The traditional nude run on Midsummer night was held at the open air museum in Pedvale, western Latvia. The run began at 4:30 a.m. on June 24 with the sunrise. Usually about 20 men participate in the event, although this year there were several women as well. During the race, spectators watched Latvian artist Ojars Feldbergs set sculptures made out of fir tree logs ablaze. The celebration also included a dance performance by Finnish artist Sanna Karlsson-Sutisna. The dance was choreographed to be a Midsummer fire ritual.
Portugal soccer winger Cristiano Ronaldo, is set to play during the team's quarter-finals match against England. The Manchester United star hopes to overcome the thigh injury he sustained against Holland to play July 1. "It is a special match because I play in England," he said. "I've been there for three years and I hope we can win." Ronaldo had to be substituted during the first half of Portugal's 1-0 win over Holland in the last 16 after a crude challenge from Khalid Boulahrouz. Portugal midfielders Deco and Costinha were sent off in the game and will now miss the England tie.
American tennis star Venus Williams (photo) has complained about the difference in prize money for men and women competing in the Wimbledon Championships. Writing to the Times, she said the 30,000 pound pay difference between men's and women's singles winners sends out a message that women are inferior. "I'm disappointed not for myself but for all of my fellow women players who have struggled so hard to get here and who, just like the men, give their all on the courts of SW19." Some argue that men deserve more because they play up to five sets while women play up to three. Despite Williams complaint, the All England Club said this year's prize money would not be changed.
Latvian javelin thrower Vadim Vasilevskis took fourth place in the Elite Games Series that were held in the Finnish town of Kuortoname last weekend. Out of six attempts, just two were officially listed for Vasilevskis, with his best result being the third attempt 's 80.56. Finland's Tero Pitkamaki took first place with 91.11 meters, the best result in the world this season.
