Spurs-Aussie Party

What’s a fellow to do if he’s from Australia, living in San Antonio, and wanting to celebrate the Australian Independence Day?  Well, if that fellow happens to be Spurs guard Patrick “Patty” Mills, he rents out a local lounge, invites a few teammates, a bunch of friends, and throws a heck of a party!

The event took place Saturday at a Political Bar in the North part of town called “The Angry Elephant.” Owner Chip Ingram was my contact person and since I know the place well ;) he immediately thought of us to cover the event. It just so happens that we are big Spurs fans here at Infinity, so when we got the call we were thrilled with the opportunity and couldn’t wait for the day to arrive. 

Adding to the story, that same night the Spurs won 108-99 against Phoenix. This victory caused SA to move up to the best record in the entire NBA, way to go Spurs! Now back to the story... Patty and some teammates arrived following the game.  In attendance from the Spurs organization were Tim Duncan, Manu Ginobili, Tony Parker, Matt “Red Rocket” Bonner, Boris Diaw and Nando De Colo to mention a few.  Also in attendance were the winners of a contest sponsored by a Patty Mills organization. This group of young Australians were treated to a San Antonio visit, the ability to attend various games and the Australia Day celebration with Patty. Now that’s what I call a great Host!

From what I could observe, the Australia Day celebrations appear to be a combination of Mardi Gras, 4^th of July and Halloween.  The place was festooned with gold and green (Australian national colors).  There were inflatable kangaroos, plastic snakes, boomerangs, koalas and signs everywhere.  A number of people were in costumes. Patty was decked out in a colorful wig, flip flops and an autographed tank top.

The festivities got underway. A DJ and a live band provided plenty of music for dancing. The Photobooth was in full use. Boris entertained with an aboriginal horn (easier said than done).  Traditional Australian Meat Pies and Sausage Rolls were served. As I moved about the party goers, I could overhear some of them practicing Aussie “phrases” in their best Down Under accents in preparation for the “Best Australian Accent” contest.  There was also an award given for the best costume, which went to a giant kangaroo. All in all, the approximate 3-hour celebration was fun-filled and festive!
In true Spurs character, Patty and his teammates conducted themselves with the typical grace and class with which they have come to be known, not just here in San Antonio, but throughout the NBA. 

Oh yes… and to answer the question that I’m sure some of you must have – Yes, I did get my picture taken with a few of the Spurs players!  I love my job! :)

Chip Ingram Owner of Angry Elephant & Patty Mills arriving

Taking care of business

Emanuel David Ginobili, not a lot of people know his real name, best go with Manu :)

Left to right... Boris, Tim, Red Rocket, Manu, Patty, Tony

Manu, Tim, Bonner, Patty, Tony, Nando

Timmy!!!

Wobble Baby! Wobble Baby! Wobble Baby!

... and the winner is...

"Hello mate, I just wrestled a mean alligator."

This guy

El Manu "poniendose la camiseta"

3 Point Master!

Boris, Me and... Ken?