A poet, philanthropist, artist and environmentalist, Bengals linebacker Dhani Jones embarks on a global sports odyssey in Travel Channel's new original series, Dhani Tackles the Globe premiering Monday, March 16 at 9 p.m. ET. By actively participating in some of the most beloved national pastimes from around the world, Dhani discovers that sports have the universal ability to open a window into a culture, define a destination and unlock a common passion in people that is as different as it is familiar.
Dhani's Destinations
Thailand -- Series Premiere March 16 at 9 p.m. ET
Dhani Jones unleashes the tiger in his soul as he explores the colorful city of Bangkok, Thailand and trains to compete in a Muay Thai boxing match, Thailand's national sport. But after endless hours of sweaty training he escapes the boxing ring to experience all that this culture has to offer. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Thailand
Switzerland -- Premieres March 23 at 9 p.m. ET
In a ring of sawdust in the rural regions of the northern Swiss Alps, Dhani is challenged by the local farmers, woodchoppers and cheese makers to a schwingen match. With a serious language barrier, foreign wrestling moves and mountain men twice Dhani's size, he is exposed to a tradition that brings him face to face with some of the best schwingers in the country. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Switzerland
England -- Premieres March 30 at 9 p.m. ET
A hard-hitting trip to London, England leaves Dhani bruised and sleep deprived on his mission to become a true English gentleman. Joining England's oldest rugby club, Dhani endures merciless practices prepping him for his rugby debut. From fox hunts, to finding the perfect suit, Dhani finds himself immersed in an amusing and traditional English adventure. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for England
Singapore -- Premieres April 6 at 9 p.m. ET
Dhani travels to Singapore and takes on the 2,000 year-old sport of dragon boat racing. After a practice with members of Singapore's national team, Dhani meets up with and lands a seat on the American Dragons team for the country's biggest race event -- the annual Singapore Dragon Boat Festival. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Singapore
Spain -- Premieres April 13 at 9 p.m. ET
Dhani takes on the 400-year old obsession of northern Spain, jai alai, a sport dubbed "the game of dodging death" and "ballet with bullets." Unfortunately for the Bengals linebacker, these terrifying nicknames are no exaggeration. This court game features a rock-hard ball ricocheting at nearly 200 miles per hour, fast enough to shatter bulletproof glass. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Spain
Ireland -- Premieres April 20 at 9 p.m. ET
Ireland warmly invites Dhani to participate in hurling: a fast, bloody and brutal stick and ball game. As the sport of the everyday Irish man, Dhani struggles to grasp the basics of the game, but between practices, sheep shearing and drinking Guinness, he is embraced by the passionate Irish community. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Ireland
Australia -- Premieres April 27 at 9 p.m. ET
It takes more than just a Speedo to become an Australian Surf Lifesaving champion. In and out of the ocean, Dhani must prove his strength, endurance, agility and love of the surf to the Aussie locals and lifeguards. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Australia
Cambodia -- Premieres May 4 at 9 p.m. ET
Kickboxing, fried tarantulas, contortionists and snake feeding all make Dhani's adventure to Phnom Penh, Cambodia, an unusual and unexpected experience. In a small, dark gym with a trainer who pushes him to the limits, Dhani learns the ancient martial art of Pradal Serey (Southeast Asian kickboxing). Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Cambodia
New Zealand -- Premieres May 11 at 9 p.m. ET
Dhani visits Auckland, New Zealand, on a quest to conquer the sea as the next great kiwi sailor. In this "City of Sails," he has just one week to work his way on to an America's Cup yacht and then take the ultimate test in an actual Team New Zealand tryout. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for New Zealand
Russia -- Premieres May 18 at 9 p.m. ET
Russia welcomes Dhani not only with homemade vodka, but also with the chance to become a true Sambo fighter. Sambo, the art of self-defense without weapons, proves to be a complex and challenging sport for Dhani. To prepare, he takes ballet lessons and visits a Russian military base, becoming an inspired and coordinated fighter. Get Dhani's destinations "off the field" for Russia
