorrow.

To be continued....

[Speedbag]

I hope Tim doesn't mind....

I proclaim this the Official SB 2010 Thread. Anyone attending, please feel free to add to this thread, as well as those of you who could not make it.

I intend to post nightly updates of the days activities with pix and vids. I checked with the hotel and there is high-speed internet access. My only concern is that the post-bagging activities may impair my ability to post updates!!!! But I'll do my best.

Tim is on his way already. I spoke with him earlier and he's hoping to roll into Keyport in the very early afternoon. All is going well with him and the family on their road trip to Jersey.

AK, myself, Deano and his Dad will all be there by late afternoon. I think Skunk's plane gets in Thursday night. I plan to host a welcome to Keyport, NJ party in my hotel room tomorrow night. Anyone, and everyone is invited.

NOTE: as I was typing this, I just got a call from Deano. He and his Dad are in Las Vegas, and their flight tomorrow is on schedule. I didn't get a chance to ask him if he won BIG in Vegas. I guess we'll find out tomorrow.

To be continued....

IF they get off the plane with clothes on their back you'll know. Vegas can do that to ya!. Looking forward to the Pre-Party. :)

[spinsmashpop]

I just set up a Everlast Adjustable Platform in my Mom's that I got for 1/2 off ($60.00), at Modell's Sporting Goods Store in Parsippany NJ! there is still one left! You cannot beat that deal.
They also have the beginner model that is usually 60.00 on sale for 30.00!
There was no way I could be in NJ with the Bag Convention happening and not have a platform at Mom's!
I hear Skunk has an insane new move. i am working on one too!
If I can get out tomorrow night, I may try to cruise down.....
If not, I;ll be there with my bud JD in the early afternoon on Friday!
Bag it up in Bagport!

[Tim]

The speed bag trailer just pulled into a hotel in Maryland, about 160 miles to go. I should be there around 12 or 1 pm tomorrow, I hope. The GPS died though, so I gotta go old school and get out a map. Hopefully that won't slow us down too much.

[Biff]

Anyone hear from Dee Pooler lately? Last time I talked to him (early last month), he said he was coming to SB 2010. But I'm not sure if his plans changed. Does anyone know if he is still coming?

[Tim]

Anyone hear from Dee Pooler lately? Last time I talked to him (early last month), he said he was coming to SB 2010. But I'm not sure if his plans changed. Does anyone know if he is still coming?

Last I had heard, one of his boxers had a fight very close to the date and he probably wasn't going to make it.

I did receive word of 1 add'l attendee via e-mail today, someone who is not a forum member AFAIK, so I think we are at a solid 20 attendees.

[Mrs Mitts]

Thanks for setting this thread up! I'm getting so excited for all of you:):):)

Will be checking in regularly, can't wait for the updates!!

Safe journey to all of you making your way to the event, and . . .

<)Y<)Y<)YI know you're all going to have a fantastic time!<)Y<)Y<)Y

[Biff]

Not much to report yet. Tim and family rolled in about 3. Deano and his dad arrived about 4. I'm at the airport now waiting for AK. His flight was messed up. He should be here by 8 or 9. Party may have to wait until tomorrow. We setup most of the equipment and will finish in the morning.

There may be pix later.

[TJ_MaTee]

Hey Biff, glad to hear most everything's going according to plan. I'm due to arrive a little after 11:00 am tomorrow. As soon as I get situated, I'll make it to the gym. Let me know if there's anything I can do. See you then!

[metaldad]

Right on guys!! Can't wait to the pics and vids!!

[MsDeville]

Hey everybody, I finally rolled in around 2pm today. Tim was outside hitting on the setup when I walked up. It took him a second to recognize me... :) After greeting each other (we skipped a hug, due to the fact that it's very hot here and Tim was kinda, well, sweaty. :eek: )

It's kind of surreal for me... getting to meet so many Forum members in person! Tim, Bif, Alan, Tommy T, Skunk, Spins, Jack (Eighty-eight), TJ, Scissors (Adam)... and deano! All the way from Australia. I got to meet his dad, too. What a great bunch of people here this weekend. I know I'm leaving out some people... so sorry... I'm a little rummy from the long overnight flight. Got in to Newark at 7:30 this morning – from Seattle, and I'm about to nod off while writing this. But, I just had to post some raw footage.
Enjoy!

GceHpTsL-fY

[Biff]

What a day!!!! It was non stop bagging, talking, learning, and enjoying. By mid-morning the place was rocking. Dee listed the members in the post above. In addition, our host, Don Blanks (Real Gymm) was there, tending to everyone's needs. We ate lunch outside on the deck of a restaurant overlooking the bay.

Folks from the gym were there, a father-son team(Louis and Brandon Dolfinger) came from upstate NY; they saw the ad on the internet and decided to come down. Folks from Brooklyn, NY were there. Well over 20 people were in attendance.

Deano and his dad "wowed" everyone with their "Down Under" style of punching. Skunk put on a "clinic", and Scissorhands was spinning and making the bag sing.

Everyone had their time bagging - 88, SpeedyTommyT, TJ, Tim, myself. It ws just amazing to be in the same room with such awesome talent.

Spinsmashpop (BT) showed up in the afternoon with a good friend of his, JD, one hellava bass player. They jammed for maybe 1/2 or better. But the bagging highlight of the day, without a doubt, was AK punching-drumming to the groove of BT and JD. They played 3 or 4 songs and Alan was dead-on with each one. Never missed a beat or punch. I hope someone posts that vid; you'll enjoy it.

When he was finished, we presented Alan with a plaque, honoring him for all he has done over the years to promote the art of speed bagging. It was an emotional moment; and he was truly appreciative.

I hope to post some pix and vid later. But it was non-stop today. Lots of folks have pix and vids and I'm sure they'll post up in the near future.

Right now we're getting ready to find a spot to eat and then continue with the post-bagging activities (wink, wink).

For those of you that could not make it, please try to attend the next one. It was just unbelievable to be in the same room with so many talented and great people.

I'm not sure what tomorrow will bring, but if it's anything like today, it should be awesome.

[aad03]

Damn, now I'm really wishing I was there! Keep the videos coming! I'll definitely have to make the next one; once a year may not be enough.

[Biff]

Well it's after 2:00 am and we just closed the last drinking establishment in Keyport. TJ, MsDeville, Skunk, BT, AK, Tim and myself had to make a night of it and finish off the day with a bang.

Here are some pix of the day:
1) AK and Skunk discussing the BP oil spill
2) The back of Real Gymm with the great banner Don ahd made
3) Lunch on the bay
4) A couple of non-forum baggers
5) BT and his friend, JD, and AK, MsDeville and TJ

Lots more pix but too tired to post them now.

[metaldad]

I'm done saying I wish I was there. Rather I'll say it sounds exactly the way I figured it would!!:D:cool: I had this carzy idea of trying to bag to some killer Jersey bands (Overkill, God Forbid, Zakk Wylde....I don't have any Bon Jovi or Bruce Springsteen) but time has not been on my side. Maybe I'll get something quick before it's all over and done with.

[Tim]

Yes, it's off to a great start. What a day! For me it ran from 7:30 AM to 2:00 AM, probably the most bagging i've ever done in a single day. Don and Real Gymm couldn't be better hosts, letting us commandeer the place and do whatever we want, as late as we want. Seeing Alan and Skunk punch drum live to JD and BT playing was a high light for sure, as was meeting so many forum and non-forum members in person. Really can't overstate what an incredible day it was.... and it went by in a blink of the eye.

Today it will be more of the same, and that is a good thing!

[jimcaher]

Yes, it's off to a great start. What a day! For me it ran from 7:30 AM to 2:00 AM, probably the most bagging i've ever done in a single day. Don and Real Gymm couldn't be better hosts, letting us commandeer the place and do whatever we want, as late as we want. Seeing Alan and Skunk punch drum live to JD and BT playing was a high light for sure, as was meeting so many forum and non-forum members in person. Really can't overstate what an incredible day it was.... and it went by in a blink of the eye.

Today it will be more of the same, and that is a good thing!

Congratulations Tim, you've certainly worked hard to pull this off. Anxiously awaiting pics and vids. Have fun and enjoy the fruits of all your efforts.

Have any vendors shown up?
Jim

[metaldad]

Yes, it's off to a great start. What a day! For me it ran from 7:30 AM to 2:00 AM, probably the most bagging i've ever done in a single day. Don and Real Gymm couldn't be better hosts, letting us commandeer the place and do whatever we want, as late as we want. Seeing Alan and Skunk punch drum live to JD and BT playing was a high light for sure, as was meeting so many forum and non-forum members in person. Really can't overstate what an incredible day it was.... and it went by in a blink of the eye.

Today it will be more of the same, and that is a good thing! Footage...we must have footage!!

[Speedbag]

Congratulations Tim, you've certainly worked hard to pull this off. Anxiously awaiting pics and vids. Have fun and enjoy the fruits of all your efforts.

Have any vendors shown up?
Jim

Unfortunately no vendors could make it Friday or Saturday. Balazs staff had a wedding too close this and had to scratch. But the bagging was fast and furious. Wish you were here, Jimbo. You would have appreciated the amazing atmosphere in the gymm. This brings back serious memories of our days at MSU, when the Schroeders group was ripping it in the boxing class - everyone helping everyone. I just wish you and Doc could have shared this moment.

Speed bag History was made today, Saturday, with an indescribable inpromptu vertical bag drumming by Brian "Spinsmashpop" Tichy. Tim & Skunk hung a vertical bag and Spin set up his drums by the bag and worked for about 30 minutes banging out some of the most unique and ingenious speed bag drum rthyhms ever heard. the kick drum, snare, high hat and speed bag were all jamming in syncopation and it was amazing. I'm sure video's are too follow.

[MsDeville]

I took a lot of videos... these are just a few. I filmed these on Saturday, using my older Flip camera. It's not hi-def, so it was quicker to upload these.

These are just "teasers" as you will soon see, as other members get a chance to upload some amazing stuff.

It's been a fantastic event. Getting to meet so many great people, both from the forum and others who came after seeing it advertised on the web.

Don, owner of Real Gymm, has been so accommodating to the group. He went above and beyond all expectations of hosting this event at his gym. We are indebted to you. Thank you, thank you, thank you for offering up your facilities to SpeedB.A.G. 2010!


So, here is a sampling of some of the baggers who attended:


1PPH7y0Xda4

6oaW6V5Hadk

cTmr3gXJsZY

cF47YJCXAwk

BcU0Kq8ePDE

inCFrFYm7MY

BZtrbjWuJEc

Y8q3Ubn0cz0

9iNEB1ZngxM

[crapshoot]

Well, that did it! :( If it wasn't for World Cup I'd have to go play in traffic. ;)

The event looks like an amazing time. It's great seeing everyone there enjoying what they love among other enthusiasts and helping each other with advancing their skills. And more importantly, having FUN, FUN, FUN!!!! Were there a lot of kids there? That's how these things keep growing especially when it is fun.

It's too bad the vendors couldn't make it, but it's their loss :D By next year though, there will probably be lots to show them and a lot more people to provide data from the field for product testing.

To everyone that helped put this event together, post updates, and more importantly, those that were able to make it (forum members and others) a great many thanks!

P.S. Tim, the racks look great and rock solid! Looks like they are going to last for years to come :):):):)

[paranday]

...
The event looks like an amazing time. It's great seeing everyone there enjoying what they love among other enthusiasts and helping each other with advancing their skills. And more importantly, having FUN, FUN, FUN!!!! Were there a lot of kids there? That's how these things keep growing especially when it is fun.

It looks like this would be a natural event for attracting walk-up interest. People who moments ago had no idea they were interested. Future addicts. Step right up, ladies and gents, put a smile on your face !

[SpeedBagScissorhands]

i just want to say it was an honor and a pleasure meeting and bagging w/ everyone in this forum- great baggers but much more important really great people.i am glad we all had the opportunity to meet. this was way too cool.
stay scissored everyone! "X"

[Speedbag]

I've had a few "high's" in my speed bag career, attending sport manufacturing shows and teaching seminars, going to the Olympics etc., but NONE as rewarding and just plain fun as SpeedBAG 2010. This was baggers heaven, made possible because everything thing came together "EL PRIMO!". The location was Awesome, and the owner of Real Gymm (DONNIE) is a guy that will restore your faith in humanity. They broke the mold when they made him. The surroundings, town, shops and restaurants were close and very accessible, friendly etc. The attendees, from forum members to walk in guests were simply great. All seemed to truly love the speed bag AND being part of the bagging community. Everybody hung together, bagging, eating and just hanging out. Skunk was on fire, Scissorhands was cutting, TIM and Biff were the steady organizers behind the scenes, covering all the details, and SpinSmashPop showed why he is one of the most talented and innovative drummers on the planet, while also being a genuinely great human being. It was great meeting MsDeville, TommyT, 88 and a host of others. I was also very honored to receive the plaque presented to me and felt the genuine appreciation for what efforts I have put forth to promote speed bagging over the years. I guess SpeedBAG 2010 can be seen as a culmination of some of that, but let's face it, without TIM and this forum, There would have been no awards for any of us given, for this event would not have happened. Anyway, thanks to all who had to a part in that.

And After all that, Deano and his Dad, Ted. Coming all the way from Australia to join us Yanks under the board. What can you say about them??? Meeting them was simply the greatest. They are two of the most open, friendly and genuinely interesting people you could ever hope to meet, and Seeing Deano punch the bag lIVE in person is an incrediblely unique experience you just won't get anywhere else. His has THE most original style of anyone I have ever seen. It's spell binding to watch. It is simply unbelievable how he works his magic on the bag. And his amazing Dad TED, who taught Deano years ago, is also very good on the bag, mixing doubles and triples non-stop from the side. The only thing more powerful than their unique punching style is the million dollar smiles they give to all who got to meet them. It was indeed an honor to have them come to this event, and spending our time together will be one of the highlights of my speed bag career.

I hated it had to end, and didn't want to leave. I suspect will all felt that way. Start planning now for 2011!!

[spinsmashpop]

Ok... first and foremost...
Thanks to Tim Platt and Donnie and his Real Gymm!!!!

Seriously! Those 2 elements coming together made this weekend too COOL!!!!
Tim put so much work into this and think about it.... the same dude who put this forum together is the same dude who spearheaded this event AND built the cages that we bagged on all weekend! Plus, he and his family drove it all up in a uhaul trailer from Florida!!!! And then.... assembled it when he got there!!!! And that is the icing on the cake! He put countless hours into calling companies, communicating with other baggers, looking for a place to do this... all while remaining calm cand collected! Tim shows nothing but traits of a person you WANT on your side! He is the reason that things in life go smoothly..... Cuz most people can't handle the amount of work Tim just took on!
Because of Tim, others get longer breaks in life and take easy ways out! They know there are cats like Tim out there that ALWAYS GO THE EXTRA MILE FOR WHAT THEY LOVE AND BELIEVE IN! And that's that!!!!!
**Then there is Donnie at the Real Gymm. To see him on the street, in a gym, a bar, etc..., not a guy you want to make angry! But to hang with him at his gym all weekend showed a guy that started out a genuinely cool, nice guy, but over the course of 48 hours, became a man with a big heart that WANTS to give and has qualities, like Tim, that show a go-getter, with tons of drive, ambition and kindness that goes with his instinct and feel! Speed BAG 2010 COULD NOT have found a better place and host to get this going!
I am so happy it ended up how it did! Donnie was as cool as you could imagine. There was zero stress, everyone was respectful and I don't think there are many groups of people getting together that have such a good time and have nothing but great intentions! Seriously, I've been in loads of bands and you always want to end up with a gang mentality as you have to live with each other for months on end and kick ass on stage together. But when we all came together, under Real Gymm's roof, it was like a guaranteed unspoken positive vibe was there.
We, as a group, make each other comfortable. But without Donnie offering his place, it wouldn't have been as fun!
I honestly hope it's there again!

So .... here's my breakdown of it all .... real quick...

I get there Friday afternoon,,,, non stop bagging going down outside and upstairs... Everyone is there, everyone is bagging, laughing and smiling... we are all learning, practicing, bs-ing, etc.
My bud, bassist JD shows up with me and we bring a small drumset and his bass and amp upstairs. We jam a bit as Alan punch drums. Alan shows everyone why he is the King! Bif presents Alan with a Lifetime King of the Bag type award! This is the least we can do for Alan as he influenced us, kicked our butts, still does and is the perfect person to bring the bag to the masses in a knowledged skilled beyond most kind of way....
We eat, come back and bag into the night... Skunk has been killin' everybody.... He shows up with a "reverse fist roll...from the front" pattern that blows us away! Scissorhands is flying faster than I've ever seen him on a Ubolt all day! Deano is blowing minds with his "Windshield Wiper-Rainbow style"! Like Alan said, it is unlike any other bagger! His dad too! And they both are super cool!
The cops come after we drum some more, crank AC/DC, James Brown, Michael Jackson and others, and we wrap it up... then we close McDonaugh's bar next door.
SKunk and I have room options but choose to get our own at another hotel.
I mention that we could drive up my mom's house and crash all mellow in our own rooms... wake up, meet my kids and my parents and ...when else would we get this chance.... so we go for it... but first Skunk needs to pull over and puke out of my mom's car! Yes! Now this is a true Speed Bag Convention!!!!
SKunk and I cruise back down and it all continues.... SKunk breaks a swivel after baggin' TOO FAST! Deano continues to blow people away! Baggers are everywhere! Donnie's wife busts out a Speed BAG birthday cake!! Donnie has awesome Speed Bag 2010 t shirts for sale (you should order them up, they are killer!)....Ted (TJ) continues to impress me with his advanced skills after baggin for only 6 months! Spdy TommyT shows us his Psycho Swivel with ball bearings in it and leather around the hook! Very cool and smooth!
Skunk continues to shred and slice and dice and floor all of us! EVeryone keeps laughing and learning .....
SKunk hooks up a vertical bag and platform. This has us attempting vertical bagging, upside down vertical bagging, and vertical bag punch drumming. I put the kick, snare and hat next to it and tried to go for stuff I've never tried in my life, but visualized it in my head for years now.. even before I could bag ... I could see and hear these rhythms... I've never tried it out of laziness and the desire to basically "bag" instead of set up drum/speed bag kits... Well, this whole vert thing at a lower height made it an easy thing to get into..
I guess it looks pretty cool and sounds it while looking somewhat difficult... it's not as the bag and drums are all about rhythm...
That was cool... I hope the vid gets some cool attention.... and outside of all this... I just joined Whitesnake...they do full on drum solos so I should have no reason to incorporate a bag into the solo next year... unless of course, it doesn't get approved by the band..
Anyhow... I had to leave a bit early .... and came back the next day to more baggin and hangin and having fun!
I love the Title Atomic bags! 2 sizes... the Xs is great.. and the XXs is a bit more of a novelty albeit totally cool too!
Donnie and Skunk gave us some boxer/fighter pointers a la Freddie Roach on bag punching power and utilizing the hook and it is very clear to see why the Speed Bag is a great tool for boxers/fighters. When you land on it just right with proper attack, there is a sound and bag reaction that clearly shows you nailed it just right... very cool stuff....
So, awards, cakes, psycho swivels, drums, bass, cops, bars, pukin' out mom's car, Skunk breaking swivs, inventing new moves (The Reverse Fist roll from the front AND The GLobetrotter!!), late nights, loud music, vertical baggin, veritcal bag drumming!, laughter, education, a unified brolike connection with each other, and non stop bagging with some great people! What more could ya want!!!!
And thanks Dee (Ms. Deville) for filming so much stuff.... I'm glad there were people getting this stuff on film to pump this all up and increase the awareness of the art of speed bagging !!!!
I know there were others there and they were all too many to name, and it's real late and I'm burnt....
But.... I am sad to see it end but glad that it actually happened!
BAG ON And ON!!!!!
<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B

[Eighty-Eight]

What can I say? Attending Speed B.A.G. 2010 was an awesome experience. Actually meeting all those people who you’ve seen videos of and corresponded with on the forum-- it’s kind of like meeting celebrities. It’s like “there they are.” But at the same time, there were no awkward “ice-breaking” moments because we all kind of knew each other thru the forum [thanks, Tim]. Those who have posted videos or have their photos as an avatar were instantly recognizable. I hope that others who I met for the first time will be posting in the future (are you out there G-Town and Greg?)

And the punch drumming lessons from Alan: I’ll always remember his unwavering patience in laying down a steady beat and counting out time on two drum sticks while I was trying to learn and integrate “3 and 3”, “5 and 1” and other syncopated rhythms on the bag. Thanks to his guidance, I finally got it. He’s the best. I can’t forget to mention two more of my teachers: Deano for showing me the just the very basics of the Australian style of bagging; and Tim for showing me that rebounding thing off the elbow. Very hip. Practicing that will keep me out of trouble for a while. Thanks to you both.

I got to view live and in person demonstrations from the best baggers in the world. As good as they are, I sensed no signs of egotism there. They’re just regular people who, through countless hours of practice, have become bag masters. I heard Skunk say in passing that he still considers himself to be a student. Wow. Makes you realize that we’re all just at different points along the same road.

On a personal level, I really got a lot out of going to Speed B.A.G. 2010. There’s one thing that I didn’t mention: I consider it a privilege to be a part of the speed bagging community and to hang with such a great bunch of people. Never forget lunch by the water and dinner at Johnny Tomatoes. Thanks to everyone. Hope to see you all again at Speed B.A.G. 2011. (Did I hear maybe Oakland, CA?)

Jack

[MsDeville]

Well, I'm back home, safe and sound, in Washington state. Trainer Raul picked me up at the Sea-Tac Airport at 11:30 Sunday night. He barely got a word in edge-wise during the hour-long drive home while I rambled on and on, sometimes bursting in to tears of (Happy) emotion... that's how incredible this experience was for me... I think the others will agree, we didn't want to miss a single minute away from Real Gymm bagging, talking, sharing, and, simply standing around watching fellow Forum baggers, up close and personal!!!! Words can't describe it... (I think most of us were averaging only a few hours of sleep each night!)

I have so much to share with all of you regarding my SB 2010 experience... this forum thread will probably see several multi-part comments from those who attended, as we recall our whirlwind weekend in Keyport, NJ.

Never, in all my life, have I felt the way I do right now. I'm high, so high on the good times I had in Keyport at Don's Real Gymm. I had no idea that something like this would fill me with such emotion. (I think Bif can relate!)

I was in utter awe throughout the weekend. I felt as though I were hangin' with celebrities. And yet, as Jack (Eighty-eight) said, there were NO EGOS... just REAL PEOPLE sharing in this passion of a crazy sport – that only fellow baggers can relate to.

And, let me say this, also. As the "lone female bagger" at SB2010, I can honestly say, that never – NEVER – not for one moment did I feel out of place, awkward, or unwelcome.

The camaraderie at SB2010 was truly amazing. I felt such a connection with each and every person there... like nothing I've ever experienced in my lifetime. So, so incredible...

More observations to come. (And, lots and lots of video!)
<)Y <)Y <)Y

[Mrs Mitts]

It's wonderful to hear all these amazing reports, thanks so much to everyone for posting. Thanks Ms Deville for all those clips - wow, no wonder all of you have come home on such a high.

It all sounds fantastic, and what a brilliant job Tim has done, largely unseen in the background to make it all a success.

Well, some of us will have to start saving our pennies for next year eh? ;)

[fingers]

I have read every post on this thread and i am so glad you all had such a great time i am disappointed i could not get there and hope i can make it to future meetings:) The one thing that stands out on all these posts is RESPECT!! the people on this forum have it in abundance:cool: and you all have mine!!:D

[The Baggist]

I ditto what Fingers just said and would also like to thank Dee for her great video coverage of the event:D!!!!!

[Biff]

... that's how incredible this experience was for me... I think the others will agree, we didn't want to miss a single minute away from Real Gymm bagging, talking, sharing, and, simply standing around watching fellow Forum baggers, up close and personal!!!! Words can't describe it... (I think most of us were averaging only a few hours of sleep each night!)

No more than 4 hrs/night for me

Never, in all my life, have I felt the way I do right now. I'm high, so high on the good times I had in Keyport at Don's Real Gymm. I had no idea that something like this would fill me with such emotion. (I think Bif can relate!)

I'm not an emotional person, but it was damn tough to say goodbye to everyone, especially to Deano and his Dad (Ted), since I spent so much time with them. Ted is one of the most fascinating people I have ever met. Some tears were shed upstairs of the gym on Sunday afternoon.

I was in utter awe throughout the weekend. I felt as though I were hangin' with celebrities. And yet, as Jack (Eighty-eight) said, there were NO EGOS... just REAL PEOPLE sharing in this passion of a crazy sport – that only fellow baggers can relate to.

Amen. Not one person came off as arrogant or aloof. AND there were some great non-forum members. Louis D. (new member G-Town) and his son Brandon from NY, Jim B from NJ (who is now a member), Grep P from the DC area, a new member under the name Piefurz. I'm sure I'm missing others, but I tried to welcome everyone to the gathering and get to know a little about each one.

The camaraderie at SB2010 was truly amazing. I felt such a connection with each and every person there... like nothing I've ever experienced in my lifetime. So, so incredible...

I think most, if not every forum member, felt the same way.

More observations to come. (And, lots and lots of video!)
<)Y <)Y <)Y

Hurry!!! Most of my pix and vids didn't turn out well.

[MsDeville]

Most of my pix and vids didn't turn out well.

Here are a few, Bif!

[MsDeville]

...And a couple more:

[Biff]

Can someone post up a picture, or even better, a vid of the plaque presentation to Alan?? Thanks.

[Biff]

Some more pix in no particular order

1) The early arrivees
2) and 3) some nightlife shots
4) Donnie Blanks, our host
5) DB and Skunk
6) deano
7) Lunch on the bay
8) Like father, like son
9) The gazebo at the bay
10) Greg aka Piefurz

[Biff]

A few more:

1) G-town and AK
2) JimB
3) MsDeville
4) AK, me and Scissorhands
5) SB 2010 signage
6) Skunk hitting the bag on a vertical platform, while laying on a bench
7) BT and SpeedyTommyT
8) Skunk pushing the envelope, with some behind-the-head punching (while Scissorshands completely ignores him!)

[MsDeville]

Here is a really short clip of Deano demonstating his punching on an Australian-made Jim Bradley speed ball. Yup, that's Skunk speaking off-camera...

I punched on all of the bags that Deano brought to the gathering. I really liked them, although the kangaroo one was a little too orange for my taste. :rolleyes: I like the stoutness of them and the wider neck at the top. They have a great, rebounding quality, in my opinion. Oh, and they have a zipper rather than lacing. Best of all, they are very kind on the hands. Very soft, high-quality leather.

AyBcALvWyRs

[Mrs Mitts]

What a great bunch of pictures Biff, thanks. For all of us who couldn't make it, it's been a treat soaking up the vibes in videos, personal reports and pictures.

NOW, I have to be honest, I was struggling to visualise a "vertical bag", so I'm glad you put that picture in!!!!:D:D:D

Has any one got any video footage of vertical bagging to post??

Great clip of Deano MsDeville!! Ha ha! Great moment!

So please you could make it at the last minute!!!

[MsDeville]

What a great bunch of pictures Biff, thanks. For all of us who couldn't make it, it's been a treat soaking up the vibes in videos, personal reports and pictures.

NOW, I have to be honest, I was struggling to visualise a "vertical bag", so I'm glad you put that picture in!!!!:D:D:D

Has any one got any video footage of vertical bagging to post??

Great clip of Deano MsDeville!! Ha ha! Great moment!

So please you could make it at the last minute!!!

Yes. I took some great video of Tim, Speedbag Skunk, and Brian Tichy hitting on that insane vertical setup. We baggers. We're always coming up with creative ways to punch the bag!
I'll try in the next day or two to upload some... Meanwhile...

[MsDeville]

...Meanwhile, here's a little bit longer clip of SpeedBagScissorhand, Tim, and TJ_MaTee doing some fancy fistwork on Day 3 of SB 2010... sorry, not quite a full minute! :(

CHfuQm2-VSA

[Speedbag]

Ok... first and foremost...
Thanks to Tim Platt and Donnie and his Real Gymm!!!!

Seriously! Those 2 elements coming together made this weekend too COOL!!!!
Tim put so much work into this and think about it.... the same dude who put this forum together is the same dude who spearheaded this event AND built the cages that we bagged on all weekend! Plus, he and his family drove it all up in a uhaul trailer from Florida!!!! And then.... assembled it when he got there!!!! And that is the icing on the cake! He put countless hours into calling companies, communicating with other baggers, looking for a place to do this... all while remaining calm cand collected! Tim shows nothing but traits of a person you WANT on your side! He is the reason that things in life go smoothly..... Cuz most people can't handle the amount of work Tim just took on!
Because of Tim, others get longer breaks in life and take easy ways out! They know there are cats like Tim out there that ALWAYS GO THE EXTRA MILE FOR WHAT THEY LOVE AND BELIEVE IN! And that's that!!!!!
**Then there is Donnie at the Real Gymm. To see him on the street, in a gym, a bar, etc..., not a guy you want to make angry! But to hang with him at his gym all weekend showed a guy that started out a genuinely cool, nice guy, but over the course of 48 hours, became a man with a big heart that WANTS to give and has qualities, like Tim, that show a go-getter, with tons of drive, ambition and kindness that goes with his instinct and feel! Speed BAG 2010 COULD NOT have found a better place and host to get this going!
I am so happy it ended up how it did! Donnie was as cool as you could imagine. There was zero stress, everyone was respectful and I don't think there are many groups of people getting together that have such a good time and have nothing but great intentions! Seriously, I've been in loads of bands and you always want to end up with a gang mentality as you have to live with each other for months on end and kick ass on stage together. But when we all came together, under Real Gymm's roof, it was like a guaranteed unspoken positive vibe was there.
We, as a group, make each other comfortable. But without Donnie offering his place, it wouldn't have been as fun!
I honestly hope it's there again!

So .... here's my breakdown of it all .... real quick...

I get there Friday afternoon,,,, non stop bagging going down outside and upstairs... Everyone is there, everyone is bagging, laughing and smiling... we are all learning, practicing, bs-ing, etc.
My bud, bassist JD shows up with me and we bring a small drumset and his bass and amp upstairs. We jam a bit as Alan punch drums. Alan shows everyone why he is the King! Bif presents Alan with a Lifetime King of the Bag type award! This is the least we can do for Alan as he influenced us, kicked our butts, still does and is the perfect person to bring the bag to the masses in a knowledged skilled beyond most kind of way....
We eat, come back and bag into the night... Skunk has been killin' everybody.... He shows up with a "reverse fist roll...from the front" pattern that blows us away! Scissorhands is flying faster than I've ever seen him on a Ubolt all day! Deano is blowing minds with his "Windshield Wiper-Rainbow style"! Like Alan said, it is unlike any other bagger! His dad too! And they both are super cool!
The cops come after we drum some more, crank AC/DC, James Brown, Michael Jackson and others, and we wrap it up... then we close McDonaugh's bar next door.
SKunk and I have room options but choose to get our own at another hotel.
I mention that we could drive up my mom's house and crash all mellow in our own rooms... wake up, meet my kids and my parents and ...when else would we get this chance.... so we go for it... but first Skunk needs to pull over and puke out of my mom's car! Yes! Now this is a true Speed Bag Convention!!!!
SKunk and I cruise back down and it all continues.... SKunk breaks a swivel after baggin' TOO FAST! Deano continues to blow people away! Baggers are everywhere! Donnie's wife busts out a Speed BAG birthday cake!! Donnie has awesome Speed Bag 2010 t shirts for sale (you should order them up, they are killer!)....Ted (TJ) continues to impress me with his advanced skills after baggin for only 6 months! Spdy TommyT shows us his Psycho Swivel with ball bearings in it and leather around the hook! Very cool and smooth!
Skunk continues to shred and slice and dice and floor all of us! EVeryone keeps laughing and learning .....
SKunk hooks up a vertical bag and platform. This has us attempting vertical bagging, upside down vertical bagging, and vertical bag punch drumming. I put the kick, snare and hat next to it and tried to go for stuff I've never tried in my life, but visualized it in my head for years now.. even before I could bag ... I could see and hear these rhythms... I've never tried it out of laziness and the desire to basically "bag" instead of set up drum/speed bag kits... Well, this whole vert thing at a lower height made it an easy thing to get into..
I guess it looks pretty cool and sounds it while looking somewhat difficult... it's not as the bag and drums are all about rhythm...
That was cool... I hope the vid gets some cool attention.... and outside of all this... I just joined Whitesnake...they do full on drum solos so I should have no reason to incorporate a bag into the solo next year... unless of course, it doesn't get approved by the band..
Anyhow... I had to leave a bit early .... and came back the next day to more baggin and hangin and having fun!
I love the Title Atomic bags! 2 sizes... the Xs is great.. and the XXs is a bit more of a novelty albeit totally cool too!
Donnie and Skunk gave us some boxer/fighter pointers a la Freddie Roach on bag punching power and utilizing the hook and it is very clear to see why the Speed Bag is a great tool for boxers/fighters. When you land on it just right with proper attack, there is a sound and bag reaction that clearly shows you nailed it just right... very cool stuff....
So, awards, cakes, psycho swivels, drums, bass, cops, bars, pukin' out mom's car, Skunk breaking swivs, inventing new moves (The Reverse Fist roll from the front AND The GLobetrotter!!), late nights, loud music, vertical baggin, veritcal bag drumming!, laughter, education, a unified brolike connection with each other, and non stop bagging with some great people! What more could ya want!!!!
And thanks Dee (Ms. Deville) for filming so much stuff.... I'm glad there were people getting this stuff on film to pump this all up and increase the awareness of the art of speed bagging !!!!
I know there were others there and they were all too many to name, and it's real late and I'm burnt....
But.... I am sad to see it end but glad that it actually happened!
BAG ON And ON!!!!!
<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B<)B

the cops showing up was funnnny. Well, cause he was Donnie's bud and we didn't see the jailhouse. Now that would have been something.

[spinsmashpop]

I wrote all that for impact.
Skunk wasn't vomiting cuz he drank too much. He barely drinks, it was a long day, with minimal sleep, he didn't eat much and gets motion sickness sometimes.
Cops came cuz it was late and we were a little loud....I mean we had a drumset and speedbags.... it wasn't like it was an all out party with a Black Sabbath tribute band....
We were all very respectful and well behaved...
But c'mon, it SOUNDS cool to add all that in when talking about a bunch of psycho speed baggers, 'Speed Badgers' if you will, coming together for a convention!!!
I am still sad it ended...... what a great time!!!!

[bagdaddy]

I’m glad it all went so well. I knew it would. I could tell by the caliber of baggers on this forum that it would be a great event. One for history I’m sure! I’m sorry to have missed it!

I want to give a very appreciative THANKS to everyone for all the pictures and videos. You are serving your fellow baggers well. The pictures and videos show just the kind of atmosphere that so many of you spoke of. They are the next best thing to being there I guess. I love the fact that it was a family-friendly event.

I’m very impressed with your dedication and hard work to pull this event off Tim! My hat is off to you! You had a grand vision and you obviously pulled it off flawlessly. Kudos to your wife and kids for supporting you in this thing! All of you guys and gals impress me so much!

I still haven’t hit a bag, but I’m stoked! If I can learn to perform on a speed bag at just 25% of the level of you guys, I’ll be on cloud nine!

Thanks again Tim for a great forum!

[Speedbag]

I wrote all that for impact.
Skunk wasn't vomiting cuz he drank too much. He barely drinks, it was a long day, with minimal sleep, he didn't eat much and gets motion sickness sometimes.

Now THERE is a paradox (http://dictionary.reference.com/browse/Paradox) for ya. Skunk gets motion sickness. I guess it happens when he's going slow! :rolleyes:

[Biff]

Just a few more pix:

1) AK and Jack (Eighty-eight)
2) The SB 2010 cake
3) Our host Don Blanks and his boys, along with G-town and Deano
4) Dinner Saturday night at Johnny Tomatoes
5) DB on the rings
6) DB demonstrating kettlebell exercises
7) Non-member, Mike. In the background - Tim's wife, Carol and son, Cole? Right, Tim?
8) BT and Don's son, Skye

[Tim]

the cops showing up was funnnny. Well, cause he was Donnie's bud and we didn't see the jailhouse. Now that would have been something.

It ain't a party unless the cops show up :)

Next year let's see if we can get the SWAT team out :) :)

[Tim]

Can someone post up a picture, or even better, a vid of the plaque presentation to Alan?? Thanks.

X2 Please tell me someone got a clear shot of that.

The tripod cam footage of that particular moment didn't turn out good (I've heard, not seen it myself yet)

[Biff]

Just FYI, there were baggers from the following states:

CA: Spinsmashpop (Brian)
WA: MsDeville (Dee)
TX: Speedbag (Alan)
IL: TJ MaTee (Ted)
FL: Tim and Skunk
NY: RochesterDave, new member G-Town (Louis)
NJ: RealGymm (Donnie Blanks), Scissorhands (Adam), new member JimB
PA: Me
CT: eighty-eight (Jack)
MD: spdyTommyT
VA: new members: PIEFURZ (Greg) and SpeedbagSquirrel (Ken)


PLUS, Deano and his dad from Australia

Not to mention all the walk-in folks that were there.

My apologies if I missed anyone.

[spdyTommyT]

I still can't find the right words to describe this past weekend and if I was to start I might not stop. What everyone says is the truth. This became one of the best experiences of my life. It was truly a pleasure to have had the opportunity to meet so many great people. I don't think any electric devices were working properly, there was way to much energy in the air, but this is what my sweety, Becky was able to get. LONG LIVE THE KING!!!!!

ykBOdHHoWsM

[Tim]

I still can't find the right words to describe this past weekend and if I was to start I might not stop. What everyone says is the truth. This became one of the best experiences of my life. It was truly a pleasure to have had the opportunity to meet so many great people.

Tommy you are a stand up guy and I thank you for your help with the event. I am really excited about your swivel design, I can say I've not seen anything like it, and if it plays out, it should be the way of the future for ball hook swivels.

I don't think any electric devices were working properly, there was way to much energy in the air, but this is what my sweety, Becky was able to get. LONG LIVE THE KING!!!!! ]

Great job Becky !!! And Tommy :) :) :)

I'm glad you got that on video!

[MsDeville]

I still can't find the right words to describe this past weekend and if I was to start I might not stop.

I'm (we're) all ears, TommyT!

I don't think any of us on the forum – attendees, as well as those who must settle for living it vicariously through our words and digital images– will mind reading about your take on the event.

BTW...loved meeting the mighty "speedyTommyT" and Becky! You – as well as ALL of the guys involved in this forum and event – are truly genuine, sincere people. (I know, I know, enough gushing, MsD...)

[juxt]

hey there, i finally decided to make an account and join the forum. here is a few clips i threw together. i was only there for the first day and only for a few hours. i wish i was there for the whole thing. props to everyone
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XgQHY8bZywM

[MsDeville]

hey there, i finally decided to make an account and join the forum. here is a few clips i threw together. i was only there for the first day and only for a few hours. i wish i was there for the whole thing. props to everyone
.

XgQHY8bZywM

Hey there, juxt. I think I must have missed you... I arrived in the early afternoon. Great of you to post some video...

[Tim]

hey there, i finally decided to make an account and join the forum. here is a few clips i threw together. i was only there for the first day and only for a few hours. i wish i was there for the whole thing. props to everyone


Hi, welcome to the forum. Sorry we didn't get more time to chat. Every day was a whirlwind of activities...

[crapshoot]

Welcome aboard! (is that a pun?) Thanks for the compilation. Just adds to my regret for not making it ;):D

[deano]

Arrived home Saturday, what a trip, great experience and to think that punching a speed ball all these years in the shed and thinking nothing of it would end up getting me to America. Seen some fantastic places Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and some big cities and was lucky enough to catch up with my daughter Kate in San Fransisco for a couple of days which was an added bonus. However the sight seeing side of things fades to insignifigance when compared to the SB2010 event. It was truly a unique experience and the welcoming dad and i received was unbelievable. We met some really great people and the friendships formed i know will stand the test of time. There was many highlights and some ground breaking stuff. Spin on drums and bag, AK punch drumming, Skunk at full throttle punching every combo, but to me it was the people and the personalities that made it. There was as much laughing as there was punching. Dee, Tommy and Bec, Greg, Jack, Donnie and family, Louie and Brandon, Tim and Carole, TJ, Scissor, JD, Ken and Mike. What a great bunch. Not to forget the the big brother Biff who took us under his wing. what a guy, he has the personality which enables him to mix easily with people, he is a quiet achiever, he doesn't waste his words but you hang off everything he says. He picked us up from the airport and treated us like his family from then on, it was like we had known him for years. and one day i'm sure i will be able to do the same. Also a big thanks to Tim, Donnie and their families for putting on such a great event. It was really something special and at my first chance will post some videos and photos.
Thanks everyone deano

[spdyTommyT]

Glad to hear you had a safe fly about, Mate. Deano it was a pleasure to meet you and your father also. I've watched my video of Kid about ten times, 77 years and still able to get those elbows up is just amazing to me. And thanks for bringing the equipment and showing off the skills. Keep Bangin!<)BL:p

[Tim]

Arrived home Saturday, what a trip, great experience and to think that punching a speed ball all these years in the shed and thinking nothing of it would end up getting me to America.....
Thanks everyone deano

Glad to hear you enjoyed your trip and SB 2010. I would also like to thank you for bringing the Jim Bradley equipment it certainly was a treat to be able to try that stuff out. Great stuff!

It definitely was the experience of a lifetime being under the board with so many great people.

[Speedbag]

Arrived home Saturday, what a trip, great experience and to think that punching a speed ball all these years in the shed and thinking nothing of it would end up getting me to America. Seen some fantastic places Grand Canyon, Niagara Falls and some big cities and was lucky enough to catch up with my daughter Kate in San Fransisco for a couple of days which was an added bonus. However the sight seeing side of things fades to insignifigance when compared to the SB2010 event. It was truly a unique experience and the welcoming dad and i received was unbelievable. We met some really great people and the friendships formed i know will stand the test of time. There was many highlights and some ground breaking stuff. Spin on drums and bag, AK punch drumming, Skunk at full throttle punching every combo, but to me it was the people and the personalities that made it. There was as much laughing as there was punching. Dee, Tommy and Bec, Greg, Jack, Donnie and family, Louie and Brandon, Tim and Carole, TJ, Scissor, JD, Ken and Mike. What a great bunch. Not to forget the the big brother Biff who took us under his wing. what a guy, he has the personality which enables him to mix easily with people, he is a quiet achiever, he doesn't waste his words but you hang off everything he says. He picked us up from the airport and treated us like his family from then on, it was like we had known him for years. and one day i'm sure i will be able to do the same. Also a big thanks to Tim, Donnie and their families for putting on such a great event. It was really something special and at my first chance will post some videos and photos.
Thanks everyone deano

Hey Deano, Meeting you and your dad was one the THE highlights of this event. At least for me. Your awesome Aussie personality, a smile and wink for everyone, was a joy to meet and hang out with. Your incredibly unique baggin style was a first for me to witness personally. Video does not do justice to what you do. I'm rarely stump and dumbfounded on the speed bag, and I can normally figure what what someone is doing and how they do it, but YOU and your method is an original, at least for all the speed baggers I have ever seen,
(which I admit has been quite a few over the years...). I loved watching you and skunk get together and show each other your own "tricks", kinda like the next generation joining forces. Seeing you with the some of the other great bag talents makes me believe some of the greatest baggin' has yet to be seen, and the future looks bright for speed baggers. And I need to get to Australia for some lessons because apparently theirs some secrets you guys know that your not sharing....

Aside from baggin' it was really great meeting you and DAD and sharing stories of our lives. You're Both great people - and a tribute to the human race in general as well as the baggin' community in particular.