Athleticism and competition persevere in communities throughout the world regardless of war, pollution or politics.
Photo: Diego Ibarra Sanchez for The New York Times
BEIRUT, Lebanon — Frankly speaking, their team was never going to win. But that did not stop the die-hard fans in the stands from hurling abuse at their rivals. Some taunts were of the “your mother” variety, others from a genre that the Lebanese, perhaps uniquely among world basketball fans, have …
KABUL, Afghanistan — The Maiwand wrestlers are back, with a vengeance. Last September, the Islamic State bombed their gym and killed dozens of them. This year they have rebuilt it, and their vengeance has been to make it bigger, better and even busier than it was before. Last September, I was …
DAKAR, Senegal — They sprint. They sweat. They squat to the ground and bounce backward. They sit side-by-side and lock arms for group situps. They dig trenches in the sand for stability, to get more out of each push up. And, then, when the rush-hour traffic really backs up and exhaust fumes pour …
RIO DE JANEIRO — The young ballet students walked into the room with red paint — simulated blood stains — smeared all over their leotards. It was a macabre costume for girls as young as 7 and 8, performing before the mayor and governor. To understand why their beloved ballet teacher, Daiana Ferreira …
HONG KONG — A blur of boldly patterned jerseys and fluttering banners of green, pink and yellow. The platinum of a boat’s wake against the pewter of the sea. Oars paddling in hypnotic unity. All of it made brighter and more vibrant by a glaring summer sun. This is Hong Kong’s annual Dragon Boat …
LAJAMANU, Australia — Halfway into a 400-mile journey through a dusty stretch of the Australian desert, the team’s minibus ran into trouble. The players, Warlpiri Australians from one of the country’s most isolated towns, were headed to a carnival, a celebration of sport and culture that brings …
