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Danielle Aitchison struck women’s 200m T36 gold in a world-record time of 27.47 seconds to retain her crown in style at the 2024 Para Athletics World Championships in Kobe, Japan on Thursday. The 22-year-old Hamilton-based sprinter wiped a staggering 0.70 sec from the previous world record to exact revenge on her Chinese rival Yiting Shi, who claimed gold ahead of Aitchison in the women’s 100m T36 on Monday. LATEST HEADLINES:  Canes or Chiefs? Can Crusaders beat Blues? Navy Blues into OFC Champions League final Maor departs NZ Breakers to coach in Japan Pumped-up Airs ground the Hawks in NBL  Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix  NZ rowing pair earn 'last chance' Paris spot In a measure of the quality of the race, Shi ran an Asian record of 28.06 seconds – some 0.11 sec under her previous world record mark which was firmly erased from the record books courtesy of Aitchison’s majestic run. The Kiwi, who has enjoyed a fantastic 2024, did not panic after she trailed Shi by a couple of metres as the pair entered the home straight. Shi appeared at that point poised to compete a sprint double in Kobe, but Aitchison had other ideas. Gradually eating up the gap on her Chinese opponent midway down the home stretch, she hit the front and accelerated clear to an emphatic win. “It is so amazing," an ecstatic Aitchison said. "I can’t believe it. "I learned a lot from the 100m, I learned to run my own race and be ready to go when the gun goes and that’s what I managed to execute in the 200m. The aim was the focus on myself, and I felt I did exactly that. “Coming across the line I did not expect to run such a time. I was totally mind blown by the time.” Aitchison, whose previous personal-best was 28.19 seconds set at the New Zealand Track and Field Championships in Wellington in March, can now look ahead to the Paris Paralympics with optimism. “It gives me a lot of confidence going into Paris, there are still some things to work on, but I am ahead of where I thought I was. It gives me the confidence that I can do even better at the Paralympics.” Meanwhile, a stunning Oceania record throw of 12.25m propelled Holly Robinson to a brilliant women’s shot put F46 silver medal on day six of the Para Athletics World Championships. The 29-year-old Kiwi, competing at her seventh world championships, advanced in the final from provisional bronze position ahead of Japan’s Yukiko Sato to climb to the second rung of the podium and clinch her sixth Para worlds medal of her career. Robinson, the Paralympic javelin F46 champion, who opted to focus on the shot put only in Japan, was rewarded with more precious metal after steadily building through the competition which reached a glorious crescendo in the final round, with a best throw of 12.25m. “It was a real nerve-wracking comp a lot of the girls were throwing shorter distances. Heading into my last throw I knew I had a medal in the bag, but I really wanted silver," Robinson said. “I just wasn’t technically nailing it (in the earlier rounds), I was a bit out of time the circle was quite sticky, so I needed to focus on getting that foot underneath. I managed to do that, and to produce a very good throw, I’m very happy."

New Zealand golfer Sam Jones leads after the first round of the latest DP World Tour event in Belgium after a personal-best. His nine-under 62 at the Soudal Open on Thursday (Friday NZ Time) included a first-ever albatross, along with seven birdies and just a lone bogey. It was the lowest round of the Taranaki left-hander's fledgling career. LATEST HEADLINES: Aitchison takes 200m para gold in record time Canes or Chiefs? Can Crusaders beat Blues? Navy Blues into OFC Champions League final Maor departs NZ Breakers to coach in Japan Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix Jones has a two-shot lead over a group of five players. The tour rookie only turned professional two weeks before securing his card at the Qualifying School in November. "I'm taking it as it comes," he said. "The first few months have been pretty good, golf has been average but it's been pretty good the last few weeks. I'm looking forward to getting into this European Swing." The albatross on the 568-yard, par-five 17th made it six shots picked up in four holes and Jones revealed he would have played a lay-up had it not been for the previous three birdies. "Initially it was going to be a three-shot, was going to lay it up," he said. "Thought about three iron off the tee, hit three wood, pulled it a little bit but hit it nicely. "Got up there, had 248 metres to the flag, said to my caddie Keith that it was the perfect three wood, into the breeze a little bit. "I was going well already at that stage, so I thought if I made a bogey it was no big deal. Just hit it, flushed it, called to it to be good in the air and it was. First ever albatross, not a bad place to do it." Fellow New Zealand Daniel Hillier shot a one-over 72 to be tied for 106th.

A trio of backs have recommitted to the Hurricanes for at least the next two seasons of Super Rugby Pacific. First-five Brett Cameron and midfielders Peter Umaga-Jensen and Riley Higgins signed on the dotted line after the Hurricanes' strong start to this season, keeping them at The Caketin through 2026. LATEST HEADLINES: Sam Jones leading after first round in Belgium Tall Ferns Select squad named for Japan tour Canterbury dominate down-low to beat Whai Canes or Chiefs? Can Crusaders beat Blues? Maor departs NZ Breakers to coach in Japan Umaga-Jensen, who made his debut in 2018 against the Queensland Reds, said he was keen to re-sign with the franchise that gave him his first crack at Super Rugby as a fresh-faced 20-year-old out of Scots College. “It’s cool to re-sign with the club, I’ve been here a long-time now and it’s great to be able to represent the club in front of our fans here. It’s been a great season so far, and it’s exciting for my family that my sons will be able to have memories of their dad playing for this team.” Higgins, the 21-year-old St Pat’s Silverstream product, has similar sentiments having initially joined the Canes in 2022 as a development player, before being promoted to the full squad in 2023. “I grew up watching footy and supporting the Canes. The past two seasons have been amazing to be a part of my hometown team. It’s awesome to continue my time with a team I love.” Both Higgins and Umaga-Jensen came through the Hurricanes development pathway via the schools’ programme, Under-20s and into the senior squad. Whanganui product Cameron – took the long path to the Hurricanes, with the Manawatu Turbos pivot spending 2018-2021 with the Crusaders and a season in Japan before he joined the Hurricanes in 2023. Injury curtailed his first season, but the 27-year-old is enjoying a breakout campaign. “I’m really enjoying my time here, we’ve had a great start and to sign on again is great – the group we have here is really special, we’re a tightknit group and it’s been showing on field,” Hurricanes head coach Clark Laidlaw was pleased to have the trio extend their stays. “They’re all really important players for us, who are coming into key periods of their careers. Peter has been with the club for several seasons and is a proven Super Rugby player. BC has played a crucial role, driving our team around the field and continues to grow his confidence around tactical awareness and leadership.” “Riley made his debut, while he was on a development contract and he’s had a few runs this season where he’s been able to show his ability and form combinations, both on attack and defensively.” The Hurricanes take on the Chiefs on Friday (kick-off 7.05pm) at Hamilton's FMG Stadium Waikato, before returning to Sky Stadium to take on the Highlanders on Saturday, June 1 (kick-off 4.35pm).

Basketball New Zealand (BBNZ) has named an intriguing Tall Ferns Select Teamto face Japan in Tokyo from July 4-6. The squad is a mixture of experienced national team athletes, alongside several newcomers who are currently embedded as student-athletes in the US college system. LATEST HEADLINES:   Canterbury dominate down-low to beat Whai Aitchison takes 200m para gold in record time Canes or Chiefs? Can Crusaders beat Blues?  Navy Blues into OFC Champions League final  Maor departs NZ Breakers to coach in Japan  Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix Six players – Amiee Book, Ella Bradley, Waiata Jennings, Eva Langton, Tara Manumaleuga and Lilly Parke – will be in line to wear the black jersey for the first time, under the guidance of four returning FIBA Women’s Asia Cup athletes in Grace Hunter, Esra McGoldrick, Tera Reed and Tahlia Tupaea. McGoldrick and Reed also joined Whittaker earlier this year at the FIBA Olympic Qualifier tournament in China. With an average age of 22.4 years - Whittaker the youngest at 18 and Tupaea the most senior member at 26 - BBNZ high performance programme manager Lisa Wallbutton said the tour would serve as a key player development opportunity for the Tall Ferns. “This team was based on a mixture of availability of our current athletes – given that some are playing in NBL1 – where they sit on our depth chart and the opportunity to evaluate players who haven’t been on the squad before,” said Wallbutton. “This squad has a nice balance and mix of the ‘old and the new’; we have several base Tall Ferns in place with the chance for these US College players to come in and gain experience in this environment and exposure to international basketball. "It’s also an opportunity for Tall Ferns coaching coach to evaluate these athletes: Can they can play a role in our World Cup Pre-Qualifiers in Mexico (August 15-25)? Due to retirements and injury, we have roster spots which these young players will be in line to fill.” Wallbutton said that alongside the development tour, the Tall Ferns Select team to face world No 9 Japan will be a competitive team thanks to its veteran leadership. “This is a great chance for Tahlia, Esra and Tera to provide mentoring and leadership to this new batch of Tall Ferns; those relationships within our team will play a key part in our success going forward.” The Japan friendly tour will serve as the first hit-out for Natalie Hurst, who was announced on Wednesday as the Tall Ferns interim head coach. Hurst says she is looking forward to working with his young and talented team in Japan. “It’s a young team but that’s what’s really exciting for BBNZ – that there’s this young talent coming through and the fact we can send this group to play against Japan in two friendly games, it’s almost a free hit – getting this type of international experience is a great opportunity for any New Zealand team,” says Hurst. “It’s not going to be an easy two games for us by any means; Japan wanted a competitive outfit to play against and that’s exactly what we want to deliver. The expectation isn’t primarily to go over there and win these games – that’s not what friendly games are typically about – it’s more a chance for these young athletes to be part of our national team environment and to show us what they can do on the big stage.” Lauren Whittaker, who begins as a freshman at Gonzaga University in the US in August, said the chance to return as a Tall Fern is a dream come true. “Obviously I’m very honoured to be selected again and it’s always such a good opportunity; to be part of this new wave coming in, it’s a good opportunity for me and those other girls to showcase our talent and learn from the older players,” said Whittaker. “Just gaining this kind of experience overseas, especially against a team like Japan who are very skilled and experienced – it’ll be good for young players like myself. And it also helps us get a foot in the door of the Tall Ferns programme. “I’ve wanted to play Tall Ferns since I first started playing basketball, and seeing my older sister [Charlotte] going up through the age group pathways was awesome to see. It’s always been an aspiration for me; watching players like Penina, Charlisse and Kalani up on the world stage, and seeing that women can do anything – it’s very inspirational.” TALL FERNS SELECT SQUAD Amiee Book, Unattached Ella Bradley, University of Texas at Tyler (NCAA Div II) Grace Hunter, California State Bakersfield Roadrunners (NCAA Div I) Waiata Jennings, Collin College Cougars (NJCAA) Eva Langton, Norwood Flames (NBL1) Tara Manumaleuga, Texas Christian University (NZCCA Div I) Esra McGoldrick, Casey Cavaliers (NBL1) Lilly Parke, Fairleigh Dickinson University (NCAA Div I) Tera Reed, Keilor Thunder (NBL1) Lilly Taulelei, University of Massachusetts (NCAA Div I) Tahlia Tupaea, Penrith Panthers (NBL1) Lauren Whittaker, Gonzaga University Bulldogs (NCAA Div I)

The defending champion Canterbury Rams have surged to their seventh straight National Basketball League (NBL) win. The Rams scored 42 points in the paint and made 19-of-22 free-throws on the way to an 86-72 road victory over the first-year Tauranga Whai at Mercury Baypark in Mount Maunganui on Thursday night. LATEST HEADLINES:   Aitchison takes 200m para gold in record time Canes or Chiefs? Can Crusaders beat Blues? Navy Blues into OFC Champions League final Maor departs NZ Breakers to coach in Japan Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix Australian centre Lachlan Olbrich finished with a game-high 21 points (7/13 FG, 2/2 3pt, 5/7 FT) to go with nine rebounds and three steals, while import forward MJ Walker had 18 points (6/12 FG, 5/5 FT) and three assists. Fellow American KJ Buffen put up 14 points (4/10 FG, 6/6 FT), six boards and three steals, with reserve Tall Blacks guard Taylor Britt added 12 points (6/12 FG), six rebounds, three assists and three steals, and Walter Brown 11 points (4/9 FG, 3/5 3pt) and six boards. Kiwi guard Kruz Perrott-Hunt carried the scoring load for the Whai, with 20 points (7/15 FG, 5/10 3pt) and four assists, backed up by Phil Carr with 14 points (5/16 FG, 4/8 FG), 10 boards and two steals. Denhym Brooke chimed in with 12 points (5/6 FG, 2/3 3pt) and eight rebounds, Jett Thompson 13 points (4/6 FG, 3/5 3pt) and import Demarcus Holland and Jayden Bezzant made valuable contributions. Two crucial periods tilted the game in the Rams' favour. The first, in the back half of the first quarter, saw Canterbury score the last 18 points of the period, with Walker and Olbrich dropping six, to flip an eight-point deficit into a 23-13 lead at the first break. The second, early in the fourth quarter while leading by just five, saw the Rams score 11 straight points as part of an overall 17-3 run, with Britt scoring six, to take a 19-point lead with 3:08 remaining. The Rams (7-2) complete their North Island double-header against the Wellington Saints (7-2) on Saturday (tip-off 7.30pm) in a top-four clash, while the Whai (4-7) head to Palmerston North to take on the Manawatu Jets (1-9) on Sunday (tip-off 3pm). Canterbury Rams 86 (Lachlan Olbrich 21, MJ Walker 18, KJ Buffen 14, Taylor Britt 12, Walter Brown 11) Tauranga Whai 72 (Kruz Perrott-Hunt 20, Phil Carr 14, Jett Thompson 13, Denhym Brooke 12). 1Q: 23-13, HT: 41-36, 3Q: 60-51

Auckland City’s defence of their OFC Champions League title is still alive after a 1-0 semifinal victory over New Caledonia’s AS Magenta on Wednesday (Thursday NZ Time) at Stade Pater in Tahiti. The New Zealand side – looking to win a record-extending 12th crown – were made to work hard for the win by an AS Magenta side, who had only one day’s rest following their rescheduled final group stage match against Ifira Black Bird on Monday afternoon. LATEST HEADLINES:  Maor departs NZ Breakers for gig in Japan Pumped-up Airs ground the Hawks in NBL  Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix  NZ rowing pair earn 'last chance' Paris spot  Black Ferns aim to finish strong vs Australia  NZ Warriors' NSW Cup side upset Panthers Young winger Stipe Ukich was the match winner for Albert Riera’s side, who will face either AS Pirae or Rewa FC in Friday’s (Saturday NZT) showpiece final. Pierre Wajoka’s team showed considerable promise throughout and almost took the lead in the 20th minute. Cyril Drawilo chasing a seemingly lost cause to hook the ball back for Germain Haewegene, but the forward could only direct his header straight at Conor Tracey. Liam Gillion had Auckland City’s best chance of the half, twisting and turning dangerously on the byline but his shot from a narrow angle was comfortably blocked by Mickael Ulile. It was the New Caledonians that began the second period the stronger side, Jimmy Watu stinging the palms of Tracey with a left-footed effort having worked space for himself well on the right-hand side. Haewegene was presented with perhaps his side’s clearest chance of the match, breaking clear onto a through ball over the top of the Auckland City defence, only to shoot straight at Tracey with time and space at his disposal. The breakthrough came for the defending champions in the 66th minute. Ukich was found on the right-hand side of the box and showed considerable composure to cut inside a defender before opening his body up and side-footing calmly into the far corner to give his side the lead. AS Magenta’s compacted schedule was taking a toll as the matched ticked towards the 90, with Auckland City showing their experience in controlling the tempo of the play. Substitute Ryan De Vries had a good opportunity to double the lead in the 85th minute, latching onto a smart cutback from fellow sub Tong Zhou, but his effort from the edge of the box flew well over the bar. Any hopes of an AS Magenta comeback were all but extinguished in the 86th minute when Jean Claude Jewine was shown two yellow cards in quick succession – both for acts of dissent towards the referee – leaving his side with an even taller task. It was a task that proved too much, as the New Zealanders saw out the closing minutes to clinch victory and secure their place in the final. Auckland City 1 (Stipe Ukich 66′) AS Magenta 0. HT: 0-0

Still plenty riding on the penultimate round robin matches in Super Rugby Pacific with positions on the ladder and pride on the line. The Hurricanes have bought back a couple of big names in Jordie Barrett and TJ Perenara, but Brad Shields is out injured. LATEST HEADLINES: Navy Blues into OFC Champions League final Maor departs NZ Breakers for gig in Japan Pumped-up Airs ground the Hawks in NBL Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix NZ rowing pair earn 'last chance' Paris spot The Chiefs still have Damian McKenzie at first five and a superb attacking backline outside him. The Chiefs pack is pretty solid throughout and should have a big clash against the Canes in front of a sold out crowd in Hamilton. Earlier in the season, the Hurricanes won 36-23 in Wellington. Chiefs vs Hurricanes FMG Stadium Waikato, Hamilton, Friday, 7.05pm CHIEFS: Shaun Stevenson, Emoni Narawa, Anton Lienert-Brown, Quinn Tupaea, Etene Nanai Seturo, Damian McKenzie, Cortez Ratima, Luke Jacobson (c), Kaylum Boshier, Simon Parker, Tupou Vaa'i, Manaaki Selby-Rickit, George Dyer, Samisoni Taukei'aho, Aidan Ross. Reserves: Tyrone Thompson, Jared Proffit, Sione Ahio, Naitoa Ah Kuoi, Wallace Sititi, Te Toiroa Tahuriorangi, Josh Ioane, Rameka Poihipi HURRICANES: Ruben Love, Josh Moorby, Billy Proctor, Jordie Barrett, Kini Naholo, Brett Cameron, TJ Perenara, Brayden Iose, Peter Lakai, Devan Flanders, Isaia Walker-Leawere, Justin Sangster, Pasilio Tosi, Raymond Tuputupu, Xavier Numia. Reserves: James O'Reilly, Pouri Rakete-Stones, Tevita Mafileo, Caleb Delany, TK Howden, Richard Judd, Peter Umaga-Jensen, Salesi Rayasi Referee: Paul Williams The Blues have actually rested a couple of players against the Crusaders, which in the past would have been unheard of, however even with Dalton Papali'i out, their loose forward trio of Akira Ioane, Adrian Choat, Hoskins Sotutu with Cameron Suafoa on the bench is pretty solid. The Crusaders are fighting for pride and their coach Rob Penney who has had a few battles of his own this week. The Crusaders lineup is strong across the park and has Seevu Reece playing his 14th consecutive match of the season while Ethan Blackadder is named in the starting lineup. The Blues won their earlier season clash 26-6. Crusaders vs Blues Apollo Projects Stadium, Christchurch, Saturday, 7.05pm CRUSADERS: Johnny McNicholl, Chay Fihaki, Levi Aumua, David Havili, Sevu Reece, Fergus Burke, Noah Hotham, Christian Lio-Willie, Ethan Blackadder, Cullen Grace, Quinten Strange, Antonio Shalfoon, Fletcher Newell, Codie Taylor (c), Joe Moody. Reserves: George Bell, George Bower, Tamaiti Williams, Jamie Hannah, Tom Christie, Mitch Drummond, Taha Kemara, Dallas McLeod BLUES: Stephen Perofeta, Mark Tele'a, Rieko Ioane, Corey Evans, AJ Lam, Harry Plummer, Taufa Funaki, Hoskins Sotutu, Adrian Choat, Akira Ioane, Sam Darry, Patrick Tuipulotu (c), Angus Ta'avao, Kurt Eklund, Ofa Tu'ungafasi. Reserves: Ricky Riccitelli, Joshua Fusitu'a, PJ Sheck, Josh Beehre, Cameron Suafoa, Sam Nock, Cole Forber, Caleb Tangitau Referee: James Doleman The Highlanders have their season in their own hands. A win against the Fijian Drua at home on Sunday would help them get closer to a playoffs position and with co-captain Billy Harmon returning, they have extra leadership. Highlanders vs Fijian Drua Forsyth Barr Stadium, Dunedin, Sunday, 2.05pm HIGHLANDERS: Jacob Ratumaitavuki-Kneepkens, Timoci Tavatavanawai, Jake Te Hiwi, Sam Gilbert, Jona Nareki, Ajay Falegaga, Folau Fakatava, Billy Harmon (co-capt), Sean Withy, Oliver Haig, Fabian Holland, Mitch Dunshea, Jermaine Ainsley, Henry Bell, Ethan de Groot (co-capt). Reserves: Jack Taylor, Daniel Lienert-Brown, Saula Ma'u, Max Hicks, Nikora Broughton, James Arscott, Matt Whaanga, Connor Garden-Bachop FIJIAN DRUA: Ilaisa Droasese, Selestino Ravutaumada, Iosefo Masi, Kemu Valetini, Epeli Momo, Isaiah Armstrong-Ravula, Simione Kuruvoli, Elia Canakaivata, Kitione Salawa, Etonia Waqa, Isoa Nasilasila, Mesake Vocevoce, Mesake Doge, Tevita Ikanivere (c), Jone Koroiduadua. Reserves: Zuriel Togiatama, Emosi Tuqiri, Samu Tawake, Leone Rotuisolia, Vilive Miramira, Peni Matawalu, Caleb Muntz, Taniela Rakuro Referee: Ben O'Keeffe

New Zealand elite rookies Rico Bearman and Leila Walker both emerged with top-seven results after both made grand finals at the UCI BMX Racing World Championships in US at the weekend. Bearman, 20, finished sixth in his first world championship as an elite rider, while Walker, 19, was seventh in the elite women’s final at Rock Hill in South Carolina, with both riders bypassing the under-23 category to jump directly to elite racing. LATEST HEADLINES:  Navy Blues into OFC Champions League final Maor departs NZ Breakers for gig in Japan Pumped-up Airs ground the Hawks in NBL  Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix  NZ rowing pair earn 'last chance' Paris spot  Black Ferns aim to finish strong vs Australia The forecasted storms held off, although riders had to cope with a challenging first turn at the Rock Hill course that saw several riders slide out of contention. Bearman, the 2023 under-23 world champion, was in compelling form, consistently among the fastest one-lap times, although he had to show his fighting spirit when he found himself battling from behind. He missed the snap out of the gate in his quarterfinal to be last into the first turn but fought back brilliantly to nab the fourth and final place to qualify for the semifinals. The Speedco professional was outstanding in his semifinal, finishing a close second to behind eventual champion Joris Daudat of France, who went on to secure his third world title. Bearman was squeezed in the troublesome first turn in the final, again pushed to the rear of the field but he made ground to finish sixth to cap an excellent competition. Walker, who made a late start to the season recovering from injury, is yet to develop into world-class rider out of the gate, but possesses outstanding speed and racecraft around the track. Time and again at Rock Hill, Walker was forced to ride through from the back. She was superb in her semifinal, rushing from last at the first turn to finish fourth to qualify for the final. And again she was squeezed at the first turn in the final, but fought back to finish seventh to complete an eye-catching showing at Rock Hill. “It is very surreal and has not sunk in yet. The racing was fast, tough but I am super-happy with my riding,” said Walker. “This definitely exceeds my expectations. I am proud to wear the fern, proud to put New Zealand back in an elite women’s final after Rebecca (Petch) went to track." The sole New Zealand medal in the elite finals went to Cambridge teen Lily Greenough, who finished second in the junior women’s final, behind Australian Teya Rufus, after the pair earlier dominated their semifinal. Her brother Jack Greenough had to be content with fourth in the under-23 final after he was squeezed to the back of the field on the first turn. Meanwhile, her elder brother Bennett, who had looked in outstanding form, slid out on the challenging first turn while leading his semifinal. Earlier, multi-national champion Michael Bias found himself pushed wide and slipped off the track in an aggressive elite men’s quarterfinal after showing plenty of speed in his qualifying rounds. Rotorua’s Megan Williams missed out by one place on qualifying for the semifinals in the elite women. The championship brings to completion the qualifying period for the Paris Olympic Games, with Cycling New Zealand awaiting advice from the UCI on the official allocation of qualifying spots. UCI BMX RACING WORLD CHAMPIONSHIPS RESULTS Elite Men: Joris Daudet (FRA) 32.735, 1; Niek Kimmann (NED) 33.300, 2; Sylvain Andre (FRA) 33.864, 3. Also: Rico Bearman (NZL) 34.924, 6 Elite Women: Alise Willoughby (USA) 32.513, 1; Zoe Claessens (SUI) 32.886, 2; Daleny Vaughn (USA).33.522, 3. Also: Leila Walker (NZL) 35.332, 7 Under-23 Men: Pedro Benalcazar Guerrero (COL) 33.117, 1; Patrick O’Brien (USA) 33.568, 2; Jason Noordam (NED) 33.674, 3. Also: Jack Greenough (NZL) 34.352, 4 Under-23 Women: Veronika Sturiska (LAT) 33.173, 1; Emily Hutt (GBR) 33.393, 2; Bella May (AUS) 33.827, 3 Junior Men: Joshua Jolly (AUS) 33.464, 1; Niels Appermont (BEL) 34.316, 2; Valentino Vallejo (ARG) 40.177, 3 Junior Women: Teya Refus (AUS) 33.271, 1; Lily Greenough (NZL) 33.830, 2; Ava Corley (USA) 34.105, 3 Caption: Lily Greenough on the podium and in action; Leila Walker and Rico Bearman in action at the UCI BMX Racing World Championships in South Carolina, USA. (Credit: Cole McOnie).

Goal-scorer Kosta Barbarouses has resisted overtures from rival A-League clubs and re-signed with the Wellington Phoenix. The Phoenix men’s player of the year has recommitted to his hometown club for the 2024-25 A-League, with an option for a further season. LATEST HEADLINES: Five Phoenix players in A-League All-Stars Strong NZ cycling team selected for Paris Experienced Australian to coach Tall Ferns Blues keep Tu'ungafasi for two more years NZ Warriors players back for Dolphins clash Barbarouses is fresh off the second most prolific season of his decorated career, leading the Nix’s record-breaking campaign with 13 goals and five assists. The All Whites forward is now fourth on the all-time list of A-League men’s goal scorers after becoming just the eighth player to reach the 300-game milestone. “It’s a season to be proud of individually and as a team,” Barbarouses said. “Obviously we had our best ever year as a club and it’s probably no surprise after the season we had there was a fair bit of interest in me. “I weighed up everything and decided Wellington is by far the best place for me to be. “I’ve still got big aspirations to do something special here and to play at a good level heading into the 2026 World Cup. That’s a big goal for me. “Wellington’s home as well so it was a very easy decision and I’m very happy to extend and stay on.” Barbarouses also feels he has unfinished business with the Phoenix. “I’m really proud of what we achieved as a club this year. We were millimetres, seconds, minutes away from a grand final and we want to keep building on that. “I think it’s important we’ve kept a big core of the squad together already, which is great stability wise. “I’m sure Chiefy and the staff would have learnt from this year and want to go above and beyond and better as well. “It’s a great place to be at the moment and there are so many positives to take out of this season going into next season.” And the four-time A-League champion believes he can keep performing at a high level. “As a long as I keep feeling good I obviously want to be a mentor for the young ones and I want to be one of the best performing players in the league as well. “I don’t want to kid myself when I don’t think I’m there and probably wouldn’t keep playing if I didn’t. “I think I’ve still got so much to offer and this season’s obviously proven that so I’m not going to put a limit on myself.” Phoenix head coach Giancarlo Italiano was thrilled to have kept hold of Barbarouses for at least one more season. “It’s good for the group in general and good for team chemistry,” Italiano said. “Kosta really suits the way we play. We build towards him. You saw this season when he became the central nine, we had a really different dynamic and were really exciting to watch. “On the park his numbers do all the talking, but what he does off the pitch when it comes to leadership and how he keeps a good vibe in the team, is also very, very important for us. “He brings a lot of cohesion in the changing room. A lot of the young boys lean on him for advice and he’s a calming influence. “Kosta also looks after himself quite well and shows the young boys what it’s like to be a good professional.” And Italiano believed Barbarouses could keep performing in the A-League, despite the competition trending towards younger players. “Age is not something I’ve taken into consideration. For me it’s about his output. “He’s outperformed so many young guys this season it’s beyond what anyone else thought he could do at that age. “It’s more about how fresh he is in the mind and how he applies himself. “One more year here with a possibility of another year will get him to the 2026 World Cup. His goal is to get in that squad, and we want to support him to get there.” Italiano currently has 18 players contracted for the 2024-25 A-League season, with discussions continuing with other off-contract players.

A youthful NZ Warriors side produced a stunning 22-10 upset win over the New South Wales Cup-leading Penrith Panthers at North Sydney on Saturday. It was a day charged with emotion as the players wore black armbands in support of captain Kalani Going, whose great-uncle, the legendary All Black halfback Sid Going, passed away at the age of 80 on Friday. LATEST HEADLINES:   Pumped-up Airs ground the Hawks in NBL Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix  NZ rowing pair earn 'last chance' Paris spot  Black Ferns aim to finish strong vs Australia In stretching their unbeaten streak to five matches, the Warriors moved up to fifth on the ladder on 13 points as they continued their strong revival following an indifferent start to the season. They did so with a side radically changed from the one used in the 26-20 win over the Sydney Roosters in Round 10, with just two players remaining from the backline. Of the 17 players, 11 players were eligible for the club’s SG Ball Cup (under-19) or Jersey Flegg Cup (under-21) teams this season, while a 12th was a New South Wales Cup rookie in wing Compton Fuatimau. From the lineup named on Tuesday, coach David Tangata-Toa had lost fullback Ben Farr, halfback Paul Roache and prop Zyon Maiu’u to the club’s NRL squad. The Warriors, who defied a string of injuries and setbacks to draw 22-22 with the Panthers on April 27, relished their underdog status in Saturday’s rematch. Tries to hooker Makaia Tafua and centre Moala Graham-Taufa gave them a handy 10-0 lead in a first half which also saw them suffer more adversity when teen centre Sio Kali was forced off the field with a leg injury. The Panthers found a way back into the encounter with the first two tries of the second half to lock it up 10-10 but a double strike in the last 11 minutes sealed a 22-10 win for the Warriors. . First second rower Eddie Ieremia scored in the 69th minute, followed by fullback Motu Pasikala showing enormous strength when he held off multiple defenders to score; Pasikala also converted both tries to secure an outstanding 12-point victory. A much-changed Warriors side fought well but was headed 20-10 by South Sydney in Saturday’s Jersey Flegg Cup (under-21) catch-up match at North Sydney Oval. The Round 5 clash had to be rescheduled after atrocious weather in Sydney forced it to be postponed last month. The Warriors’ lineup originally named on Tuesday was modified significantly, with second rower Alvin Chong Nee moved to the centres and William Piliu brought in as his partner. Sefanaia Cowley-Lupo was switched from the centres to halfback, Francis Tuimauga and Augustino Filipo both came into the starting pack from the interchange with Mikaele Ilaiu brought onto the bench. The Rabbitohs, sitting in the top half of the competition, were on song in the first half, crossing for three tries in the first 23 minutes to lead 14-0. The Warriors worked a try for wing Raphael Sio, going to the break 10 points adrift. The good work was undone when South Sydney nabbed a fourth try early in the second half to jump to a 20-4 lead but the Warriors kept competing and were rewarded with a Garry Tuilekutu try in the 59th minute. Heading into the last 10 minutes of the match, there was time enough to stage a grandstand finish but the Rabbitohs denied the Warriors to hold on for a 20-10 win.

The coach who has led the on-court rebuild of the NZ Breakers post-Covid-19 is leaving Auckland for Japan. In two seasons as head coach in the Australian National Basketball League (ANBL), Mody Maor guided the Breakers to the playoffs twice, with an overall 29-27 record in the regular season. LATEST HEADLINES:   Pumped-up Airs ground the Hawks in NBL Kosta Barbarouses staying with the Phoenix  NZ rowing pair earn 'last chance' Paris spot Black Ferns aim to finish strong vs Australia Five Phoenix players in A-League All-Stars Under Maor, the Breakers came within seven minutes of a championship last year before falling 77-69 to the Sydney Kings in a deciding Game 5 of the ANBL Finals. Previously, he arrived at the Breakers in 2019 and was assistant to Dan Shamir for three years, including the two seasons when the New Zealand borders were closed and the team relocated to Australia. Breakers chief executive Lisa Edser said Maor left for Japan - released from the final year of his contract - with the club's blessing and would forever be part of the Breakers’ family because of his enormous contribution. “Mody’s international reputation is at an all-time high after what he has done at the Breakers, and he is now one of the most highly sought coaches in the world,” said Edser. “We have always been a family first club, and Mody is forever part of the Breakers family, but we understand the reality of his putting his wife and two little children first with this opportunity.” Edser said the players, including star import Parker Jackson-Cartwright, have been told and supported Maor’s rationale for moving on. She said the club had plenty of time to find the best replacement. “Our season has only just ended, and the first practice for the next season is still three months away,” she said. “The Breakers is one of the most coveted coaching jobs outside the NBA. “There are many great candidates, and we will take the time we have in spades to identify the right person to lead the team forward to give us the best opportunity to win the championship next season.” Maor, 38, said it would be an adjustment moving to Asia because his Breakers’ experience had left an indelible place in his heart because both his infant girls were born in Auckland. He was confident the players signed for the new season would rally around the new coach and continue the proud legacy of the club. “I have spoken to all the players, and they are confident, as I am, that management will put an incredible coach in place,” said Maor. “When a player decides to play for the Breakers, he takes many different parameters under consideration, and it’s not just to play under the coach. “All the players I’ve signed have signed to play for the Breakers, not me, and I will be cheering them on from the couch next season. “To the fans, you’ve been amazing, and I appreciate all your support. There’s no greater experience than a game day at Spark Arena. I’m really going to miss it and miss you all.”

Caroline Powell claimed victory at the Badminton Horse Trials, becoming the fifth New Zealander to win the prestigious event on Sunday (Monday NZ Time). . Powell and Greenacres Special Cavalier completed a clear round of showjumping to finish with 43.2 penalties across the three disciplines, enough to secure the title ahead of some well-known names. LATEST HEADLINES: Baby Blacks win U-20 Rugby Championship Phoenix draw with Victory in A-League first leg NZ Warriors' woes continue in Roosters loss Central Pulse beat Tactix to remain unbeaten Kiwis Fox, Alker eyeing top-10 finishes in US Powell joins Sir Mark Todd, Jock Paget, Andrew Nicholson and Jonelle Price as the other New Zealanders to win the event. Ireland’s Lucy Latta on RCA Patron Saint was second in her Badminton debut with Great Britain’s Alexander Bragg riding Quindiva in third, both finishing two penalty points behind Powell. Overnight leader and compatriot Tim Price dropped five rails to finish eighth behind wife Jonelle in sixth "I wasn't ready for that one. To win here - wow," said Powell. "I can't believe it - it means so much." Meanwhile, British great William Fox-Pitt was second going into Sunday's show-jumping finale as he attempted to win the event for a third time, at the age of 55. Fox-Pitt won 20 major championship medals during his eventing career and represented Great Britain at five Olympic Games, winning two team silver medals and one team bronze.