Unlikely Ambassadors

Denmark has some unlikely ambassadors to the world. The world of sports, that is. And in an unlikely sport--badminton. The (Malaysian) Star:

THE “grand old men” of doubles badminton – Jens Eriksen and Martin Lundgaard Hansen – are unbeaten this year and will be out to keep the record intact in the Thomas Cup Finals.

Apparently they haven't taken a vacation in 4 years with their families because they fear they'll get out of shape. And they have to work to get along with each other:

Lundgaard Hansen admitted that the six-year partnership with the 36-year-old Eriksen, who is the oldest player in the Finals, wasn't a “marriage made in heaven”.

“We were two different people. We used to quarrel a lot because of our differences,” said Lundgaard Hansen.

“I take training seriously but he did not. He loves cars and I like music. But our friendship bloomed over the years and it brought us great success.”

A little give and take on the world circuit.

And for a little Danish-American solidarity, view Chicago Hitchens-inspired Rally Pix here and here.