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Category: Sport

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 24, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 24, 2025.

    World’s highest court issues groundbreaking ruling for climate action. Here’s what it means for Australia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney JOHN THYS/AFP via Getty Images The world’s highest court says countries are legally obliged to prevent harms caused by climate change, in a ruling that repudiates Australia’s claims it is not legally responsible for emissions

    Politics with Michelle Grattan: Chris Bowen on why it’s ‘a little frustrating’ bidding for COP 31
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Energy and climate issues are front and centre for both sides of politics. The government is struggling with pushback from some regional communities against the rollout of transmission lines and wind farms. At the same time, it will soon have

    Cycling’s governing body is introducing new rules to slow down elite riders. Not everyone’s happy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Popi Sotiriadou, Associate Professor of Sport Management – Director Business Innovation, Griffith University MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images Most sports look to support their athletes to become “faster, higher, stronger” – in reference to the Olympic Games’ original motto – so it is perhaps surprising that cycling’s

    Swirling nebula of two dying stars revealed in spectacular detail in new Webb telescope image
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Pope, Associate Professor, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Macquarie University The day before my thesis examination, my friend and radio astronomer Joe Callingham showed me an image we’d been awaiting for five long years – an infrared photo of two dying stars we’d requested from

    UN’s highest court finds countries can be held legally responsible for emissions
    By Jamie Tahana in The Hague for RNZ Pacific The United Nations’ highest court has found that countries can be held legally responsible for their greenhouse gas emissions, in a ruling highly anticipated by Pacific countries long frustrated with the pace of global action to address climate change. In a landmark opinion delivered yesterday in

    Five arms, no heart and a global family: what DNA revealed about the weird deep-sea world of brittle stars
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim O’Hara, Senior Curator of Marine Invertebrates, Museums Victoria Research Institute A brittle star of the species _Gorgonocephalus eucnemis_. Lagunatic Photo / Getty Images You may have read that the deep sea is a very different environment from the land and shallow water. There is no light,

    Birds use hidden black and white feathers to make themselves more colourful
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Griffith, Professor of Avian Behavioural Ecology, Macquarie University The green-headed tanager (_Tangara seledon_) has a hidden layer of plumage that is white underneath the orange feathers and black underneath the blue and green feathers. Daniel Field Birds are perhaps the most colourful group of animals, bringing

    Is sleeping a lot actually bad for your health? A sleep scientist explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charlotte Gupta, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Appleton Institute, HealthWise Research Group, CQUniversity Australia Walstrom, Susanne/Getty We’re constantly being reminded by news articles and social media posts that we should be getting more sleep. You probably don’t need to hear it again – not sleeping enough is bad

    From grasslands to killing fields: why trees are bad news for one of Australia’s most stunning birds
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gabriel Crowley, Adjunct Associate Professor in Geography, University of Adelaide JJ Harrison/Wikimedia, CC BY Picture this. A small, rainbow-coloured chick emerges from its nest for the first time. It stretches its wings and prepares to take flight. But before the fledgling’s life in the wild has begun,

    As seas rise and fish decline, this Fijian village is finding new ways to adapt
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Celia McMichael, Professor in Geography, The University of Melbourne Celia McMichael, CC BY-NC-ND In the village of Nagigi, Fiji, the ocean isn’t just a resource – it’s part of the community’s identity. But in recent years, villagers have seen the sea behave differently. Tides are pushing inland.

    After 70 years, twisted gothic thriller The Night of the Hunter remains as disturbing and beguiling as ever
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ben McCann, Associate Professor of French Studies, University of Adelaide United Artists/Getty Images In 1955, director Charles Laughton crafted one of the darkest, strangest fairytales ever to come out of Hollywood. The Night of the Hunter remains visually exquisite and profoundly unsettling. Shortly before Ben Harper is

    Almost a third of NZ households face energy hardship – reform has to go beyond cheaper off-peak power
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kimberley O’Sullivan, Senior Research Fellow, He Kainga Oranga – Housing and Health Research Programme, University of Otago Igor Suka/Getty Images The spotlight is again on New Zealand’s energy sector, with a group of industry bodies and independent retailers pushing for a market overhaul, saying the sector was

    Immigration courts hiding the names of ICE lawyers goes against centuries of precedent and legal ethics requiring transparency in courts
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cassandra Burke Robertson, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Professional Ethics, Case Western Reserve University Some immigration courts have allowed ICE attorneys to conceal their names during proceedings. Jacob Wackerhausen/iStock via Getty Images Something unusual is happening in U.S. immigration courts. Government lawyers are

    How the UK’s immigration system splits families apart – by design
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nando Sigona, Professor of International Migration and Forced Displacement and Director of the Institute for Research into International Migration and Superdiversity, University of Birmingham arda savasciogullari/Shutterstock The letter that arrived for eleven-year-old Guilherme in June 2025 was addressed personally to him. The UK Home Office was informing

    4.48 Psychosis revival: the play’s window into a mind on the edge is as brutal as ever
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leah Sidi, Associate Professor of Health Humanities, UCL Under bright lights, the audience looks at a bare stage on two planes. Below, a small stage is white and empty, occupied only by a table and two chairs. Above, a huge, slanted mirror reflects a bird’s-eye view of

    Togo’s ‘Nana-Benz’: how cheap Chinese imports of African fabrics has hurt the famous women traders
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Fidele B. Ebia, Postdoctoral fellow, Duke Africa Initiative, Duke University The manufacturing of African print textiles has shifted to China in the 21st century. While they are widely consumed in African countries – and symbolic of the continent – the rise of “made in China” has undermined

    2 ways cities can beat the heat: Which is best, urban trees or cool roofs?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Smith, Research Scientist in Earth & Environment, Boston University Trees like these in Boston can help keep neighborhoods cooler on hot days. Yassine Khalfalli/Unsplash, CC BY When summer turns up the heat, cities can start to feel like an oven, as buildings and pavement trap the

    Indonesian military set to complete Trans-Papua Highway under Prabowo’s rule
    By Julian Isaac The Indonesian Military (TNI) is committed to supporting the completion of the Trans-Papua Highway during President Prabowo Subianto’s term in office. While the military is not involved in construction, it plays a critical role in securing the project from threats posed by pro-independence Papuan resistance groups in “high-risk” regions. Spanning a total

    View from The Hill: Nationals’ mavericks ensure the Coalition is the issue in parliament’s first week
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra For almost as long anyone can remember, the Nationals have caused the Coalition grief on climate and energy policy. Still, for Barnaby Joyce to bring on a fresh load of trouble – with a private member’s bill to scrap Australia’s

    Childcare centres will have funding stripped if they’re not ‘up to scratch’. Is this enough?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Erin Harper, Lecturer, School of Education and Social Work, University of Sydney Maskot/Getty Images Childcare centres will lose their eligibility for fee subsidies if they don’t meet safety standards, according to a new bill introduced to parliament on Wednesday. As Education Minister Jason Clare told parliament: it

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-Evening Report: ER Report: A Roundup of Significant Articles on EveningReport.nz for July 24, 2025

    ER Report: Here is a summary of significant articles published on EveningReport.nz on July 24, 2025.

    World’s highest court issues groundbreaking ruling for climate action. Here’s what it means for Australia
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Wesley Morgan, Research Associate, Institute for Climate Risk and Response, UNSW Sydney JOHN THYS/AFP via Getty Images The world’s highest court says countries are legally obliged to prevent harms caused by climate change, in a ruling that repudiates Australia’s claims it is not legally responsible for emissions

    Politics with Michelle Grattan: Chris Bowen on why it’s ‘a little frustrating’ bidding for COP 31
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra Energy and climate issues are front and centre for both sides of politics. The government is struggling with pushback from some regional communities against the rollout of transmission lines and wind farms. At the same time, it will soon have

    Cycling’s governing body is introducing new rules to slow down elite riders. Not everyone’s happy
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Popi Sotiriadou, Associate Professor of Sport Management – Director Business Innovation, Griffith University MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images Most sports look to support their athletes to become “faster, higher, stronger” – in reference to the Olympic Games’ original motto – so it is perhaps surprising that cycling’s

    Swirling nebula of two dying stars revealed in spectacular detail in new Webb telescope image
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Benjamin Pope, Associate Professor, School of Mathematical and Physical Sciences, Macquarie University The day before my thesis examination, my friend and radio astronomer Joe Callingham showed me an image we’d been awaiting for five long years – an infrared photo of two dying stars we’d requested from

    UN’s highest court finds countries can be held legally responsible for emissions
    By Jamie Tahana in The Hague for RNZ Pacific The United Nations’ highest court has found that countries can be held legally responsible for their greenhouse gas emissions, in a ruling highly anticipated by Pacific countries long frustrated with the pace of global action to address climate change. In a landmark opinion delivered yesterday in

    Five arms, no heart and a global family: what DNA revealed about the weird deep-sea world of brittle stars
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Tim O’Hara, Senior Curator of Marine Invertebrates, Museums Victoria Research Institute A brittle star of the species _Gorgonocephalus eucnemis_. Lagunatic Photo / Getty Images You may have read that the deep sea is a very different environment from the land and shallow water. There is no light,

    Birds use hidden black and white feathers to make themselves more colourful
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Simon Griffith, Professor of Avian Behavioural Ecology, Macquarie University The green-headed tanager (_Tangara seledon_) has a hidden layer of plumage that is white underneath the orange feathers and black underneath the blue and green feathers. Daniel Field Birds are perhaps the most colourful group of animals, bringing

    Is sleeping a lot actually bad for your health? A sleep scientist explains
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Charlotte Gupta, Senior Postdoctoral Research Fellow, Appleton Institute, HealthWise Research Group, CQUniversity Australia Walstrom, Susanne/Getty We’re constantly being reminded by news articles and social media posts that we should be getting more sleep. You probably don’t need to hear it again – not sleeping enough is bad

    From grasslands to killing fields: why trees are bad news for one of Australia’s most stunning birds
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Gabriel Crowley, Adjunct Associate Professor in Geography, University of Adelaide JJ Harrison/Wikimedia, CC BY Picture this. A small, rainbow-coloured chick emerges from its nest for the first time. It stretches its wings and prepares to take flight. But before the fledgling’s life in the wild has begun,

    As seas rise and fish decline, this Fijian village is finding new ways to adapt
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Celia McMichael, Professor in Geography, The University of Melbourne Celia McMichael, CC BY-NC-ND In the village of Nagigi, Fiji, the ocean isn’t just a resource – it’s part of the community’s identity. But in recent years, villagers have seen the sea behave differently. Tides are pushing inland.

    After 70 years, twisted gothic thriller The Night of the Hunter remains as disturbing and beguiling as ever
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ben McCann, Associate Professor of French Studies, University of Adelaide United Artists/Getty Images In 1955, director Charles Laughton crafted one of the darkest, strangest fairytales ever to come out of Hollywood. The Night of the Hunter remains visually exquisite and profoundly unsettling. Shortly before Ben Harper is

    Almost a third of NZ households face energy hardship – reform has to go beyond cheaper off-peak power
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Kimberley O’Sullivan, Senior Research Fellow, He Kainga Oranga – Housing and Health Research Programme, University of Otago Igor Suka/Getty Images The spotlight is again on New Zealand’s energy sector, with a group of industry bodies and independent retailers pushing for a market overhaul, saying the sector was

    Immigration courts hiding the names of ICE lawyers goes against centuries of precedent and legal ethics requiring transparency in courts
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Cassandra Burke Robertson, Professor of Law and Director of the Center for Professional Ethics, Case Western Reserve University Some immigration courts have allowed ICE attorneys to conceal their names during proceedings. Jacob Wackerhausen/iStock via Getty Images Something unusual is happening in U.S. immigration courts. Government lawyers are

    How the UK’s immigration system splits families apart – by design
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Nando Sigona, Professor of International Migration and Forced Displacement and Director of the Institute for Research into International Migration and Superdiversity, University of Birmingham arda savasciogullari/Shutterstock The letter that arrived for eleven-year-old Guilherme in June 2025 was addressed personally to him. The UK Home Office was informing

    4.48 Psychosis revival: the play’s window into a mind on the edge is as brutal as ever
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Leah Sidi, Associate Professor of Health Humanities, UCL Under bright lights, the audience looks at a bare stage on two planes. Below, a small stage is white and empty, occupied only by a table and two chairs. Above, a huge, slanted mirror reflects a bird’s-eye view of

    Togo’s ‘Nana-Benz’: how cheap Chinese imports of African fabrics has hurt the famous women traders
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Fidele B. Ebia, Postdoctoral fellow, Duke Africa Initiative, Duke University The manufacturing of African print textiles has shifted to China in the 21st century. While they are widely consumed in African countries – and symbolic of the continent – the rise of “made in China” has undermined

    2 ways cities can beat the heat: Which is best, urban trees or cool roofs?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Ian Smith, Research Scientist in Earth & Environment, Boston University Trees like these in Boston can help keep neighborhoods cooler on hot days. Yassine Khalfalli/Unsplash, CC BY When summer turns up the heat, cities can start to feel like an oven, as buildings and pavement trap the

    Indonesian military set to complete Trans-Papua Highway under Prabowo’s rule
    By Julian Isaac The Indonesian Military (TNI) is committed to supporting the completion of the Trans-Papua Highway during President Prabowo Subianto’s term in office. While the military is not involved in construction, it plays a critical role in securing the project from threats posed by pro-independence Papuan resistance groups in “high-risk” regions. Spanning a total

    View from The Hill: Nationals’ mavericks ensure the Coalition is the issue in parliament’s first week
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Michelle Grattan, Professorial Fellow, University of Canberra For almost as long anyone can remember, the Nationals have caused the Coalition grief on climate and energy policy. Still, for Barnaby Joyce to bring on a fresh load of trouble – with a private member’s bill to scrap Australia’s

    Childcare centres will have funding stripped if they’re not ‘up to scratch’. Is this enough?
    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Erin Harper, Lecturer, School of Education and Social Work, University of Sydney Maskot/Getty Images Childcare centres will lose their eligibility for fee subsidies if they don’t meet safety standards, according to a new bill introduced to parliament on Wednesday. As Education Minister Jason Clare told parliament: it

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Cycling’s governing body is introducing new rules to slow down elite riders. Not everyone’s happy

    Source: The Conversation – Global Perspectives – By Popi Sotiriadou, Associate Professor of Sport Management – Director Business Innovation, Griffith University

    MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images

    Most sports look to support their athletes to become “faster, higher, stronger” – in reference to the Olympic Games’ original motto – so it is perhaps surprising that cycling’s world governing body is trying to slow down elite riders.

    However, there’s good reason the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) recently announced new rules to slow riders down.

    These rules – which apply to elite road and cyclo-cross mass-start events for men and women such as the Tour de France – come into place shortly and are aimed at improving rider safety.



    Read more:
    I rode the Tour de France to study its impact on the human body – here’s what I learned

    What are the new rules?

    From August 1, a new bicycle gearing regulation will kick in.

    Professional cyclists will only be allowed to use a 54-tooth front chainring with an 11-tooth rear cog.

    This replaces the current common setup of 54-10.

    To put this into context, a 54-tooth chainring is the big front gear on a bike and the 11-tooth cog is a small rear gear. Moving to a slightly bigger cog (54-11) makes it harder to hit top speeds: the change from a 54-10 to a 54-11 gear setup could reduce the top speed by about 2.4 kilometres per hour.

    Pro riders can reach incredible speeds during descents, sometimes surpassing 130 kilometres per hour.

    Then, from January 1 2026, handlebars must become wider, increasing from a minimum 350–360 millimetres width (depending on the event) to at least 400mm wide.

    The handlebar width affects how a rider controls their bike: narrower bars reduce frontal surface area, making a rider more aerodynamic which again means a faster ride.

    This is especially useful in time trials or sprints.

    Wider bars offer better stability and control, helping navigate tight turns, peloton traffic, or crosswinds.

    The UCI has also announced plans to introduce a formal helmet approval protocol in 2027, which will include separate standards for helmets used in mass-start events and time trials.

    This shift suggests helmets may soon be subject to the same pre-race approval process as frames and wheels, potentially leading to safer, more regulated head protection.

    New rules, different opinions

    Professional cycling is getting faster due to stronger athletes, better training and advanced, lighter equipment.

    As a result, high-speed crashes, especially downhill or in crowded sprint finishes, have become more common and more dangerous.

    The UCI maintain the new regulations are part of a broader strategy to mitigate speed-related risks, enhance safety and uphold the integrity of the sport.

    However, these measures have sparked debate within the cycling community.

    Some elite cyclists, particularly those who have suffered severe crashes and injuries, suggest it is time safety caught up with technology.

    Wout van Aert, who suffered a severe knee injury in September 2024 during a wet descent, said:

    Limiting the number of gears would make the sport much safer.

    Chris Froome, four-time Tour de France winner, also said he supported strategies “to keep the speeds down on the descents”.

    The Professional Cycling Council supports testing gear ratio limits.

    It is also likely these changes could limit cutting-edge innovations that only wealthy teams can afford. This would in turn narrow technological disparities across teams.

    Former pro Michael Barry though believes gear restrictions are not the answer, and the UCI should instead focus on improved course design and inspection, better barriers and crash protective clothing.

    Technology experts agree, arguing speed is determined more by a rider’s power output and aerodynamic drag than by gear ratios. To enhance safety, they propose alternative solutions such as real-time rider tracking, crash-protective clothing, improved course design and inspection and faster medical response.

    The wider handlebar rule has also stirred controversy, especially among smaller-framed riders, many of whom are women, who typically ride with 360–380mm handlebars for better comfort and control.

    Under the new regulation, those forced to use bars that exceed their optimal fit range could end up suffering from poor wrist alignment, increased fatigue and a higher risk of repetitive strain injuries.

    Despite the growth of women’s cycling, the UCI has not made exemptions for smaller riders, raising concerns a one-size-fits-all solution may compromise inclusively and safety.

    Even though regular riders can continue to use the equipment they prefer, what happens in the pro world often shapes non-elite rider preferences and trends, and the bikes sold in stores. If narrower bars are banned at the top level, manufacturers may stop offering them.

    Historically, advancements in aerodynamics, gear ratios and component weights seen in the pro peloton have become standard features on consumer bikes.

    A delicate balance

    The UCI’s new regulations mark a likely shift towards standardised equipment and heightened safety. This deliberate emphasis on safety naturally elevates awareness among all cyclists about the crucial link between equipment choices and rider wellbeing.

    While these restrictions may foster a more level playing field, they also risk curbing the sport’s long-standing tradition of engineering innovation.

    The very appeal of professional cycling has often been intrinsically tied to the relentless pursuit of technological advancements that yield even fractional competitive advantages.

    Striking a balance between ensuring safety and preserving this spirit of ingenuity remains a crucial challenge for the sport’s future.

    Popi Sotiriadou does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Cycling’s governing body is introducing new rules to slow down elite riders. Not everyone’s happy – https://theconversation.com/cyclings-governing-body-is-introducing-new-rules-to-slow-down-elite-riders-not-everyones-happy-260917

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-Evening Report: Cycling’s governing body is introducing new rules to slow down elite riders. Not everyone’s happy

    Source: The Conversation (Au and NZ) – By Popi Sotiriadou, Associate Professor of Sport Management – Director Business Innovation, Griffith University

    MARCO BERTORELLO/AFP via Getty Images

    Most sports look to support their athletes to become “faster, higher, stronger” – in reference to the Olympic Games’ original motto – so it is perhaps surprising that cycling’s world governing body is trying to slow down elite riders.

    However, there’s good reason the Union Cycliste Internationale (UCI) recently announced new rules to slow riders down.

    These rules – which apply to elite road and cyclo-cross mass-start events for men and women such as the Tour de France – come into place shortly and are aimed at improving rider safety.



    Read more:
    I rode the Tour de France to study its impact on the human body – here’s what I learned

    What are the new rules?

    From August 1, a new bicycle gearing regulation will kick in.

    Professional cyclists will only be allowed to use a 54-tooth front chainring with an 11-tooth rear cog.

    This replaces the current common setup of 54-10.

    To put this into context, a 54-tooth chainring is the big front gear on a bike and the 11-tooth cog is a small rear gear. Moving to a slightly bigger cog (54-11) makes it harder to hit top speeds: the change from a 54-10 to a 54-11 gear setup could reduce the top speed by about 2.4 kilometres per hour.

    Pro riders can reach incredible speeds during descents, sometimes surpassing 130 kilometres per hour.

    Then, from January 1, 2026, handlebars must become wider, increasing from a minimum 350–360 millimetres width (depending on the event) to at least 400mm wide.

    The handlebar width affects how a rider controls their bike: narrower bars reduce frontal surface area, making a rider more aerodynamic which again means a faster ride.

    This is especially useful in time trials or sprints.

    Wider bars offer better stability and control, helping navigate tight turns, peloton traffic, or crosswinds.

    The UCI has also announced plans to introduce a formal helmet approval protocol in 2027, which will include separate standards for helmets used in mass-start events and time trials.

    This shift suggests helmets may soon be subject to the same pre-race approval process as frames and wheels, potentially leading to safer, more regulated head protection.

    New rules, different opinions

    Professional cycling is getting faster due to stronger athletes, better training and advanced, lighter equipment.

    As a result, high-speed crashes, especially downhill or in crowded sprint finishes, have become more common and more dangerous.

    The UCI maintain the new regulations are part of a broader strategy to mitigate speed-related risks, enhance safety and uphold the integrity of the sport.

    However, these measures have sparked debate within the cycling community.

    Some elite cyclists, particularly those who have suffered severe crashes and injuries, suggest it is time safety caught up with technology.

    Wout van Aert, who suffered a severe knee injury in September 2024 during a wet descent, said:

    Limiting the number of gears would make the sport much safer.

    Chris Froome, four-time Tour de France winner, also said he supported strategies “to keep the speeds down on the descents”.

    The Professional Cycling Council supports testing gear ratio limits.

    It is also likely these changes could limit cutting-edge innovations that only wealthy teams can afford. This would in turn narrow technological disparities across teams.

    Former pro Michael Barry though believes gear restrictions are not the answer, and the UCI should instead focus on improved course design and inspection, better barriers and crash protective clothing.

    Technology experts agree, arguing speed is determined more by a rider’s power output and aerodynamic drag than by gear ratios. To enhance safety, they propose alternative solutions such as real-time rider tracking, crash-protective clothing, improved course design and inspection and faster medical response.

    The wider handlebar rule has also stirred controversy, especially among smaller-framed riders, many of whom are women, who typically ride with 360–380mm handlebars for better comfort and control.

    Under the new regulation, those forced to use bars that exceed their optimal fit range could end up suffering from poor wrist alignment, increased fatigue and a higher risk of repetitive strain injuries.

    Despite the growth of women’s cycling, the UCI has not made exemptions for smaller riders, raising concerns a one-size-fits-all solution may compromise inclusively and safety.

    Even though regular riders can continue to use the equipment they prefer, what happens in the pro world often shapes non-elite rider preferences and trends, and the bikes sold in stores. If narrower bars are banned at the top level, manufacturers may stop offering them.

    Historically, advancements in aerodynamics, gear ratios and component weights seen in the pro peloton have become standard features on consumer bikes.

    A delicate balance

    The UCI’s new regulations mark a likely shift towards standardised equipment and heightened safety. This deliberate emphasis on safety naturally elevates awareness among all cyclists about the crucial link between equipment choices and rider wellbeing.

    While these restrictions may foster a more level playing field, they also risk curbing the sport’s long-standing tradition of engineering innovation.

    The very appeal of professional cycling has often been intrinsically tied to the relentless pursuit of technological advancements that yield even fractional competitive advantages.

    Striking a balance between ensuring safety and preserving this spirit of ingenuity remains a crucial challenge for the sport’s future.

    Popi Sotiriadou does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Cycling’s governing body is introducing new rules to slow down elite riders. Not everyone’s happy – https://theconversation.com/cyclings-governing-body-is-introducing-new-rules-to-slow-down-elite-riders-not-everyones-happy-260917

    MIL OSI Analysis – EveningReport.nz –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Tuberville Speaks to USDA Undersecretary of Agriculture Nominee

    US Senate News:

    Source: United States Senator for Alabama Tommy Tuberville

    WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Tommy Tuberville (R-AL) participated in a Committee on Agriculture, Nutrition, and Forestry hearing today to consider Mr. Richard Fordyce to be Under Secretary of Agriculture for Farm Production and Conservation. During the hearing, Sen. Tuberville and Mr. Fordyce discussed the Farm Board Act and Mid-South Oilseed Double Cropping Study Act—two pieces of legislation Sen. Tuberville introduced today to help Alabama farmers and livestock producers. Sen. Tuberville and Mr. Fordyce also discussed the need to increase guaranteed loan limits to ease the burden on our poultry producers and problems Alabama continues to face with feral swine.

    Excerpts from the interview can be found below and the full interview can be viewed on YouTube or Rumble.

    ON ADDING A PRODUCER FOR LIVESTOCK AND CROPS TO FCIC:

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you very much. Thank you, Mr. Fordyce for being here. I grew up close to a town called Fordyce in Arkansas, home of a famous football coach years ago, Mr. Bear Bryant. 

    Thanks for wanting to do this again in another fashion. Thanks for your service because it is awfully hard. […] First of all, I wanna know if you’ll help me support these bills. I just put two new bills, Ag bills, on the floor today. […] The first addresses the Federal Crop Insurance Board of Directors. There are four seats for producers, and we want one of those seats to be for a producer of both livestock and crops to provide a different perspective for various new livestock crops insurance products RMA (Risk Management Agency) is implementing. That’s my first one. Does that sound pretty good?”

    FORDYCE: “Yes, Senator. It actually does. It sounds like it makes some sense. […]”

    TUBERVILLE: “Now we’re from Alabama, and we can make some sense now. OK?”

    […]

    FORDYCE: “So, I’m not backpedaling, Senator, but I think what I would need to do is understand exactly what the makeup is of the Federal Crop Insurance Board, but it sounds like a good idea to me.”

    ON CONDUCTING AN RMA STUDY FOR OILSEED:

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. Thank you. The second bill would authorize a study for double and rotational cropping of winter canola in the Mid-South region. This would gather data as farmers in North Alabama and Tennessee are starting to grow winter canola for synthetic aviation fuel and diesel fuel. All these bills get complex. […]”

    FORDYCE: “I’m sure that is complex, but I am aware of the winter canola effort. And I would say that I would applaud the RMA for being responsive and having the ability to, you know, to evolve as things change. So, I would think that they would take a look at what kind of options might be available.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Thank you. And as we all know, our farmers are in bad trouble. I have a lot of friends that are huge farmers, and they don’t know whether they’re gonna make it through the year, much less through this crop. […]”

    ON RAISING GUARANTEED LOAN LIMITS:

    TUBERVILLE: “So, access to credit is becoming harder and harder. This year was really tough. We had to come up with some subsidies for some of the farmers to get them through this past winter to get another crop. Poultry producers are facing huge challenges, steep cost of poultry houses. $3.5 million for four houses. Can you discuss the importance of increasing our guaranteed loan limits to $3.5 million because of that?”

    FORDYCE: “Well, I was serving as the Administrator for the Farm Service Agency the last time the loan limits were raised. And I think it was welcomed certainly by the agency, and it was welcomed by the producers that the farm loan programs serve. And if that were the intent of Congress to raise those loan limits, I think that would be appropriate given the cost of things and the entry level costs of things.”

    ON FERAL SWINE ERADICATION PROGRAM:

    TUBERVILLE: “It’s going to sky high. It’s not getting any cheaper. One quick question: feral swine. We got huge problems in our state, and I know in other states. In the Big Beautiful Bill, we had $105 million for the feral swine eradication program. What’s your stance on the eradication program? You think we’re making progress?”

    FORDYCE: “That would be tough for me to say. We do have those in Missouri as well.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Y’all have hogs?!”

    FORDYCE: “We have, yeah. We have feral swine. We have wild hogs in Missouri. […] Well, in Missouri, they’ve stopped the ability for folks to hunt them because the idea was that if they’re hunting them, then there has to continue to be a supply of them, and somehow, they just keep showing up. So, I don’t know, I guess, it was, maybe, is one way of looking at it.”

    TUBERVILLE: “Well, just let them know that us and Alabama will send you some if you need them. Because we got a way over abundance. And we’re gonna send them to Senator Grassley in Iowa. He loves hogs. Thank you, Mr. Chairman.”

    Senator Tommy Tuberville represents Alabama in the United States Senate and is a member of the Senate Armed Services, Agriculture, Veterans’ Affairs, HELP and Aging Committees.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Sweet spot for daily steps is lower than often thought, new study finds

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Jack McNamara, Senior Lecturer in Clinical Exercise Physiology, University of East London

    Focus and blur.

    Your fitness tracker might be lying to you. That 10,000-step target flashing on your wrist? It didn’t come from decades of careful research. It came from a Japanese walking club and a marketing campaign in the 1960s.

    A major new study has found that 7,000 steps a day dramatically cuts your risk of death and disease. And more steps bring even greater benefits.

    People hitting 7,000 daily steps had a 47% lower risk of dying prematurely than those managing just 2,000 steps, plus extra protection against heart disease, cancer and dementia.

    The findings come from the biggest review of step counts and health ever done. Researchers gathered data from 57 separate studies tracking more than 160,000 people for up to two decades, then combined all the results to spot patterns that individual studies might miss. This approach, called a systematic review, gives scientists much more confidence in their conclusions than any single study could.

    So where did that magic 10,000 number come from? A pedometer company called Yamasa wanted to cash in on 1964 Tokyo Olympics fever. It launched a device called Manpo-kei – literally “10,000 steps meter”. The Japanese character for 10,000 resembles a walking person, while 10,000 itself is a memorable round number. It was a clever marketing choice that stuck.

    At that time, there was no robust evidence for whether a target of 10,000 steps made sense. Early research suggested that jumping from a typical 3,000 to 5,000 daily steps to 10,000 would burn roughly 300 to 400 extra calories a day. So the target wasn’t completely random – just accidentally reasonable.

    This latest research paper looked across a broad spectrum – not just whether people died, but heart disease, cancer, diabetes, dementia, depression and even falls. The results tell a fascinating story. Even tiny increases matter. Jump from 2,000 to 4,000 steps daily and your death risk drops by 36%. That’s a substantial improvement.

    But here’s where it gets interesting. The biggest health benefits happen between zero and 7,000 steps. Beyond that, benefits keep coming, but they level off considerably. Studies have found meaningful benefits starting at just 2,517 steps per day. For some people, that could be as little as a 20-minute stroll around the block.

    Age changes everything, too. If you’re over 60, you hit maximum benefits at 6,000 to 8,000 daily steps. Under 60? You need 8,000 to 10,000 steps for the same protection. Your 70-year-old neighbour gets 77% lower heart disease risk at just 4,500 steps daily.

    The real secret of why fitness targets often fail? People give up on them.

    Research comparing different step goals found a clear pattern. Eighty-five per cent of people stuck with 10,000 daily steps. Bump it to 12,500 steps and only 77% kept going. Push for 15,000 steps and you lose nearly a third of people.

    One major study followed middle-aged adults for 11 years. Those hitting 7,000 to 9,999 steps daily had 50-70% lower death risk. But getting beyond 10,000 steps? No extra benefit. All that extra effort for nothing. Other researchers watching people over a full year saw the same thing. Step programmes worked brilliantly at first, then people slowly drifted back to old habits as targets felt unrealistic.

    Steps easily accumulate from everyday activities.
    Marius Comanescu/Shutterstock.com

    Most steps happen without you realising it

    Here’s something that might surprise you. Most of your daily steps don’t come from structured walks or gym sessions. Eighty per cent happen during everyday activities – tidying up, walking to the car, general movement around the house.

    People naturally build steps through five main routes: work (walking between meetings), commuting (those train station treks), household chores, evening strolls and tiny incidental movements. People using public transport clock up 19 minutes of walking daily just getting around.

    Research has also found something else interesting. Frequent short bursts of activity work as well as longer walks. Your body doesn’t care if you get steps from one epic hike or dozens of trips up the stairs. This matters because it means you don’t need to become a completely different person. You just need to move a bit more within your existing routine.

    So, what does this mean for you? Even 2,500 daily steps brings real health benefits. Push up to 4,000 and you’re in serious protection territory. Hit 7,000 and you’ve captured most of the available benefits.

    For older people, those with health conditions, or anyone starting from a sedentary baseline, 7,000 steps is brilliant. It’s achievable and delivers massive health returns. But if you’re healthy and can manage more, keep going. The benefits climb all the way up to 12,000 steps daily, cutting death risk by up to 55%.

    The 10,000-step target isn’t wrong exactly. It’s just not the magic threshold everyone thinks it is.

    What started as a Japanese company’s clever marketing trick has accidentally become one of our most useful health tools. Decades of research have refined that original guess into something much more sophisticated: personalised targets based on your age, health and what you can actually stick to.

    The real revelation? You don’t need to hit some arbitrary target to transform your health. You just need to move more than you do now. Every single step counts.

    Jack McNamara does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Sweet spot for daily steps is lower than often thought, new study finds – https://theconversation.com/sweet-spot-for-daily-steps-is-lower-than-often-thought-new-study-finds-261605

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI China: Yin headlines star-studded field for 2025 Buick LPGA Shanghai

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    The Buick LPGA Shanghai will return to the Shanghai Qizhong Garden Golf Club from October 9-12, organizers announced on Wednesday.

    As the first event of the 2025 LPGA Fall Asia Swing, it will bring together the world’s top female golfers for a thrilling showdown, delivering an elite competition and reigniting golf’s momentum.

    Yin Ruoning of China competes during the women’s individual stroke play round 1 of golf at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games in Paris, France, Aug. 7, 2024. (Xinhua/Du Yu)

    Jointly sanctioned by the LPGA (Ladies Professional Golf Association) and the China LPGA (CLPGA), the Buick LPGA Shanghai has established itself as a global stage for champions.

    Featuring 81 top players competing for a 2.2 million U.S. dollars purse under a no-cut format, the Buick LPGA Shanghai will see defending champion Yin Ruoning headline the world-class lineup. The Chinese star, a former world No. 1 and major winner, aims for back-to-back victories on home soil.

    In the autumn of 2024, Yin Ruoning delivered a career-defining performance at the Buick LPGA Shanghai, carding eight birdies in a blistering final round to shoot 8-under par and finish at a record-breaking 25-under par, claiming the title and etching her name into the tournament lore.

    “The Buick LPGA Shanghai holds a special place in my heart,” said Yin. “It has witnessed my growth and opened the door for countless young Chinese players to pursue their dreams. I am deeply grateful to the Buick brand for its lasting support of me, junior golf, and the overall development of the sport in China.”

    MIL OSI China News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Deadline Approaches to Register for 2025 Governor’s Summit

    Source: US State of Nebraska

    . Registrations should be submitted online at govsummit.nebraska.gov by Thursday, July 31st.

    “Our state’s incredible economy is driven by two main engines—agriculture and manufacturing,” said Gov. Pillen. “In Nebraska, we grow things and make things that are in demand worldwide, and we do it better than any place else in the world. At this summer’s Summit, we’ll explore how to generate even more value by uniting our strengths in ag and manufacturing to lead the nation’s new bioeconomy.”

    This year’s Governor’s Summit takes place August 13-14 in Kearney. It will feature breakout tracks on workforce development, manufacturing, and the bioeconomy. Husker football coach Matt Rhule will give the keynote address on Thursday morning, August 14th.

    A complete rundown of activities and breakout sessions can be found on the website (govsummit.nebraska.gov).

    In conjunction with the main conference, the State is hosting the inaugural Governor’s Youth Summit on August 14th in Kearney. The experience is designed for high school students and recent graduates, providing them with direct access to career opportunities in Nebraska. During the event, student attendees will connect one-on-one with businesses and colleges to learn about internships, scholarships, and other career pathways. More information about the Youth Summit is available at govsummit.nebraska.gov/youth.

    For an agenda and registration information for the 2025 Governor’s Summit, go to govsummit.nebraska.gov.

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI USA: Congressman Valadao Urges DOT to Reinvest $4 Billion from High-Speed Rail to Infrastructure Improvements

    Source: United States House of Representatives – Congressman David G. Valadao (California)

    It’s been over 10 years since the California High-Speed Rail Authority began construction, and after wasting billions of taxpayer dollars, missing numerous deadlines, and forcing the Central Valley to suffer due to neglect, they have zero miles of operational track to show for it.

    WASHINGTON – Congressman David Valadao (CA-22) joined Reps. Vince Fong (CA-20), Ken Calvert (CA-41), Darrell Issa (CA-48), Tom McClintock (CA-05), Doug LaMalfa (CA-01), Young Kim (CA-40), Jay Obernolte (CA-23), and Kevin Kiley (CA-03) to send Department of Transportation (DOT) Secretary Sean Duffy a letter applauding the Federal Railroad Administration’s decision to terminate funding for California’s High-Speed Rail project. The letter urges DOT to redirect the $4 billion in recovered federal funds to critical infrastructure priorities across California.

    “It’s been over 10 years since the California High-Speed Rail Authority began construction, and after wasting billions of taxpayer dollars, missing numerous deadlines, and forcing the Central Valley to suffer due to neglect, they have zero miles of operational track to show for it,” said Congressman Valadao. “This project has been overfunded and grossly mismanaged from the start, and it’s past time we refocus our efforts and resources on infrastructure projects our region needs.” 

    The letter recommends funds be redirected to:

    • Expanding State Route 99, Interstate 15, Interstate 5, Interstate 395, Interstate 80, and State Route 65.
    • Supporting repairs on roadways designated as farm-to-market roads.
    • Shifting State Route 152 and modify a bridge on Interstate 5 to accommodate for needed reservoir capacity improvements.
    • Improving a bypass on State Route 70.
    • Repairing roads damaged by the Los Angeles wildfires.
    • Supporting infrastructure improvements needed for the 2028 Olympics.

    Read the full letter here.

    ###

    MIL OSI USA News –

  • MIL-OSI Europe: Ukrainian school in southwestern city of Chernivtsi reopens after major EU funded renovation

    Source: European Investment Bank

    EIB

    • School in Ukrainian city of Chernivtsi in southwestern Ukraine reopens after €930,000 renovation funded by EIB
    • Upgrades to Gymnasium No. 20 improve conditions for more than 400 students and teachers
    • Project covered by EIB’s €200 million Ukraine Early Recovery Programme

    A school in the southwestern Ukrainian city of Chernivtsi reopened today after major upgrades funded by the European Investment Bank (EIB). Gymnasium No. 20 – a primary and middle school – underwent a €930,000 renovation that improved conditions for more than 400 students and teachers.

    Among the students, who range in age from six to 15, are children who have been displaced by Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022.   

    The works included equipping the school building with full thermal insulation, a new roof, energy‑efficient windows and doors and a heating system that better regulates indoor temperatures and reduces energy costs. In addition, a new ramp and repaired entrances facilitated access to the premises, particularly for more than 10 children with disabilities.

    “The EIB plays a key role in helping Ukrainian municipalities restore essential social infrastructure,” said EIB Vice-President Teresa Czerwińska, who oversees the bank’s operations in Ukraine. “The renovated school in Chernivtsi is a clear example of how our support brings safer and more inclusive spaces for children to learn and thrive, even in challenging times.”

    The upgrades to Gymnasium No. 20 were completed in six months under a €200 million EIB initiative called the Ukraine Early Recovery Programme. The programme is one of three joint European Union‑EIB recovery initiatives carried out with the Ukrainian Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, the Ministry of Finance and local authorities in participating cities, with technical support from the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP).

    “Reopening this school is a clear sign that recovery is happening on the ground,” said Deputy Prime Minister for Restoration of Ukraine and Minister for Communities and Territories Development of Ukraine Oleksii Kuleba. “Together with our European partners, we are creating safer, more resilient communities for Ukrainians.”

    Chernivtsi Mayor Roman Klichuk echoed the point: “Thanks to our European partners, more than 400 children and staff now have a warm, safe and modern school that meets their needs.”

    In the Chernivtsi region, or oblast, the EIB is also funding two projects to repair administrative service centres and four projects to upgrade heating, water supply and sewage systems. These initiatives, as was the case with the renovation of Gymnasium No. 20, are being carried out in cooperation with the Chernivtsi Regional Military Administration and the Chernivtsi City Council.

    “Every renovated school – like the one in Chernivtsi – is a building block in Ukraine’s recovery,” said Stefan Schleuning, Head of Cooperation at the EU Delegation to Ukraine. “Together with the EIB, we are working hand in hand with communities across the country to help rebuild a stronger Ukraine.”

    “More renovations to facilities will follow to strengthen the region’s social infrastructure,” said Ruslan Zaparaniuk, head of the Chernivtsi Regional Military Administration.

    “Through our partnership with the EIB and local authorities, UNDP is helping Ukraine rebuild more strongly by ensuring recovery investments enhance community resilience and establish sustainable foundations for long-term development,” said UNDP Resident Representative in Ukraine Auke Lootsma. “Projects such as this school renovation in Chernivtsi embody this approach.”

    Background information

    The EIB in Ukraine 

    Present in Ukraine since 2007, the EIB has stepped up its financial support for the country’s resilience and modernisation since Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Since then, the EIB has provided €3.6 billion in financing, with almost two-thirds already disbursed. Through its EU for Ukraine (EU4U) Initiative, coupled with its key role in implementing a dedicated window under Pillar 2 of the Ukraine Facility, the EIB is strongly committed to stepping up and accelerating its activities in line with the mandate given by EU leaders and in close cooperation with the European Commission, the European Parliament, Member States and international partners. 

    EIB recovery programmes in Ukraine

    The reconstruction of the gymnasium in Chernivtsi was carried out under the Ukraine Early Recovery Programme, one of three recovery initiatives supported by the European Investment Bank (EIB). As of July 2025, the EIB has provided €740 million through these programmes to support Ukraine’s recovery.  The funding helps the government to restore essential services in communities across the country – including schools, kindergartens, hospitals, housing, heating and water systems. These EIB-backed programmes are further supported by €15 million in EU grants to facilitate implementation. The Ministry for Development of Communities and Territories of Ukraine, in cooperation with the Ministry of Finance, coordinates and oversees programme implementation, while local authorities and self-governments are responsible for managing recovery sub-projects. The United Nations Development Programme (UNDP) in Ukraine provides technical assistance to local communities, supporting project implementation and ensuring independent monitoring for transparency and accountability. More information about the programmes is available here.

    Ukrainian school in southwestern city of Chernivtsi reopens after major EU funded renovation
    Ukrainian school in southwestern city of Chernivtsi reopens after major EU funded renovation
    ©EIB
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    Ukrainian school in southwestern city of Chernivtsi reopens after major EU funded renovation
    Ukrainian school in southwestern city of Chernivtsi reopens after major EU funded renovation
    ©EIB
    Download original

    MIL OSI Europe News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: National award for Portsmouth Trading Standards

    Source: City of Portsmouth

    The work Portsmouth Trading Standards does to fight the illegal trade of fake goods has earned a prestigious national award.

    The small Portsmouth City Council team has seized tens-of-thousands-of-pounds worth of fake tobacco products in single inspections, removing fake and unsafe cigarettes, tobacco and vapes from criminal operations.

    Storage units loaded with huge amounts of branded clothing and electrical goods falsely labelled as major brands were also uncovered and stopped from being sold online.

    This work saw Portsmouth crowned Team Commendation Winners at the acclaimed ACG Enforcement Awards 2025, which recognises excellence in preventing criminals selling counterfeit goods across the UK.

    Cllr Lee Hunt, Portsmouth City Council Cabinet Member for Community Safety, Leisure, and Sport, said:

    “Huge congratulations goes to our Trading Standards team on this really significant award. They came up against much larger enforcement teams but won because of their diligence, dedication and skill.

    “While the sale of fake, cheap goods might sound harmless, the truth is these products are unregulated and unsafe for consumers. Behind the scenes there’s often large, criminal gangs who target people of all ages, including children.

    “Thanks to our Trading Standards team, criminal activity is being disrupted across the city and the perpetrators are being held to account.

    “The criminal sale of fake goods is growing nation-wide, so we urge people to carefully consider what they’re buying, who is profiting, and the human cost of producing cheap items.”

    Unannounced inspections of sellers across the city continues to result in large fines and convictions. The latest saw the owners of Fratton Food Store ordered to pay over £27,000 or face jail for the supply of 45,000 fake cigarettes.

    People are strongly advised against purchasing anything they believe might not be genuine, either in person or online. Find tips on avoiding fakes online on ACG’s website.

    If you suspect someone of selling counterfeit goods you can report it:

    Email Portsmouth Trading Standards: trading.standards@portsmouthcc.gov.uk

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Submissions: Five ways professional athletes are redefining the limits of age in sport

    Source: The Conversation – UK – By Paul Hough, Lecturer Sport & Exercise Physiology , University of Westminster

    Maciej Rogowski Photo/Shutterstock

    In elite sport, the phrase “past your prime” is rapidly being redefined.

    At 38, Jess Fishlock just became the oldest goalscorer in UEFA Women’s Euro history. At Euro 2024, Portuguese defender Pepe made headlines not for a red card or faking injury — but for simply stepping onto the pitch at age 41, becoming the oldest player to feature in a European Championship. Fellow veterans Cristiano Ronaldo (39), Luka Modrić (38), and Keylor Navas (38) also made appearances.

    And it’s not just football. Serena Williams won the Australian Open at 35 (while pregnant). Roger Federer won a Grand Slam at 36. Rafael Nadal became the oldest French Open champion at 36. Novak Djokovic, now 38, won Olympic gold in 2024 and reached the semi-finals of all three Grand Slams this 2025.

    In American sports, Tom Brady retired at 45 after 23 physically punishing NFL seasons. LeBron James, at 39, is still dominating in the NBA, having won the inaugural NBA Cup with the LA Lakers in 2023.

    These aren’t just feel-good stories; they reflect a growing trend. Athletes are staying competitive for longer and pushing the boundaries of peak performance. But how?

    Research backs the shift. A study on Olympic athletes found that between 1992 and 2021, the average age of male Olympians rose from 25 to 27, and female athletes from 24 to 26. In football, a study of UEFA Champions League players found the average player age rose by nearly two years between 1992 and 2018.

    So how are older athletes continuing to thrive in elite sport? Here are some of the key factors.

    1. Smarter training

    Modern athletes benefit from personalised training programmes informed by cutting-edge sports science. Tools like GPS tracking, heart rate variability (HRV), and biomarker analysis help coaches monitor performance, recovery and injury risk.

    Metrics such as HRV, for example, can indicate when an athlete might need more rest, which is crucial for older athletes who take longer to recover after intense competition.

    Athletes are no longer reliant on a single coach. Today, they work with integrated teams – sports scientists, strength and conditioning coaches, and performance analysts – all dedicated to improving their fitness and performance.

    2. Better injury prevention and medical support

    Athletes now undergo regular fitness testing and musculoskeletal screening to identify potential weaknesses before they lead to injury. And when injuries do occur, recovery methods have vastly improved.

    Anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries were once considered career-ending for older athletes. But thanks to advanced surgical techniques and biological therapies, recovery is now faster, and athletes return to play much sooner.

    Zlatan Ibrahimović, at age 35, returned to top-level football just seven months after an ACL tear – a feat nearly unthinkable a decade earlier.

    3. Optimised recovery and nutrition

    Ageing athletes have different recovery needs — and sports science has stepped up. Cryotherapy, compression therapy, and advanced sleep protocols all help reduce muscle soreness and accelerate repair.

    Nutrition plays a key role too. Ageing bodies experience more inflammation and slower repair, so diets rich in polyphenols (found in berries, leafy greens, and dark chocolate) are used to support vascular health and recovery. Athletes may also take approved supplements such as glucosamine and chondroitin to support joint health and slow degeneration.

    The result? Older athletes can train more consistently and recover faster between games.

    4. Experience and tactical intelligence

    Speed and strength decline with age, but tactical intelligence often improves. Older athletes can compensate for age-related declines in physical capacity with their advanced game-reading skills and spatial awareness. For instance, footballers like Paul Scholes and Andrés Iniesta adapted their playing styles with age, relying more on positioning and passing intelligence than physical capacity.

    5. Financial and legacy incentives

    Today’s stars aren’t just competing for medals – they’re building brands. With massive financial rewards on offer, there’s a clear incentive to prolong careers.

    Cristiano Ronaldo, for example, recently signed a two-year contract extension with Al-Nassr that will see him play until age 42 — reportedly earning an estimated £492 million. For many athletes, the chance to leave a lasting legacy and secure generational wealth keeps them in the game.

    While we can’t stop the biological effects of ageing, today’s athletes are proving we can delay their impact – and even thrive later in life.

    With smarter training, better recovery strategies and cutting-edge medicine, the upper age limit for peak performance continues to stretch. These advances may allow more veteran athletes to defy expectations and continue competing at the highest level.

    Get your news from actual experts, straight to your inbox. Sign up to our daily newsletter to receive all The Conversation UK’s latest coverage of news and research, from politics and business to the arts and sciences.

    Paul Hough does not work for, consult, own shares in or receive funding from any company or organisation that would benefit from this article, and has disclosed no relevant affiliations beyond their academic appointment.

    – ref. Five ways professional athletes are redefining the limits of age in sport – https://theconversation.com/five-ways-professional-athletes-are-redefining-the-limits-of-age-in-sport-261028

    MIL OSI –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: SCST congratulates Ryan Choi on winning gold medal in World Championships

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, today (July 24) congratulated Hong Kong China fencer Ryan Choi on winning a gold medal in the Men’s Foil Individual event of the 2025 Fencing World Championships.

         Miss Law said, “Ryan made impressive performance in the competition, demonstrating Hong Kong athletes’ charm and perseverance. We are thrilled by his achievement in winning Hong Kong’s first ever gold medal in the Fencing World Championships. I hope the Hong Kong China fencing team will continue to strive for excellence. I have faith in them to perform spectacularly again in the 15th National Games to be held in November.” 

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Canada: Discover Sask Parks: July 23 – August 6

    Source: Government of Canada regional news

    Released on July 23, 2025

    Visitors can enjoy an entire summer of camping, glamping, hiking and fun at the lake in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks. Engaging family programming is also scheduled each week to fill everybody’s calendar.

    Take a moment to create new memories and experience nature to the fullest. Here are a few special events and programs occurring over the next two weeks; all are free with a valid Park Entry Permit:

    Bison Day
    July 24, Buffalo Pound Provincial Park
    4 to 8 p.m.

    Head to Buffalo Pound Provincial Park and discover the vital role that bison has in prairie ecosystems and learn more about a new bison tracking system that supports the herd in the park. Join Park Interpreters on a guided hike to gain insider knowledge about this unique keystone species.

    Learn more.

    Cannington Fair
    August 3, Cannington Manor Provincial Historic Park
    12 to 4 p.m.

    Step back in time and let history come to life as you experience what village life was like at the turn of the twentieth century. Enjoy afternoon tea and treats, meet special guests, make rope, play classic picnic games and taste hand-churned ice cream! Do not forget to snap a selfie at our well-stocked photo station.

    Learn more.

    UPCOMING EVENTS AND PROGRAMS

    Tri-Loon-Athon
    August 9, Makwa Lake Provincial Park
    8 a.m. to 1 p.m.

    Head to Makwa Lake for the 2nd annual Tri-Loon-Athon! Swim 300 metres in open water right off of Stabler Point Beach, bike 10 kilometres (km) along the shore, then run 2.5 km to finish off the race strong. Surround yourself with beautiful scenery to get your heart rate pumping and your body moving. Kids can join in on the fun too, with the youth route, which involves a 200-metre swim, a 5-km bike ride, and a 2.5-km run.

    Learn more.

    Festival in the Forest
    August 9, Meadow Lake Provincial Park
    1 to 8:30 p.m.  

    Step into the forest and embrace your inner artist at Meadow Lake Provincial Park! Experience a day of art and culture surrounded by nature in the beautiful Boreal Forest through workshops, an artist market, crafts, an evening concert and more. 

    Learn more.

    Sask Parks Summer Cinema
    August 9, Douglas Provincial Park
    9 to 11 p.m.

    Join us at Sask Parks Summer Cinema: Garfield (2024) for an outdoor movie experience at Douglas Provincial Park, presented by Fresh Air Cinema. Arrive before the show for activities with our Park Interpreters.

    Learn more.

    There are many other things to do and see in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks. Visit the Sask Parks Event Calendar to find all events and programs.

    Make memories close to home this summer in Saskatchewan Provincial Parks. To book a campsite, visit the SaskParks.com

    -30-

    For more information, contact: 

    PCS Media
    Parks, Culture and Sport
    Regina
    Phone: 306-798-1020
    Email: pcsmedia@gov.sk.ca

    MIL OSI Canada News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: Manchester Day this weekend – everything you need to know!

    Source: City of Manchester

    Manchester’s favourite day of the year is back this weekend with a fantastic day of free music-themed family fun on Saturday (26 July) to help celebrate the city’s homegrown musical talent and this year’s big summer of live music in the city.

    Inspired by what is proving to be a sensational summer of music in Manchester, expect pop-up performances, astounding acrobatics and banging beats throughout the city’s streets and squares as the whole city comes together for Manchester Day 2025.

    The council has worked with outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank on a programme for the day this year that is full of surprises and promises lots of free fun all with a musical twist.

    The day kicks off with a mini parade at 12 noon from St Peter’s Square, that will make its way along Deansgate and on to the Cathedral.  Led by two fantastical creatures, and with over 400 participants, including live bands, dancing birds, plenty of drummers and some of Manchester’s many community groups dancing and performing their way along the route in a riot of colour and sound, it’s definitely one not to miss.

    From English National Opera and Walk the Plank teaming up with football fans and community choirs, West End show tunes, juggling drummers, a hip-hop wrestling ring, plus two musical cats and a larger-than-life canary all in a giant birdcage, the day will see non-stop surprises throughout. 

    Expect sparks to fly as the world’s largest dhol drum rolls into town, opening up to reveal dancers and drummers, whilst award-winning dance company Levantes will be dressed to impress at their ‘High Tea with a Twist’, in New Cathedral Street. 

    Throw some shapes and bust some moves over on the Deansgate dancefloor where Moroccan trance music and Bhangra dance will be the order of the day, whilst French street theatre company Stoptoï will be combining dance, drumming and juggling in a brand-new, high-energy show on St Mary’s Gate.

    Enjoy music and performance from some of Manchester’s finest groups including the Bridgewater Hall Singers, or kick back and relax with a drink at the Capri Beach bar, before having a wander around one of the city-wide music trails, exploring Manchester’s musical heritage and hotspots. 

    Don’t miss the Perfect Pitch Three O’clock Kick-off, or the show-stopping grand finale in Cathedral Gardens combining opera singing and football chants at 4:30 pm in Cathedral Gardens, where a main stage will feature a fantastic programme of music throughout the day, The Urban Playground Team will perform Zoo Humans, a parkour performance piece that blends movement and storytelling.

    The day will also see a whole host of free have-a-go activities for youngsters of all ages to join in with from circus skills, drumming workshops, and ukulele introduction sessions, to music-themed craft activities and the ever-popular sport pop-ups.

    Manchester Day visitors are also invited this year to join Manchester Opera House for an exclusive free behind-the-scenes tour of the iconic venue, with the chance also to take part in special performance-themed workshops, or to try their hand at crafting band posters from recycled show posters.

    And don’t forget to keep your eyes peeled throughout the day for a majestic lion, a cheeky gorilla, giant seagulls and a host of marvellous bees and butterflies – just a few of the weird and wonderful walkabout acts waiting to surprise people on the day.

    Councillor Pat Karney, Chair of Manchester Day, said: “We’ve got a fantastic Manchester Day lined up for everyone this year which is going all out to celebrate the music our city and our fabulous communities make.  We’ve got an absolute ton of stuff going on for families and people of all ages on Manchester’s favourite day of the year. So shake your maracas, slip on your dancing shoes, prepare to make some noise, and come on down and join us!”

    Manchester Day has been created in collaboration with outdoor arts specialists Walk the Plank who have also worked with community groups across the city to put together what is set be a vibrant and lively mini parade.

    Liz Pugh, Creative Producer, Walk the Plank, said: “The mini parade celebrates the wonderful creativity and diverse traditions of our modern city and highlights the contribution of some of our newest communities.  We’re bringing the talents of some of Manchester’s finest carnival artists, and will be welcoming back groups like Keep Manchester Tidy and the School of Samba, as well as some exciting newcomers.”

    Manchester Day 2025 is sponsored by Manchester Airport Group, with activations across the city on the day by Red Bull, Capri Beach Club, Shaken Udder, Just My Look, Manchester Originals, and The Cut & Craft.  The event is also backed by Redgate and Department, and partners Great Northern Warehouse and The Opera House, as well as through long-standing partnerships with Biffa and Manchester Evening News.

    Activities run throughout the day on Saturday 26 July from 12 noon to 5 pm.

    Here’s the full lowdown on what’s happening and where throughout the day:

    MINI PARADE
    Fantastical winged creatures, a Phoenix, and beautiful birds of paradise will feature in this year’s mini parade which involves over 20 community groups and bands and more than 400 participants.

    Two playful inflatable Griffins will lead the parade whilst the Queen Bee sits atop her Gondola made from recycled cutlery, repurposed into a beautiful vessel that sails through the streets, and Walk the Plank’s giant Dhol Drum beats out Punjabi rhythms as it makes its way along Deansgate.

    Dancers from the Filipino Anglo Club of Greater Manchester and Colibri Dance bring the traditions of the Philipines and Mexico to Manchester, whilst the Hong Kong Cultural community takes part for the first time with a Phoenix kite-bird and Lo Ting a character who is half-human, half-fish and according to legend is the ancestor of Hong Kong’s people.

    Manchester’s Lithuanian Association will be bringing a Lithuanian legend to life with their Queen of Serpents who changed her children into trees, and the Guangxi Cultural Association will be performing traditional Chinese dance in full costumes.

    Parade highlights also include Manchester Airport Group with their planes, traffic controllers, and dancing chandeliers, and more dance from Ad Hoc Dance, one of the longest running community dance groups, as well as hip hop from young street dancers from FreshSkillz.

    With the Irish pipes of Fiana Phadraig Pipe Band from Wythenshawe, drummers from the Manchester Dhol Players, the Brazilian-inspired brass of Jubacana, two samba bands, and singers from the Perfect Pitch collaboration with English National Opera, it promises to be a loud and lively start to the day. 

    The mini parade leaves St Peter’s Square at 12 noon, travelling along Peter Street to Deansgate, then along the length of Deansgate before ending at the Cathedral at approximately 1 pm.

    CATHEDRAL GARDENS
    Enjoy main stage performances from Baked a la Ska, who will be serving up original tunes along with playful ska-infused covers of your favourite hits, alongside synth pop star Michael Aldag and world music from Manchester International Roots Orchestra.Be transported to the sunny shores of the Caribbean by steel band, Arthur’s Class Act.

    The Urban Playground Team will perform Zoo Humans, a parkour performance piece that blends movement and storytelling. Keep your eyes peeled for a surprise performance later on it the afternoon.

    Plus listen out for chart-topping hits played on ukuleles and a stunning PERFECT PITCH mass choir finale from 4:25 pm featuring football fans, community choirs, internationally acclaimed soprano Camilla Kerslake and some extra surprises. 

    Look out also for pop-up performances from Cocky Robins, beautiful Butterflies, Giant Seagulls, and a pair of post-match footballers who aren’t afraid of getting down in the dirt and a Three o’clock kick-off penalty shoot-out like no other.

    ST ANN’S SQUARE
    Join us in our wrestling ring stage – hosted by Trans Creative’s Kate O’Donnell – for West End showtunes from Sam Buttery, mind boggling magic from Fay Presto, music from rapper OneDa, an acoustic performance from viral sensation Michael Aldag, and opera with a twist from Flat Pack Music, plus hula hooper extraordinaire Danielle de la Wonk, and wrestling demos from Future Shock Pro Wrestling, 

    Marvel at the larger-than-life Birdcage Stage where a giant canary and two musical cats will defy the laws of gravity to try and outwit each other in cartoon capers full of slapstick silliness. Who will end up inside the cage at the end?
    And look out for a lion on the loose and a mischievous stowaway from Borneo.

    DEANSGATE
    Watch the mini parade snake its way along Deansgate between 12 noon and 1 pm, led by two giant fantastical griffins, followed by live bands, dancing birds, drummers and some of Manchester’s many community groups in a riot of colour and sound.

    Marvel as sparks fly when the world’s largest dhol drum rolls into town, opening up to reveal the Nachda Sansaar dancers and drummers.

    Get on down to live acts on the Deansgate dancefloor, including Moroccan trance music, Bhangra dance, Kemoy and the KYSO Collective, and the Soul Beats dance troupe.

    Seasoned cyclists or complete beginners are all invited to join the Manchester Day Pedal Party. Hop onto a balance bike, try out an e-cargo bike, or test a top of the range road bike. There’ll also be accessible, adapted bikes that can be ridden.

    NEW CATHEDRAL STREET
    New Cathedral Street will be alive with the sound of music, as the Bridgewater Hall Singers serenade crowds with songs from across the decades, and ukulele orchestras play chart-topping hits.

    Enjoy High Tea with a Twist with Levantes Dance, who will be dressed to impress and performing daring dance and acrobatics above a tastefully laid tea table, plus hilarious street theatre heroes delivering a sizzling mix of slapstick comedy, and the world’s only mobile football stadium.

    MARKET STREET
    Visit Circus House to learn a whole new set of circus skills.

    Discover the finest regional produce at the Manchester Day Craft Market by Manchester Markets, selling everything from home-made bakes and locally sourced honey, to hand dipped candles and artisan doughnuts.

    ST MARY’S GATE
    Don’t miss French street theatre company Stoptoï combine dance, drumming and juggling in a high-energy show full of rhythm and imagination.

    Get your blood pumping at the 60m, pop up athletic track supplied by GLL, or dive into the fast and furious world of The Hundred, a turbo charged version of traditional test cricket.

    Try batting, bowling, and catching in a special area, meet players from Manchester Originals, and be in with the chance of winning prizes.

    Enjoy astounding acrobatic performances and master a new skill with the folks from Circus House.  

    OPERA HOUSE 
    Take a free, guided, behind-the-scenes tour of this iconic Manchester venue on Quay Street, craft a band poster from recycled show posters, or take part in a performance themed workshop.

    KING STREET
    King Street turns into Guitar Street as the Music for the Senses art trail takes over the city centre, with amazing artworks and interactive installations that celebrate Manchester’s legendary music scene. In association with Wild in Art.

    EXCHANGE STREET
    Make some noise with Manchester Libraries and craft a harmonica or tambourine to take home.  

    MCR LIVE ’25 HUB
    Roll with it at the city’s newest destination on Piccadilly Gardens to help celebrate the mammoth summer of live music in Manchester.

    Grab a drink at the bar, sample some of the North West’s best street food or catch a free DJ or live music act on the outdoor stage. 

    Locations and activities may be subject to change. Find out the most up-to-date information 

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: New fence installed at Silksworth wheeled sports park to boost safety and community use

    Source: City of Sunderland

    A brand-new fence has been installed around the wheeled sports park at Silksworth Sports Complex and Ski Slope, providing a significant boost to safety and enjoyment for local families and young people.

    The improvements come as part of a project costing £15,690 funded by Sunderland City Council’s West Area Committee. The fencing works were completed over a four-week period, and a new gate has also been installed to fully complete the improvements.

    The wheeled sports park has long been a popular hub of activity and enjoyment for the Silksworth community, attracting hundreds of users each week. However, the removal of the original fence around five years ago, due to damage and safety concerns, left the area exposed. In the years since, rising levels of motorcycle disorder and general antisocial behaviour had made the park feel unsafe, particularly for younger users and their families.

    The installation of the new fence marks a major step forward in reclaiming the space for safer community use. These improvements should provide peace of mind for parents and encouraging more children and young people to enjoy the wheeled sports park as a safe, inclusive place to play, exercise, and socialise.

    Councillor Joanne Laverick, chair of the West Area Committee at Sunderland City Council said: “We listened to the concerns of residents, and this fence is a direct response to those calls for action. By improving safety and deterring antisocial behaviour, we’re making sure the park remains a safe and welcoming space for everyone.

    “Hopefully the installation of the new fence will not only attract former users of the wheeled sports park to come back and enjoy it again but attract new users too.”

    The West Area Committee is one of the five area committees across Sunderland. Made up of local councillors, these provide residents with a greater say by working closely with their communities and drawing on local knowledge to identify priorities for their area. They also create Area Plans to support the City Plan, focusing on local needs. These plans help fund and deliver projects in partnership with local voluntary and community sector organisations.

    The new gate will further support the long-term management of the site, helping to ensure the park continues to serve as a vibrant and valued community facility.

    Councillor Beth Jones, Cabinet Member of Communities, Culture and Tourism at Sunderland City Council said: “The wheeled sports park is a valuable community asset that brings together young people and encourages healthy, active lifestyles.

    “By making this a safer place for everyone to enjoy once again, I’d like to welcome residents to get the most out of this wheeled sports park.”

    The installation of the new fence has been welcomed by riders who regularly use the sports park. Jonathan Dobson, a Sunderland resident and BMX rider for 16 years said: “The new fence has made a huge difference to the sports park. Before it was installed, you’d often find rubbish and smashed glass around the park making it unusable. But now its cleaner and I know my bag will be safe while I’m riding as there’s only one entrance.”

    Silksworth Sports Complex and Ski Slope is one of Sunderland’s most distinctive recreational destinations, offering a unique blend of natural beauty and leisure facilities managed by Everyone Active. Home to one of the UK’s few dry ski slopes, the park also features a large lake, walking trails, sports pitches, a children’s play area, and wide green spaces.

    Silksworth Sports Complex and Ski Slope is popular with families and fitness enthusiasts alike and is a key community asset in the west of the city. The park plays an important role in promoting outdoor activity, wellbeing, and social connection throughout the year.

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE awards govt teams

    Source: Hong Kong Information Services

    Chief Executive John Lee today presented award certificates to the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region Search & Rescue Team to quake-stricken areas in Myanmar in March and the Inter-departmental Preparation Team for Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) Commissioning.

    Addressing the Chief Executive’s Award for Exemplary Performance Presentation Ceremony, Mr Lee praised the excellent performances of the two award-winning teams.

    He noted that the two awarded outstanding teams have demonstrated their respective strengths, which not only set an example for the entire civil service, but also demonstrated the Hong Kong SAR Government’s spirit of pursuing excellence and fearlessly taking on challenges.

    Mr Lee said: “They created good stories of civil servants that we are proud of through their actions.”

    The Chief Executive highlighted that Hong Kong’s ranking of second globally and first in Asia in the Government efficiency section of the World Competitiveness Yearbook 2025 underlines the outstanding competence and effective performance of Hong Kong’s civil servants.

    Mr Lee said he will continue to strengthen the system to enable officials to better utilise their proactive leadership capability so that the civil service can bring out their efficiency and potential to the fullest and realise the Government’s result-oriented policy initiatives through action.

    In March this year, a major earthquake struck Myanmar, resulting in serious casualties. The Hong Kong SAR Search & Rescue Team rushed to Mantalay, one of the most devastated areas in Myanmar, to conduct search and rescue operations.

    The team completed 61 search and rescue operations covering 57 locations amid constant aftershocks and scorching heat in the disaster-stricken areas, and conducted joint operations with the China Search & Rescue Team, successfully rescuing one survivor who had been trapped for more than 125 hours.

    The Hong Kong SAR Search & Rescue Team consists of civil servants from the Security Bureau, the Fire Services Department and the Immigration Department, as well as medical representatives from the Hospital Authority.

    The team’s commander Cheu Yu-kok thanked the Government for recognising the team’s efforts.

    He said that the team will continue to uphold its professionalism, strengthen exchanges with relevant Mainland authorities and continue to explore further uses of AI and advanced technology to persistently enhance its emergency rescue capabilities and standards, and to make greater contributions to international humanitarian rescue work.

    Another awardee is an interdepartmental preparation team formed by the Culture, Sports & Tourism Bureau, the Security Bureau, the Civil Service Bureau, the Transport & Logistics Bureau, the Police Force and the Transport Department.

    The team completed around 20 test events, including five large-scale drills, in just five months, mobilising about 140,000 civil servants to participate in the stress tests to evaluate the capability of the KTSP and its surrounding facilities comprehensively, to become fully prepared for the grand opening ceremony on March 1 and the subsequent large-scale events.

    Representative of the Inter-departmental Preparation Team for KTSP Commissioning, Commissioner for Sports George Tsoi thanked the Chief Executive for his recognition of the team.

    He said that the team had done its utmost to overcome various challenges during the KTSP’s preparatory process with efficiency and professionalism. The team will continue to work closely with the established foundation of good communication and collaboration to fully capitalise on the opportunities brought about by the KTSP.

    The nomination exercise for the new round of the Chief Executive’s Award for Exemplary Performance commenced in May this year. The Civil Service Bureau invited bureaus to nominate outstanding teams or colleagues for the honour.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: CE presents award certificates of Chief Executive’s Award for Exemplary Performance to HKSAR Search and Rescue Team and Inter-departmental Preparation Team for Kai Tak Sports Park Commissioning

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region

         The Chief Executive, Mr John Lee, officiated at the Chief Executive’s Award for Exemplary Performance Presentation Ceremony today (July 23) to present award certificates to two award-winning teams, namely the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Search and Rescue Team to quake-stricken areas in Myanmar in March 2025 and the Inter-departmental Preparation Team for Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) Commissioning.

         Addressing the ceremony, Mr Lee praised the excellent performances of the two award-winning teams. He said, “The two awarded outstanding teams have demonstrated their respective strengths, which not only set an example for the entire civil service, but also demonstrated the HKSAR Government’s spirit of pursuing excellence and fearlessly taking on challenges. They created good stories of civil servants that we are proud of through their actions.”

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI: Bitget Partners with KOL to Drive Blockchain and AI Growth in Southeast Asia

    Source: GlobeNewswire (MIL-OSI)

    KUALA LUMPUR, Malaysia, July 23, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — Bitget, the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company, partnered with Indian crypto thought leader Pushpendra Singh to support a landmark Blockchain & AI Summit in Southeast Asia—further strengthening its role as a global enabler of the decentralized tech ecosystem.

    The summit was organized in collaboration with the Consortium of Indian Industries in Malaysia (CIIM). It brought together builders, investors, and leaders from India, South Asia, the Middle East, Singapore, China, and beyond, establishing Malaysia as an up-and-coming regional hub for blockchain and AI collaboration. The event included keynotes, panel discussions, and interactive sessions aimed at promoting innovation and the responsible adoption of Web3 technologies.

    “Having a prominent Indian KOL like Pushpendra lead a Blockchain and AI Summit in Malaysia highlights the global and collaborative nature of this industry. At Bitget, our mission is to empower and scale these ecosystems wherever they develop,” said Jyotsna Hirdyani, South Asia Head at Bitget.

    Bitget KOL Pushpendra Singh taking the stage at the Blockchain & AI Summit

    Pushpendra expressed a similar viewpoint, emphasizing that Malaysia’s rising status as a premier destination for both technology and tourism makes it an ideal location for a globally diverse gathering. “This event wasn’t solely focused on Web3; it was also about uniting various voices under one shared vision. Malaysia is quickly becoming a hub where innovation meets opportunity, and we take pride in working to help shape that narrative,” he shared.

    The partnership shows Bitget’s continued efforts to advance inclusivity, education, and grassroots leadership in nascent cryptocurrency communities. One region, one builder, and one summit at a time, Bitget is dedicated to offering the platforms, tools, and collaborations that propel the industry forward as blockchain and AI continue to converge.

    About Bitget

    Established in 2018, Bitget is the world’s leading cryptocurrency exchange and Web3 company. Serving over 120 million users in 150+ countries and regions, the Bitget exchange is committed to helping users trade smarter with its pioneering copy trading feature and other trading solutions, while offering real-time access to Bitcoin price, Ethereum price, and other cryptocurrency prices. Formerly known as BitKeep, Bitget Wallet is a leading non-custodial crypto wallet supporting 130+ blockchains and millions of tokens. It offers multi-chain trading, staking, payments, and direct access to 20,000+ DApps, with advanced swaps and market insights built into a single platform.
    Bitget is driving crypto adoption through strategic partnerships, such as its role as the Official Crypto Partner of the World’s Top Football League, LALIGA, in EASTERN, SEA and LATAM markets, as well as a global partner of Turkish National athletes Buse Tosun Çavuşoğlu (Wrestling world champion), Samet Gümüş (Boxing gold medalist) and İlkin Aydın (Volleyball national team), to inspire the global community to embrace the future of cryptocurrency.

    Aligned with its global impact strategy, Bitget has joined hands with UNICEF to support blockchain education for 1.1 million people by 2027. In the world of motorsports, Bitget is the exclusive cryptocurrency exchange partner of MotoGP™, one of the world’s most thrilling championships.

    For more information, visit: Website | Twitter | Telegram | LinkedIn | Discord | Bitget Wallet

    For media inquiries, please contact: media@bitget.com

    Risk Warning: Digital asset prices are subject to fluctuation and may experience significant volatility. Investors are advised to only allocate funds they can afford to lose. The value of any investment may be impacted, and there is a possibility that financial objectives may not be met, nor the principal investment recovered. Independent financial advice should always be sought, and personal financial experience and standing carefully considered. Past performance is not a reliable indicator of future results. Bitget accepts no liability for any potential losses incurred. Nothing contained herein should be construed as financial advice. For further information, please refer to our Terms of Use.

    Photos accompanying this announcement are available at

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/64aba109-89d5-46a4-a8b1-ccef7eb91ad5

    https://www.globenewswire.com/NewsRoom/AttachmentNg/695b5285-5250-427c-9886-20d016670456

    The MIL Network –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ18: Promoting meetings, incentive travels, conventions and exhibitions tourism

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

         Following is a question by the Hon Tang Fei and a written reply by the Acting Secretary for Commerce and Economic Development, Dr Bernard Chan, in the Legislative Council today (July 23):

    Question:

         It is reported that the Singapore Government is actively developing the meetings, incentive travels, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) industry, having set a clear target of tripling related tourism revenue by 2040. Through measures such as policy support, financial assistance, and cross-departmental collaboration, the Singapore Government has successfully attracted numerous international event organisers to establish a presence there, significantly enhancing Singapore’s competitiveness in the global MICE market. However, Hong Kong’s ranking in the international MICE market is relatively behind, having ranked only 33rd globally in terms of the number of MICE events held in 2023. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) whether comprehensive and regular evaluations of the effectiveness of Hong Kong’s existing MICE policies have been conducted, including performance in areas such as recent international rankings, market competitiveness, economic gains and spillover benefits to related industries; if so, of the details and how the authorities will adjust future development strategies for the MICE industry based on the evaluation results; if not, the reasons for that and whether consideration will be given to initiating such evaluations as soon as possible to more effectively promote the long-term development of the MICE industry;

    (2) as there are views that Hong Kong’s current image at international MICE events is primarily associated with traditional trade exhibitions and lacks high-end international summits with global influence, whether the Government will consider re-examining and adjusting its current MICE promotion strategies, which could involve actively pursuing the hosting of internationally renowned summits with decision-making influence, with a view to enhancing Hong Kong’s image as an international city, attracting high-end visitors and driving economic growth; if so, of the details; if not, the reasons for that; and

    (3) as there are views that resources for the MICE industry in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA) are dispersed, and with Hong Kong being the most internationalised city in the region, how the Government will assume a leading role in promoting MICE development; whether it will, through policy advocacy, resource integration, cross-city collaboration and other means, guide the Mainland cities in the GBA to jointly develop a co-ordinated MICE development strategy, thereby enhancing the overall competitiveness of the entire GBA in the international MICE industry?

    Reply:

    President,

         We have consulted the Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau on the part involving the promotion of meetings, incentive travels, conventions and exhibitions (MICE) tourism, and the consolidated reply is as follows:

         Hong Kong is the world’s seventh-largest trading entity in merchandise trade and also the region’s premier convention and exhibition (C&E) hub. Many well-known international organisations and businesses have chosen to host C&E events in Hong Kong. C&E events, in particular international ones, have attracted numerous participants (including exhibitors and buyers), not only benefitting the C&E industry but also bringing in high-spending business travellers that drive economic activities in such related sectors as accommodation, catering, retail, entertainment etc., thereby benefitting various industries and bringing important contributions to Hong Kong’s economy.

         In 2024, Hong Kong’s two dedicated venues for mega C&E events (viz. the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and the AsiaWorld-Expo (AWE)) hosted over 350 C&E events, attracting 9.17 million participants. In terms of attracting visitors, the Hong Kong Tourism Board (HKTB) has been striving to attract different types of visitor segments. Among others, the HKTB seeks to encourage those visitors coming to Hong Kong to participate in MICE-related business activities as well as stay and travel in the city through promoting Hong Kong as a destination for MICE tourism. In 2023 and 2024, there were about 1.3 million and 1.42 million overnight MICE visitors respectively. Their per capita spending was about 30 per cent and 40 per cent higher than that of the overall overnight visitors in the respective years.

         In view of the contribution of C&E events to Hong Kong’s overall economy, the Hong Kong Special Administrative Region (HKSAR) Government launched the Incentive Scheme for Recurrent Exhibitions (ISRE) in July 2023 to subsidise venue rentals of eligible exhibitions organised by private organisers. The ISRE was very well received, supporting more than 200 eligible exhibitions by the end of June this year. To further promote the development of the C&E industry and the mega event economy, thereby generating overall economic benefits for Hong Kong, the HKSAR Government has just launched the ISRE 2.0 on July 1, 2025, by allocating an additional provision of $500 million, focusing on attracting new and recurrent international exhibitions of a large scale.

         Since the resumption of tourism in Hong Kong starting from February 2023, the HKTB has stepped up its efforts to promote the recovery and development of MICE tourism. So far, the HKTB has successfully bid, assisted in successful bidding, or subsidised the staging of over 2 500 international MICE events in Hong Kong, which span across various fields including innovation and technology, financial services, medical science, luxuries, community services, aviation, etc. Among these events, there are high-end international summits of global impact, including the Fortune Innovation Forum 2024 held in March 2024, the Leaders of Luxury Summit 2024 held in November 2024 and the Consensus Hong Kong held in February 2025. Meanwhile, scheduled international MICE events include the Routes World 2025 to be held in September 2025, as well as the Lions International Convention and the Association of National Olympic Committees General Assembly to be held in 2026 etc. It is estimated that the MICE events supported by the HKTB in 2025-26 will attract more than 183 000 high value-added overnight MICE visitors to visit Hong Kong, generating a total spending of about $1.4 billion based on the per capita spending of $7,800 by MICE visitors in 2024.

         In respect of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA), the HKTB will extend the scope of its promotion work under the theme of “Meet Hong Kong ‧ Meet GBA” to explicate the opportunities within the GBA so as to attract the staging of overseas MICE events in Hong Kong. In addition, the C&E industry will also explore the inclusion of GBA elements in suitable events. Among others, the UFI Global Congress 2025 will be held in the AWE in November 2025. As the host of the event, the AWE has incorporated GBA itineraries (Zhuhai and Macao) for participants from all over the world with a view to showcasing Hong Kong’s strategic advantage of being located in the centre of the GBA.

         Looking ahead, the HKSAR Government and the HKTB, in collaboration with the C&E industry and relevant organisations, will continue to support the staging of international MICE events of different scales and types in Hong Kong, so as to help consolidate Hong Kong’s position as an international MICE capital and attract more high value-added overnight visitors.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Asia-Pac: LCQ22: Waste reduction measures in sports stadiums

    Source: Hong Kong Government special administrative region – 4

    Following is a question by the Hon Doreen Kong and a written reply by the Secretary for Culture, Sports and Tourism, Miss Rosanna Law, in the Legislative Council today (July 23):

    Question:

    The 15th National Games (NG) will be held in Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao in November this year. One of the key highlights of the Games is the thorough implementation of green initiatives in organising the event, and the endeavour to make it the first carbon-neutral event in the history of NG. However, there are views that the Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP), which is a newly-opened international flagship stadium, still has room for improvement in its waste reduction measures. In this connection, will the Government inform this Council:

    (1) given that the KTSP previously prohibited audience from bringing any containers into sport events for security reasons and declined to provide reusable cups, but it has been reported that various types of prohibited containers were found in the corporate boxes and VIP seats during several major sport events held in the Park, whether the authorities have reviewed why there were such inconsistencies in the standards, and how they will ensure the fairness and consistency in the relevant requirements in the future;

    (2) as there are views pointing out that while the KTSP allowed audience to bring plastic or silicone water bottles and cups into the venue during concerts held in April this year, relevant arrangements were not made for sport events which had left local and overseas audience at a loss, (i) of the reasons why the aforesaid arrangements were not implemented consistently for different types of events, and (ii) whether the Government will request the KTSP to clearly define the types of events for which the aforesaid arrangements are to be implemented and the specific justifications;

    (3) as there are views that Hong Kong has mature experience in reusable container systems, and that the arrangement of “reuse instead of disposal” has been successfully implemented in many large shopping centres, restaurant chains and major events (e.g. the Hong Kong Sevens held at the Hong Kong Stadium in the past), which are effective in reducing the amount of waste, and it is learnt that the KTSP has also adopted “sustainability” (i.e. striving to integrate operational solutions conducive to sustainable development, and optimising resource usage) as one of its core values, of the reasons for not implementing the reusable container systems in the KTSP so far; and

    (4) how the stadiums in Hong Kong (including the KTSP and other competition venues) will specifically implement the element of green initiatives under the principles of “green, inclusive, open and clean” during the 15th NG, so as to create exemplary venues for the 15th ‍NG in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area?

    Reply:

    President,

    The Kai Tak Sports Park (KTSP) is the largest sports infrastructure in Hong Kong’s history and is crucial for the Government’s promotion of the development of sports and mega event economy. With its official commissioning on March 1 this year, the KTSP has quickly established itself as a new hub for hosting major sports and entertainment events.

    The Kai Tak Sports Park Limited (the Operator) is committed to providing an enjoyable experience for visitors attending major sports and entertainment events at the KTSP. While ensuring proper implementation of areas of importance such as event arrangements and venue security, the Operator is also dedicated to optimising the daily management and operations of the KTSP, including promoting environmentally friendly and low-carbon measures.

    In consultation with the Environmental Protection Department (EPD), my reply to the questions raised by the Hon Doreen Kong is as follows:

    (1) To ensure safety and order when staging large-scale events, all visitors entering the venues of the KTSP must comply with the venue rules set out by the Operator, as well as the conditions of entry stipulated in response to the requirements of event organisers. For instance, outside food and drinks, long umbrellas, glass or metal containers etc, are prohibited from being brought into the venues. All spectators, including those in suites and VIP areas, must adhere to the same rules and conditions.

    Depending on the nature and arrangements of the event, individual organisers may arrange for special catering services for their guests in designated areas, subject to the Operator’s approval. The Operator will consider such requests provided that they do not affect the safety of the events. Such special catering services will apply to designated areas only. For example, the use of glass containers is only allowed inside the suite area. When enjoying the event at the balcony seats of the suite, suite users still need to follow the same venue rules, including the prohibition on using glass containers.

    (2) In view of the varying nature and risks between sports and entertainment events, the Operator has established different venue rules for the two event categories.

    The essence of sports events is competitiveness. When competing teams are battling against each other, especially in intense situations, the interaction among the fans could more easily lead to confrontations. Therefore, spectators at sports events are generally not allowed to bring water bottles or containers of any size (whether capped or not) into the venues so as to prevent such bottles or containers from being thrown at other spectators or players, thereby ensuring the safety of everyone inside the venue. In fact, another major sports venue in Hong Kong, namely the Hong Kong Stadium, as well as other international sports stadiums also stipulate similar requirements during sports events for security reasons.

    For entertainment events (such as concerts), since there is no competition between battling teams, the likelihood of conflict among the audience is lower. The Operator and event organisers generally allow spectators to bring empty plastic or silicone reusable bottles/cups not larger than 600 millilitres with bottle/cups caps and liquids removed.

    The Operator will disseminate relevant rules and conditions of entry through its website and other channels (such as social media, press releases, or event guides from the organisers) before the staging of large-scale events to ensure that spectators are well-informed to facilitate their preparation in advance. The Operator has indeed explained the details and considerations of different rules and entry conditions in past events.

    (3) The Operator is dedicated to promoting sustainable development. While ensuring safety, hygiene and effective operations, the Operator has been collaborating with the Government to promote environmental protection through a multi-pronged approach.

    Adhering to the objectives of “Use Less, Waste Less” and resources circulation, the KTSP has placed waste separation and recycling facilities as well as installed a waste decomposition system to convert food waste, paper cups, and other paper containers into compostable materials. All the compost produced can be used as fertiliser for plants within the precinct, showcasing the concepts of green management and resources circulation. To further promote environmental protection, all paper cups used by the Operator in the KTSP are certified biodegradable. This promotes a plastic-free culture, reducing the use of plastic tableware by spectators on one hand, while helping to maintain hygiene standards and enhance audience experience on the other.

    The Operator has conducted research and made reference to practices in Hong Kong and other regions when formulating the above venue management measures. On the suggestion of using reusable plastic containers, after careful consideration, the Operator concluded that the processes involved in transporting and cleaning these reusable containers would generate additional carbon emissions and consume other resources. In addition, as reusable plastic containers are not biodegradable, they do not support the plastic-free initiative and undermine the KTSP’s efforts in promoting carbon reduction and resources circulation. In contrast, the use of biodegradable paper cups aligns well with and makes good use of the above-mentioned waste decomposition system at the KTSP, leading to a better overall carbon reduction outcome.

    The Culture, Sports and Tourism Bureau and the EPD will continue to maintain close communication with the Operator to further promote environmental protection work at the KTSP, while ensuring that spectators attending major events continue to have an enjoyable experience.

    (4) To adhere to the principle of “simple, safe and wonderful”, and the philosophy of being “green, inclusive, open and clean” in organising the Games, Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao will make joint efforts in achieving the goal of carbon neutrality for the 15th National Games, the 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympics Games. The National Games Coordination Office (Hong Kong) has formulated a “Green National Games” action plan and engaged a professional carbon auditing agency to carry out the related works such as establishing a carbon-neutral framework and collaborative initiatives, conducting comprehensive carbon emission measurement and accounting, promoting public participation in green initiatives and managing carbon offset and certification. The green and carbon-reduction measures in Hong Kong include using existing sports facilities and venues for the Games; implementing energy-saving strategies and increasing renewable energy use at competition venues (for example, applying electricity-free cooling coating and installing solar panels); advocating green transportation and securing new energy vehicles for shuttle services through sponsorship; promoting environmentally friendly accommodation; strengthening the use of digital publicity and document sharing to minimise paper use; enhancing waste separation and recycling; and setting up green exhibitions and games at competition venues to promote the concept of “Green National Games”.

    MIL OSI Asia Pacific News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Free stretching training sessions are held at the venues of the Summer in Moscow project

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    As part of the project “Summer in Moscow” You can join free stretching workouts. Regular classes will help strengthen your muscle corset and improve your posture: in a modern big city, whose residents spend a significant part of their time in the office, one of the most common problems is back problems.

    Stretching helps increase muscle elasticity, which will help avoid pain and, possibly, injuries. Exercises also improve blood circulation and reduce tension throughout the body. They also have a positive effect on a person’s emotional state: they reduce stress levels and help cope with anxiety.

    Stretching training is part of a free year-round project “My Sports District”. Experienced instructors demonstrate a set of exercises aimed at relaxing the back and, if necessary, correct the participants’ mistakes.

    Places for training

    Classes are held on the roofs of the district centers “Meeting Place”, such as “Prague”, “Rassvet”, “Neva” in the Northern Administrative District, “Yantar” and “Sofia” in the Eastern Administrative District, “Budapest” and “Mars” in the North-Eastern Administrative District, “Elbrus”, “Angara”, “Orbita” in the Southern Administrative District, “Vysota” and “Ekran” in the South-Eastern Administrative District, on Sundays from 11:45 to 12:45. To join them, you need to register on the project website. You need to bring a fitness mat with you.

    Outdoor training sessions are held at the Summer in Moscow project sitesFree training sessions are held in courtyards and parks as part of the Summer in Moscow

    For those who want to engage in physical culture in the most beautiful places of the capital, a project has been organized “Sports Weekend”. Stretching training takes place at various venues, from festivals to park areas. You can join classes at the Vorontsovo estate, the Muzeon arts park, the Kolomenskoye and Tsaritsyno museums and reserves, and the GES-2 Culture House. In total, more than 50 unique venues have been created for city residents and guests.

    The project classes are free, with prior registration. You do not need to bring any additional equipment.

    Project “Summer in Moscow”— the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. “Summer in Moscow” is being held for the second time, and this season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Africa: Well done Banyana Banyana!  

    Source: Government of South Africa

    Wednesday, July 23, 2025

    The Department of Sport, Arts and Culture has congratulated Banyana Banyana on their performance at the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) in Morocco.

    “Well done Banyana Banyana! Mzansi is very proud of how far you’ve come,” said the department in a social media post on X.
    The team was beaten 1-2 by Nigeria in their semi-final match on Tuesday night.

    Played at the Larbi Zaouli Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, the match according to the South African Football Association (SAFA) was marred by a serious injury to Gabriela Salgado in the 83rd minute.

    SAFA said the incident “visibly traumatised the Banyana Banyana players and the entire South African bench” and the “defending WAFCON champions never recovered after the incident.”

    SAFA President, Dr Danny Jordaan, wished Salgado a speedy recovery.

    “First of all, we would like to wish a speedy recovery to Gabriela Salgado. Banyana Banyana fought very well, and it was a brave performance from the WAFCON defending champions. You have established yourselves as one of the best teams on the continent. 

    “We fought bravely, and we are proud of your performance. Well done to the whole team, the team’s Head of Delegation Thabile Msomi, the coach Dr Desiree Ellis, the captain Refiloe Jane and all players. We are proud of your efforts,” said Dr Jordaan in the statement.

    The Women’s Africa Cup of Nations which began on 5 July is scheduled to conclude on 26 July 2025. –SAnews.gov.za

    MIL OSI Africa –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World sprint champion sentenced after using Covid loans to help buy £1.3 million home

    Source: United Kingdom – Government Statements

    Press release

    World sprint champion sentenced after using Covid loans to help buy £1.3 million home

    Athlete sentenced for Bounce Back Loan fraud

    • British Masters athlete Rick Beardsell obtained two maximum-value Bounce Back Loans for his sportswear manufacturing business and used most of the funds to help buy a £1.3 million home in a Cheshire village
    • Money spent on purchasing the five-bedroom house should have been used to benefit his Sports Creative Limited business
    • Beardsell also broke the rules of the scheme by substantially inflating his company’s turnover and securing two loans when businesses should only have received one
    • The 46-year-old has now repaid the £100,000 he fraudulently applied for in full

    A world sprint champion has been sentenced after he spent Covid loan funds to help buy a £1.3 million house.

    Rick Beardsell secured two £50,000 Bounce Back Loans for his Sports Creative Limited company in 2020 and 2021 when businesses were only allowed a single loan.

    The 46-year-old then moved the Bounce Back Loan funds into his personal bank account, using part of the money to help buy a five-bedroom property on Macclesfield Road in Prestbury, while also transferring cash to family members and making mortgage payments.

    Beardsell, who has won multiple sprint titles and holds world records representing Great Britain as a masters athlete, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, when he appeared at Chester Crown Court on Tuesday 22 July.

    He was also ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work and pay costs of £11,152.

    Beardsell repaid the £100,000 in full earlier this year after his guilty plea but before sentencing.

    David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    Rick Beardsell exploited a Covid support scheme designed for struggling businesses, fraudulently obtaining loans he was not entitled to.

    While legitimate business owners fought to stay afloat during the pandemic, Beardsell bought a £1.3 million home with the help of money that should have been supporting his company through difficult times.

    This case sends a clear message that we will not tolerate those who viewed government support schemes as an opportunity for personal enrichment during a national emergency.

    Sports Creative Limited was set up in January 2009 with Beardsell as its sole director. The company described itself on social media as “a bespoke sportswear manufacturer”.

    Beardsell applied to the bank for his first £50,000 Bounce Back Loan just before Christmas 2020.

    In the application, he claimed that Sports Creative Limited had a turnover of £485,000.

    Just two weeks later, in early January 2021, Beardsell applied to a second bank for another £50,000 Bounce Back Loan, this time stating that his company had an estimated turnover of £320,000.

    Insolvency Service analysis of Sports Creative Limited’s bank account revealed that its turnover was just over £90,000, meaning he exaggerated his company’s revenue on both occasions.

    Beardsell claimed that he had received a purchase order of $600,000 (approximately £440,000) for personal protective equipment during the pandemic which ultimately failed to materialise.

    Even if this were the case, businesses were required to provide their turnover for 2019, prior to the start of Covid.

    Investigations also found Beardsell transferred £83,900 of the £100,000 loan money to his personal bank account in three separate transactions at the start of March 2021.

    A total of £431,160 from that account was paid to solicitors for the purchase of a house on Macclesfield Road in September 2021.

    Beardsell also made fraudulent transfers of £5,000 to his wife, £10,000 to another family member, and two mortgage payments for his previous house in Manchester which put the funds beyond the reach of creditors.

    In a prepared statement, Beardsell claimed that he had sought “professional advice” that Bounce Back Loan funds could be used for “any purpose” that resulted in a direct benefit to the company. He added that he was advised that this could include investments in company assets or property.

    Beardsell also said that HMRC told him that he was eligible to receive the funds from the second loan, advice which would not have been given had he been honest about his successful application for an earlier Bounce Back Loan.

    Sports Creative Limited entered liquidation in December 2021.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Robotics, yoga and zumba will be available in the capital’s parks from July 25 to 27

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Parks under the jurisdiction of the capital Department of Culture, have prepared an extensive entertainment program from July 25 to 27. Visitors can expect master classes in painting and stained glass decor, illusion shows, concerts, excursions, and a celebration of the Russian Navy Day.

    “Hydrofly Fest”, yoga and plein air holidays in the Eastern Administrative District

    On July 25 and 26 at 11:00 in Izmailovsky Park the fourth International Festival of Extreme Water-Motor Sports Fans and the show “Hydrofly Fest” will take place. Spectators will see competitions and demonstration performances in such disciplines as hydrofly, hoverboard, freestyle aquabike and jet surf. You can see various tricks and acrobatic numbers on the Round Pond. Admission is free.

    On Saturday at 16:00 in the central part of Izmailovsky Park there will be a free excursion dedicated to its history. Participants will see a large Ferris wheel, the memorial complex “Ploshchad Muzhestva”, the Round Pond and a music pavilion. Anyone can join the walk.

    On July 26 at 4:00 p.m., young guests and their parents are invited to the estate of Father Frost for an interactive performance called “Dunno in the World of Professions.” The performance will be of interest to visitors over three years old. Admission is free.

    As part of the project “Sports Weekend” On July 26, Sokolniki Park will host a yoga class from 10:00 to 11:00, and a functional training session from 12:00 to 13:00. On July 27, a stretching session will be held from 10:00 to 11:00, and a dance training session from 12:00 to 13:00 in the gazebo in the large rose garden. Admission is free.

    On Pesochnaya Alley, on Saturday and Sunday at 20:00, a traditional fitness training session in dance zumba will be organized. A program based on Latin and world rhythms in the format of a dance party will be prepared for the participants.

    On July 26 from 11:00 to 14:00, guests of the Terletskaya Dubrava recreation area are invited to the class “Plein Air Vacation”. Children and adults will be able to create paintings in the fresh air. You must bring an easel, canvas, paints, brushes, a sketchbook, markers or pencils, as well as a chair or folding seat. The class is open to guests over nine years old.

    On Sunday, July 27, from 11:00 to 14:00, there will be a meeting of the project “Summer with Benefit”, where participants will make flower pots. Admission is free.

    Ebru, breakdance and summer concert in the Central Administrative District

    On Friday evening, July 25, a summer concert will be held in the Bauman Garden. A cover band will perform on the main stage “Rakushka” from 19:00 to 20:00. Admission is free.

    On Saturday, July 26, a soft yoga practice will be held in the Bauman Garden. The classes are suitable for participants of any level, even beginners. You must bring a mat, and it is also recommended to wear comfortable clothes. For more information, please call link.

    And from 13:00 to 20:00 the garden will celebrate “Smile Day”. Young Muscovites will be able to take part in creative master classes, demonstrate their knowledge in a quiz, watch a soap bubble show and a performance by stilt walkers. Admission is free.

    In the children’s park named after N.N. Pryamikov on Saturday from 14:00 to 16:00 they will hold a master class “Non-traditional drawing technique: ebru” from the union of artists “Echo”. Guests will create drawings with acrylic paints. Admission is free.

    On July 26 at 18:00 in Krasnaya Presnya Park, breakdance demonstrations by world champions in modern choreography will begin. Everyone will be able to take part in a dance master class. Admission is free.

    At the same time, the park will host an illusion show, and at 19:30 visitors will be invited to a concert program with the participation of representatives of the Yuri Gonchar School of Variety Art. The day will end with a musical selection “In the Rhythms of Summer”. Admission is free.

    On July 27 at 10:00, guests of the Hermitage Garden will be able to attend a tour dedicated to its history. Participants of the walk will learn about the founder of the garden and significant events that took place in this area. You can find out more about the event at link.

    Navy Day, concerts and sports in the North-West and North-Eastern Administrative Districts

    On Saturday, July 26, from 2:00 PM to 4:00 PM, the Severnoye Siyaniye center in Severnoye Tushino Park will host a painting master class for children over six years old and adults. Participants will paint a seascape with yachts. Admission is free.

    On Sunday, July 27, the Russian Navy Day will be celebrated on the central square of the park. Guests will enjoy thematic classes and master classes, interactive areas and exhibitions. All events will be conducted by professional reenactors. Anyone can join in.

    On the same day, from 12:00 to 18:30, the Farvater exhibition hall of the Russian Navy History Museum will host military tactical games with miniatures. They are organized by the Voevoda club. Guests over six years of age are invited to participate.

    From 13:00 to 14:00, the Development and Creativity Club pavilion will host a master class called “Stained Glass”, where participants will create decorative items that they can take home. The class is open to guests over six years old.

    The Northern Lights center will have a game room open for young visitors from 2:00 p.m. to 8:00 p.m. Children will be helped to choose a board game and the rules will be explained. Admission is free, and guests over six years of age are welcome.

    A free concert by the VerU music studio and the Triada dance school will be held on the park stage from 6:00 PM to 8:00 PM. A thematic program dedicated to the sea, navy, and courage will be prepared for visitors. Admission is free.

    A robotics master class will be held in the Mitino Landscape Park on July 27 from 15:00 to 17:00 in the book exchange pavilion on the festival square. Participants will be able to assemble and program their first robot. Admission is free, and guests over the age of seven are welcome to the class.

    On the same day, from 16:00 to 17:30, as part of the program “Military Orchestras in Parks” of the International Military Music Festival “Spasskaya Tower”, a brass band will perform. Spectators will hear beloved works by Russian and foreign composers. Admission is free.

    On July 27 at 16:30, a training session in artistic gymnastics will be held in Lianozovsky Park. Visitors will be treated to a set of exercises suitable for all age groups. Admission is free, and the session will be of interest to guests over six years of age.

    Lecture on famous summer residents and eco-tour in ZAO

    On July 26, from 10:00 to 12:00, a lecture from the new series “Famous Summer Residents of Kuntsevo in the 19th Century” will be held in Fili Park. Admission is free, and guests over six years of age are welcome at the event.

    On July 27 from 11:00 to 13:00, everyone is invited to an eco-excursion “Summer birds of the central part of the Fili Park”. Participants will learn to recognize birds by their appearance and voices.

    The program contributes to the implementation of the goals and objectives of the national project “Family” in the city of Moscow.

    Project “Summer in Moscow” — the main event of the season. It brings together the most vibrant events of the capital. Every day, charity, cultural and sports events are held in all districts of the city, most of which are free. The Summer in Moscow project is being held for the second time, and the new season will be more eventful: new, original and colorful festivals and events will be added to the traditional ones.

    Get the latest news quickly official telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

    .

    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI United Kingdom: World sprint champion sentenced after using £100,000 Covid loan to help buy £1.3 million home

    Source: United Kingdom – Executive Government & Departments

    Press release

    World sprint champion sentenced after using £100,000 Covid loan to help buy £1.3 million home

    Athlete sentenced for Bounce Back Loan fraud

    • British Masters athlete Rick Beardsell obtained two maximum-value Bounce Back Loans for his sportswear manufacturing business and used most of the funds to help buy a £1.3 million home in a Cheshire village
    • Money spent on purchasing the five-bedroom house should have been used to benefit his Sports Creative Limited business
    • Beardsell also broke the rules of the scheme by substantially inflating his company’s turnover and securing two loans when businesses should only have received one
    • The 46-year-old has now repaid the £100,000 he fraudulently applied for in full

    A world sprint champion has been sentenced after he spent Covid loan funds to help buy a £1.3 million house.

    Rick Beardsell secured two £50,000 Bounce Back Loans for his Sports Creative Limited company in 2020 and 2021 when businesses were only allowed a single loan.

    The 46-year-old then moved the Bounce Back Loan funds into his personal bank account, using part of the money to help buy a five-bedroom property on Macclesfield Road in Prestbury, while also transferring cash to family members and making mortgage payments.

    Beardsell, who has won multiple sprint titles and holds world records representing Great Britain as a masters athlete, was sentenced to 18 months in prison, suspended for two years, when he appeared at Chester Crown Court on Tuesday 22 July.

    He was also ordered to complete 250 hours of unpaid work and pay costs of £11,152.

    Beardsell repaid the £100,000 in full earlier this year after his guilty plea but before sentencing.

    David Snasdell, Chief Investigator at the Insolvency Service, said:

    Rick Beardsell exploited a Covid support scheme designed for struggling businesses, fraudulently obtaining loans he was not entitled to.

    While legitimate business owners fought to stay afloat during the pandemic, Beardsell bought a £1.3 million home with the help of money that should have been supporting his company through difficult times.

    This case sends a clear message that we will not tolerate those who viewed government support schemes as an opportunity for personal enrichment during a national emergency.

    Sports Creative Limited was set up in January 2009 with Beardsell as its sole director. The company described itself on social media as “a bespoke sportswear manufacturer”.

    Beardsell applied to the bank for his first £50,000 Bounce Back Loan just before Christmas 2020.

    In the application, he claimed that Sports Creative Limited had a turnover of £485,000.

    Just two weeks later, in early January 2021, Beardsell applied to a second bank for another £50,000 Bounce Back Loan, this time stating that his company had an estimated turnover of £320,000.

    Insolvency Service analysis of Sports Creative Limited’s bank account revealed that its turnover was just over £90,000, meaning he exaggerated his company’s revenue on both occasions.

    Beardsell claimed that he had received a purchase order of $600,000 (approximately £440,000) for personal protective equipment during the pandemic which ultimately failed to materialise.

    Even if this were the case, businesses were required to provide their turnover for 2019, prior to the start of Covid.

    Investigations also found Beardsell transferred £83,900 of the £100,000 loan money to his personal bank account in three separate transactions at the start of March 2021.

    A total of £431,160 from that account was paid to solicitors for the purchase of a house on Macclesfield Road in September 2021.

    Beardsell also made fraudulent transfers of £5,000 to his wife, £10,000 to another family member, and two mortgage payments for his previous house in Manchester which put the funds beyond the reach of creditors.

    In a prepared statement, Beardsell claimed that he had sought “professional advice” that Bounce Back Loan funds could be used for “any purpose” that resulted in a direct benefit to the company. He added that he was advised that this could include investments in company assets or property.

    Beardsell also said that HMRC told him that he was eligible to receive the funds from the second loan, advice which would not have been given had he been honest about his successful application for an earlier Bounce Back Loan.

    Sports Creative Limited entered liquidation in December 2021.

    Further information

    Updates to this page

    Published 23 July 2025

    MIL OSI United Kingdom –

  • MIL-OSI China: Walaza crowned in 100m, USA claim 4 more swimming golds at Universiade

    Source: People’s Republic of China – State Council News

    Bayanda Walaza sprinted to the men’s 100m title to give South Africa its third gold medal at the Rhine-Ruhr World University Games, while Team USA continued to dominate the swimming pool with four more golds on Tuesday night.

    The Paris 2024 Olympian and world junior champion crossed the line in 10.16 seconds, edging Thailand’s Puripol Boonson (10.22), the same rival he beat at last year’s under-20 global competition in Peru. Asian champion Hiroki Yanagita finished third, just 0.01 seconds behind Boonson.

    “I feel glorified. I believe in winning. As soon as I was on that [start] line, I was looking at that finish line. My mind was there. I need to cross it before everyone,” said Walaza, who, at just 18, ran the leadoff leg in the men’s 4x100m relay final to help South Africa claim silver at Paris 2024.

    Ai Yanhan (3rd L) of China competes during the women’s 200m freestyle final of swimming at the Rhine-Ruhr 2025 FISU World University Games in Berlin, Germany, July 22, 2025. (Xinhua/Du Zheyu)

    Walaza became just the ninth South African to break the 10-second barrier in the 100m when he clocked 9.94 in Zagreb in May. Weeks earlier, he set a national junior record of 20.08 in the 200m.

    Australia’s Georgia Harris won the women’s 100m in 11.44, ahead of Poland’s Magdalena Stefanowicz (11.49) and South Africa’s Gabriella Marais (11.51).

    Germany claimed a one-two finish in the men’s discus, with Mika Sosna winning gold with a throw of 64.26 meters and Steven Richter taking silver at 61.77. Ukraine’s Mykhailo Brudin posted a season-best 60.71 to earn bronze.

    The women’s long jump podium was separated by just three centimeters. Portugal’s Agate Sousa leaped 6.60 meters, two centimeters ahead of China’s Asian Games champion Xiong Shiqi, who finished one centimeter ahead of Spain’s Natalia Gonzalez.

    “It’s a pity to miss the top place by just two centimeters,” said Xiong, who earned China’s first athletics medal at the Games. “But the result is compatible with my capability and my expectation. I want to inspire my teammates in the upcoming track and field competitions with this very first medal in the stadium for China.”

    Swedish Olympian Axelina Johansson won the women’s shot put with a throw of 18.45 meters. American top qualifier Abria Smith followed with 17.38, while South Africa’s Colette Uys claimed bronze at 17.34, narrowly ahead of compatriot Mine de Klerk by one centimeter.

    Seven finals were contested in the pool, with Team USA winning four. The American men continued their relay dominance with a record-breaking win in the 4x200m freestyle, finishing in 7:04.51 to break the previous Games mark of 7:05.49 set by Russia in 2013.

    Cavan Gormsen surged from eighth to first on the back half of the women’s 200m freestyle, winning gold for the U.S. in 1:57.21. She closed the final 50 meters in 29.13 to pass three swimmers and edge China’s Ai Yanhan by 0.3 seconds.

    Leah Shackley broke her own day-old meet record to win the women’s 50m backstroke in 27.31 seconds, trimming 0.3 off her semifinal time of 27.66.

    In the women’s 200m individual medley, another American, Leah Hayes, won gold in 2:09.48, improving on her Games record from the semifinal.

    Competing as a neutral athlete, Aleksandr Stepanov won his second freestyle distance title of the meet with victory in the men’s 800m in 7:46.51, finishing nearly four seconds ahead of Italy’s Tommaso Griffante.

    Italy’s Gianmarco Sansone claimed gold in the men’s 100m butterfly with a personal-best 51.40. Germany’s Bjorn Kammann finished second in 51.70, followed by Uzbekistan’s Eldorbek Usmonov (51.84).

    Federico Rizzardi earned Italy’s second gold of the session, winning the men’s 50m breaststroke in 27.14, nearly 0.2 seconds ahead of the field.

    In diving, China’s Zhang Wenao won gold in the men’s 1m springboard with 425.85 points, followed by teammate Hu Yukang (368.75). Germany’s Tim Axur took bronze with 354.80.

    South Korea claimed its fifth fencing gold by edging France 45-43 in the women’s sabre team event. Italy secured its third fencing title with a commanding 45-20 win over Poland in the men’s foil team final.

    The top three on the medal table remained unchanged after the sixth day of competition. The U.S. leads with 21 golds (20 in swimming), 12 silvers and 20 bronzes, followed by China (12-17-4) and South Korea (11-5-13). Host Germany sits fourth with seven golds, six silvers and eight bronzes. 

    MIL OSI China News –

  • Lok Sabha, Rajya Sabha adjourned till 2 pm following continued uproar

    Source: Government of India

    Source: Government of India (4)

    Both the Lok Sabha and Rajya Sabha were adjourned till 2 pm on Wednesday after repeated disruptions by Opposition members, who raised slogans and protested the dismissal of adjournment motions.

    The day’s proceedings began at 11 am but were adjourned shortly afterward due to continued uproar in both Houses. Proceedings resumed at 12 PM, only to be disrupted again.

    In the Rajya Sabha, Opposition MPs protested after their adjournment notices — seeking discussions on various pressing matters, including the ongoing Special Intensive Revision (SIR) of electoral rolls in Bihar — were rejected. Amid the commotion, the Upper House was adjourned till 2 pm.

    The Lok Sabha also faced repeated interruptions. Speaker Om Birla urged members not to carry placards into the House and warned that strict action would be taken against those disrupting the Question Hour. Despite this, protests persisted, leading to another adjournment till 2 pm.

    Before the adjournment, Union Minister of Youth Affairs and Sports Mansukh Mandaviya introduced two key bills in the Lok Sabha — the National Sports Governance Bill, 2025, and the National Anti-Doping (Amendment) Bill, 2025.

    The Monsoon Session will comprise 21 sittings spread over 32 days and will conclude on August 21. Both Houses will be adjourned on August 12 and reassembled on Monday, August 18, to facilitate Independence Day celebrations.

  • MIL-OSI Russia: A photo exhibition dedicated to the anniversary of the 1980 Olympics opens at the Luzhniki Aquatic Complex

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    July 19, 2025 marked 45 years since the opening of the XXII Summer Olympic Games in Moscow. This event became significant not only for Soviet sports, but for the entire country. To mark the anniversary, a special exhibition is being held on the minus first and first floors of the Luzhniki Aquatic Complex, which conveys the atmosphere of 1980 through unique photographs, posters and placards from that time.

    The central place of the exhibition is given to the Olympic facilities of Luzhniki — the main sports arenas of the Games. The official ceremonies, as well as competitions in track and field, football, gymnastics and other sports were held here. Visitors to the exhibition will learn how Moscow — the first city in Eastern Europe to host the Olympic Games — demonstrated a high level of organization, cultural wealth and aspiration for peaceful cooperation.

    The photographs were provided by the photo service of the TASS news agency and taken from the media archive of JSC Luzhniki. The pictures capture sports competitions, as well as the emotions of athletes and spectators, which convey the atmosphere of the Moscow Games. Posters and placards of that time reflect the style of Soviet design – laconic, symbolic and patriotic. Guests are greeted by Misha the bear – the famous mascot of the Olympics, who has become a symbol of hospitality and sporting spirit. Admission to the exhibition is free.

    Especially for the 45th anniversary of the Games, Luzhniki has also prepared an excursion program with the participation of professional guides. It will be of interest to sports fans and anyone who is interested in the history and design of the Soviet period. Participants of the excursion will visit the inside of the main stadium of the country, where the opening and closing ceremonies of the 1980 Olympics took place, ending with the flight of the famous Olympic bear.

    During a walk around the complex, visitors will see the Small Sports Arena, the Druzhba multi-purpose sports hall and other iconic places that have become part of Olympic history. The Walk of Fame and the Olympic Flame Bowl are special objects of Luzhniki, where you can feel the atmosphere of the Games and hear stories about legendary athletes. Visitors will be told how the sports complex was built in record time, what engineering solutions were used and how the stadium has changed over time.

    Tickets for the tour can be purchased atofficial website of Luzhniki or by phone: 7 495 788-10-77.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –

  • MIL-OSI Russia: Five major sports facilities built by city in southwest Moscow in five years

    Translation. Region: Russian Federal

    Source: Moscow Government – Government of Moscow –

    An important disclaimer is at the bottom of this article.

    Since 2020, five major sports facilities have appeared in the southwest of the capital at the expense of the city budget – an ice palace, a physical education and health and sports complex, as well as a football field. They were built under the “Sport of Moscow” program. This was reported by the head of the capital’s Department of Civil Construction Alexey Alexandrov.

    “Special attention is paid to the development of sports infrastructure in the capital, which contributes to the creation of a comfortable and accessible environment for sports. New facilities are built taking into account modern standards and technologies, attracting citizens to lead an active lifestyle. At the same time, it is important that all of them have convenient transport accessibility. Over the past five years, large facilities have appeared in four districts in the southwest of the capital. The last of them, the Maksimum sports complex, opened recently on Ostafyevskaya Street. The new facility has become part of the sports cluster of the Yuzhnoye Butovo district. The two-story sports complex with a total area of over 8.7 thousand square meters can accommodate about two thousand people per day and is adapted for visits by people with limited mobility. In addition to the general physical training hall, it is equipped with two swimming pools and an ice rink,” said Alexey Alexandrov.

    Earlier about the opening sports complex “Maximum” Sergei Sobyanin reported.

    In 2021, a sports and recreation complex was built on Gubkin Street in the Gagarinsky District, which today operates as part of the Sambo-70 sports and education center Department of Sports of the City of Moscow. The four-story sports complex with a total area of 4.8 thousand square meters is designed for artistic gymnastics. The building houses a weight room and a choreography room, a gymnastics room with modern equipment and stands for 100 spectators, a recreation area for athletes, a classroom, locker rooms, as well as coaching, medical, massage rooms and a buffet.

    In 2022, a football field measuring 105 by 68 meters was built in Yasenevo. It is located in a residential area on Yasnogorskaya Street. Stands for 498 seats were built for spectators, including a sector for people with disabilities, and seats were equipped for the coaching staff and reserve players. In addition, a two-story administrative and utility building appeared here with changing rooms for athletes, rooms for coaches and referees, a medical office, and a classroom for theoretical classes. The football field is suitable for training and holding competitions at the city and interregional level. Thanks to modern heating and lighting systems, it operates all year round. Artificial turf made of synthetic grass minimizes the risk of injury and allows games to be held in any weather conditions.

    In addition, in 2023, an ice palace was built in Yasenevo — the Eteri Tutberidze Figure Skating Center. The concept of the sports facility on Novoyasenevsky Prospekt was developed jointly with the Honored Coach of Russia Eteri Tutberidze. The building, with an area of 21.3 thousand square meters, hosts training and competitions in figure skating, hockey, and ice shows. Public skating is organized here for amateur athletes.

    In 2023, the Kachalovsky sports complex was built in the Severnoye Butovo district on Dmitry Donskoy Boulevard. Its total area is 5.8 thousand square meters. Residents of nearby neighborhoods can play sports in the immediate vicinity of their home. The sports complex has a multi-purpose hall for game sports and a gym. In addition, there are two swimming pools: a 25-meter eight-lane pool and a 10-meter swimming pool for children aged seven to 10 years. The two-story building is decorated in a modern style: the facades are faced with fiber cement and porcelain stoneware slabs with a smooth and textured surface that imitate natural finishing materials.

    New sports complexes with swimming pools to appear in southeast and east of Moscow

    The construction of social facilities in Moscow corresponds to the goals and initiatives of the national project “Infrastructure for life”.

    Get the latest news quicklyofficial telegram channel the city of Moscow.

     

    Please note: This information is raw content obtained directly from the source of the information. It is an accurate report of what the source claims and does not necessarily reflect the position of MIL-OSI or its clients.

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    MIL OSI Russia News –