Games of the XI Olympiad—roleplaying thread

by **The Sarian** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 6:16 am

THE DAILY GAZETTE

Olympic Games - Day Eight

After winning a two more gold medals, Team Sarian has rocketed into fifth place in the medal table - but how did they do it? The Daily Gazette has all of that, and more, in our daily round-up of everything you need to know about yesterday at the Olympics.

Prudence Foster advanced to the final of the Women's 3 m Springboard despite a disappointing Semi-Final. Finishing in eighth, Foster will have to significantly improve if she wishes to medal in tomorrow's final. A blessing for Prudence Foster, however, is that she does have till tomorrow to re-compose herself. The men's event does not give the same luxury.

In the swimming, the men's 4×100 m Medley Relay finished sixth in the final, someway off the pace of the medal spots. Nonetheless, an appearance in the final represents a good performance considering the other results in the swimming.

Ossian Pocock finished last in his heat in the men's 100 meters in a disappointing day for Team Sarian in the athletics. Joshua Potter and Aston Darby both finished in 44.97 seconds in the Semifinals of the Men's 400 meters, meaning that neither will progress to the final. Ivor Dunn did qualify from the Men's Steeplechase, but finished eighth in his heat in the 10,000 meters. Also competing in the 10,000 meters was Delaiah Northrop - who finished second in his heat, though this was a massive fifteen seconds behind Electrumite Carmen Powys.

Slightly more positive was the boxing - Jürgen Cole (Men’s Flyweight) and Manley Cokes (Men’s Middleweight) both qualified for the next round against homeboy Donald Eury and Verno Chan of Kriegiersien respectively. However, Korrine Botwright failed to make the quarter-finals of the Women’s Middleweight.

But it was the rowing that gave Team Sarian fans (which, lets face it is everyone reading this) the best cause for celebration - although just for show, James Beckwith stormed the B Final of the Men's Single Sculls with a fantastic time of 6:54.29. By contrast, gold medalist Everett Soriano of Britonisea finished in 7:03.75. More significantly, The Men's Coxed Eights finished first in the A Final to claim The Sarian's third rowing medal of the games before the women repeated the feat after a fantastic performance in a race they led throughout.

The Men's beach volleyball saw Sari pairs qualifying for the quarter finals, keeping alive the possibility of not just one but two medals in the event. It was a hard fought win for Wallis Patrickson and Niall Jordan - despite leading the first set 19-9, they went onto lose the set 21-19 after a superb comeback by Jacó Eleuterio Coelho and Amílcar Torres of the Avissian Union. The Avissian Union pair then took a commanding 14-2 lead in the second set, igniting Patrickson and Jordan into a comeback of their own - eventually winning the set 21-16. In the final set, the Team Sarian duo emerged victorious to progress. Louie Woodcock and Jamie Montpellier had it much easier - winning in straight sets 21-16, 21-19.

Surprisingly, The Greco-Roman Wrestling proved oddly entertaining as Marianne Peters came surprisingly close to a bronze medal in the 53 kg, despite a format that nobody in the office could quite understand (damned Greco-Romans) before Sappheire Kaspar defeated opponents from the likes of Electrum, Kernansquillec and the Yellow Star Republic before finally being beaten by Leah Fitchett of Cosumar. Luckily, at a score of 3-1 it was not as bad as that Cup of Harmony final and Sappheire looked delighted at her silver medal in the Women's 63 kg.

So, The Sarian are now fifth in the medal table - can we stay there? Coverage of the ninth day of the Olympics starts at nine o'clock Sarian time, and don't forget to check out The Daily Gazette live-blog at http://www.thegazette.com/olympics.

by **Electrum** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 6:27 am

Network ENN - Commentary Transcript - Tennis Women's Doubles

Commentators: Ameerah Gauci, tennis expert for the Centralis Herald and Sara Zhuo, current player for Electrum

by **Fluvique** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 7:53 am

WE'RE SEMIFINALISTS

With goals of Auze (x2), Villeneuve, Pullian and Bertens, Fluvique is semi-finalist. Amazing feat of a emergency squad chosen just a week before the start of the Olympics.

Mounted on a utilitarian ideology that embraces success as a value and disregards the rest, the team showed a great mix of football and heart and a powerfull message to the RFA members and clubs: Fluvique is playing among the major teams despite all the internal chaos and probles to call up players and they deserves a big recognition, no matter the outcome. The victory over Independent Olympic Athletes, lucid at start, suffered later and loose at the end, puts the team in an unprecedented situation and just one step away from playing the decisive match of the Olympics Games. Above all, this young emergency players are doing an amazing feat. And we don't want to wake up.

Fluvique played his best match in the tournament so far. Even despite the brownout they suffered in the final stage of the first half, which gave prominence minutes to Christiaan Van Aalst, they had an interesting collective deployment. The team had different registers: they knew to press in attack at first, so that the ball recovery occured near the Independent Olympic Athletes' area and to slowly drow their rivals; they were perspicacious to change the script in the second half, reduce speed and let Ricky Bertens decide the appropriate rhythms of the game. He was patient to pass the ball from side to side, until fing a gap to throw the dagger. All this against a strong rival, but without the Fluviquean skills: the head is always faster than the body.

The national side is orderer from the position of Auze, who decides where goes the ball, from which side and the movements of his teammates in attack. And the captain, lying in the right at the beginning of the plays, is a magnet for friends and strangers: focuses the attention of opponents, which goes forhim and active his peers, which move like flies around, attracted by the talent of the number 14. Because Auze is honey

The captain is position plus influence. Bertens goes in and out, controlling the ball with his feet and being strategic with their passes; he plays with Villeneuve, looking for free spaces and so is goal; Mathieu Barbieri touches; Auze runs and win the ball.

Carusso likes to highlight the collective game at the expense of the individual dependance. Today, in a city filled by Fluviqueans, the national side knew to distribute the leadership among several players. It began with the wanted goal of Villeneuve, it passed through the hands of Van Aalst, was for a while in the legs of Bertens and the dribblings of Auze. And always lived in the rival field

Fluvique now is in an unexpected place. They has two days to think and re think the upcomign match, against one of the best teams in the multiverse. The tricolors are more than ever underdogs. They will face a team more experienced, with more work and without the Fluviquean dissorder and problems. However, their ilusions can't be easily beaten. They has an unique opportunity. Maybe, to revenge the Cup of Harmony defeat and make Sam Gonza smile at home.

Steven Wilkins is silver medal

Steven Wilkins, big hope for the national sport in the previous days, won the silver medal in 1500m freestyle and became tghe first Fluviquean swimmer to achieve a podium in an Olympic Game. In the final he fought back after being sixth, but in the last part he swam the second fastest, behind the eventual gold medalist, to achieve his spot in the podium. Wilkins made history as a Fluviquean had never reacherd a men's final in 1500m freestyle.

"It's amazing. Really, the dream was to be in the final, trying to fight. Now this is magnificent. Is bigger than my best dreams" the 24-year-old said. "I swam wihout pressure, enjoying the moment. I think that could be good a cause of this medal" and he added "At a certain point I started to swim faster, knowing that maybe this was my only and last opportunity to compete in an Olympic final, so I gave everything. I almost fainted when I saw my name so high in the final qualification. In fact, I only saw the tricolor flag and was amazing"

BASKETBALL

Still fighting

In the fourth matchday of the Olympic Games of Aeropag, the Golden Boys beat Astyrian Unified Team 82-57. The highlights were the performances of Severin Kerr, with 19 points and five assists and Luke Bram, with 12 points and 9 rebounds.

At the start of the game Fluvique was overwhelming, but their rivals managed to settle in the court and to get close in the first quarter, which ended 18-12 in favor of the Fluviqueans.

Severin Kerr led the scoring in the first half with 14 points, but also provided the usual fight in defence and in the first two quarters had 3 steals. Luke Bram and Daniel Villa were also accurate with his shots, with 12 points and 10 respectively.

The Fluviquean superiority in the game was matched on the scoreboard and the Golden Boys finished the first half 45-28. The third period was to keep difference, and who stood out above the rest was Vin Gayelord, with a starring role in attack and fighting for rebounds.

Thus, Fluvique started the last quarter 72-40 up, with the tranquility that gives a great difference against an inferior opponent. In the final chapter, the national side took the advantage to make play all its players, without seeing endangered the result at any time and finally took the game 82–57.

The team of Carl Sheep will play with Ethane, who lost its first match with Vangaziland, so there is no one unbeaten team in the group. The Golden Boys need to win or win to dream with a the next round.

The team of Carl Sheep will play with Ethane, who lost its first match with Vangaziland, so there is no one unbeaten team in the group. The Golden Boys need to win or win to dream with a the next round. In the second hardest group of the Olympics (group C has five teams with chances to qualify), the national side will gave everything to join Cosumar, the only qualified team in the men's basketball.

BOXING—

End of the dream

Tasha Sissie, last Olympic champion, lost in the semifinals against Diana Aslan (AMN). Thus, her dream to retain the golden medal is ove, but the experience was again wonderfull for her, as she will be in the podium with a bronze medal. "I'm sad, thats the true. What embitters me more is that I lost clearly, without objections. She was better than me today, she deserved the victory and I hope she can enjoy what I lived in the last Olympics" said a sad Sissie after the fight "The dream to win a medal for the country is always there. Of course, the color isn't the desired, but I still think that is a prize, not a consolation one, but a prize to all the hard training. Be again among the four best boxers in the multiverse is something to be proud of. I look forward to a rematch in the next Olympics. I will work for that"

by **Hannasea** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 8:38 am

Selection of articles from Hannasean sports media.

Field hockey stars reach Olympic quarterfinals

SuperSport

Coffee Ministry suggests funding could be based on Olympic results

Strong viewing figures despite lack of genital torture amaze TV executives

SuperSport

*OOC: This is an IC statement only, obviously.

by **Bulgar Rouge** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 9:12 am

The cries exploded the moment when the weights dropped with all their might onto the floor. Angel broke the Olympic record and snatched the first medal - a solid gold - for his country in the Olympics.

Only a few minutes ago the rest of the weightlifting team - and a few wrestlers in the audience who were there to support their friends - were being quiet. Ivan Grigorov did not finish his series, in a completely shocking development. Who would've thought that the best prepared weightlifter and veteran, mulled to become chairman of the Weightlifting Department of the Sports Committee, would fail ? It left a bitter taste. What's more, State Security was now investigating the string of very dubious failures: Ivan, Radina and Bilyana did not finish their attempts. Asen Nikiforov was disqualified. The chances of repercussions were now high.

But in this moment that didn't matter. Angel had made a colossal effort and shattered all expectations to deliver a medal that was now bittersweet for most of the delegation. Jumping off the podium, Angel rushed to the stands where Radina, Znamen, Kalin, Maria and Lazar, Stanimir and Desislava from the wrestling team all threw themselves on him; Ivan also ran towards the cluster of people.

"You did it, you little bastard!"

"And he did it for us! There's no other way this loser would have done something like that, he did it out of spite."

"Get outta here, you're all just jealous!"

Some moments after the final chord of the national anthem, the company gathered to celebrate. Joined, of course, by the boxer team, and a new addition - Andrea. The Bulgarian Olympic Committee had supplied them with lukanka - a spicy Bulgarian sausage with garlic, different types of traditional Bulgarian cheese, lokum and other goodies. And, of course, a special throat-burning rakia made of a blend of different grapes, in contravention with traditional Bulgarian spirit brewing but also incomparably strong and tasty compared to home brew.

"What the hell was that ? You made it more clean than me, and you put up an Olympic record. You didn't seem so mean when I first met you."

"I felt like I had to. So many of our good athletes out, no medals...absolute embarrassment. I'm not talking about you, but the general situation. We have only a handful of people left and even this medal isn't enough."

"You wouldn't be able to talk about me anyway! My attempt was 100%. I've done this a thousand times and I know every possible way I could fail it, and I've failed it in every possible way. My attempt was clean, and they marked an error."

"You don't say, Radina continued, both me and Bilyana were out for similar bullshit. Our attempts were flawless and they pushed us out. Both of us. And Asen was out too, so it looks like a trend to me."

Definitely looks like a trend. Out of discus, out of pole vault, out of the 10 km...it's not just us. All of these are experienced athletes and they get disqualified or their attempts get rejected. Even that cocky tennis guy - Glavchev was it ? - seemed to be doing all well and all of a sudden he got the boot as well." Kalin seemed pissed off, and for a reason.

Lazar Panov pointed his finger at Kalin, pinning his statement and continuing from that point on: "That's what the State Security guys think as well. One of them told me they'll make sure we don't get any of this shit again. I learned that when a StatSec guy says something like that, they're not just trash talking. On my last Euro I had two of the judges screwing with the points. It was obvious because I throw the guy and they give me two points instead of four because those two didn't think I had applied technique. And I know my stuff. I know what I'm doing, my coach knows what I'm doing, and the audience knew it too, judging by their reaction. Just those two didn't know it. I got the same statement from one of the StatSec minders back then. You know what happened to those two refs ? One of them was found strangled in his home a month after the Euro. They never found a culprit. The other one now seems to get sick and incapable of performing his duties whenever he has to be a ref at an event where I'm in. They'll take care of them if it's something similar."

"But these are the Olympics, if StatSec does something like that..."

"...nobody will ever know. We don't have security personnel here officially. And retribution won't be immediate. Even if they're fucking with our results, they'll keep doing it until the Olympics end. The lessons will be learned long after that, and by the next Olympics they'll reconsider."

"I wouldn't bet on that. They need the medals just as we do. For them it's a matter of duty to propel us. They will push the organisation and the refs. Not under our flag, of course, but they'll intervene. Nobody will get hurt. But they'll get the anonymous harassment and they'll get enough of it to consider who to punish next time. This can't go on."

"Whatever crap the refs throw at you, if you do what Angel did, they'll have their hands tied." Georgi's deep voice cut through the conversation. "I get the same bullshit. Half of my fights until now have been narrow wins by split decisions. The last guy I fought was inadequate after the first 10 punches. Was knocked down twice. Barely survived the second round. By the last one I wasn't even trying. And they still gave the first round to him by a wide margin, and I only won the second one because it would've looked ridiculous if he won a round where he was knocked down twice. Not once, twice. But if you make sure you grind them, nothing of this will matter. I did this to the last one. I'll do it to the next one."

"He's got a point, this guy. It's what we plan to do. Heavy wrestling isn't like running. They can't disqualify you just like that.

"That's why you, Stanimir, Kalin, Pavlina, Desi, Ivan, all of you. Sit on your asses and take it. It's non-negotiable."

"We'll do it too." Andrea felt like interrupting them. She was out of their friend circle. Her sport was not even close to what they were doing. But she wanted to get that same mentality, and wanted to get her team out of the groups.

"I made an extra training last night with my girls. We have one last chance to get out of the group in handball. I don't think we've been screwed up by the refs, but we definitely didn't give our best out there. I've been correcting the girls' movements, teaching them to have a confident attack, aggressive defence, land accurate throws. Today all they'll do is throw and throw and throw until the ball gets into the net in every shot. We got the spirit but it's the technique we never cared about. And Georgi is right. If we score a dozen more goals than the other team...is there really a way to lose ?"

"Looks like Angel won't be the only one to get the medal from us."

The weightlifters, boxers, wrestlers and the tiny Andrea all seemed to be in concord. But with the recent string of "incidents", they were now fired up and ready to bite, and bite off.

OOC: Grudges are IC.

by **Britonisea** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 10:42 am

www.bitc.com/news
Britonisea's International Television Corporation - Official broadcaster of the XI Olympiad

TARGET - XI OLYMPIAD, AEROPAG

How long left until we reach our target;
2 GOLD MEDALS
2 SILVER MEDALS
1 BRONZE MEDALS

Rank Gold Silver Bronze TOTAL
X 2 4 3 9

Medal Count: Either those medals above or 10 medals in total. Preferably 17 medals.

TENNIS PLAYERS APPEAL TO NSTT TO ACCEPT OLYMPICS FOR POINTS

It was an interesting day for Britonisea. The Britonish delegation managed to receive one gold, twi silvers and two bronze medals which is the biggest gain in one day, but furthermore, we have jumped ahead of Arioslavia - in terms of the amount of medals (9 medals to 6 medals) and very close behind Ndaku's 11 medals. However, in the officially un-official medal table, the Britonish team are quite far down in the medal league as it trails in third after Arioslavia and Ndaku have four and five gold medals respectively. We will come back to more later on in the article. However, first, we would like to address the recent appeal by the Britonish Tennis Players, Elizabeth Quehall and Leo Garry - who asked the NSTT - the NationStates Tennis Tour - as the head of the company has announced that they will not take the Olympic placings in to account. Leo Garry and Elizabeth Quehall, who place in the finals of their respective singles tournament, are asking those in Ceni to reconsider their decision and make it so that their hard work actually pays off.

We spoke to Leo Garry, who is set to face fellow Ultimaversian Martin Bond of Ndaku later tonight in the finals for the gold medal, about this decision. "Even though I didn't have to go to the Olympics - I chose to and I think it's only fair to be awarded for backing my bags and going to the Games of the XI Olympiad. It doesn't matter whether I will win against Martin or not, because I have a medal in my hand, and I can say that I am proud. I used NSTT facilities to train - and I attended NSTT events in order to increase my skills - to the fullest, and now that I have done that I should be awarded for it. It's funny how the Olympics aren't accepted in the NSTT competitions, when nearly all of the top players have their country participating in the Olympic Games - that of course is instead of Ceni. I also have the right to believe that the Ceni players are also corrupting the NSTT in to not using the Olympics as a tennis platform. The Olympics are much more competitive than the side tournaments and I find it hard to believe that NSTT are rejecting this decision. If it's the amount of work which is the problem, and adding non-NSTT players to the NSTT list, then guess what? Don't add them. I feel a bit cheated." Leo Garry said in a press conference after his win. After being asked whether the match against Quiront was hard, he had a very straight forward answer. "The match was revenge - one hundred percent. Sure, he won the second set, but I would win the third set, and that was already written in the books." Leo Garry went on to say, "How dare he beat two Britonish in a row, Jason Gordon and then Ricardo Toli and then think he was going to beat me? I've been training too much for you to surpass me." Even though these comments seem a bit selfish of him to say, he then reiterated that he felt very strongly about making up the debt that Quiront played. When Leo Garry was asked whether he was looking forward to the next match, he replied, "These sneaky Ndakene. Martin Bond came out of no where, in my opinion. And, based on his appearances in the NSTT tournaments, I don't quite understand why he's in the final. Then again, I ask myself how I reached the finals. Am I looking forward to this match? Sure I am! I am gunning for the gold - so don't expect the match to be an easy one for him. I also think there will be a lot of drama during the match, so, you may want to turn on your television to watch that. I am guaranteed a medal and that's all that matters."

Elizabeth Quehall had a press conference simultaneously and was asked whether she wanted the NSTT results to add in the Olympics. She replied, "Of course I do, and call me selfish all you like - but, entering the Games of the XI Olympiad and thinking you're going to get through Round 2 is hard enough. It's good that the NSTT doesn't rule tennis at these competitions because it doesn't make it fair on other nations - but, it is fair that I am not getting NSTT-wise rewarded for my hard work. I have been practising and working so hard on this and I've achieved something that I've always wanted...a medal. Sure, I would've liked to be in the running to win the gold medal in the mixed doubles with Leo Garry, but, if I can only handle one event - then so be it. I'd rather win Singles than come fourth in both, and I am sure that Leo agrees. But going back to the point, NSTT are really cruel for saying they won't count the Britonish success in our sport." She was then told that Leo Garry though it was because of the Ceni bias towards tennis, and she replied "Well, he's on to something. When the Britannual Championships happened, before the ATP somehow took that over and cancelled the Britannual Championships, people suspected that Britonisea and San Jose Guayabal were somehow cheating in the competition because they pulled ahead of the rest of the participating nations -- while also being held in those two countries alone. Then, the Lzher-Jeckland open started and the Kannapian May Championships and those lies were extinguished. At the time, Ceni wasn't doing too well in tennis. Now, it seems as if they're amazing at it." She stated before continuing, "I also find it strange that the Krytenians got the leeway to host a tennis grand slam, when Britonisea has been around for the whole ATP-NSTT experience. I believe the reason that Britonisea had left the ATP was because of this." Finally, when she was asked if she looked forward to her match later, she responded, "Of course, I always look forward to a match! I've had one of the most successful tennis competitions ever, and it would be great to win the gold medal and further add to Britonisea's wins!"

Unless you are unaware, we Brexited the ATP (The Association of Tennis Professionals) after the Krytenian Open after Britonisea, with tries to better their tennis campaign, and yet we're doing worse. The Britonish Tennis Association (TBTA) has stated that the players are not at fault, and there are some advantages to certain players - like Electrumites and Cenians because they have a lot of home advantage. Britonisea isn't set to host a tennis competition in 2016, and didn't host the World Tour Finals in 2015/6, and instead it was held in Kannap. TBTA has also stated that they intend to host the tennis games at the US Summer Games because tennis is "their [Britonisea] sport." Some say that other nations are preferred in the NSTT, and it's time for other nations to step up and voice their opinions.

In other news, Jason (Jadon) Hall - the Men's 800m is out in the semi finals and the only Britonish progressing forward to the finals in Jayden Ultimate - who can take the gold from Jason (Jadon) Hall and become the new champion of the Olympic Games, but the final list is very challenging. Plus, Britonisea won it's second medal in a very unlikely event. Everett Soriano (BRI) in Rowing in the Men’s Single Sculls at the Olympic Rowing and Canoeing Center, Port Lusambo. Arsenal McGriffen came second in his event, the Men's Long Jump jumping a respectable 8.21m, beaten by Caleb Doorford of Drawkland. Meanwhile in the finals of the Men’s 25 m Rapid Fire Pistol, it was a very messy final. Britonisea was intention to get the gold and bronze medals. However, in a shoot off, the gold medal was given to the Independent Athletes Olympians, 5-4, against Britonish-Amazonestan Rafael Goetz, and for the bronze, after 5 shoot off rounds, Jörg Müller of the hosts won 4-2 against Britonish Earle Heatley.

>Brityunik Vefecosoin Cairkovoin undergo new changes including Mehlodhifehstivalhen reintroduction.
>Waiting queues at the Britonish-Aurevbush Border driving workers "crazy." Calls for new bigger tolls.
>Kyvivre named the Capital of Culture of Britonisea 2016.

by **Vangaziland** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 11:02 am

Vangaziland's men's basketball team has done well in the tournament so far, placing first in their group with a 3-1 record. The college kids beat the team from Ethane in their latest match, 93-67.

"This has been such a great experience for these young players", said Coach Karl Limmerick. "This is something they'll take with them their entire lives. Some of these players are gaining experience they'll use one day in the International Basketball Championships."

A speaker from the Vannish Sports Commission mentioned that same idea in an earlier press release.

"One of the reasons college players are being sent to the Olympics is so they can develop experience against international players. The goal is to develop our national team and build the next group into one of Vangaziland's strongest basketball generations."

Vangaziland got hot early in the game against Ethane. This was one of the more one sided games that Vangaziland found themselves in, as they took the lead and kept control over the tempo. The Vangaziland Royals IBC team was criticized for not closing out like this. The Royals failed to advance as far as they should have in the playoffs, losing to a weaker team in the second round.

These players know scouts are watching, so they are looking to perform. If this team ended up with a medal, the IBC team would have to strongly consider adding some of these players.

Allan Clark got hot once again and scored 27 points. He made 6 3-pointers in an efficient shooting performance. He also added 3 assists, a steal and an offensive rebound. The 6'5 graduate is entering the pro league this year. He is one of the players eligible for the Royals IBC team. This is his second big night of the tournament.

The Royals are stacked with 3-point shooters, but they need a scorer. Nobody really stepped up to score the basketball, with the team averaging 77 points in the group stage. Keep in mind the Vangaziland Royals are ranked 4th in the IBC. PG Hectare Yulssen added offense to his game and was one of the top scorers. But he was a pass first player.

If Clark could keep scoring, he would have a real chance to make the Royals.

Center Chris Parkssen was another heavily scouted player. The 7'1 junior was the most aggressive shot blocker in Vannish Division 1 college basketball. He scored 11 points tonight, but had 3 blocks and 10 rebounds. His work on the boards, especially offensively, have had an impact on Vangaziland's winning Olympic record.

Junior Steven Eaglesen picked up 9 points and 9 assists and controlled the pace of the game. "I've learned a lot from Hectare Yulssen. I went to his youth camp and idolized him as a kid. Now I follow his style", Eaglesen said. The point guard plays at Vangaziland's most prestigious school, Overglade University.

Eaglesen is another player that is highly scouted, but he faces competition. The team likes it's second point guard, Sarah Overson. Wang Xiopeng is also being highly scouted.

Xiaopeng also plays on the Olympic team. He picked up 8 points and 5 assists coming off the bench. He made a few flashy passes, which he is known for. He likes driving through the lane and kicking out, behind the back or neck. He's more accurate with this type of pass than most people. He plays for Emperor State University and led the team on a major run in the NSCAA international college basketball tournament.

The Vannish team was representing Vangaziland well on the international basketball scene once more. Hopefully they would succeed where other Vannish teams have failed and bring home a medal for their country.

by **Sargossa** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 1:39 pm

SSM | Sargossan State Media
International Edition - Sport

Medals & Muddles

Blanco Borrayo reports from Aeropag;

This week has been something of an ordeal for Team Sargossa in the Natatorium but as the events drew to a close the nation’s finest finally arrived. The Men had gone into the evening’s 4 x 100 Medley final in fifth place but a stunning opening Backstroke leg from Luis Aldrete put the team in contention for medals. Marco Oyola and Alonso Charro poured the frustration from disappointing individual performances into their legs, giving Franco Pineda clear water between him and Klita Razafer. The Vilitan came roaring back but it wasn't enough as Pineda brought the team home for silver. In the Women’s event the Vilitan’s had looked a class apart in the heats and led the final by a country mile but behind them a battle was being fought for the silver. Yajaira Vicario, Tihana Alesic and Rufina Twitty were all in the mix down the final 50m but while Twitty faded Vicario and Alesic fought it out almost right to the wall, with Vicario just getting the touch ahead of her Serbian rival. Two relay finals, two silvers medals, it may have been a long week but at least Sargossa ended with a flourish.

There was a buzz ofexcitement out on the roof on day eight as the Men’s 100m heats got underway. Roque De Santa was in action for Sargossa but the new world record holder over 200m has never looked entirely comfortable over the shorter distance and could only muster a fifth place finish in the second heat. The experienced Leandro Gulpi though looked in fine form, advancing from the quickest heat as the second fastest overall qualifier. Matías Monje joins him in the semi-finals in 17th. Sargossa has shown great promise in the Field events in past Games but neither Gustavo Benavides or David Maciel could add a medal to the tally in the Discus final, Benavides finishing in an agonising fourth place. But there will be another double assault on the podium, this time in the Pole Vault, with Alvar Ronda and Josue Gallego both making the 6m qualifying height. The Women went one better in the Triple Jump, with all three Sargossans advancing to the final. Out on the Track Imelda Santistevan and Dominga Savala both won their 400m heats and Sofia Aquino leads the 5,000m standings going into the semis. And special mention must be made of Isabel Ayon, whose fifth place finish in the Heptathlon was the best performance from a Sargossan in that event for years.

Elsewhere Estevan Mancilla is through to the quarter finals of the Men’s Super Heavyweight Boxing and flag bearer Xenia Chriqui gained a measure of revenge in the Badminton, defeating teammate Tia Vico’s conqueror Gumercinda Palacios by two games to one. In Shooting there were two literal near misses with Guillermo Navarro just a single score shy of forcing a shoot-off for a place in the final of the Men’s 25m Rapid Fire Pistol. Byron Figuredo qualified for the final of the Men’s Skeet but was left tied for third with two other competitiors and missed out on the bronze medal match in the subsequent shoot-off.

Bronze is the colour Tennis star Xuxa Asuncion will have to aim for in the Women’s Singles, having lost her semi-final to Elizabeth Quehall in straight sets. But perhaps she can take inspiration from the Doubles pairing of David Uribé and Diego Medina who bounced back from the disappointment of defeat in their semi to knock over the Swibian team of Gunnar Crofts and Camron Wetmore in the bronze medal match. But slightly tarnishing the day for them was a medal ceremony muddle that left Uribé and Medina facing the flag of Kernansquillec instead of our own ‘ole Pointy. Worse was to follow as the gold medal winning duo from Mapletish proudly stood atop the podium as the national anthem of Kelssek played across the ceremony. But in fairness to the organisers there are an awful lot of little details to keep track of here. We’ve certainly made a note of the three medals added to Sargossa’s overall tally.

by **Mattijana** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 1:49 pm

Kalenka Wins Mattijana's First Velodrome Gold

Alexandra Kalenka won the women's keirin to take Mattijana's gold medal tally to an impressive four. She succesfully negotiated the two qualifying rounds before an inspired dash in the final gave her the gold. Here's Matej Burgisović and Danil Adrianov to take you through the action:

"So the first round of the women's keirin concludes with the tenth heat, this one featuring Alexandra Kalenka of Mattijana. Dan, should she qualify from this?"

"I think she definately can Mat. Whether she'll manage to get through automatically I don't know. The keirin can be such an unpredictable event."

"We'll find out in a few minutes time as the gun goes. The motorbike thing goes through and we are underway."

"Kalenka's just slotted into second wheel there which is pretty much ideal."

"Indeed it is Dan. Here comes Pavlyukova round the outside, trying to shift herself up the order, she's forced to slot in on fourth wheel though."

"One lap to go behind the derney, the pace is rising now with the rider from Electrum on the front. Kalenka comfortable in second wheel. Two laps remaining now. Pavlyukova coming into the lead, trying to get away from the field but now Kalenka is reeling her in. Pavlyukova doesn't have the legs to do this and I think she knows it as they take the bell. Kalenka still in second wheel as they reach top speed. Down the back straight and here she comes, using the height round the outside, easy as you like and Kalenka is through without the need for a repecharge."

Quarter final two now, with Alexandra Kalenka preparing to do battle:

"Off goes the derney, Kalenka happy to sit at the back for the moment with two laps to go, now she needs to get her skates on. She trys to go round the outside, ends up in third wheel. Now she kicks as they take the bell. Gets up into second place. Around the outside of the final corner she comes up now and times it to perfection! First place again.

"Kalenka with a well timed dive to get her into the semis. Now she has a slightly tougher fight on her hands. Away goes the derney and away goes Kalenka from the front. This is offensive stuff from the Mattijanan. Will she pay for it? Still she leads with two laps to go, but the rest of the field are catching her now. She's going to have to dig deep. Now they take the bell as Kalenka only has about a five metre lead. She's passed by a couple of riders, but now she goes again. It's going to be tight and I think Kalenka just missed out there. It's a photo finish. Let's have a look..."

"Well, Mat, I think Kalenka's edged herself in here."

"Indeed she has, so Alexandra Kalenka will in fact progress to the final!"

"Here is the women's keirin final with Mattijanan, Alexandra Kalenka, going for the gold medal. How do you rate her chances Dan?"

"I think she can do well. She'll have to show a bit more tactical skill than in her semi, but a medal is certainly on."

"Thanks Dan. Here we go with Kalenka in third wheel at the moment. Frew is on the front for Britonisea, but here comes Kalenka up to the front. Coming round the outside with two laps to go...and she's kept going! Kalenka off the front now racing hard, has she got the legs this time round. They take the bell. Not long to go now. Kalenka still leads, Frew is straining now. Round the final corner now. Can she hang on? YES! Kalenka takes a historic gold for Mattijana!

by **Kelssek** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 3:30 pm

"And that of course is coming up in just 15 minutes here on KBC1. The women's water polo team are into the elimination rounds, and we're joined by the team's head coach Jean-François Trepannier here in our Aeropag studio. Good morning Jean-François, how are you feeling about the Olympics so far?"

"Ok, we got off to a good start but we lost a lot of momentum by losing the last 2 games. Especially after giving up a two-goal lead in the fourth quarter against the Avissian Union the last game, the ladies have the potential to become demoralized by that. We had a team meeting just before I came here, just to get everyone, y'know, in the same page as we say, and ensure the players are focused on the task ahead."

"Is this the time for star players to step up? For the last two games, players like Lindsey Mueller and Béatrice Lapine have gone very quiet and the team relies on them to really make those outside shots."

"Not fair to say that I think. All the players I think are going very strong in their effort. This time we are strong on leadership, I see how much the team comes together now. They are playing as one group, few changes, for three years. We have the confidence to go for the gold medal. That is the goal for us."

"So you do believe this team has what it takes?"

"You know my grandpa used to say, a tiger doesn't change stripes. If we want to be tigers, we have to be true to ourself. Maybe it's, how you say in English, un cliché, you know, something you say too much, but that's what I believe is how to win success."

"Excellent, well thank you very much Jean-François."

"It has been a pleasure. Have a nice day."

"On now to something different and fortunately there don't seem to have been any repercussions, death threats, conflict or other bad things after the Kelssek flag was raised by mistake at the ceremony for the tennis men's doubles. It was in fact a doubles pair from Mapletish who won - easy mistake to make."*

*[OOC: Yes, actually]

by **Ndaku** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 3:37 pm

Muleku, a Reminder of Ndaku's Violent Past

By: Harrison Young, Britonish globetrotter and wine enthusiast

Spending almost two week and a half in the great city of Stanleyville, I pretty much relived my college years: partying and soaking myself in the wonders of our planet's history while humankind recorded the moments that changed the world as we know it. Stanleyville's breathtaking views of its sports venues, clubs, and office buildings from the hills in the outskirts of the city truly astounded me; I didn't really want to leave at that moment.

I departed the city en route to a smaller city called Muleku, and this city is known for its violent, uncertain, and truly depressing history. Muleku was established in the year 2023 during the oppressive regime of Admiral Raul Menendez and Chairman Jimmy Rustler. These two made quite the son-of-a-bitch, as they were installed by the Langor Empire at the time after they assassinated Ndaku's most prominent, inspirational, strong leader, President Mbangu Makasi, as well as other political leaders.

They forgot Ndaku's one last powerful weapon, and that would be Mbangu Makasi's brother, General Djoko Makasi. Djoko Makasi is known to be Ndaku's greatest military leaders who's ever lived, as he got the nation through the African War which took place in 2016. General Makasi's leadership, alongside with his brother, is what bonded the still-strong relationship between Andzhalswoodosia, Britonisea, and Ndaku, even 'till today.

This oppressive regime went on to represent what was the Second Ndakene Federation until the year 2071, when things started to turn ugly for Admiral Menendez and Chairman Rustler, when Ndakene human extremists (aka, our freedom fighters), began retaliating against the pro-Beastkin regime. Three years after the ultimate human revolution began, and as the Third Ndakene Federation, also known today as the Interplanetary Federation of Ndaku, was to be established as an official state, seceding from the oligarchical oppressive state of the Langor Empire, the Great Species War was declared.

The city of Muleku was a major and remote arms manufacturing area, and it was all driven by the Ares Armed Corporation, established by Chairman Jimmy Rustler. Muleku at first suffered environmentally from the negligent disposal and manufacturing laws that were to affect the surrounding greenery.

Today, the same arms manufacturing factories that supplied the Human Liberation Military in the Great Species War are still functioning, and they've been modded and improved. Since the establishment of the Interplanetary Federation, all sorts of manufacturing was to abide by an environmental limit that no corporation shall bypass, thus preserving the rich green environment throughout the Federation today. Muleku is nothing much but a big place for an arms factory, with a punch of green and suburbs on one side and a series of factories and office buildings on the other.

During my trip there, my AeroPad rung, updating me on current Aeropag events. It told me that Britonish men's tennis star, Leo Garry, was to take on a Ndakene power-stroking lefty, Martin Bond tonight. Aside from admiring the view en route to Muleku with a side of some Chateau Ste. Michelle wine, I was in for quite a treat tonight!

by **Astyrian Olympics Delegation** » Tue Aug 16, 2016 6:38 pm

Serreten News Agency, Weekly Cultural Report
August 13th, 2016
Harald of Bellmouth, TV Edition

Last week, many of you may have read about my rather short conversation with the decathlon star, Ragnar of Lundholm. For as fruitless as that was, my talk with Anders of Brandean proved much more fruitful. We even met at a normal hour of the day, if you can believe that.

Harald of Bellmouth: Thank you for taking the time to do this.

Anders of Brandean: For sure.

HB: How’re you feeling?

AB: Been better, been worse.

HB: Excited for the Olympics?

AB: A little, I’m not a big fan of international competitions you know. Too much attention, can’t focus and all that. I like the Serreten Nationals much better.

HB: It’s still the Olympics. Ragnar of Lundholm wouldn’t discuss his diet with me. Would you discuss yours?

AB: That’s Ragnar being Ragnar. He laughs. Um, I eat a lot of oats. Normally, six or seven pounds a week. Lots of yogurt and milk also. I’ll eat whatever is in season vegetable wise. Try to keep the stout and spirits to a minimum but I’m not too careful.

HB: Sounds good. What’s your favorite cheat meal?

AB: Stout. He laughs.

HB: How long have you been at the [Olympic] Compound [At Falmouth]?

AB: My whole life. Uhtred of Chippingborough and I joined the same year, some of the first to come here. I was five I think. Only been home a few times since then.

HB: Why not head home more?

AB: Nothing there for me. Family problems and all that.

HB: Elaborate?

AB: No way in hell.

HB: Well, I’m sorry to hear that. How do you think your chances are?

AB: Very good. Been throwing in the 300’ in practice all month. Haven’t hit a 330’ yet, but I’ll get amped for competition, maybe flick one out there. Never know, though.

HB: What’s your relationship like with everyone else on the team?

AB: I don’t know most of them, I mostly hang out with Uhtred and also all the other javelin underleans. Eadric of Dunmarrow is absolutely terrifying. I’ll say that. I see him in the weightroom sometimes and good God. So is Ragnar of Lundholm. Someone that big, should not be that ridiculously fast and agile. He’s the best athlete I think I’ll ever see. He’s always working, he doesn’t ever rest. The rowing lads are a bunch of funny guys, they like stout as well. But they’re a bunch of big men as well, though they’ve never touched a weightroom. Really terrifying.

HB: You didn’t mention Odda of Broadford?

AB: I don’t know him at all. He’s never around.

HB: I see. Well good luck at the games.

AB: Yeah, sure.

by **Uzekia** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 4:54 am

DOWN WITH THE SERBIAN INFIDELS!

Those at The Moon have wronged the Uzekian Empire and shall pay for their words of evil and spite. Jealous of the success that has graced the Uzekian delegation but abandoned the Serbian "Empire", these puppets of the devil claiming to be journalists dare question the genetic perfection that Uzekian athletes represent. How could a meth lab even be allowed within the Uzekian camp, when the Uzekian Empire has banned all drugs and all of its subjects know that drugs are the work of the devil. No athlete would dare go against the word of the Holy Emperor!

These lies and false testimonies of unnamed athletes, no doubt crushed by Uzekians during the competitions in Aeropag, require excuses and punishment. The Uzekian Empire demands that the Serbians ban the publication of The Moon, dissolve its parent company and deport the author(s) of the article in question, the superiors who validated it and the athlete behind the false rumours to Uzekia to be tried by the Holy Emperor himself! Only these terms will suffice to undo the wrong committed against the Uzekian Empire and the Emperor himself and prevent the total annihilation of Serbia and all of its inhabitants. Until these terms are met, total war will be raged against Serbians within Uzekia and against the Serbian athletes within the Olympic village upon whom shall rain the full arsenal of water bombs, eggs, flour and glitter that the Uzekian delegations has at its disposal.

Do not test us Serbians, for you will live to regret the day you crossed the Uzekian Empire and will live the rest of your life in fear as we hunt you down to service the justice of our God, the Holy Emperor.

Glory to the Empire!

by **Arioslavia** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 5:19 am

ARIOSLAVIAN SPORT GAZETTE

GOLD FOR DARIA!

Daria Domoradova won the Olympic Women's 100 meters run! It's the first great international success in her career. During the final run, she slightly defeated an experienced representant of Uzekia, Vida Eshleman with a 10.83 result. Victoria Montmoren, representing Electrum, was third.

Domoradova was born in Olonka, Northern Arioslavia in 1994. She started her career at the age of 15. From 2013 to 2016 she annualy won the title of Champion of Arioslavia in her favourite competition - 100 meters run. Despite the success on the domestic scene, she never took part in big international athletic events - until now.

Her victory was predicted by many experts and commentators, but she was rather careful when asked about her Olympic chances. She trained hardly in the Dluzhniki Stadium in Telgrad under supervision of her coach, Gennadiy Sokolnikov. The hard work paid back during the Olympics - after the run, she could fall to the ground in euphoria, having won the fourth gold medal for Arioslavia during the games. She cried when the Arioslavian flag was raised to the tune of the national anthem.

I'm happy, very happy, I still can't believe I've made it. - she said during an interview after the medal ceremony. Vida and Victoria were tough opponents, I congratulated them on their results and on fair rivalry. When I finished the run I wasn't sure if I've won, but any doubts ended when I saw the table of results with my name as a winner. I'm very proud I did it for my fans and for all Arioslavia. - she added.

After eight days of the games, Arioslavia has six medals, including four gold and two silver medals.

What's hot in sport?
- Peskova: "I'm satisfied."
- Volleyball: a little disappointment
- Zenit Neuburg 2 - 2 La Nevadas City in a training match

by **Llanrhyddid** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 7:56 am

A Foreigner's Guide to Llanrhyddid
Canllaww Estroyyn d Llhanryddid

Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 | Part 4 |
Part 5 | Part 6

Hello from Llanrhyddid! We are very excited to take part in our first sporting competition! In order to explain the nuances of Llanrhyddid, its history, its culture, and its sports, we at the SNL (Sefydliadd Newyddion Llanrhyddid) will be releasing a multi-part series to foreign media organizations describing the Ddeyrnass Cudd, or Hidden Queendom. A city-state hidden in the Mynyddoedd Iwerdd, the Llhanx are a proud, but welcoming people. We hope that you enjoy getting to know our beautiful nation.

A linguistic note. This series will be published in English, a language taught to all Llhanx school children and generally known throughout the multiverse. However, there may be some words in Llanx, the national language of the Llhanx people (a variant of Brythionic). These words will be translated to the best of our abilities. We apologize for any spelling and grammatical errors that result and beg patience as English is not our first language.

So, let us begin!

Major Cities

Cyddalyf is the capital city of Llanrhyddid, boasting a population of 140,000. Cyddalyf is located in the center of the Cwcudd and is connected to other major cities by highspeed rail and dyddpa. Cyddallyf houses the Queen's Palace, Assembly Hall, and Ministry buildings, as well as all embassies from foreign nations. Cydallyf is also the home of Llhanx University, the most prestigious university in the nation, and the National Training Centre, the base for sporting operations.

Ghyfrayth is the second-largest city in Llanrhyddid, located in the northwest of the Cwcudd. It is most notable for being the home of Ghyfrayth University, whose faculty and students dot the landscape of the Llhanx senior public service. Ghyfrayth has a population of 80,000.

Lhengdye is the third-largest city in Llanrhyddid, located in the southwest of the Cwcudd. It is notable for being the home of Lhengdye University, as well as the home of the Headquarters of the Church of Ddefaid, the main religious organization in Llannrhyddid. Lhengdye has a population of 70,000.

Brynddeg is the fourth-largest city in Llanrhyddid. It is located in the northeast of the Cwcudd, near the Adderyn Pass. It is usually the first city travelers enter after passing through the Adderyn. Bryndeg is notable for being the home of the Lhanx High-Altitude Training Center, the camp for base training for the Llhanx track team. This center brings in substantial amounts of outside money into Brynddeg, making it one of the wealthier places in Llanrhyddid. Brynddeg has a population of 55,000.

Deddwysil is the fifth largest city in Llanrhyddid. It is located in the southeast of the Cwcudd, near the Dwysil Pass. It is usually the first city travelers enter after passing through the Dwysil. Deddwysil is a major economic center, hosting plants for defense manufacturers Ddayn and Blaiddllhwyd, as well as sporting goods manufacturer Cyflhym. Deddwysil has a population of 43,000.

If you are interested learning about other Llhanx cities, the SNL will be happy to provide more information! In our next piece, we will explore Llhanx culture.

Until then, Carydd to all!

Ailis Frighil
Cyfarwyddwr, Sefydliadd Newyddion Llanrhyddid

by **Commerce Heights** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 9:03 am

Day 9 results are now available (part 1 · part 2 · part 3 · part 4).

by **Krytenia** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 12:50 pm

Krytenia versus Krytenia, courtesy of GDV

by **Sargossa** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 2:40 pm

“Good morning and welcome back to our continuing coverage of these Games of the Eleventh Summer Olympiad in Aeropag. Where are we? Day nine now I believe. It’s shooting past. But there’s still plenty to look forward to. Out on the track we’ve got the semi-finals and final of the Men’s 100m, Matías Monje and Leandro Gelpi going for Sargossa in that. There will also be medals up for grabs in the 400m and the Women’s Marathon, while three of our finest challenge the podium places in the Women’s Triple Jump.

“Away from the Athletics Sargossa’s ladies aim to make it five wins from five in the Indoor Volleyball, they’re up against Wray. We join the Shooting for Gabriel Sánchez's moment in the limelight in the Men’s 50m Rifle 3 Position contest. There’s Boxing, including Estefan Armenteros in the Men’s Bantamweight category. And Tennis star Xuxa Asuncion has a podium place in her sights as she takes on Melina Twigg in the Women’s Singles bronze medal match.

“Plus there’s plenty for you to enjoy on the blue button service with Fencing, Beach Volleyball, stacks of Cycling and Sailing, Golf and Diving among today’s highlights. Later I shall be joined by our silver medal winning relay teams from last night’s Swimming, Alana Wagner will be taking us being the scenes at the Olympic Village to have a chat with Sargossa’s Wrestlers, and, as usual, Adriana Padilla and Juan Carlos Quintana join me in the studio to preview Sargossa’s medal hopes in tonight’s action from the Track and Field. Plenty going on today so sit back, pop some coffee on and settle in. And without further ado it’s time to hit the streets for some live action. It’s day nine, it’s the Women’s Marathon and guiding you through it it’s Sergi Frasa . . .”

* * * * * * * * * *

“. . . Rogerio Valle is the only qualifier for the 5,000m and I think he’ll be disappointed with that performance. Thirteenth place in his heat and it looked like the slowest heat of them all. We have to wait for the confirmation but I don’t think Rogerio will be taking any further part in this contest. Better news though from the High Jump qualifying. We’re up to 2.29m and Bryan Vargas is cleanly over that height. Sergio Sala faulted his first attempt, he caught the bar with his trailing leg but looked to have the height so that should give him some confidence.”

“Thank you Jorge. Although if you’re just joining us Miguel Herrera was an early casualty in the High Jump contest. Now, I can give you some medal news from the Fencing. It’s the Men’s Team Épée and it’s a first gold medal of these Games for Terre des Gaules with a 45 – 38 victory over the Greater Vakolicci Haven. The team from Judea took the bronze. Now, there’s no medal up for grabs yet for Estefan Armenteros in the Men’s Bantamweight but a quarter final place is looming. Can he advance? Let’s find out with Sergio Bunto . . .”

* * * * * * * * * *

“It’s long! Twigg survives the first match point. There’s still one left though. She 30 – 40 down in this crucial game. Asuncion leading this second set 6 – 5, having won the first set comfortably by six games to two. Here’s the serve. And that’s it! The serve kicked up nicely onto Asuncion’s backhand and she hits a clean, cross-court winner. It might not be the colour she wanted but Xuxa Asuncion is an Olympic medallist. And no-one can take that away. It’s a bronze for Xuxa, a second bronze from the Tennis for Team Sargossa, not a bad outing. Back to the studio.”

“And let’s hope the correct flags and anthem will be dug out for that medal ceremony. Now, we can bring you some breaking news from home. There’s been a statement released by the Sports Ministry and I shall read you an extract now. ‘In light of the disappointing showing in certain events we feel it prudent to, in connection with the OAS, conduct a full review into the way funding is distributed among the governing bodies within the OAS structure’.” We naturally contacted the OAS for comment but they declined but I’m delighted to be joined by former OAS President Ricardo Aranda, live from our studio in Soluca. Ricardo, thank you for joining me.”

“My pleasure.”

“What do you make of this move by the Ministry, given the still somewhat frosty relationship between them and the Olympic Authority.”

“Obviously Tobías Frutos is newly in post as minister and perhaps is looking to show leadership right from the off. And clearly they feel there is grounds for such a review.”

“But we’re barely into the second week, isn’t it premature to be making these decisions now? Surely they can’t be basing this on a poor performance in the pool?”

“Granted we’ve still got a lot of action to go in these Games but don’t forget the competitors that didn’t even make it to Aeropag. Hockey, Water Polo, Basketball, Handball, Football, not one team in action at these Games. Based on that alone the Ministry probably think there is grounds for a closer look at the books. Performances from now on will probably only serve to dictate the scope of their review.”

“But could this make an already tricky working relationship between the Sports Ministry and the OAS even trickier?”

“It could, of course. But they did state it would be in conjunction with the OAS which shows a slightly more conciliatory tone than usual. Plus I know from experience that these conversations happen at some point at the end of every Olympic cycle.”

“How does it feel being a spectator, can you enjoy the Games more now?”

“Haha, yes the stress levels are a little lower watching from my comfy chair. But I think I’ll always miss being right in the thick of it. Plus, as head of a NOC I got to be involved in medal ceremonies which was always a huge honour. But, on the other hand, my last Games in charge saw us finish third in the medal table. That was probably the best time to step aside!”

“Can’t argue with that. Thank you Ricardo for joining us. Right ladies and gentlemen, it’s Athletics time. So up to the roof we go to join Jorge Almadez, Elena Leal and, first, Ricardo Molina.”

* * * * * * * * * *

“. . .15.35m lead, 15.26m gets her among the medals. Esma Abar has faulted her final attempt, she is done in this Triple Jump final. Howell, Lartanta and Whitehaven all have their final jumps to go. Silva sits in second, all she can do now is wait. Three Sargossans in this final, a medal was expected but this is the last chance saloon. It’s Ariela Elias’ final attempt. She’s currently in fifth on 15.23m. Her she comes. Smoothly through the motions. It looks good! But no! Red flag! She can’t believe it. She’s faulted too, right at the death. It’s fifth, seventh and twelfth place for Sargossa in this final. Not what we were hoping for.”

“Oh dear. Do you have the feeling it’s going to be one of those Games? More medal hopes slip away out in the field. Will day ten be kinder? Join us tomorrow to find out. Good night.”

by **Astyrian Olympics Delegation** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 3:36 pm

Mechanistic Results Regurgitation

by **Hannasea** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 3:38 pm

Selection of articles from Hannasean sports media.

National Ottery potential funding boost for Olympic sports?

Splooshball exclusion from Olympic programme* angers Hannasean enthusiasts

"the goal shall count only when the striker has shouted "Sploooooosh!" with vigor"

"Anti-Hannasean" bias in boxing refereeing*, alleges sports blog

He's Had An Absolute Holocaust

incredibly_overwrought_lead-in_to_obvious_joke

CymbalCrash

*OOC: Again, just IC statements, obviously.

by **Kelssek** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 5:11 pm

DefenceAffairs BLOG
The online source for informed opinion on global strategy

Why the country is safer than ever

The gold medal win and Olympic record for Judith Whitburn in the women's 50 metre rifle prone has greatly enhanced national security, sending a clear signal about the defensive power and resolve of Kelssek.

Although aircraft carriers, tanks, jet fighters, and yes, nuclear weapons all dissuade aggression, just having such assets does not deter unless the state also demonstrates resolve. It is this credibility of resolve which deters other adversaries in the anarchic world of self-help that is international relations. Since Olympic medals in shooting are clearly a reflection of the quality of our armed forces, potential invaders now know they will face devastating hails of bullets from the moment they get within 50 metres of our borders.

Of course, deterrence also has the risk of an arms race, if other states respond by increasing their military buildup. This is the genius of deterrence through shooting gold medals, since this is an area in which competition is not zero-sum and there is more than one gold medal in shooting to be won. As a result, there is the possibility to pursue positive-sum, collective gains too.

Ultimately, the point of deterrence is not to have to use your deterrent. This development will prove crucial to managing the transition between rising powers and the security dilemma which we all face. Not only should we applaud Judith Whitburn's impressive achievement, we should increase our armed forces training commitment to ensure the continued effectiveness of deterrence. In the game of war, prevention is the best cure.

Miles Hechelston is a second-year Bachelor of Arts student majoring in political science at Desjardins University. We shouldn't have made the pretense that the prestige of the university he goes to reflects real expertise in the field, despite the B+ in the introduction to world politics course.

by **Fluvique** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 5:13 pm

Troy Beasley is the Olympic champion

The seventh gold medal is with us and is an historical one: in the return of golf to the Olympic program a Fluviquean is the new champion. The 24-year-old Mevossian finished first in the fourth round at The Paladin Club in Port Lusambo, winning over Brendanus Judd from The Sarian and becoming the first gold medallist in golf in the Olympics. After greeting his rivals (Ehud benArieh from Britonisea won bronze) , he raised his arms and walked towards the family zone to hug his relatives and girlfriend.

"It's amazing," Beasley said. "I remember right now all those days training at the Royal Golf Club and those dreams and thoughts about Aeropag and the games. Just be in the Olympic Games is something very special, you can really feel the spirit." Then he added "I prepared to be here in the best form and I was too happy about competing and giving all to represent the country in the best way. I know I'm young and my dream was to have a Olympic diploma, at least. Now I'll leave Aeropag with a medal, a gold medal! Unbelievable"

"Is special be an Olympian and have the chance to say that. But being an Olympic gold medallist is indescribable. Is a lifetime experience and I'm very thankful to be able to share it with the people I love. And this is for all Fluvique too." In front of the crowd, Beasley received the gold medal and the greet of many Fluviqueans, who were shaking flags and shirts and chanting. The Royal Golf Club has already said that the Olympic champion will be honored after the Olympics and that they will support his candidacy to be the flag bearer at the closing ceremony.

HOCKEY—

The Young Lions are in an historic semifinal

In their best performance in an Olympic Game, the men's field hockey team got into the semifinals of Aeropag 2016. It was by 2-1 against Vilitan Union in a dramatic match. They will face The Greater Vakolicci Haven, who also suffered to beat San Llera 1-0 . To continue writing history. And to repeat that bunch of hugs at the end.

In the first minutes there was a lot of pressure from Vilitan Union that came to force mistakes in the Fluviquean defenders and to win the ball in midfield. The clear idea was to be away from their own area and Fluvique, then, could not pass the center line. At 4 minutes they had their first penalty corner, but César Huerta had a good response to the high shot. From that moment, the game became more balanced and the Young Lions equilibrated it thanks to a good work of their midfielders

Over the end of first quarter a foot in the circle gave Bart Tijn his first chance, but the first Vilitian rusher made another foul and the team had another penalty corner. And there he made no mistake. The ball sounded loud in the table to score the 1-0.

In the second quarter the parity continued. A cross was sent and Fabian managed to deflect just in time; A Vilitian forward tested Huerta, who saved the situation. And in the counterattack, Gosselin failed an easy goal. After, Fluvique had two other penalty corners but the Vilitian defence was positive against those two shots of Tijn.

The start of the second half showed a more active Vilitian Union in attack, but the defensive system of Fluvique worked perfectly with Fabian as libero, the stoppers Lammert and Tijn and the solid block with the midfielders and forwards in the first line of the ball recovery. However, they had their chance at 8 minutes with a new short. The shot could not be deflected by the defenders and the Lions saved of a certain danger.

After, they team of Stephen Shaw had two minutes of domain. First Ezequiel Noguiera caused a new short and quickly Roux pressured to cause another one. But both times the goal was denied: in the first, the ball went wind and in the second a notable saved by the Vilitian goalkeeper keep the score.

The Young Lions were playing better, but Vilitan Union had his chance with a short but the ball crashed off the post and their isolated attacks were of great concern to the tricolors. As expected, Vilitan Union perked up in the fourth quarter. They left aside their stingy tactic and moved forward and even forced a penalty corner saved by Huerta. The national side suffered with some forays into the circle, but they controlled the ball in the last minutes and defended the result with it. The final buzzer was the trigger to make Fluvique shout the victory with the soul. And so the illusion remains open. Among other things, because this team deserves it.

HANDBALL

The Claw is in the next round

Fluvique achieved a medal wich will not be on the medal tally. Is the medal of a fulfilled dream: surpass the group stage of the Olympics for the first time. The Claw defeated Bulgar Rouge 29-25 in a vital match to earn the ticket to the next round. The team entered to the pitch with a certainty: they needed to win to qualify and that depended on them.

The match was played in an atmosphere of overwhelming euphoria. The team of Megan Benitez had the constant encouragement of hundreds of Fluiqueans who pushed the team without pause. During the first half hour of play, the Fluviqueans perfectly executed the game plan that they had prepared beforehand, with the idea to protect their weaknesses and exploit their strenghts.

The key went through lengthy attacks, designed to take advantage of the difference in height, especially with the pivot Mélissa Jaso and return fast and ordered to defend with intensity and, thus, not allowing Bulgar Rouge to exploit their counterattacks. Both alternated the lead on the scoreboard, but exclusions were well used by the Fluviqueans to get two goals of difference at the end of the partial (12-10).

In the second half, Fluvique kept the difference in agoal-for-goal match, until retake the sharpness and fierceness in defence to take an even more wide gap. The tricolors took all the advantage to increase the gap in five goals, which then they knew how to manage with patience and intelligence, while their rivals fell in a hurry and only tried with disorderly attacks without revenues.

by **Todd McCloud** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 5:21 pm

Yovisktre: "Expect Changes" for Next Year
Reporting for V3 News Services, Rin Slakori

AEROPAG - The writing's on the wall. Through 9 days, Vekaiyu has accumulated 17 medals, with four gold, five silver, and eight bronze medals, good enough for 18th place overall. Vekaiyu, much like its swimming delegation that has managed just one gold medal so far, sits in uncharted waters, so to speak. Last year through Day Nine Vekaiyu was solidly in third place, having won some 12 gold and 29 medals overall. The year prior, Vekaiyu had won a total of 18 medals, but nearly half - eight - were gold through 9 days. The Eighth Summer Olympiad has Vekaiyu positioned an amazing second overall (ahead of the host, even) with a horde of 27 medals, 12 being gold. On the year before that at the Seventh Summer Games (considered an off-year by most fans) Vekaiyu had secured fifth place with 19 medals overall, seven gold overall. Through 9 days in the Sixth Summer Games, Vekaiyu was fourth with 19 medals, seven golds. And, perhaps the most damaging of all, Vekaiyu had just seven medals (three gold), but were safely in 11th place at the Fifth Summer Games - its first-ever appearance in international Olympic competition.

By a metric of medal standings alone, Vekaiyu is wading through its worst overall performance through 9 days. If we consider gold medals or total medals won overall, Vekaiyu is doing just slightly better than its first appearance some six years ago, a far cry from its eventual status as an Olympic powerhouse the nation and its citizens have enjoyed.

You get the picture. Even as the traditional Vekaiyun powerhouse events - Swimming and Gymnastics - stumble (earning one gold apiece between the two events thus far - again unheard of when one considers Vekaiyun Olympic history), Vekaiyuns look to other sports and other athletes to step up and rescue the delegation in an attempt to salvage a top-10 finish. We all know about the fade, or how as the Olympics move into the second half Vekaiyu tends to fall slightly in the standings once swimming and gymnastics are finished, but could this year buck the trend?

If it does, it seems the nation will need to wait a bit. Vinsent Ligari, a wrestler whose four straight medal wins were snapped last year after a stunning loss in the second round to a relative unknown Danny Pawlak from Elejamie (who ended up losing in the next round). He began another streak today after dominating Eliyyahu benMatan from Judea by a score of 5-0 for the bronze. The bout, if one could call it a bout, featured a number of takedowns including a belly-to-back suplex followed by a quick exposure point in the first round, a series of events which set the tone over the course of the event. His bronze medal was a satisfying compilation prize after losing to the eventual silver medalist Narciso Maki from Amnarei-asud.

Perhaps Yva Nokalestro would take gold and vault Vekaiyu up the standings? No such luck, as the excellent boxer from Caviru appeared drained and ineffective against the boxer from The Greater Vakolicci Haven, Mary Tossenger. It's unfortunate, but when the referee needs to separate two wrestlers after Nokalestro left herself prone early in the second round, it paints a poor picture for the Vekaiyun slugger. Despite that it was Nokalestro's one main mistake, her sloppiness in the other two rounds cost her gold. She would have to settle for silver, a medal she won last year after handing Fluvique its first gold in boxing by way of a knockout.

These medals by themselves are spectacular indeed for their respective sports. Vekaiyu wins its 18th medal in boxing and 16th in wrestling, two sports Vekaiyu has enjoyed variable if not pedestrian success. They pale in comparison to swimming, where Vekaiyu has won 69 medals in total (29 gold) and gymnastics, where Vekaiyu has accumulated 48 medals (22 gold). When one looks at where Vekaiyu once was and compares to where they are at present, one cannot help but to ask: what happened?

"The Vekaiyun Olympic Council is committed to selecting athletes we believe are among the most qualified in the world," VOC Chairwoman Riyna Yovisktre said during a televised interview after the day's Olympic telecasts had finished. "We take responsibility to ensure they are trained to optimum legal efficiency and work tirelessly to ensure that every athlete we select represents our nation as a whole both athletically and how they carry themselves with respect to decorum and attitude. Of course, we are more lenient with the former than the latter. These athletes are like you and I - true Vekaiyuns with raw and unscripted emotions, hopes, dreams, and passions.

"Our swimming delegation is no doubt missing the now-retired Riyna McAves and Yva Noveli, but consideration must be made to bring in new athletes and expose them to international competition. In lieu of this, Vekaiyu will be seeking more non-Olympic competition in order to expose our young athletes to the general strengths and weaknesses of other international athletes and species. When it comes to gymnastics, expect changes. We have been graced by the presence of multiple masterful gymnasts who have accumulated dozens of medals for Vekaiyu, but as with anything else, we will continue to cast our net far and wide across Vekaiyu in order to fit impressive gymnasts into our team. These Olympics are far from over and I must stress that we have been rather unlucky during these games, but we have plenty of strong athletes who yearn for the opportunity to win for our nation. We Vekaiyuns never give up, especially when it comes to our kin."

Yovisktre does have a point. Vekaiyun water polo teams, for example, have been absolutely dominant thus far and might be in prime form for a deep run during these games. While the speech, which came after a barrage of questions, may have been a bit misplaced and may have been in response to the growing level of panic across the Vekaiyun fanbase, but perhaps it's all very well that the VOC Chairwoman keeps a listening ear to the sentiments of those she claims to represent.

by **North Eurasian Unified Sporting Team** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 6:42 pm

OOC: I'm describing events that happened in Pays den Haut, which is a tribal oligarchy.

A new ruling clan leader will be appointed

Yesterday, ruling clan leader Gilles, clan Boucher was sitting at a local pub in the capital city of Saint-Jérôme when clan leader Jean-Nicolas, clan Gosselin, who aimed to become a ruling clan leader, challenged him to a duel. Ruling clan leader Gilles, clan Boucher accepted the challenge and they fought an hour later in front of the cathedral in downtown Saint-Jérôme. Clan leader Jean-Nicolas, clan Gosselin used a sword forged by his cousin Philippe, clan Gosselin, a blacksmith from Sainte-Thérèse. Ruling clan leader Gilles, clan Boucher used a sword he received as a gift from a well known swordsmith from Terrebonne. About 100 habitants gathered together in front of the cathedral and attended the duel. After 7 hourglass spills, Clan leader Jean-Nicolas, clan Gosselin struck the fatal blow. Ruling clan leader Gilles, clan Boucher had no chance and died instantly. Clan leader Jean-Nicolas, clan Gosselin will be appointed ruling clan leader tomorrow at 11 am. The ceremony will take place in front of the cathedral, where he defeated ruling clan leader Gilles, clan Boucher. Gilles, clan Boucher's funerals will take place friday at 10 am and all other 12 ruling clan leaders will attend. Gilles, clan Boucher's older son Sébastien, clan Boucher has been appointed the new leader of clan Boucher.

Gilles, clan Boucher died on august 17 2017 in Saint-Jérôme at the age of 56. He is survived by his wife Michelle (51 years old) and his children clan leader Sébastien (28), Stéphane (25), Sandrine (23) and Simon (20). Gilles, clan Boucher was the leader of clan Boucher since 1979 and was a ruling clan leader of les Pays d'en Haut since 1997.

Here's what ruling clan leader Mario, clan Gauthier said about his friend Gilles, clan Boucher: "I'm sad, I'm losing my best friend, I can't count how many beers we drank together but I'm eager to work with Jean-Nicolas, clan Gosselin. I'm sure he'll be a good leader for our nation."

Gilles, clan Boucher was the minister of education and protection of French language but rumors say ruling clan leader Jean-Nicolas, clan Gosselin doesn't want this ministry and he will offer 3 horses, 5 cows and 24 pigs to the actual minister of war and homeland defence, ruling clan leader Jacques, clan Bélanger to take over his ministry.

Olympics: day 6

Due to our lack of technology, day 6 results have just arrived in les Pays d'en Haut. Kacper Zuckermann, Jared English and Matt Johnson, won the gold medal in men's team spirit in cycling!

Boxing, both Louis-Philippe Lecavalier and Floyd Mayberry won their matchup. Their next fight is on day 8, it has already happened but we'll receive the results in two days.

Elisabeth Wong, from Southern Democratic States, won her semi finals in Women’s 200 m Backstroke. Let's hope she did won a medal in the final, we'll receive the results tomorrow.

by **Dunnes** » Wed Aug 17, 2016 7:38 pm

MIROLA TODAY

BOLLINGER BEATS ALL

Bryan Bollinger Wins Gold in Men's Sailboard

AEROPAG-Bryan Bollinger garnered Dunnes first medal in sailing history after winning the mens sailboard competition yesterday. Starting the race in fifth position overall, the combination of Bollinger finishing 2nd in the medal race, and others finishing behind him won him the gold.

“I’m just so happy. I started the competition well, and in the middle races hit a bit of a rough patch, but was able to keep telling myself that I could stand on the podium if I wanted to.” said Bollinger, a lifelong Botler Island native.

Bollinger sprung from the start of the race, forming a lead group with Ismael Al-Zanai of The Greater Vakolicci Haven. Al-Zanai would later go on to win the race, but Bollingers second place position gave him enough points to tie for the lead. However, because Bollinger was placed higher in the medal race, Bollinger was given gold.

“The wind and the sails just meshed perfectly today.” said the gold medalist. A humble response from someone who's had quite the journey.

Bollinger’s journey started in the tiny community of Terrenea on the eastern side of Botler Island. There he learned how to sail from his dad, a part time lifeguard and retired stock broker. Bollinger’s journey took a turn however when he was given a full ride scholarship to the University of Stevenson, located in the hills above the highly elevated city. Forced to either postpone his sailing ambition or postpone his education, Bollinger chose to go to school, inventing unique gym exercises to do in place of his sailing. He graduated at the top of his class, and chose to attend medical school somewhere a little closer to sailable water: The University of Valencia. That paid off, as he entered sailing races on Valencia’s coastline, which supplemented his income as a student.

Bollinger was eventually noticed by the National Sailing Committee and from there to Aeropag the rest is history. Now after his competition in Aeropag, he is history, as he enters with his gold medal.

“This means so much.” said Bollinger.

“To all of the kids from the small town who don't think there’s much of anywhere to go, this gold medal is proof that anything is possible.”

Track and Field:
Another Dunian athlete made a final, as Anna Pruter advanced in the 1500m, finishing third in her semifinal. A tactical race at first she stayed with the leaders as they kicked away on the final lap.
“It was a good refresher for the legs.” Pruter said. She will compete in the final on day 11 of competition.
Dunian women also had a strong showing in the marathon, with Cassidy Webber setting a new national record of 2:28:17 in route to her eighth place finish in the marathon. Olivia Polsicheck finished eleventh in 2:28:39.
Will Teets also qualified for the semifinals of the men’s 5000m.

Track Cycling:
In perhaps a rebound from the firing of Bernard Louis, the head track cycling coach, Gavin Hoover sits in seventh position overall after day one of the omnium. Hoover won the scratch race event, and looks in prime form to contend for a medal over the last three races tomorrow.
“I’m in shape, I’ve got a fast bike, and I’m ready to go.” said Hoover.

Water Polo:
In their final match of pool play Dunnes beat West Phoenicia, by a score of 7-5, led again my captain Duncan Mactavish’s four goals. He has had a banner tournament averaging 3.8 goals per game.
“We’re just having a great time. If we win this next one we’re in the medals so we’re really just focused on taking on opponents one at a time.” said Head Coach Steve Granick.
Mactavish said, “It’s not about me, it’s about the team, and I’m just gonna do my part.” after the final group game.
The Dunians will take on Kelssek for a bid in the medal round.

Games of the XI Olympiad—roleplaying thread

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