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MADRID (AP) — Atletico Madrid conceded three goals in a Spanish league game for the first time this season but still managed to beat Sevilla 4-3 on Sunday with Antoine Griezmann's double helping to make it nine wins in a row for Diego Simeone’s in-form side. Third-place Madrid restored its three-point lead over fourth-place Athletic Bilbao, which beat Villarreal earlier Sunday. Rodrigo De Paul gave Atletico the perfect start when he lashed home a stunning opener in the 10th minute. However, goals from Dodi Lukébakio, Isaac Romero and Juanlu Sanchez put Sevilla 3-1 up early in the second half and Atletico, without the vocal support of some home fans in a dispute over tickets, seemed lost in an unusually quiet at Metropolitano Stadium. Simeone’s side, though, is known for its resilience and it was not long before the fightback began. Griezmann reduced the deficit in the 62nd minute and 17 minutes later, after Simeone made five substitutions in a quarter of an hour, Samuel Lino got the equalizer with a low shot from 30 yards. Griezmann himself got the winner in stoppage time to consolidate Atletico’s third place. The Madrid club now has 35 points, one behind city rival Real and three behind league leader Barcelona. “We struggled to get into the game,” Griezmann said. “We missed the support of the fans behind the goal. But in the end we managed to come back.” Athletic Bilbao consolidated fourth place with a comfortable 2-0 win over Villarreal, the team immediately below it in the table and one of its closest rivals for a Champions League spot. Aitor Paredes put Athletic ahead when he glanced home a corner kick in 14 minutes and Iñaki Williams made it 2-0 midway through the second half. It was the fourth consecutive league win for Athletic but the victory was marred by a silent protest from an organized fan group. The group refused to sing or chant in response to a rift between it and the club president, who reported threats to police earlier in the week. Several Athletic players expressed solidarity with the president and the team did not salute the fans behind the goal after the match. “It’s a very sad win and a time for everyone to pull together,” club captain Óscar De Marcos said in comments reported by newspaper Marca. “The silence was notable during the game but we need to keep doing our job.” Earlier Sunday, Real Sociedad won for the fourth time in a row, beating Leganes 3-0 at the Butarque stadium near Madrid. Three days after his extra-time goal gave Sociedad a 1-0 win at fourth-tier Conquense in the Copa del Rey, Brais Méndez scored again to give the visitors an early lead. Substitute Ander Barrenetxea’s first goal of the league season doubled its lead 10 minutes from time and then Mikel Oyarzabal added a third in stoppage time. It was only the fourth time in 16 matches that Sociedad has scored twice in a league game and the win lifted it into sixth, above Osasuna, which drew 2-2 with Alaves. Alaves took only 37 seconds for Kike Garcia to put the team ahead with a diving header. However, Ante Budimir and Rubén García scored early in the second half to put Osasuna in front before Kike Garcia got his second of the game to tie the scores at 2-2. The point was the first for new Alaves coach Eduardo Coudet but still leaves it in 15th place without a win in five games. AP soccer: https://apnews.com/hub/soccerThe brilliant, beautiful items you’ll reach for again and again. When it comes to keeping a bougie home, you can opt for fancy items that are nice to look at. Or you can go for aesthetic things that are useful and make life easier (and/or more fun). Amazon is full of items that hit this sweet spot, and I’ve done the work for you by searching the online marketplace for the bougiest, most genius products that you’ll actually use again and again. Scroll on to shop the edit. 01 A portable cup holder for your luggage Trying to juggle your suitcase, carry-on bag, and a cup of coffee while rushing through the airport is a recipe for disaster. That’s why this luggage cup holder is a must for frequent travelers. The sleeve slips over the handle of your luggage, with three pockets that can hold up to two beverages and your phone and passport. The elastic band holds cups or bottles firmly in place. This machine-washable find folds down flat for easy storage between flights. 02 A tabletop fire pit perfect for making s’mores This tabletop fire pit comes with a whole set of items to create the perfect toasty treat without a lot of work. The fire can burn for over an hour, looks great on your table, and comes with four roasting sticks and two trays for your dessert. Safety features like a stainless steel burn cup and included extinguisher tool make this so easy to use. 03 Refreshing aromatherapy mists to spritz while in the shower You can instantly create a spa-like experience in your shower by using these aromatherapy shower mists . The set comes with four soothing and invigorating scents, including eucalyptus, lavender, and two unique blends. One spritz is enough to transform your shower and leave you feeling refreshed for the day. 04 An elegant bedside carafe with a matching cup Keeping water by your bedside never felt so luxe. This crystal glass carafe has a beautiful diamond-patterned design and comes with a matching cup that can also be used as a lid to keep your water clean. It looks lovely on display and makes a great gift — it’s also the perfect addition to any guest room. 05 Sleek & easy-to-install shower caddies for all your essentials This sleek set of six shower caddies is a gorgeous and practical bathroom essential. Strong adhesive backing makes them a breeze to install, and the set comes with three large caddies, one smaller one, and two soap dishes that can be used to hold a wide variety of products. The durable, powder-coated stainless steel dries quickly and allows water to easily filter out. 06 Mini trash cans that fit in your car’s cupholders These two mini trash cans are conveniently shaped to fit perfectly in the cup holders of almost any car, giving you a spot to toss all of your small items of trash so they don’t wind up on the floor. These come with equally mini trash bags for easy cleanup, and if you don’t want to take up cup holder space, they come with hooks so you can hang them from a seat. 07 An infuser tumbler that makes tea or flavored water on the go Tea enthusiasts, and anyone who doesn’t love the taste of plain water, will appreciate this tea infuser tumbler . Made of durable borosilicate glass, this is double-walled to keep drinks hot or cold. The stainless steel filter allows you to add loose tea, tea bags, or fresh fruit to your water to infuse it with tons of flavor. It’s easy to clean and fill, and the slim profile helps it fit in any cupholder. 08 Energizing yerba maté eye gel for a great price Skin care can be pricey, but this energizing eye gel costs about as much (or even less) than a cup of coffee — and will last much longer. Packed with powerful antioxidants, brightening caffeine, and hydrating hylauronic acid, this helps to soothe the delicate skin under your eyes. One shopper wrote that it adds “a nice brightness to the area,” and noted that it looks great under concealer. 09 A spa showerhead that filters while it works This attractive polished chrome showerhead works double duty as both a classic showerhead and a water filter. Seven different spray modes allows you to find what feels most comfortable for you, while the 16-stage filter helps remove chlorine, heavy metals, and other harmful substances from your water. 10 A trio of ultra-hydrating lip balm with thousands of 5-star ratings Packed with antioxidants like green tea and hydrating ingredients like vitamin E and shea butter, this three-pack of lip balm is super moisturizing for even the most chapped lips. It has SPF 25, blocking harmful rays to prevent sunburn. It also boasts over 19,000 five-star ratings, and shoppers shared they have found it “ made a tremendous difference ,” and that “it works better than anything else I’ve tried.” 11 A soft weighted blanket with a breathable feel This weighted blanket is made with a breathable microfiber material that has a cooling effect and can keep you at just the right temperature without feeling too heavy. Quilting and high-strength stitching ensure the glass beads inside are evenly distributed and won’t shift too much, providing a consistent and comfortable feel. Choose from dozens of colors and sizes. 12 Sumptuous satin pillowcases with a cult following With more than 215,000 five-star ratings ( yes , you read that number right), this set of two satin pillowcases is a tried-and-true reviewer favorite. They have a soft, silky feel thought to be beneficial for both your hair and skin, and the price is impressively low. “[...The] quality did not disappoint,” one shopper wrote in a review, while another added they “just feel so luxurious.” 13 A dimmable clip-on book light for easy reading This book light , which delivers a pleasantly warm glow that won’t feel harsh on your eyes, is great for those who like reading in bed next to sleeping partners. It clips right onto your book, and it has three color options and five different brightness levels. The small size also makes it travel-friendly. 14 A compact humidifier you can take from room to room While the mini size of this compact humidifier makes it travel-friendly, it’s still powerful enough to use on an everyday basis. It has two different spray modes and can run for up to 12 hours. It turns off when it detects the water level is too low, too. 15 A mug warmer that heats up drinks in less than 2 minutes Few things are as disappointing as taking a sip of your hot beverage, only to realize it’s lukewarm. This mug warmer helps to prevent that: just sit your mug on it and power it up, and it should heat up the contents in under two minutes. It’s small, easy to use with one on/off button, and has a long power cord so you don’t have to hover next to an outlet. 16 An innovative delicates detergent that doesn’t require rinsing Available in a variety of fresh scents including bougie fig, this gentle laundry soap is the perfect choice for washing delicates, either by hand or in the machine. The no-rinse formulation allows you to soak your clothes in the soap and just squeeze them out when they’re done, making it simple to wash just about anything. 17 An AirTag holder that helps you keep track of your dog An AirTag is a smart accessory for the dogs who like to wander, and this dog collar holder makes keeping one on your pup so simple. Slip the AirTag inside of it, then slip this onto their collar. It’s made of a soft and flexible silicone that’s gentle on skin and should work with most collars, and the secure design keeps the AirTag firmly in place. 18 An easy-to-install shelf perfect for small spaces Thanks to its small size and strong adhesive backing, this shelf organizer is perfect for rooms that are tight on space, or homes where you can’t install anything permanent, like rentals or dorm rooms. It offers a top shelf perfect for your electronic device, as well as a caddy for stowing small essentials. 19 A quick-drying dish mat with an aesthetic design This flexible silicone dish drying mat is mildew-resistant, thick, and reversible. The diamond pattern adds an attractive touch to the kitchen, and also raises your dishes and glasses off the surface, allowing for better airflow. Raised edges around the sides prevent any leaks. It dries quickly and is heat-resistant to 230 degrees Fahrenheit, so it can double as a trivet. 20 A frother for the best at-home café creations Level up your at-home lattes, matchas, and cappuccinos with this milk frother wand . Small and simple, it couldn’t be easier to use — put it in the milk of your choice and turn it on. Its quick rotation turns milk light and frothy. One shopper called it “powerful” and one noted that it’s also great for mixing protein shakes. It even comes with a little stand so you can leave it out on the counter. 21 Ultra-sharp knives in attractive pastel colors This pack of 12 stainless steel knives comes in at a great price point and will stock your kitchen with all the blades you need, from a paring knife to chef’s knife and more. Each has a nonstick ceramic coating that resists chipping, as well as a blade cover to help keep you safe. They are cute, sharp, and effective, and the silicone handle makes them comfortable to hold. 22 A comb that removes pills & fuzz from sweaters Soft and cozy sweaters come with a price: They tend to pill and get fuzzy, especially after washing (and if you don’t treat them with care). This sweater comb aims to solve that problem. The double-edged comb is gentle yet effective when brushed over your favorite sweaters, helping remove pilling and fuzz buildup so they look brand new again. 23 Pretty fidget spinner rings anxious adults will love A more adult-like take on the colorful fidget toys kids are always playing with, these six stainless steel fidget rings are subtle and effective. Each one features movable spinners so that you can play with them when feeling anxious, nervous, or need something to do with your hands. They’re durable, simple, and stylish, and the set comes with a variety of spinning options. 24 Reusable beeswax wraps that help keep food fresh For those looking for a more sustainable alternative to plastic wrap or baggies, these beeswax food wraps are a great option. The soft, flexible material makes them versatile — they’re great for wrapping up produce, cheese, and meat, or you can pull them over a container as a lid. They create a seal to keep food fresh, and rinse clean for reuse. This pack comes with three different sizes. 25 A slim charger that turns your outlet into 4 USB ports This USB wall charger, which plugs into an existing outlet, creates a little USB hub for powering up your devices and is great for your desk, office, or any room in your home. It features four USB-A ports, with a slim design that makes it compact and won’t block the other plug in the outlet. One shopper noted that, thanks to its flat shape, it’s “absolutely perfect for behind my couch.” 26 A best-selling electric kettle that boils ultra-fast If you haven’t already switched to an electric kettle , this one might convince you. It can bring water to a boil in two minutes, holds up to seven cups, and has a sleek and modern look you won’t mind keeping on display. Over 51,000 five-star ratings make it a customer favorite. “[...] It performs really well, it looks nice, and it has a bright blue light around the glass pot to let you know it is on [...]” one shopper wrote. 27 Customizable motion-sensor lights for a soft glow Add ambiance and a little extra light to any room or closet with this pair of convenient under-cabinet lights . The magnetic or adhesive backing options make them easy to install just about anywhere, and just two hours of USB-C charging powers them up for 60 days. They work on a motion sensor with gradual illumination, so they never feel too jarring and make great night-lights. Adjustable dimness and three light modes make them customizable as well. 28 A durable AirPod case that looks like a tiny rolling trunk This shock-resistant AirPod case is both protective and adorable. It looks like like a tiny trunk or piece of luggage, and even comes with little stickers you can add to make it feel more your own. An included key ring allows you to clip it onto your bag or your keys so you always have the case on hand. 29 A soft & travel-friendly weighted blanket Can’t sleep without the comforting feel of your weighted blanket? You don’t have to when you use this compact lap blanket . It’s smaller than your typical option, while the 7-pound weight means it can go with you when traveling — you can roll or fold it up neatly. Evenly spaced glass beads uniformly distribute the weight, and the velvety soft exterior feels great on the skin. 30 A high-speed power bank that’s easy to take anywhere Compact enough to fit in almost any bag or pocket — and designed to conveniently let you use the phone while it’s charging — this might be the perfect portable charger . It has a USB-C connector that folds down for storage, along with a lightning port. “[...] Buy this immediately!” one shopper wrote in a review. “It is the most convenient thing to use when you travel [...].” 31 Indoor-outdoor wooly slipper socks with suede soles These slipper socks are made with ultra-soft ragg wool material that’s moisture-wicking and breathable, to keep your feet warm and cozy without feeling overheated. The durable, genuine suede soles are what makes them really stand out, though — these can stand up to being worn outside if you need to grab something like the mail. 32 Washable cleaning cloths you can use on anything Microfiber cloths like these are soft, gentle, and absorbent, making them excellent for cleaning just about anything, whether you’re wiping away dust or using a cleaner alongside them. Since they’re washable and reusable, they’re a more sustainable alternative to paper towels, and this roll of 40 happens to come in a convenient, tear-away sheets that makes them even easier to use. 33 A portable phone stand that folds up small Perfect for your desk or traveling, this foldable phone stand is small and lightweight, so it’s easy to take anywhere. It props your phone up for hands-free use and viewing, and allows enough space for you to be able to charge your phone without the wire getting in the way. 34 A cooling wedge pillow that helps you get comfy Gel-infused memory foam gives this wedge pillow a pleasant cooling effect and an extra level of comfort. The angled shape is designed to support you while sleeping, or you can flip it so the tall side supports your back while reading in bed or watching TV. The removable cover is machine washable and easy to clean, while a carry handle and pockets on the side make it ultra-convenient. 35 Colorful bottle stoppers to help keep your wine fresh An opened bottle of wine is no match for this two-pack of bottle stoppers . The high-grade silicone material allows them to fit securely in any bottle, keeping air from getting in and spoiling the wine. They have grippers that make them easy to use as well, and the colorful hues are just fun to look at. 36 A grooming kit that handles all your beard needs Ideal as a gift or just a great way to try new beard-related products, this grooming set comes with a boar’s hair beard brush, a beard comb, sandalwood beard oil and styling balm, along with beard scissors. Plus, everything stores in an attractive metal tin that looks great on display in the bathroom. 37 A triangular pillow for propping up your tablets Unlike other tablet stands, this pillow stand has a soft and comfortable feel that you can enjoy using on your lap when lounging on the bed or couch. It features a variety of grooves that allow you to prop the tablet up at multiple angles, and the double-sided design lets it hold two tablets at once. 38 Icy stones that chill drinks without watering them down If you love an icy cold beverage but dislike the way ice cubes eventually water it down, try these chilling stones . Made of soapstone, they have an attractive look to them — just keep them in the freezer and pop them in a drink for no dilution in sight. These are ideal for everyday use or for entertaining and the nine-piece set comes with a carry bag for easy storage. 39 Volumizing shampoo that promises fuller, stronger hair This thickening shampoo is meant to help remove product buildup, sweat, and oil without stripping your hair or scalp of moisture. At the same time, it helps add body so your hair looks bouncy and voluminous. Strengthening rice protein and biotin are among the ingredients, all meant to nourish strands and boost resilience, and the convenient pump design is so easy to use. 40 A small, handheld steamer that removes wrinkles fast This travel-friendly portable steamer might be small, but it’s still wonderfully effective. Its handheld design heats up in minutes, releasing a steady stream of steam to get rid of wrinkles in materials from silk to denim. It has an 8-foot long cord that’s especially convenient for hotel rooms or rental homes that may not have that many outlets. 41 Aluminum-free deodorant spray for your whole body You’ll find yourself reaching for this aluminum-free body spray whenever you’re done working out or just feel like you need a little refresh. It’s safe to use under your arms or all over your body, with fresh scents that aren’t overpowering. It helps fight and prevent odors, gets rid of that sweaty scent, and doesn’t leave any sticky or obvious residue behind. 42 A compact label printer that helps you stay organized Easy to use and versatile, this label maker just might make you want to organize your home from top to bottom. Its thermal printing technology doesn’t require ink, toner, or ribbon, and creating labels is as easy as using an app on your phone — just connect to the device via Bluetooth to print them. 43 A unique pen that’s also an aromatherapy diffuser Breathe in the soothing scents of your favorite aromatherapy oil while you write when you use this pen diffuser . A vial inside releases the mood-enhancing scent, while tabs on the side let you adjust the intensity level. It comes with one ink refill and is available in several different scents, including a woodsy option and refreshing citrus. 44 A cooling chamber that seriously chills drinks in 1 minute This clever beverage cooler makes it so easy to have delicious icy drinks at home with almost no added effort on your part. It’s kept in the freezer, and when you’re ready to use it, just add coffee or other warm beverages into it, then swirl. After about a minute, you’re left with an ice cold beverage that isn’t watered down by actual ice cubes. “Cold coffee quickly!” one shopper wrote in a review. “[...] I love that there’s no wait and the coffee isn’t diluted down.” 45 A storage box that tastefully displays your watch collection This simple yet elegant watch box features six holding slots, making it ideal for anyone who has a watch collection. It’s made of sleek faux leather with a glass top that makes it feel more expensive than it is. The clever design keeps watches protected while allowing you to see inside to easily find what you need. 46 Aerator spouts for a better-tasting glass of wine Aerating your wine means you’re exposing it to air before drinking it, which allows the flavors to really come out and can make your wine taste better. It couldn’t be easier to do than with this set of aerator pourers . The spout goes on any bottle of wine, and the vino flows through little holes that aid in the oxidation process. It’s leakproof, small enough to take on the go, and basically foolproof. 47 A sleek insulated tumbler for stylish coffee on the go With a slim size that fits comfortable in your hand and in almost any cup holder, this Simple Modern tumbler is perfect for taking beverages on the go. The stainless steel construction makes it durable, the available colors are gorgeous, and double-walled insulation keeps beverages hot or cold for hours. The flip-top lid is ideal for sipping on hot coffee, and it’s dishwasher safe for easy cleaning. 48 A comfortable, nonslip mat for the tub or shower Made of a cushy and porous material, this bath mat has a loofah-like feel that adds a more comfortable, cushioned surface to stand on while showering. The entire thing is nonslip, and it has natural drain holes that allow water to flow through so there’s less icky buildup. One shopper wrote in a review, “[...] It doesn’t move an inch and [... is] thick and cushioned while being the right weight to stay in place [...].” 49 A handy organizer that slips onto your car’s sun visor Keep your car neat and your essentials close by with this sun visor organizer . It fits conveniently over the visor, which means it really doesn’t take up any space in your car, and it holds a lot more than it seems like it would: there’s a zippered bag compartment, deep mesh pocket, five card holders, a clip to hold glasses, and a pen clip. 50 A best-selling wireless charging pad you can use for most devices Lightweight, slim, and compact, this wireless charging pad is perfect for use at home or on the go. It works with a variety of devices — iPhones and Samsung Galaxy phones, wireless-charge capable earbuds and AirPods among them — and delivers a fast charge without taking up much space. It’s sleek and prevents the need for tons of cords. 51 A slim, modern wallet with a slot for an AirTag Your wallet is one of the last things you want to misplace, which is why sticking an AirTag in it can be a great idea. This special AirTag wallet has a space for the little tracker so it doesn’t budge, along with 11 card pockets for all of your essential items. The slim silhouette and modern design make it look and feel luxe as well. 52 Highly rated foot masks that leave feet soft & smooth Nearly 33,000 five-star ratings prove that these foot peel masks are absolutely worth the money. They go on like a pair of socks, delivering a powerful exfoliating formula that sloughs off dead skin over the next two weeks, revealing the much softer skin beneath. “[...] It's a game-changer for those suffering from dry, cracked feet, calluses, and stubborn dead skin [...],” one reviewer shared. 53 A convenient tray table that attaches to a couch arm Couch lovers everywhere will find this tray table an incredibly useful purchase. The large tray is designed to fit snugly over the arms of most couches, with durable hinges and a nonslip bottom to keep it firmly in place. There’s enough space for a plate, drinks, and a remote, with raised edges to prevent messy spills. A little phone mount in the corner is a convenient feature as well. 54 A versatile magnetic car mount that keeps your phone steady This car mount gives you safer access to your phone screen while in your vehicle. You can place it on the dashboard or in the vents, making it a versatile option. The strong magnetic backing firmly connects to the magnets inside iPhone 12 or newer, keeping your phone securely in place without any bulky attachments. 55 An organizer box that keeps extra cords neat If you have a drawer full of jumbled up cables and cords, then you could definitely use this cable organizer box . It features seven adjustable divided sections, as well as seven cable ties so you can wrap cords into a careful bundle and secure them tightly. And while this is made with cords in mind, it works as a great handy storage box for almost any small item, so the options are unlimited. 56 A sturdy trunk organizer to keep your car tidy Clean up the trunk space in your car and keep everything tidy with this organizer . Divided compartments inside and plenty of pockets on the outside allow you to fill this with groceries, sports gear, work items, and more. It also has straps that allow you to attach it to the car so you don’t have to worry about it falling over. It’s also collapsible, so it stores flat when not in use. 57 A heat therapy pad that fits comfortably around your neck & shoulders The typical rectangular or square shape of a heating pad isn’t exactly conducive to draping it over your shoulders — but this heating pad , made with your neck and shoulders in mind, is perfect for doing exactly that. It has a snap closure that secures it shut so you don’t need to worry about it slipping off, and features six different temperature settings and an auto-shut mode. 58 A downright precious AirTag cover you can clip anywhere Make your AirTag look a lot more fun (and hide it from view) with this adorable AirTag cover . It’s available in a few different fan-favorite Sanrio characters, like Hello Kitty and Kuromi, so it adds some color and personality to your belongings. An attached keyring allows you to clip it to your keychain or on a bag so the item never gets misplaced. 59 Colorful animal print tote bags that fold up small These reusable tote bags are so much more sustainable than single-use plastic bags — they’re also a smart choice since they hold up to 50 pounds, have wide, easy-to-carry handles, and are shockingly sturdy. This set of 10 comes in a variety of fun animal prints, and each one can be rolled up into a teeny tiny size that makes them easy to put in any bag or even your pocket. 60 A water bottle strap that allows for hands-free toting Having a water bottle on hand is often necessary, but holding one in your hand is uncomfortable and annoying. That’s why this water bottle shoulder strap is so nice — its stretchy loops secure around water bottles from 12 to 64 ounces (not tumblers with handles), and can be worn draped over your shoulder to make things hands-free and so convenient. It’s lightweight and doesn’t get in the way of drinking either. Money TravelBy Yin Nwe Ko The National Sports Festival of Myanmar stands as a symbol of unity, pride, and athletic excellence. Held every four years, it brings together athletes from across the nation to compete and showcase their talents. This grand event fosters not only sportsmanship but also the spirit of national unity and cooperation. The upcoming Fifth National Sports Festival set to take place from 9 to 20 December 2024, holds special significance. It celebrates the growing prominence of sports in Myanmar, serving as a platform for identifying talent and inspiring the younger generation. History of the National Sports Festival in Myanmar The National Sports Festival traces its roots to 1992 when the government initiated the event to promote sports and physical education. Over the decades, it has evolved into a major celebration of athletic prowess, drawing thousands of participants and spectators. Key milestones in the festival’s history highlight its growth and impact. The inaugural event set a benchmark for fostering unity among the diverse regions of Myanmar. In later editions, advancements in organization, infrastructure, and athlete preparation marked significant progress. The third festival, for instance, introduced international-standard facilities, elevating the event’s prestige. The festival has also nurtured outstanding athletes who have gone on to represent Myanmar on global platforms. Figures such as (name), who excelled in (specific sport), began their journeys at this very event. Their success stories motivate aspiring athletes nationwide, underscoring the festival’s role in shaping the future of Myanmar’s sports. Overview of Previous National Sports Festivals The inaugural First National Sports Festival of Myanmar was held in 1992 in Yangon. It featured a variety of sports, including football, track and field, volleyball, and traditional Myanmar sports such as cane ball. The event drew a lot of athletes from all states and regions, emerging as the overall winner. This first festival had a profound impact on Myanmar’s sports culture. It ignited a nationwide interest in competitive sports and set the stage for future events. It also laid the groundwork for a structured approach to athlete development and inspired young people to pursue sports as a profession. The second edition took place in 1994 in Yangon, building on the foundation of the first festival. This event introduced new sports categories, such as swimming and gymnastics, while continuing with popular events from the previous festival. Highlights included exceptional performances in football and athletics events, with records being broken in the 100-metre sprint by Than Than Htay, who set a new national record with a time of 11.54 seconds. Improvements from the inaugural festival included better organization, upgraded facilities, and a larger audience. The festival fostered a stronger sense of regional pride and further encouraged the development of sports at the grassroots level. Held in 1997 in Yangon, the Third National Sports Festival marked a turning point in the event’s history. It showcased a greater variety of sports, including basketball and badminton, alongside traditional favourites. Key performances included Soe Soe Nyein’s stunning victory in the long jump and the dominance of the Myanmar Women’s National Volleyball Team in volleyball. Participation grew significantly, with more athletes and teams joining from across the country. The audience size also increased, reflecting the festival’s growing popularity. This edition further solidified the festival’s role as a unifying force in Myanmar. The fourth edition was hosted in 2015 in Nay Pyi Taw, setting a new standard for the event. Major sports included football, archery, and martial arts, while standout athletes such as Aung Zaw in swimming captured the nation’s attention. Innovations included the introduction of live broadcasts, enabling wider access to the event, and the use of advanced training facilities for athletes. These advancements highlighted Myanmar’s commitment to enhancing its sports culture. The festival also emphasized inclusivity, featuring more events for female athletes and differently-abled participants. Each edition of the National Sports Festival has contributed to Myanmar’s sporting legacy, building excitement for the upcoming Fifth National Sports Festival. The Fifth National Sports Festival: 2024 The highly anticipated Fifth National Sports Festival of Myanmar is set to take place on 9 December 2024, promising to be the grandest edition yet. The festival will be held in Nay Pyi Taw with key venues including the newly refurbished stadiums, and sports complexes, equipped with modern facilities to accommodate various events. This year’s festival will feature an impressive lineup of sports, encompassing traditional Myanmar games like cane ball, alongside international favourites such as football, athletics, swimming, basketball, and martial arts. A special highlight will be the inclusion of eSports, marking a significant step towards modernizing the festival. The Fifth National Sports Festival is expected to draw participation from thousands of athletes representing all states and regions. In addition, numerous teams across various sports will compete for national glory, making it a thrilling and diverse event. The festival aims to showcase the talents of Myanmar’s finest athletes while fostering unity, sportsmanship, and national pride. Preparations for the Fifth National Sports Festival The success of the Fifth National Sports Festival relies heavily on meticulous planning and preparation. The organizing committee has been working tirelessly to ensure the event runs smoothly, collaborating with local governments, sports associations, and private sponsors. A major focus has been on infrastructure and facilities development. Existing venues have been upgraded to meet international standards, while new facilities have been constructed to accommodate emerging sports like eSports. Athlete accommodations have also been enhanced, ensuring comfort and convenience for participants. The training and selection process for athletes began months in advance, with regional competitions serving as qualifiers for the national stage. Rigorous training camps have been established to prepare athletes for high-level competition, guided by expert coaches and sports scientists. Volunteer recruitment and training programmes have been initiated to ensure seamless event management. Efforts to promote the festival through media campaigns and community outreach aim to generate nationwide excitement and support for this prestigious event. As Myanmar eagerly awaits the Fifth National Sports Festival, the combined efforts of organizers, athletes, and communities promise a celebration of excellence, unity, and the power of sports to inspire. Key Highlights and Events to Look Forward To The Fifth National Sports Festival of Myanmar promises an array of exciting highlights and events that will captivate audiences: Special Events and Ceremonies The festival will open with a grand Opening Ceremony, featuring traditional Myanmar cultural performances, a parade of athletes, and a torch-lighting event symbolizing the spirit of unity and competition. The Closing Ceremony will celebrate the winners with medal presentations and a vibrant showcase of Myanmar’s diverse cultural heritage. High-Profile Sports and Anticipated Matches Anticipation is high for key events, including football matches that will see fierce rivalries between top teams from major regions. Athletics, particularly the 100-metre sprint and marathon, are expected to draw significant attention, with record-breaking performances anticipated. Sports like swimming, volleyball, and martial arts will also feature intense competition, showcasing the athletes’ exceptional skills. Innovations and Changes in the Fifth Festival The fifth edition introduces several innovations, such as the inclusion of eSports and adaptive sports for differently-abled athletes, broadening the festival’s inclusivity and appeal. Live broadcasts and digital platforms will enable fans across the nation to follow the action in real-time, a significant upgrade from previous festivals. Expected Improvements and New Features Compared to earlier editions, this festival boasts enhanced facilities, including state-of-the-art stadiums and athlete accommodations. Improved organizational efforts, such as better scheduling and crowd management, are expected to elevate the overall experience for participants and spectators alike. Growth in Scale and Significance The fifth festival is significantly larger in scale, with an increase in the number of participating athletes, teams, and sports. The introduction of international-standard infrastructure and greater media coverage underscores the festival’s growing significance as a national event. This year’s festival not only builds on the success of its predecessors but also sets new benchmarks, promising to be a memorable celebration of sports and unity in Myanmar. Impact of the National Sports Festival The National Sports Festival has played a pivotal role in shaping Myanmar’s sports culture. By bringing together athletes from diverse regions, it promotes unity and highlights the nation’s rich talent pool. The festival has elevated the status of sports in Myanmar, encouraging schools and local communities to prioritize athletic activities and inspire young individuals to pursue sports professionally. Benefits for Athletes and the Community For athletes, the festival provides an invaluable platform to showcase their skills, gain national recognition, and open pathways to international competitions. It fosters discipline, resilience, and teamwork – qualities that extend beyond the field of play. The community benefits through increased access to upgraded sports facilities and the economic boost from hosting such a large-scale event. Additionally, the festival promotes national pride and strengthens social cohesion. The festival aligns with Myanmar’s long-term goals of building a robust sports infrastructure and nurturing talent capable of excelling on global platforms. By consistently introducing new sports and adopting advanced training methods, the event aims to stay relevant and impactful. Future editions aspire to include more international collaborations, further enhancing the festival’s prestige and Myanmar’s presence in the global sports arena. The National Sports Festival holds a special place in Myanmar’s cultural and athletic landscape. It is a celebration of unity, talent, and the enduring spirit of sportsmanship. As the fifth edition approaches, the excitement and anticipation are palpable, promising a spectacular showcase of skills and teamwork. In sum, this event is not just for athletes but for everyone who believes in the power of sports to inspire and transform. The public’s participation and support are crucial in making the festival a resounding success. Whether as a spectator, volunteer, or supporter, every individual can contribute to this grand celebration of Myanmar’s athletic excellence. Let us come together to cheer for our athletes and celebrate this momentous occasion. Reference: Wikipedia
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