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seen at alternative art and music festivals like Burning Man (www.burningman.com; see ) to gaining more mainstream interest. Fire dancing performers are now in demand at everything from bachelor parties to corporate retreats. And long-time practitioners have embraced fire dancing’s community spirit, in some cases attesting to the spiritual dimension of the art form. But newcomers shouldn’t be put off; beginners swear it’s a great workout and probably the most fun you will ever have playing with fire. —ML

Fire Groove ( 323/640-0191;www.firegroove.com). Fire Arts Collective (www.fireartscollective.com). Temple of Poi ( 415/543-4911;www.templeofpoi.com).

302

Michael Jordan Flight School

He Shoots, He Scores!

Las Vegas, Nevada, U.S.A.

You’re dribbling down the line, the basketball hammering the hardwood beneath your hand, and the hoop is in sight. You’re just about to take your shot when in front of you appears . . . Michael Jordan! The 6-foot, 6-inch tower of talent tries to block your shot, but you’ve got your game on this afternoon. Fake left, hop right, and shoot—it’s in. Two points later, His Airness smiles and shakes your hand. He is, after all, your coach today.

Since 1997, Michael Jordan, the former shooting guard for the six-time NBA championship-winning Chicago Bulls, has been downloading his awe-inspiring basketball skills at Michael Jordan Flight School basketball camps. But if you think “basketball camp” means worn-out balls, ratty nets, and smelly locker rooms, think again—accommodations, equipment, and facilities at the Las Vegas Mirage Hotel and Casino are nothing like high school. But this 4-day camp isn’t a relaxing poolside retreat. Attendees should be physically fit and prepared for intense, all-day practice with elite NBA and Olympic coaches and players like Larry Brown, Mike Krzyzewski, Chuck Daly, and Kareem Abdul-Jabbar, as well as some “air time” with Jordan himself. In addition to one-on-one sessions with coaches and players, there are competitive league games for all players, and campers who don’t wish to play can still get involved as assistant coaches.

Despite all the hard work and sweat, there’s still a little room for some downtime, and many campers cite the networking and social events as a prime benefit of Flight School camps. A cocktail reception, closing ceremonial brunch, autograph sessions, a high-stakes poker tournament—even a ladies’ tea—are on the schedule. An experience like this doesn’t come cheap—rates for 2009 were $17,500—but there are perks aplenty, including Jordan brand shoes and apparel, commemorative gifts, photos, videos, and, best of all, the lifetime bragging rights to saying, “Yeah, I shot hoops with Michael Jordan. He’s pretty good.” —ML

Michael Jordan Flight School ( 503/402-8688;www.mjseniorflightschool.com).

When to Go: Michael Jordan Flight School is scheduled annually; check website for dates.

Las Vegas McCarran International Airport.

$$$ The Mirage Hotel and Casino, 3400 S. Las Vegas Blvd. ( 702/791-7111;www.mirage.com).

303

Jim Gibson’s Motocross Training Camp

Down & Dirty

Southern California, U.S.A.

Ripping through the dirt, floating through the air, roaring around a steeply banked curve—these are the stuff of motocross dreams. And every year, hundreds of motocross riders make these dreams come true at Jim Gibson’s Motocross Training Camp. To casual spectators, motocross might look like simple dirt-biking, but it is in fact an incredibly nuanced competitive sport that requires discipline, strategy, and training, as well as considerable physical endurance and strength. Spend a little time at Jim Gibson’s and soon you’ll be flying like the big boys.

Jim Gibson’s Motocross Training Camps take place at some of Southern California’s most challenging motocross tracks. The typical camp lasts 4 or 5 days, costs around $1,000, and includes everything from dormitory-style accommodations and meals to exercise and dieting tips. Bike rentals are available depending on availability. The focus here is not on the freestyle acrobatics that are famous at events