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A World Cup to remember?

Alix Popham proudly represented Wales at two Rugby Union World Cups. But Alix has no recollection of doing do, because, aged just 43, he lives with early-on-set dementia

The Rugby World Cup is underway. From when William Webb Ellis first picked up and ran with a football in 1823 and the sport of Rugby was born, to now, and the playing for the trophy in his name. Alix Popham proudly represented Wales at two World Cups, including the last time it was held in France. Undoubtedly the pinnacle of any sporting career with memories to last a life time. Sadly not for Alix... Because now, aged just 43, he lives with early-on-set dementia

When Arcangelo crossed the line first in the Belmont Stakes earlier this year, it was a hugely significant moment in horse racing. The first time a triple crown race - one of the most prestigious in the sport - had been won by a female trainer. Jena Antonucci is her name and as Arcangelo approached the finish line her excitement could be heard by all those around her.

What did you do last weekend? Watched some TV? Go out shopping? Maybe a stroll in the country?! Well that's just not enough for some people... Particularly ultra endurance marathon runners! People like Jon Albon. Jon spent last weekend winning the 100 kilometre Courmayeur-Champex-Chamonix, known as the "CCC". He's now won two of the three races that make up the infamous "Ultra-Trail Mont Blanc"... So when in a 100km race dose it begin to hurt!?

The US Open will crowns it's champions this weekend. Men's finalist Danill Medvedev said earlier in week he feared "one player is going to die" because of the extreme heat. Meanwhile home favourite and women's finalist Coco Gauff had her semi final victory interrupted for nearly an hour by environmental protesters. Well someone who has long spoken out about the damage to sport climate change is reeking is New Zealand player Marcus Daniell.

A member of the EcoAthletes, a collective of likeminded sport stars, he has been telling about the climate and his other off court activities, but also about what it's like to experience that winning moment. In Tokyo last year he doubles partner Michael Venus picked up Olympic bronze for New Zealand... So how did they handle that moment? Some sink to the court on their knees, others straight to the net for the hand shake and a reserved fist bump. For others... you're a blubbering wreck... Like Marcus Daniell did. As you'll hear the two men had very different reactions to their moment of victory!

Image: Alix Popham (C) of Wales celebrates as the final whistle blows during the RBS Six Nations Championship match between England and Wales at Twickenham on February 2, 2008 in London, England. (Photo by Tom Shaw/Getty Images)

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Sat 9 Sep 2023 09:06GMT

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  • Sat 9 Sep 2023 09:06GMT

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