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Damaged caravans and vehicles remain stuck amid rubble, in the aftermath of a landslide at a campsite triggered by heavy rains, in Mount Maunganui, New Zealand,…
Novak Djokovic rolled back the years to reach the Australian Open third round Thursday but Jannik Sinner, the man who has usurped him as king of Melbourne Park, showed why he is favourite to claim a hat-trick of titles.Women’s defending champion Madison Keys overcame a second-set wobble against Ashlyn Krueger to also advance while former champion Naomi Osaka toned down her outfit but not her power game as she also reached round three.Iga Swiatek continued her quest to complete her career Grand Slam with a 6-2 6-3 victory over unseeded Marie Bouzkova.Fourth seed Djokovic, seeking a record-extending 11th Melbourne Park title and 25th Grand Slam trophy overall to break the deadlock with Margaret Court, eased past Italian qualifier Francesco Maestrelli 6-3 6-2 6-2.The 38-year-old Serb maintained his steady grip on the second-round clash without needing to shift into top gear.”I didn’t know much about him (Maestrelli) until a few days ago, it happens more often than not these days,” Djokovic said of his 23-year-old opponent.He raced through the opening set and pounced again in the opening game of the second set to heap pressure on world number 141 Maestrelli. The win was Djokovic’s 399th in Grand Slams and his 101st in Melbourne, leaving him one shy of record-holder Roger Federer. Djokovic will next meet Botic van de Zandschulp.There was something of a retro feel about day five in the men’s singles with Swiss former champion Stan Wawrinka, 40, outlasting Arthur Gea 4-6 6-3 3-6 7-5 7-6 (10-3) while Marin Cilic, 37, dispatched 21st seed Denis Shapovalov 6-4 6-3 6-2.In 2009, Djokovic, Cilic and Wawrinka all reached round three and 17 years later they are still going strong.The man to beat on blue Melbourne hard courts these days, however, is Sinner. He was supreme as he thumped home wild card James Duckworth 6-1 6-4 6-2 in the Rod Laver Arena evening session, banging down 18 aces in a dominant display.Sinner, bidding to join Djokovic by becoming only the second man in the professional era to win three successive Australian Open titles, has now won 12 successive Tour-level matches without dropping a set and looks razor sharp.”I know how much work I’ve put in so the body feels good and the mind is in a good moment,” he said. The world number two will face American Eliot Spizzirri next. KEYS STUMBLES ON WAY TO WIN OVER KRUEGERKeys, the ninth seed in the draw, notched up a 6-1 7-5 win over fellow American Krueger but was less than convincing after powering her way through the opening set.The defending champion allowed doubts to creep into her game in the second set, handing Krueger two breaks on serve with a succession of double faults before battling back to progress to the next round to face Karolina Pliskova.Swiatek shrugged off the sluggishness of her first-round match with a much more lively display against Bouzkova.”It felt great playing today, I felt more free than in the first round so I wanted to go for it,” Swiatek said.Osaka, champion in 2019 and 2021, ditched the parasol, veil and broad-brimmed hat for her walk-on against Romania’s Sorana Cirstea but continued making waves in her jellyfish-inspired outfit, battling to a 6-3 4-6 6-2 win.There was no love lost between the two players though with a frosty exchange at the net after match point with Cirstea upset by Osaka’s antics. “(There were) apparently a lot of ‘come ons’ that she was angry about,” Osaka said.Sixth seed Jessica Pegula had few issues against doubles partner McCartney Kessler, handing out a comprehensive 6-0 6-2 defeat to her fellow American in 58 minutes to set up a meeting with Russia’s Oksana Selekhmeteva in the third round.Wimbledon runner-up Amanda Anisimova, also from the U.S., eased to a 6-1 6-4 win over Katerina Siniakova and the fourth seed will next face compatriot Peyton Stearns while fifth seed Elena Rybakina beat Varvara Gracheva, also in straight sets. MUSETTI DOWNS PAL SONEGOMen’s fifth seed Lorenzo Musetti won the battle of the Italians on Margaret Court Arena as he beat Lorenzo Sonego 6-3 6-3 6-4 and will face Czech Tomas Machac next after he overpowered Greek 31st seed Stefanos Tsitsipas 6-4 3-6 7-6(5) 7-6(5).”It was not an easy match to prepare, to play, and to deal with because Lorenzo is one of my best friends on tour,” said Musetti. “We shared a lot of nice memories, so it’s not easy to separate those things in the court.”Eighth-seeded Ben Shelton had few issues against Australia’s Dane Sweeny, the American claiming a 6-3 6-2 6-2 win to set up a third-round meeting with Valentin Vacherot, who defeated Australia’s Rinky Hijikata in four sets. Related Story Source link
The junior section students of MES Indian School showcased exemplary talent at the interschool STEM competition recently, clinching first and third positions.The contest was organised by EADAD International Academy and aims to highlight and celebrate outstanding achievements.Parvez Rasool (class II-L) clinched the first prize for his innovative working models. It included a solar panel demonstrating the effective use of renewable energy for eco-friendly power generation, and a distance-sensing television screen detector that activates the screen only when a viewer is at a safe distance, thereby promoting eye safety and responsible screen usage. Meanwhile, Ayman Abdulla (IV-L) secured the third prize for his Smart Plant Care Robot, an intelligent model that moves along a garden pathway and monitors plant health using soil moisture and light sensors, along with a mini windmill to illustrate the application of wind energy.The students were meticulously guided and trained by teachers whose mentorship enabled them to develop innovative projects and present their ideas confidently. The project effectively combined robotics, automation, renewable energy, and plant care in a simple and meaningful STEM model. Principal Dr Hameeda Kadar congratulated the winners and teachers, commending their commitment, teamwork, and outstanding performance. Related Story Source link
Joanna from Philippines, a fan of K-pop band BTS, reacts as she receives a call that her friend also got tickets for BTS’s first South Korea…
US President Donald Trump for the first time ruled out using force to take Greenland as he addressed world leaders in Davos yesterday, but demanded “immediate negotiations” to acquire the island from Denmark.Trump’s quest to take control of Greenland from a Nato ally has deeply shaken the global order and the markets, and it dominated his first address to the World Economic Forum in six years. In a speech lasting more than an hour in the Swiss ski resort, Trump slammed “ungrateful” Denmark for refusing to give up Greenland, and said the US alone could guarantee the security of the “giant piece of ice”.But Trump appeared to take the threat of military action off the table, in a dramatic turnaround from his previous threats that the US could use force to take control of the mineral-rich Arctic island. “We probably won’t get anything unless I decide to use excessive strength and force where we would be, frankly, unstoppable – but I won’t do that,” Trump said.“I don’t have to use force. I don’t want to use force. I won’t use force. All the US is asking for is a place called Greenland.” Wall Street stocks opened higher yesterday after Trump’s comments.Denmark said it was a “positive” sign that Trump had said he wanted to avoid military force – but stressed that the US president had not backed away from his push to acquire Greenland. “What is quite clear after this speech is that the president’s ambition remains intact,” Foreign Minister Lars Lokke Rasmussen said.Greenland’s government meanwhile unveiled a new brochure yesterday offering advice to the population in the event of a “crisis” in the territory, saying it was an “insurance policy”. Trump repeatedly pushed his claims to Greenland – which he mistakenly called Iceland several times – during lengthy remarks on the deepest crisis in transatlantic relations for decades.He said he was “seeking immediate negotiations to once again discuss the acquisition of Greenland by the US” and added that Washington would “remember” if Denmark said no. Trump says Greenland is under threat from Russia and China.The US president also lambasted Europe on a number of fronts from security to tariffs and the economy, saying it was “not heading in the right direction”.Trump flew into Davos by helicopter, stepping onto a red carpet laid in the snow – but he flew into a growing international storm over Greenland. He arrived some two hours behind schedule, after an electrical issue earlier forced Air Force One to turn back to Washington and the president to switch planes.Europe and Canada had earlier closed ranks against what they view as a threat to the US-led global order from Trump’s territorial ambitions. Canada’s Prime Minister Mark Carney won a standing ovation at Davos on Tuesday when he warned of a “rupture” to the US-led system. French President Emmanuel Macron meanwhile said Europe would not be bullied.But Trump, who was due to meet a number of leaders in Davos, renewed his attacks on the two leaders, mocking Macron in particular for wearing sunglasses at Davos, which the French president said was because of an eye condition.Trump also repeatedly expressed doubts on Nato during his speech, saying Washington was treated “so unfairly” and questioning whether the alliance would defend the US if asked. Source link
The Qatar 1812km will be held on March 28 after two days of prologue. As Qatar gears up to host the Prologue and opening race of the FIA World Endurance Championship for the third consecutive year, Lusail International Circuit is set to ignite the 2026 season with high-octane action.This pivotal role highlights Qatar’s expanding footprint in motorsport, with the Prologue – a mandatory two-day pre-season test from March 22 to 23 – allowing teams to dial in their machines before the Qatar 1812km curtain-raiser, a gruelling ten-hour battle on March 28.Entering its 14th season under the auspices of the Fédération Internationale de l’Automobile (FIA) and Automobile Club de l’Ouest (ACO), FIA WEC remains the pinnacle of endurance racing, demanding speed, strategy and mechanical resilience across eight globe-trotting rounds.What truly sets FIA WEC apart is the diversity it offers, enabling fans to witness 14 major manufacturers battling on the same track at the same time.This incredible line-up of global brands, from established giants to exciting newcomers, creates unmatched competition in both the elite Hypercar class (LMH/LMDh prototypes) and production-based LMGT3 category, with 35 full-season entries in 2026 including 17 Hypercars and 18 LMGT3 cars.Eight of the 14 marques feature in the Hypercar division – Alpine, Aston Martin, BMW, Cadillac, Ferrari, Genesis, Peugeot and Toyota – while LMGT3 comprises Aston Martin, BMW, Corvette, Ferrari, Ford, Lexus, McLaren, Mercedes-AMG and Porsche.Notable grid shake-ups over the off-season include Porsche’s retreat from the Hypercar class, offset by Genesis Magma Racing’s debut with two GMR-001 prototypes on Oreca chassis’. Defending champion Ferrari AF Corse returns with the proven 499P, while Toyota Racing arrives hungry for redemption after a challenging 2025 campaign. The Japanese carmaker unveiled the updated TR010 Hybrid – its third major evolution – with key tweaks focusing on enhanced drivability, top speed and overall consistency, complemented by a striking new red, white and black livery inspired by the iconic GT One. The team has also rebranded from Toyota Gazoo Racing to simply Toyota Racing for 2026.Driver changes add intrigue, from two-time world champion and multiple 24 Hours of Le Mans winner Andre Lotterer’s comeback with newcomer Genesis, to Nick Cassidy’s Hypercar bow with Peugeot alongside Théo Pourchaire.Frenchman Victor Martins was recently confirmed for Alpine’s Hypercar effort as an FIA WEC rookie, following his stint in Formula 2 and as a Williams F1 development driver. Ex-F1 star and endurance legend, Sebastien Buemi competes for Toyota; the multiple world champion boasts the most race wins in the series’ history. Fellow former F1 driver Nyck de Vries similarly supplies speed and profile to Toyota’s quest for redemption. Cadillac has swapped Jenson Button for Jack Aitken, while ex-F1 talent Logan Sargeant will contest a full campaign in Proton’s Ford Mustang LMGT3 and Kevin Magnussen returns for a second consecutive season in the discipline as the Dane brings his experience to BMW’s Hypercar programme.Overall, Hypercar boasts 11 former FIA WEC champions and 14 ex-F1 drivers, blending experience with youth for a grid that’s stable yet spiced with potential upsets. As the series captivates global fans through hybrid innovation, tactical pit battles and marathons like Le Mans, Lusail International Circuit stands to deliver another exciting opener to kick off the 2026 campaign. Related Story Source link
Uttar Pradesh Pratham Welfare Association (UPPWA), an associate organisation of the ICBF under the aegis of the Indian embassy in Qatar, successfully hosted its inaugural ceremony on January 16 at Kanjani Hall, IICC, Al Thumama, Doha.The event marked the formal launch of the association as an associate organisation under ICBF and witnessed enthusiastic participation from the Indian community.Eish Singhal, first secretary (labour and community welfare), embassy of India in Qatar, graced the occasion as chief guest.During the ceremony, Ziauddin Ahmad, president of UPPWA, presented the association’s mission and vision, highlighting its continued efforts since 2015 to promote the welfare and upliftment of people from Uttar Pradesh. Asif Khan, vice president of the association, presented a memento to the chief guest as a token of appreciation.In his address, Eish Singhal assured the Indian embassy’s full support for UPPWA’s initiatives to assist underprivileged members of the UP community.Deepak Shetty, general secretary of ICBF, also reiterated ICBF’s commitment to supporting all benevolent and community-oriented activities undertaken by the association.Adding a cultural touch to the evening, noted poetess Salini Verma spoke about her latest book focused on sports in Qatar. A short video showcasing UPPWA’s past welfare activities received special appreciation and was a key highlight of the programme.The event was compered by Nazia, while Junaid Khan, general secretary of UPPWA, delivered the vote of thanks.Several prominent dignitaries and community leaders were present, including Rasheed Ahamed (VP, ICBF), Satendra Pathak, Obaid Tahir, Nilanshu Dey, RJ Sarwar, RJ Gaurav, Zaid Ahmad, Qamar Alam, Shahid Khan, R K Singh, Nagma, and others. Related Story Source link
Canadian beef will be exported to China following the relaxation of an import ban that had been in place since 2021, the agriculture minister said, though analysts cautioned it will likely be in small amounts. The reopening of what could be a vital market for Canadian beef follows the visit of Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney, who reached an agreement with China’s leadership to lower tariffs and do more business on a number of agricultural commodities, including canola. “We know that there’s a large company that’s shipping its first load of beef to China next week,” said Canadian Agriculture Minister Heath MacDonald. Earlier on social media he said “China has lifted market access for Canadian beef.” China’s customs agency did not comment. The move is not expected to have an immediate major impact on Canadian beef exports or prices because North America has a shortage of domestic beef and prices are historically high. – Source link
Naseeb Zakhir returned to the winner’s enclosure after producing a thrilling late charge to capture the day’s feature, the Mesaieed Cup, a Local Purebred Arabian Handicap over 1300m, prevailing by a head at Al Uqda Racecourse Wednesday.Always prominent, the five-year-old grey unleashed a decisive burst inside the final 100m to reel in long-time leader AJS Kabul in the closing strides. Trained by Osama Omer al-Dafea and expertly partnered by Faleh Bughenaim, Naseeb Zakhir secured his second victory of the season, complementing four runner-up efforts in an admirably consistent campaign.Earlier on the card, Overrule opened proceedings by winning the Thoroughbred Handicap, trained by Mohammed Hassan al-Matwi and partnered by Szczepan Mazur.The Local Purebred Arabian Maiden Plate was claimed by Lubara, who broke her maiden for trainer Jean de Mieulle under Bughenaim.Debutant Muraaqib made a winning start in the Local Thoroughbred Maiden Plate, scoring for trainer M.H.K. al-Attiyah with Mazur aboard.The Local Thoroughbred Handicap went to Moharb, trained by Jassim al-Ghazali and ridden by Pierre Charles Boudot.Among the Arabians, Kawaii D’Vialettes captured the Purebred Arabian Handicap (1200m) for trainer Ahmed al-Jehani under Saleh Faraj al-Otaibi, while M’tawa El Saa’yeb dominated the Purebred Arabian Handicap (2000m) for Hamad al-Jehani, partnered by Jefferson Smith.RESULTS39th Al Uqda Race Meeting – Mesaieed CupWINNERS: (Horse, Trainer, Jockey)1 – Mesaieed Cup – Local Purebred Arabian Handicap 75-95 (Class 3)Naseeb Zakhir, Eng. Osama Omer al-Dafea, Faleh Bughenaim2 – Purebred Arabian Handicap (65-85)M’tawa El Saa’yeb, Hamad al-Jehani, Jefferson Smith3 – Purebred Arabian Handicap (65-85)Kawaii D’Vialettes, Ahmed al-Jehani, Saleh Faraj al-Otaibi4 – Local Thoroughbred Handicap (0-55)Moharb, Jassim al-Ghazali, Pierre Charles Boudot5 – Local Thoroughbred Maiden PlateMuraaqib, MHK al-Attiyah, Szczepan Mazur6 – Local Purebred Arabian Maiden PlateLubara, Jean de Mieulle, Faleh Bughenaim7 – Thoroughbred Handicap (45-65)Overrule, Mohammed Hassan al-Matwi, Szczepan Mazur Related Story Source link
British Prime Minister Keir Starmer said he would not yield to Donald Trump on his opposition to US demands to acquire Greenland, adding that the US president had reversed his prior support for a Chagos Islands deal to put pressure on Britain. Starmer has called for “calm discussion” on Greenland and indicated on Monday he did not wish to escalate a trade war, after Trump threatened tariffs on Britain and other European countries unless he was allowed to buy Greenland. The next day Trump said Britain had been stupid and weak to agree a deal to cede sovereignty of the Chagos Islands in the Indian Ocean in order to secure the future of a US-UK air base there. When the deal was announced, Trump’s administration expressed support for it. Starmer has sought close ties with Trump in order to preserve trade and security ties, but in some of his sharpest criticism of Trump, Starmer said he would not be bullied into changing his view that the future of Greenland should be decided by its people and by Denmark. “I will not yield, Britain will not yield, on our principles and values about the future of Greenland under threats of tariffs, and that is my clear position,” Starmer told lawmakers, adding the Danish prime minister would visit London today. Starmer said that Trump’s criticism of the Chagos Islands deal with Mauritius was because “he wants me to yield on my position, and I’m not going to do so”.“President Trump deployed words on Chagos yesterday that were different from his previous words of welcome and support,” Starmer said. “He deployed those words yesterday for the express purpose of putting pressure on me and Britain in relation to my values and principles on the future of Greenland.” Source link