Dhani Tackles the Globe: Season 1

In the10-episode 2009 first season of the Travel Channel's Dhani Tackles the Globe, amiable Cincinnati Bengals linebacker Dhani Jones visits countries around the world for a week of immersion in the local sports scene. In England, the featured activity is rugby: without the protective gear that is part of U.S. football, Dhani gets a bit beat up in practice, which gives him a new respect for the game. The best part is the camaraderie of the players: one common victory celebration involves team members pairing up to run a three-legged race through all the pubs in the stadium, with a drink at each stop. Dhani is a fish out of water—sometimes quite literally, as in the segment in Australia featuring surf lifesavers—but his attitude makes the show work, as he explores the blistering racket competition of jai alai in the Basque region of Spain, sailing in New Zealand, schwingen (a sort of strong-man contest) in Switzerland, muay thai (kick) boxing in Thailand, hurling in Ireland, dragon boat racing in Singapore, and distinctive forms of martial arts in Russia and Cambodia. In every case the challenge is harder than it looks, and Dhani leaves viewers with an appreciation of what's involved. Local color also figures prominently, as Dhani explores cuisine, nightlife, and customs (such as fox hunting in England). DVD extras include bonus scenes and location highlights. Highly recommended. Aud: P. (C. Block)