NYC Marathon returns for 50th year
The New Your City Marathon will be held for the 50th year, following a break for the COVID-19 pandemic. According to the Associated Press, “Organizers shrank the field by nearly 40% and are requiring runners be vaccinated or show proof of a negative COVID-19 test within 48 hours of the race. Spectators will be encouraged to maintain social distancing, and some race-adjacent entertainment elements will be scaled back to accommodate that.” To follow COVID-19 protocols, the starting format for the marathon will be changed.
German soccer game called off after virus cases raise
A division two soccer game in Germany was postponed last Friday after there were 18 reported COVID-19 cases for players and staff. Following this outbreak, the Sandhausen team did not have enough players to play against St. Pauli. According to the Associated Press, “The positive tests for players come against a backdrop of soaring virus case numbers in Germany. The country reported a record 37,120 new infections on Friday. Sandhausen didn’t specify how many of the people involved had been vaccinated but team doctor Nikolaus Streich said many cases were without symptoms because of the ‘very high vaccination status”’ at the club. The club said it was a strong supporter of vaccine programs. As of Friday, the German Football League has not set a new date for the postponed game.
Pheonix Suns probed for discriminatory allegations
Following reported allegations of racism and misogyny against the owner of the Pheonix Suns, Robert Sarver, Mike Bass, executive vice president of communications for the NBA, released a statement saying, “The NBA and WNBA remain committed to providing a respectful and inclusive workplace for all employees. Once the investigation is completed, its findings will provide the basis for any league action.” Earl Watson, former coach for the Pheonix Suns, recalled an instance when Sarver reprimanded a player for using the N-word during a game. Watson said that Sarver then went on to use the word himself several times.
Russian doubles team reaches final for Billie Jean King Cup
A Russian doubles tennis team consisting of Veronika Kudermetova and Luidmila Samsonova, won a match against the Unites States teams reaching the final for the Billie Jean King Cup. This is the first time that a Russian team has reached a final match since 2015. The Russian team will compete in the final against either Australia or Switzerland. According to the Associated Press, “The Russians are seeking their fifth title and will play Australia or Switzerland in Saturday’s final at Prague’s O2 Arena. The U.S. is the most successful nation in the competition with 18 trophies, but Russia took a 1-0 lead when Samsonova rallied from a set down to beat Sloane Stephens 1-6, 6-4, 6-3.”
