Cricket, Kiteboarding and Surfing in the UK – Photos by John Hales

John Hales is our latest contributor in our effort to feature talented sports photographers from around the world. I like John’s mix of old and new sports:

Here’s a bit about John’s background from his profile on Flickr:

Born in Manchester a very long time ago, before Manchester United were the greatest footy team in the world, but Lancashire was the home great cricket (and still is).

Started taking pix when I was given bakerlite Brownie 127 at the age of 9. Have been snapping off and on ever since. Love digital, but still run one or two rolls of slide film, if only because the local camera club does slide competitions.

More about John: www.tramsteer.com

Surf + Mixed Martial Arts = Ultimate Athlete?

Kelly Slater's Training with Vitor Belfort

How about the ever popular, undoubtedly good looking, world’s best surfer Kelly Slater for the Ultimate Athlete? Take a guy in peak physical condition who can swim like a fish, hold his breath for God knows how long, balance on probably anything, and outdo most any competition he is up against. Then add the hardcore training of an MMA fighter via Vitor Belfort. Sounds like the perfect equation for the Ultimate Athlete!

Check out this article on Transworld Surf.