Ludi Romani 2761 Circenses reports (Nova Roma) - Revision history

Decimus Aurelius Ingeniarius: Added hd tag

2024-07-09T11:49:41Z

Added hd tag

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:49, 9 July 2024
Line 1:		Line 1:
		+	{{HistoricalDocument}}
	{{CuruleAediles}} <br>''Do not edit it without previous authorization given by Aedilitas curulis staff. Thanks''.		{{CuruleAediles}} <br>''Do not edit it without previous authorization given by Aedilitas curulis staff. Thanks''.

Publius Memmius Albucius: /* Semifinals */

2008-10-18T11:33:54Z

Semifinals

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:33, 18 October 2008
Line 184:		Line 184:

	'''Tullia''' lifts the mappa aloft and wave it; they drop it...and they’re on the track! No need to hurry yet; one must conserve the horses’ strength for the final laps, but one cannot walk around the track, either. Already '''Stolo''' is steering close to the ''spina'', while '''Scorpianus''' holds to a steady and none-too-fast pace. Time and again, '''Stolo''' takes the lead as he comes round the spina, but '''Scorpianus''' catches up every time as the first, second, and third dolphins are turned. Now the pace quickens as the two charioteers vie for position at mid-race, but there still is little change. As they enter the sixth and penultimate lap, '''Stolo''' is hugging the ''spina'' so closely that he almost seems ready to shake hands with the statues. Sparks are starting to fly, and now he is taking a turn on one wheel...a dangerous tactic, and one which cost him time as '''Scorpianus''' passes him with ease. Coming into the seventh and final lap '''Stolo''' again grazes the spina in the Palatine straights, but this time the risk is worth it and he pulls well ahead of '''Babientes''' and '''Scorpianus''', whose horses seem to be tiring. The final curve is there, and now the finish line in sight, '''Babientes''' will not be back, and '''Stolo''' crosses it four lengths ahead of '''Scorpianus'''. In this race, the palm goes to Russata and the glorious way is keeping open for young '''Stolo''', now congratulated by more experienced '''Scorpianus'''. True lesson of dignitas... and humilitas too: the younger has jumped into the elder's chariot, and has waved Scorpianus' arm, asking the audience to honor '''Minervalis'''' ''auriga''. The Circus roar with pleasure, and veneti fall in russati arms! Galli, you are the pride of Rome, this afternoon! Anyway, '''Incitatus''' qualified for the Finals, '''Babientes''' ends its Ludi here.		'''Tullia''' lifts the mappa aloft and wave it; they drop it...and they’re on the track! No need to hurry yet; one must conserve the horses’ strength for the final laps, but one cannot walk around the track, either. Already '''Stolo''' is steering close to the ''spina'', while '''Scorpianus''' holds to a steady and none-too-fast pace. Time and again, '''Stolo''' takes the lead as he comes round the spina, but '''Scorpianus''' catches up every time as the first, second, and third dolphins are turned. Now the pace quickens as the two charioteers vie for position at mid-race, but there still is little change. As they enter the sixth and penultimate lap, '''Stolo''' is hugging the ''spina'' so closely that he almost seems ready to shake hands with the statues. Sparks are starting to fly, and now he is taking a turn on one wheel...a dangerous tactic, and one which cost him time as '''Scorpianus''' passes him with ease. Coming into the seventh and final lap '''Stolo''' again grazes the spina in the Palatine straights, but this time the risk is worth it and he pulls well ahead of '''Babientes''' and '''Scorpianus''', whose horses seem to be tiring. The final curve is there, and now the finish line in sight, '''Babientes''' will not be back, and '''Stolo''' crosses it four lengths ahead of '''Scorpianus'''. In this race, the palm goes to Russata and the glorious way is keeping open for young '''Stolo''', now congratulated by more experienced '''Scorpianus'''. True lesson of dignitas... and humilitas too: the younger has jumped into the elder's chariot, and has waved Scorpianus' arm, asking the audience to honor '''Minervalis'''' ''auriga''. The Circus roar with pleasure, and veneti fall in russati arms! Galli, you are the pride of Rome, this afternoon! Anyway, '''Incitatus''' qualified for the Finals, '''Babientes''' ends its Ludi here.
		+
		+
		+	<br>
		+	<u>'''2nd semi-final'''</u>
		+
		+
		+	The crowd is growing restive as they await the second and last semifinal heat of the day. The sun is rising ever higher in a cloudless sky, and it is getting to be quite warm for this time of year. Too, the Praesina and Albata partisans are rather disgusted at the absence of the former and the defeat of the latter in the quarter finals...and let their feelings show.
		+
		+	As was the case in the previous ''missus'' or heat, this race will pit a Veneta entry, '''Fulgur II''', against a Russata one, '''Germanica'''. The latter is owned by '''D. Arminius Brutus''' and driven by the fearsome '''Anthropophagus''', who has not bothered to clean the filthy gobbets of half-eaten flesh from his chariot. The second chariot, '''Fulgur II''', is owned and driven by a certain '''L. Fidelius Lusitanus''', who reportedly hails from an unknown land called Brasilia. '''Lusitanus''' turns up his nose at the foul scent emanating from '''Germanica''', an action not unnoticed by Anthropophagus, as an evil grin spreads over his face. The two chariots emerge from the cool and dark area behind the Porta Pompae into the blazing sun, and make their way to the carceres. The horses prance and snort as they enter the gate, waiting to be freed to run this race; they know the winners will get extra rations of tasty oats, whereas the losers might have to do without even hay...if they survive at all.
		+
		+	The consules stand, and all eyes turn toward them. They lift the mappa in unison, wave it, then let it drop. The crowd roars as the two chariots spring from the gate, but neither is in any great hurry...yet. Germanica keeps a steady and comparatively slow pace during these first few laps, while '''Fulgur II''' keeps pace, now passing '''Germanica''', now being passed by it, as '''Lusitanus''' wrinkles his nose and averts his eyes.
		+
		+	The fourth and fifth dolphins have turned, and little has changed except that the pace has gradually quickened. Coming into the sixth lap, the pace is no longer leisurely; things are getting serious now. '''Fulgur II''' has begun to pour on speed, calling on that conserved earlier in the race, and passes '''Germanica'''. Charioteer '''Lusitanus''' grabs the reins in one hand and pinches his nose with the other, closing his eyes as he speeds by '''Germanica''', for that chariot is a sight only a vulture could love. Fulgur II is now a good half-lap ahead of '''Germanica'''...but that was all that '''Anthropophagus''' needed to spur his team into action. He lashes the horses again and again; they, mindful of what might happen to them if they do not give it their all, pour on every drop of speed they possess. Coming round the turn, they are licking at '''Lusitanus''' heels. The breeze comes up from behind, and wafts the revolting stench to '''Lusitanus’''' delicate nose. He gags, then vomits.
		+
		+	The horses slow down, lacking encouragement from their driver, and as '''Germanica''' passes '''Fulgur II''', a gobbet separates from the chariot and swats the nauseated '''Lusitanus''' in the face. He almost swoons as the seventh dolphin is turned, but manages to keep control. However, he is now a good quarter lap behind '''Germanica''' and '''Anthropophagus'''; the red chariot crosses the finish line well ahead of the retching '''Lusitanus'''. Russata carries this match.

	==Finals==		==Finals==

Publius Memmius Albucius: /* Quarter finals */

2008-09-28T12:52:21Z

Quarter finals

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:52, 28 September 2008
Line 92:		Line 92:


−	This is '''O. Pedanius Speratus''' reporting for '''CLC''' (''Catena Ludorum Curulium''). Happy to meet again for this new day of Ludi Romani Circenses, direct from Circus Maximus. It is 16 :15 here, between Palatinus and Aventinus, and the first of our four quarterfinals will be begin now in less than 15 minutes. ~~Although~~ not full, the Circus contains a large public. There are just a small dozen of ''cunei'', specially in the higher ~~''praecinctiones''~~, which are still empty. The vendors are making their last rounds, scurrying selling sweets, like these excellent ''amygdalas tostas''. <br>	+	This is '''O. Pedanius Speratus''' reporting for '''CLC''' (''Catena Ludorum Curulium''). Happy to meet again for this new day of Ludi Romani Circenses, direct from Circus Maximus. It is 16 :15 here, between Palatinus and Aventinus, and the first of our four quarterfinals will be begin now in less than 15 minutes. <br>
		+	Our CLC team is well located on the south-western terrace, above the entrance door. Even it is a bit difficult to see as far as the prima curve, we have put in place an ingenious systems of signs with one of our fellows who stands near the Murcia shrine, and that allows us here, thanks to a half dozen basic signs, to be informed of <hat we cannot see, specially in the opposite triomphalis turn.<br>
		+	Though not full, the Circus ''caveae'' contains a large public. There are just a small dozen of ''cunei'', specially in the higher stands, which are still empty. The vendors are making their last rounds, scurrying selling sweets, like these excellent ''amygdalas tostas''. <br>
	You know that the first quarters will be a full veneta one, between Scorpianus on Babientes, and Ultor on '''Ulixes''' '''Geminus'''. The bookmakers seem having a preference for '''Ultor''', but what will say Fortuna ?		You know that the first quarters will be a full veneta one, between Scorpianus on Babientes, and Ultor on '''Ulixes''' '''Geminus'''. The bookmakers seem having a preference for '''Ultor''', but what will say Fortuna ?

Line 155:		Line 157:


−	I know that we have not much time, so here was '''O. Pedanius Speratus''' reporting from Circus Maximus ~~for '''CLC''' (''Catena Ludorum Curulium'')~~. Wonderful quarters, new surprises, and exciting semifinals ahead with two russata and two veneta ''esseda'' !	+	I know that we have not much time, so here was '''O. Pedanius Speratus''', with whole CLC team, reporting from Circus Maximus. Wonderful quarters, new surprises, and exciting semifinals ahead with two russata and two veneta ''esseda'' !

	==Semifinals==		==Semifinals==

Publius Memmius Albucius at 12:45, 28 September 2008

2008-09-28T12:45:21Z

Show changes

Publius Memmius Albucius at 12:24, 28 September 2008

2008-09-28T12:24:25Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 12:24, 28 September 2008
Line 5:		Line 5:

	Here are the reports that C.L.C. has allowed us to display, for every interested civis.		Here are the reports that C.L.C. has allowed us to display, for every interested civis.
−	For more excitement, follow the races live, thanks to the ~~wonderful~~ reconstitution created in 2761 by [http://circusmaximus.us/circusmaximus.htm Robert Cole].	+	For more excitement, follow the races live, thanks to the interesting reconstitution created in 2761 by [http://circusmaximus.us/circusmaximus.htm Robert Cole].<br>
		+
		+	The reported races are supposed to be run at Republican times, when the later Circus modifications had not yet been made (monuments on the ''spina'', etc.). The Murcia shrine was where Coles' pictures located it, near the western curve. We have also supposed that the Egg-lap markers and the Judge's pavilion were not, at this time, on the track itself, but on the ''spina'', near the ''secunda meta'' and the statue of the Genius of the Circus, the Dolphins portico being attested further downtrack.<br>
		+	We have also supposed a larger part of wood in the ''Carceres''' gates, and specially gates formed by double-doors, as well as an open ''cella'', above the Porta pompae.<br>
		+	Last, the starting line, the ''alba linea'', was also marked with a chalked rope, which prevented chariots not to respect this line and to run forward before being abreast, with equal chances.
		+

Publius Memmius Albucius at 11:48, 28 September 2008

2008-09-28T11:48:17Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:48, 28 September 2008
Line 208:		Line 208:
	— [M.V.P.] Yes, Sperate, Germanica has been alloted by Dea Fortuna the sixth track, and Incitatus the seventh one. They will be released now in a few minutes, I think. <br>		— [M.V.P.] Yes, Sperate, Germanica has been alloted by Dea Fortuna the sixth track, and Incitatus the seventh one. They will be released now in a few minutes, I think. <br>
	— [O.P.S.] So a few words on the rituals... <br>		— [O.P.S.] So a few words on the rituals... <br>
−	— [L.S.D.] Effectively, Pontifex Maximus '''Fl. Galerius Aurelianus''' has celebrated a ritual a little hour ago, in the « cavern », in this inner side of the ~~prima~~ meta. The ritual has been dedicated to the Capitoline triad and to Consus, because of the coming of the autumn. <br>	+	— [L.S.D.] Effectively, Pontifex Maximus '''Fl. Galerius Aurelianus''' has celebrated a ritual a little hour ago, in the « cavern », in this inner side of the secunda meta. The ritual has been dedicated to the Capitoline triad and to Consus, because of the coming of the autumn. <br>
	— Galerius has taken the auspices? <br>		— Galerius has taken the auspices? <br>
	— In fact, Oppi, Consul '''Moravius''', as consul maior presiding, on Memmius’ aedilis request, has. The Pontifex Maximus was there, beside him and Consul '''Iulius''', Memmius standing also in the cella. <br>		— In fact, Oppi, Consul '''Moravius''', as consul maior presiding, on Memmius’ aedilis request, has. The Pontifex Maximus was there, beside him and Consul '''Iulius''', Memmius standing also in the cella. <br>

Publius Memmius Albucius at 11:46, 28 September 2008

2008-09-28T11:46:49Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 11:46, 28 September 2008
Line 5:		Line 5:

	Here are the reports that C.L.C. has allowed us to display, for every interested civis.		Here are the reports that C.L.C. has allowed us to display, for every interested civis.
		+	For more excitement, follow the races live, thanks to the wonderful reconstitution created in 2761 by [http://circusmaximus.us/circusmaximus.htm Robert Cole].

Publius Memmius Albucius at 23:45, 27 September 2008

2008-09-27T23:45:08Z

← Older revision		Revision as of 23:45, 27 September 2008
Line 1:		Line 1:
−	{{CuruleAediles}} <br>''Do not edit it without previous authorization given by Aedilitas curulis staff''.	+	{{CuruleAediles}} <br>''Do not edit it without previous authorization given by Aedilitas curulis staff. Thanks''.


Line 7:		Line 7:


−	~~{{CuruleAediles}}~~
−
−
−	~~''Do not edit this page without preliminary authorization by the aedilitas curulis. Thanks''.~~

	<hr>		<hr>

Publius Memmius Albucius: /* Finals */

2008-09-25T00:00:40Z

Finals

← Older revision		Revision as of 00:00, 25 September 2008
Line 182:		Line 182:

	==Finals==		==Finals==
		+
		+
		+
		+	These are '''O. Pedanius Speratus''' and colleagues reporting for CLC (''Catena Ludorum Curulium''). Happy to meet you again and for the last time here, during the Romani, in the Circus Maximus. For this is the great day, the D-Dies, the Hora-H ! This is the finals today, and not any finals : this is 10th birthday Ludi Romani Circenses finals. So, whatever be the results of the race that we are going to watch, down in the spatia, both chariots have already entered our Circenses history, and the history of Rome. They are both russati, but we have an interesting duel between a southern rig, '''Germanica''', an Australian chariot sponsored by '''D. Arminius Brutus''' and a northern rig, '''Incitatus''', driven by '''Stolo''', belonging to Ludus '''G. Petronius Dexter''', Gaul. The second difference is that '''Anthropophagus''', Germanica’s driver, is an experienced auriga, while '''Stolo''' is knowing his first entry in a central Nova Roma contest. He has never run in Rome, having just entered a few provincial races in Syria or in Asia minor, where he was born, in Ephesus. For a first time, it is yet a big entry, for this young 19 years old handsome boy would sure never have dreamt running in a finals, and a fortiori here, into the Circus Maximus. <br>
		+	Anthropophagus is better known. '''Stolo''' is not that small with its 6 Roman feet and 9 unciae, but Anthropophagus is much more impressing. But this impression is also due to Brutus’ driver reputation, that has been largely fed by his name. This is sure good advertising to have one’s champion well known and his team too. When he is questioned, '''D. Arminius Brutus''' thus never frankly denies the rumors about the fact that his driver would really be a Human-eater... Brrrr.... But anyway, he does know his job and he is today’s favorite. <br>
		+
		+	All degrees, all cunei are full, I can see no place left. It is 5 pm and the sun is shining in its last course from soon just behind the western tower of the Circus. This is precisely the time when the consuls and the aedile will launch this last race, isn’t it, my dear '''Lucia Solaris Divina''' ? <br>
		+	— Yes, dear Oppi, it is. Our poor aedile '''Memmius Albucius''' still all alone... <br>
		+	— Is he still? <br>
		+	— Yes, he is! But with an good team !<br>
		+	— But did someone speak about any elections ? And how long...? <br>
		+	— Well... it seems to make months, now, yes, since April... yes, Marce ? Good afternoon, Marce ! Here has joined us '''Marcus Verus Paenula''', that everybody knows well. <br>
		+	— Yes, good afternoon you all, and you Lucia and Oppi. No in fact, '''S. Lucilius Tutor''' has resigned his functions ante diem sixth before the Idus of May. <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Ah, well... - if I can say that - but the elections... ? <br>
		+	— Well it seemed that neither the consuls nor the tribunes have thought necessary to organize any elections to renew this second aedilis office. <br>
		+	— But this is law, no ? And another aedile office is vacant, too ? The plebeian one, it seems... ? <br>
		+	— Yes, you are right Oppi, on both points. Well, remember that we have already asked the consuls about this vacancy, and that they have just shrugged their large shoulders. <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] So, apparently, no election forward ? <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] I don’t think so, yes: for the annual elections are coming, in one month, six weeks perhaps, and sure that nobody among our highest magistrates seems willy disturbing his agenda, when things are rolling on for the aedilitas. <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] And what about our aedile, '''Memmius''' ? What does he think about it ? <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] Listen, Oppi, I have asked him the question after the Ludi opening ceremony, and he just shrugged the shoulders ! <br>
		+	— Did he too ? ! <br>
		+	— Yes, he just added that he was not in charge of deciding such an election, and that, from the moment the curule aedilician team kept on working since the end of december, he was stoïc enough to fulfill his office normally. <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] Is he stoïc ? <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Well, this is another debate, Marce ! What were you going to say, cara Lucia, on the sun ? <br>
		+	— Just that we can know the hour thanks to the direction from which the sun shines. During Ludi Romani, the sun shines at 5 behind the western tower of the oppidum. <br>
		+	— Thanks for this useful precision, Divina. You are not usurpating your nomen ! The crowd is more excited, dear Quirites, for both chariots are now in the carceres. As for the semis, one is in a right-side box, and the other on a left-side one. <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] Yes, Sperate, Germanica has been alloted by Dea Fortuna the sixth track, and Incitatus the seventh one. They will be released now in a few minutes, I think. <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] So a few words on the rituals... <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] Effectively, Pontifex Maximus '''Fl. Galerius Aurelianus''' has celebrated a ritual a little hour ago, in the « cavern », in this inner side of the prima meta. The ritual has been dedicated to the Capitoline triad and to Consus, because of the coming of the autumn. <br>
		+	— Galerius has taken the auspices? <br>
		+	— In fact, Oppi, Consul '''Moravius''', as consul maior presiding, on Memmius’ aedilis request, has. The Pontifex Maximus was there, beside him and Consul '''Iulius''', Memmius standing also in the cella. <br>
		+	— The auspices have been taken before the ritual? <br>
		+	— Yes naturally, for if the auspices had been nefasti, the Finals should have been postponed.<br>
		+	— Uneasy decision to take, asking this whole crowd leaving the Circus with no race... <br>
		+	— Yes, but you well know, dear Oppi, that our Quirites understand well that we have all no interest defying the gods refusing to follow such warnings. We would not be Romans, either ! <br>
		+	— Sure, dear Divina ! Here they are: the ''carceres'' gates have swung open, and the ''armentarii'' have kneeled down close towards the ''hermulae''. I can hardly hear my own voice, such is the noise made by the crowd. Both chariots are prancing to the ''alba linea'', but both drivers are retaining their horses, Marce... <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] Yes, I think there are two reasons : first they obviously both want to make this particular moment as longest as possible. See them waving to the crowd, to Palatine’s one as to Aventine’s one. Just for this, the aedilis has been right scheduling the finals at 5, for the sun does not disturb the drivers in the opening, nor during the race. <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] They look fresh... <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] Yes, and in a way this is normal, for they seem having efficient teams... But on the other hand, they have already run a semi-final, and there are still a few traces left, after such efforts. <br>
		+	— And the other reason, Paenula? <br>
		+	— The second reason why they have reined their horses into this low pace is that both are afraid that their animals would draw them into the rope, and get both them and chariot ennmeshed in it. Fortunately, we have seen no rig entangled in the ''alba'' since the Ludi begun, but this is not really unusual. <br>
		+	— No, you are right.. <br>
		+	— ..and so imagine, Oppi, that the race be already over before it starts ! Imagine the impression let by the poor driver ! In ten years, people would have carried on speaking of his dishonor ! <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Yes, true... but happily everything is ok now. The ''moderatores'' have done their work. Both rigs were a bit nervous, and we can easily understand this. You get not many 10th birthday Romani Finals in your life. The horses are getting quiet, and we see now that both '''Anthropophagus''' and '''Stolo''' do not know anything more but the track, their horses and their race. The Roman world could crush around them, they would not see it !<br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] Yes, it is clear that they are in their race yet ! The lineatores are ready to put off the entrance lines strings. The hermulatores have just seized the white start rope at arm’s length... and are ready... They are looking up to the cella.... <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Aedilis '''P. Memmius Albucius''' has given the mappa to the Consul maior, and here is '''M. Moravius''' '''Piscinus''' stepping forward, and holding the white signal aloft at arm’s lenght, showing it slowly to the Palatine tribune, to the ''oppidum triumphalis'' and to the Aventine. ''Mappa consulis manu decidit'' ! That’s done, Marce ! <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] The hermulatores let the alba funis fall. And... <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] ... it’s gone ! ! <br>
		+	[''The crowd is shouting « Russati, russati'' !] <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] The ''lineatores'' have folded their strings, and on the track, '''Germanica''' has decided not to let '''Incitatus''' angle at first place to the spina... <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] Yes, first curve and '''Germanica''' ahead, at a serious pace. Apparently, '''Anthro''' does not want to rein down before a few laps. He swallowed the palatine spatium like an etesian Mare Nostrum wind, and here is the first egg gulped down. <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] '''Incitatus''' is still well in this second lap and in Germanica’s track, in one length behind. The triumphalis curve... no problem for both... '''Anthropophagus''' has chosen a quite large, but steady quick path to turn around. <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Could not '''Incitatus''' take his chance in the curve ? <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] Easier to tell it than to do it, Oppi... In fact, '''Anthropophagus'''’ tactics could well be to impulse the race a high pace... <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] A very high, I would say : 3rd lap and look how '''Anthropophagus''' is re-boosting his rig in the straights.. the curve... ok.. <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] ... you’re right, Lucia... Stolo is coming back on '''Germanica''' in the Palatine straights, but Gaul horses seem to be close to their peak... <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] The pompae curve is over and we are in the fourth, '''Stolo''' is coming back, but still Anthro in the turn, and putting some more wood in the boiler... Does '''Brutus'''’man look tired, Lucia? <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] I would say he is not at all - eheu for '''Stolo''' - and, worse for the Gaul, he is controlling the race. We are now in the fifth... If '''Stolo''' wants to try something, it’s time now. Oh...! '''Germanica''' is heading to the outside before the turn... What happens ! <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] ... oh, incredible, this was a trap! Anthropophagus has let '''Stolo''' imagine that he had lapsed, and has just closed the door, just when '''Stolo''' was putting the head in the hole! <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Yes, incredible too that the young driver has not overturned! He has stepped in a glance on the edge of his basket and has bent backward, like an onager’s arm ! <br>
		+	— Yes, incredible, you’re right ! Never in a four chariots race he could have risked such a figure. He would have been crushed by the chariot behind ! <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] But imagine how this move has pumped in his physical reserves... <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] ... and made him loose time too! <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Sure, and now that the sixth lap is beginning, the situation is the same one: '''Germanica''' heading, '''Incitatus''' behind. '''Germanica''' does not weaken, and it seems that the last trick in the curve has rather, at least, put a doubt in '''Stolo'''’s mind, and at worst disturbed his horses. <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] Indeed, he seems having a bit more difficulties to come on '''Anthropophagus'''’heels. Look, here, in the straights. <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] The 6th egg has fallen and we are in the last lap. Frankly, I cannot see how '''Germanica''', apart a big mistake, could loose.The last western curve is over, '''Stolo''' is speeding up, but is still in the worst position, and to overtake he will need a few additional strenghts.. <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] And '''Anthropohagus''' is holding tight... last curve... he hugs perfectly the spina... '''Germanica''' is in a great day... He’s surging out of the pompean as if it was the first turn, and '''Anthro''' is reining forward again. <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] '''Stolo''' coming back, once again... It is time now, kid ! This is the final line, ahead ! Five... no three lengths to catch up... nearly two... <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] He will not do it, Sperate.. he won’t.... <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] '''Germanica''' ! <br>
		+	— [M.V.P.] Yes, '''Germanica''' has won ! Without any contest ! For the first time in these Ludi, young Gallus '''Stolo''' has lost, and let him forgive me, but this may be better for him and the briliant career he is promised to.. <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Sure he is gifted, but has faced a very good and experienced '''Anthropophagus'''. Maybe '''Anthropophagus''' has found here the only tactics to defeat '''Stolo''' with the best probabilities. I am glad for this driver, for it shows our citizens that he is not necessarily what he looks like... <br>
		+	— [L.S.D.] You mean that he can think ? <br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] Yes, absolutely ! <br>
		+	[''short ads page'']<br>
		+	— [O.P.S.] We are back here in Circus Maximus. You see now that the officials have come down on the track and stepped up on the top of the spina, in its center. People have left the praecinctiones, but the Circus remains 2/3 full. '''Lucius Fidelius Lusitanus''', who has lost against the final winner is thus third of the Circenses 2761, and has joined today’s both heroes. I can see deceived '''Scorpianus''' in the Aventine podium, applauding, but 4th. '''Stolo''' seems a bit gloomy and haggard, but he leaves his elder stepping first and before him on the stand. <br>
		+	Here we are : Consul '''Moravius''' gives both his laurels crown and award to '''Anthropophagus''' who waves to the crowd, which gives him back a legitimate ovation. Germanica’s driver now respectfully applauds '''Stolo''', who receives laurels and award from Consul '''Iulius'''. The crowd shouts «'''Stolo'''! '''Stolo'''!» and it seems that the Ephesian has lost a finals but won many female hearts, even in the Palatine aristocratic podium sections. Now the last cheerings are for '''Lusitanus''', awarded and congratulated by aed. '''Memmius Albucius'''. The Brasilian owner, who has been courageous enough to drive himself, is clearly moved by his third place. <br>
		+
		+	This is now time to leave you, Quirites ! Here were '''O. Pedanius Speratus''', with colleagues '''Lucia Solaris''' '''Divina''' and '''Marcus Verus Paenula''', all covering for CLC (''Catena Ludorum Curulium''), the 10th Birthday Ludi Romani Circenses Finals. <u>Champion</u> : '''Anthropophagus''' on '''Germanica''', owner '''D'''. '''Arminius Brutus''' ; second '''Stolo''', '''Incitatus''', owner '''C. Petronius Dexter''' ; third '''L. Fidelius Lusitanus''' on his own '''Fulgur II''', and let us not forget 4th '''Babientes''' led by '''Scorpianus''', '''L. Rutilius Minervalis''' owner. <br>
		+	<u>'''Russati'''</u> are the incontestable winners of these special Games, Veneta behind and Albata third. Praesina, no entry, needs recovering soon ! <br>
		+	For our provinces, first ex aequo <u>'''Gallia''' and '''Brasilia'''</u> with 20 points, third '''Australia''' with 12, fourth '''Mediatlantica''' with 7 points, and fifth '''Nova Britannia''' with five.

Publius Memmius Albucius: /* Semi-Finals */

2008-09-24T13:17:17Z

Semi-Finals

← Older revision		Revision as of 13:17, 24 September 2008
Line 156:		Line 156:

	==Semi-Finals==		==Semi-Finals==
		+
		+	<br>
		+
		+	This is '''O. Pedanius Speratus''' reporting for '''CLC''' (''Catena Ludorum Curulium''). Happy to meet again for this new and last day of Ludi Romani Circenses, direct from Circus Maximus. <br>
		+	It’s a gorgeous late summer day in Rome and excitement fills the air as the races are about to begin.
		+	Today, the Circus will feature both semi-finals, and the great finals. The semis will be very interesting ones, and for many reasons. <br>
		+	First, we will see a fight between two chariots from Gaul, '''Babientes''' and '''Incitatus'''. Second, the semis will oppose two different factiones: veneta vs. russata. Third, we will have one tiro in each semi: '''Incitatus''' in the first one and '''Fulgur II''' in the second one. Last, we have a rather geographical diversity in the semis, for along both Galli, we get one Australian chariot, '''Germanica''' (even culturally linked to provincia Germania), and one Brasilian rig, '''Fulgur II'''.<br>
		+
		+
		+	The Circus is almost full. Just the top of Palatine ''praecinctiones'' needs to get some more people. The top of Aventina is still full, naturally because of the sun: this is the shady side of the Maximus! The vendors are making their last rounds, scurrying selling sweets, cushions and footstools. <br>
		+
		+	Naturally and alas, the partisans of the Praesina faction are disappointed as there was no entry from their beloved Greens this time, while the Albata fans are saddened at seeing all of their entries defeated early on. Perhaps that is why the birds have stopped singing, too, but perhaps the daylight showing between their wing feathers as yet another plume flutters earthward may be involved as well.


Line 161:		Line 173:
	<u>'''1st semi-final'''</u>		<u>'''1st semi-final'''</u>

−
−	It’s a gorgeous late summer day in Rome and excitement fills the air as the races are about to begin. Alas, the partisans of the Praesina faction are disappointed as there was no entry from their beloved Greens this time, while the Albata fans are saddened at seeing all of their entries defeated early on. Perhaps that is why the birds have stopped singing, too, but perhaps the daylight showing between their wing feathers as yet another plume flutters earthward may be involved as well.

	The field for this race is rather skimpy, but both Veneta and Russata are represented, albeit by a single entry each. '''Incitatus''', owned by '''C. Petronius Dexter''' and driven by '''Stolo''', both newcomers,		The field for this race is rather skimpy, but both Veneta and Russata are represented, albeit by a single entry each. '''Incitatus''', owned by '''C. Petronius Dexter''' and driven by '''Stolo''', both newcomers,
Line 169:		Line 179:
	The chariots approach the starting gate, horses and men alike blinking in the brilliant sun as they emerge from the holding area. The horses prance, eager with expectation, and the charioteers must rein them in lest they start too soon. Now they are towards the starting line, the ''alba linea'', and all eyes turn to the presiding aediliciana, praetoriana '''A. Tullia''' '''Scholastica''' in the cella. '''Aed. Memmius''' has asked her to chair today, in order to thank her for the watch she had upon the Ludi. Maybe also aedilis '''Memmius''', who is also the governor Galliae, is happy not to be in charge of the defeat of one of both Galli, in this first semifinal!<br>		The chariots approach the starting gate, horses and men alike blinking in the brilliant sun as they emerge from the holding area. The horses prance, eager with expectation, and the charioteers must rein them in lest they start too soon. Now they are towards the starting line, the ''alba linea'', and all eyes turn to the presiding aediliciana, praetoriana '''A. Tullia''' '''Scholastica''' in the cella. '''Aed. Memmius''' has asked her to chair today, in order to thank her for the watch she had upon the Ludi. Maybe also aedilis '''Memmius''', who is also the governor Galliae, is happy not to be in charge of the defeat of one of both Galli, in this first semifinal!<br>

−	'''Tullia''' lifts the mappa aloft and wave it; they drop it...and they’re on the track! No need to hurry yet; one must conserve the horses’ strength for the final laps, but one cannot walk around the track, either. Already '''Stolo''' is steering close to the ''spina'', while '''Scorpianus''' holds to a steady and none-too-fast pace. Time and again, '''Stolo''' takes the lead as he comes round the spina, but '''Scorpianus''' catches up every time as the first, second, and third dolphins are turned. Now the pace quickens as the two charioteers vie for position at mid-race, but there still is little change. As they enter the sixth and penultimate lap, '''Stolo''' is hugging the ''spina'' so closely that he almost seems ready to shake hands with the statues. Sparks are starting to fly, and now he is taking a turn on one wheel...a dangerous tactic, and one which cost him time as '''Scorpianus''' passes him with ease. Coming into the seventh and final lap '''Stolo''' again grazes the spina in the Palatine straights, but this time the risk is worth it and he pulls well ahead of '''Babientes''' and '''Scorpianus''', whose horses seem to be tiring. The final curve is there, and now the finish line in sight, '''Babientes''' will not be back, and '''Stolo''' crosses it four lengths ahead of '''Scorpianus'''. In this race, the palm goes to Russata.	+	'''Tullia''' lifts the mappa aloft and wave it; they drop it...and they’re on the track! No need to hurry yet; one must conserve the horses’ strength for the final laps, but one cannot walk around the track, either. Already '''Stolo''' is steering close to the ''spina'', while '''Scorpianus''' holds to a steady and none-too-fast pace. Time and again, '''Stolo''' takes the lead as he comes round the spina, but '''Scorpianus''' catches up every time as the first, second, and third dolphins are turned. Now the pace quickens as the two charioteers vie for position at mid-race, but there still is little change. As they enter the sixth and penultimate lap, '''Stolo''' is hugging the ''spina'' so closely that he almost seems ready to shake hands with the statues. Sparks are starting to fly, and now he is taking a turn on one wheel...a dangerous tactic, and one which cost him time as '''Scorpianus''' passes him with ease. Coming into the seventh and final lap '''Stolo''' again grazes the spina in the Palatine straights, but this time the risk is worth it and he pulls well ahead of '''Babientes''' and '''Scorpianus''', whose horses seem to be tiring. The final curve is there, and now the finish line in sight, '''Babientes''' will not be back, and '''Stolo''' crosses it four lengths ahead of '''Scorpianus'''. In this race, the palm goes to Russata and the glorious way is keeping open for young '''Stolo''', now congratulated by more experienced '''Scorpianus'''. True lesson of dignitas... and humilitas too: the younger has jumped into the elder's chariot, and has waved Scorpianus' arm, asking the audience to honor '''Minervalis'''' ''auriga''. The Circus roar with pleasure, and veneti fall in russati arms! Galli, you are the pride of Rome, this afternoon! Anyway, '''Incitatus''' qualified for the Finals, '''Babientes''' ends its Ludi here.

	==Finals==		==Finals==