Latest news with #Pique
Indian Express
17-07-2025
- Sport
- Indian Express
When Gerard Pique was left stunned by Magnus Carlsen sacrificing his queen in game
There are things Magnus Carlsen does on the chess board that can leave even his fans dumbstruck. One such fan is former Barcelona and Spain footballer Gerard Pique, who is an investor in the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour, and a self-confessed Carlsen fan. As the Freestyle Chess Grand Slam Tour moved its caravan to Las Vegas, Pique was at hand to observe the sport from close quarters. What he saw made him delighted. But also a little confused. Asked who was his favourite chess player, Pique admitted that he was a Carlsen fan. 'For me, Magnus — I think that for everyone — is a legend. It was fun (watching him play) because obviously I follow a little bit, but I don't understand much of the movements. And I saw that he lost the queen at some point during the game and I was surprised because I was saying he's not in the best position, but I think that he did it on purpose a little bit to to gain some good position. So, it's fun. It's fun to really learn a little bit how they think and and how they move the pieces,' Pique said on the official stream on day of the Las Vegas event on Wednesday. Pique was talking about Carlsen's second game against Levon Aronian where Carlsen, playing with black pieces, allowed his queen to be captured by Aronian's rook on move 27 (27. Rxf8+) which started Carlsen's counter-attack on Aronian's own king. Eight moves later, Aronian had resigned. Pique said that he was taught chess as a kid by one of his coaches but in his team, FC Barcelona, they played poker with each other. When asked what position Carlsen would do well on a football pitch, Pique said: 'I assume in the midfield because he will move the team all around!' Pique, who is the face of the seven-a-side football tournament called the Kings League, spoke about how events like the Freestyle Chess Tour were disruptors in the sport. He gave the example of Wimbledon as sports events that were still deeply rooted in tradition. 'I love that people think about how to modernize or to improve the game and to make it more adapted to our time. Making it much more quick and dynamic. It's true that traditional sports are very against that (change). Like tennis — when you go to Wimbledon for example — the crowd is very quiet because the the players need to concentrate and I assume that here (in chess) it's more or less the same. But I would try to find a way where it's a show, it's entertainment. People can shout and athletes have to concentrate even with the shouts of the people. We do in football and they do in basketball. So when I see in tennis that I know it's respect to the players etc, but it's part of entertainment there has to be a lot of loud atmosphere and and for for people to have fun. So I know that here you have to be respectful and you have to be quiet, but if we can find a way where people can express what they are feeling and shout, I think that I'm going against the traditional people and but I'm trying to put my point of view from the outside and just if you can think about it would be great.'
Hamilton Spectator
14-07-2025
- Automotive
- Hamilton Spectator
Pemberton Cars and Coffee turns parking lot into community hub
When Clark Blumberg looked at the empty carpool lot in Pemberton's multi-modal hub, he didn't see vacant parking spaces—he saw potential. 'There's a nice park there, benches, a coffee shop across the street, lots of food all around... So that's kind of central, and we'll just do it there,' Blumberg recalled. That 'it' became Pemberton Cars and Coffee: a low-key, family-friendly car meet-up that's grown from a trial event in May into a well-attended community gathering. The get-together is modelled after similar meetups across the Lower Mainland. 'We were just basically a bunch of car guys that were kind of attached to the Sea to Sky Car Club in Whistler,' Blumberg recalled. 'But there wasn't really a lot of activity going on with them … So I thought, 'Well, we should do something.'' Blumberg, a retired jet engine specialist, has hosted two events so far and recently launched a Facebook group to organize and share photos. The page now has more than 50 members. He's also collaborating with local businesses like the Village Barber Shop to co-host larger gatherings, including an upcoming car show at the Downtown Community Barn in late August. Blumberg said the group isn't just for serious collectors or gearheads. 'Anything that rolls and goes is welcome to come out,' he told Pique. 'We're not like a snob thing. We want everybody to be involved.' That inclusive spirit has attracted a wide range of vehicles—from vintage Porsches to old Beetles to motorcycles and even jacked-up bush trucks. At one event, a Unimog camper even rolled up. And while Blumberg admits the Pemberton collector scene is small—'probably about 25 oldies in this area'—he said you'd be surprised at the vehicles often hiding in the meadows and barns. Still, it's the human connections that seem to matter most. 'There's a lot of young guys that are just getting into the hobby and really need help mechanically,' said Blumberg. 'And lot of the people there are mechanics or technical people. Everybody's always willing to share information … It's not like you're alone in your garage trying to figure it all out on YouTube videos.' Blumberg also sees the get-together as an outing for young families. He'll often let kids climb through his bright red 1969 Beetle, a model he's happy to open up for photos and exploration. 'You never know how you're going to inspire somebody,' he told Pique. 'Maybe they get interested in the old cars or classic cars. 'Plus, they're always looking for someplace to take the kids out on a Sunday, [to] get them out of the house, change the scenery. I mean, kids need that. Parents need that, too.' If there's a mission statement for Pemberton Cars and Coffee, it's simple: build community. And show off a little chrome while you're at it. 'I've been very friendly with all the people coming,' Blumberg said. 'It rubs off on them. And everybody's talking to one another, having a great time. A lot of times, too, they're not even talking about the cars—they're just talking about whatever's going on.' Whether you're rolling up in a Harley or a half-rusted camper, there's a spot for you. Check out Pemberton Cars and Coffee's Facebook page for information on upcoming events. The Village Barber Car Show returns to Pemberton on Aug. 24 at the Downtown Community Barn. Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Hamilton Spectator
27-06-2025
- Politics
- Hamilton Spectator
Lil'wat Elder Council condemns Benchlands development
A group of Lil'wat Nation elders has condemned a major Pemberton development as a cultural incursion and denounced what they describe as coerced participation from Chiefs and Council and a failure of consultation by the Village of Pemberton. The statement, issued May 26 by the Skel7áqsten Skwel7ántsut (Lil'wat Elder Leadership Council), asserts construction on the Nk̓wúk̓wma development—also referred to as the Benchlands project—is destroying a culturally significant landscape. 'These south-facing benchlands are not only ecologically unique; they are located at the geographic and cultural heart of Lil'wat territory,' the statement reads. 'Neither the Crown nor the Village of Pemberton holds informed consent from we the Lil'wat People. This imposed, colonial-style administration is not [our way of] Lil'wat governance—and cannot produce lawful certainty for any development on the Lil'wat Benchlands. 'The scale of destruction is catastrophic,' the statement continues. 'Its impacts on the Líl'wat People are compounding and one of the most immediate effects is a deepening demoralization for us. 'That land was, and remains, un-surrendered Líl'wat territory.' A subsequent flyer posted online by the Skel7áqsten Skwel7ántsut proposes 'a full stop work order' on the development. The Skel7áqsten Skwel7ántsut is distinct from the Lil'wat Nation Chiefs and Council. Lil'wat CAO Rolf de Bruin issued a statement to Pique in response to the elders. 'We are aware of the recent statement from Skel7áqsten Skel7ántsut,' wrote de Bruin.'Chiefs and Council acknowledge the voices of elders, and appreciate the care and concern that many community members carry for the land and for our Nation's direction.' A representative from Skel7áqsten Skwel7ántsut declined comment. Approved in 2024 , the Nk̓wúk̓wma project envisions a multi-phase residential neighbourhood that would add 450 new homes and key infrastructure like access roads, water supply and sewage system. While not a housing project for Lil'wat members specifically, the Nation told Pique in a statement the project ensures 'oversight, influence and potential long-term benefits that would not otherwise be possible.' 'The Nk̓wúk̓wma project is a partnership that reflects Líl̓wat Nation's broader effort to be more actively involved in what happens in our territory—not just as participants, but as partners and as decision-makers,' de Bruin said. The group behind the new neighbourhood, Skénkenam Development LP, is the product of a partnership between the Lil'wat Business Group and the Pemberton Benchlands Development Corporation . The elders describe the area as an identified archaeological site that features one of the Nation's 'origin petroglyphs.' 'Líl'wat cultural evolution is carved into these stones and mountains,' said Elder Shawe7, described as 'a lifelong archaeologist, historian and fisheries expert,' in the statement. 'These stones are how our ancestors communicated with the future—and how we look back.' The Skel7áqsten Skwel7ántsut alleges the current development is proceeding without a full Archaeological Impact Assessment (AIA) as required under B.C. law . An AIA is used to obtain development permits from the province. They involve a formal investigation conducted by a qualified archaeologist to determine whether a proposed land development or other land-altering activity will affect archaeological sites. The Village of Pemberton told Pique archaeological assessments were required for the Nkwúkwma development, as well as for past projects like the Sunstone and Ridge Area (or Hillside Development). The Village noted that, in regards to turning that AIA into an action plan, 'consultation with Líl̓wat Nation's Referral Committee is currently ongoing, and feedback is being addressed by the project consultants. 'For both [Benchlands and Hillside developments], the Líl̓wat Nation was engaged, as either a consultant or through the referral committee, to help identify appropriate mitigations.' The statement also suggests Pemberton's wastewater system, whose sewage is piped through Lil'wat land to a lift station 'on the upstream edge' of the Mount Currie reserve, before being discharged into the Lillooet River and Lake, is unable to match the pace of development. The elders warn the system is 'already overcapacity,' and that recent and new developments could lead to a catastrophic failure. In its response, the Village said the facility—built in 2004 for a population of 5,000—currently operates well within its designed limits and is regularly monitored and certified under provincial regulations. A future expansion is included in the Village's Five-Year Financial Plan , with a total $492,816 committed to sanitation system improvements. They added the wastewater is treated to meet provincial standards before being discharged and that the Village's Receiving Environment Monitoring Program conducts 'regular water sampling at downstream sites to monitor cumulative impacts on the receiving environments.' The statement also expressed specific concern over sewage in Sunstone Ridge neighbourhood being on the verge of failure, which the Village disputes. The elders say the development is part of a longer history of expansion that infringes upon Lil'wat's traditional territory. Elder Ray Pierre, quoted in the statement, cited the story of the Copper Canoe—a key part of Lil'wat tradition. The oral story recounts a spiritual journey by two shaman brothers using a canoe made of copper imbued with transformative power. The tale encodes ancestral knowledge of environmental upheaval and renewal, linking cultural survival with geological events like volcanic eruptions and the return of salmon. The story is deeply tied to Keyhole Falls, northeast of Pemberton 'Líl'wat access to this site—and others like it—is being severed by sprawl and settlement across what was once Pemberton Indian Reserve land,' reads the statement. The statement points to other encroachments on traditional territory, including 'hydroelectric projects, industrial logging, sport fishing of endangered Birkenhead Chinook, off-road recreation, diking, spraying, trophy hunting and unrestricted access to sacred alpine and riverine areas.' The statement also highlights the uncertainty associated with any development in B.C.—and their vulnerability to Indigenous land claims. 'B.C. refuses to recognize Aboriginal title as a registerable land interest,' the Skel7áqsten Skwel7ántsut wrote. 'This means investors at Sunstone Ridge hold no legal protection against future Aboriginal title claims.' The province has a long history of mostly failing to come to terms with land claims over traditional territory, but the tide is slowly shifting. The basis for modern land claims in B.C. was affirmed in the 1973 Calder decision —an ultimately unsuccessful Supreme Court challenge named for Nisga'a chief Frank Calder, who argued the Nation's rights to traditional lands had been illegally ignored. Despite the loss, the case recognized Aboriginal title has a place in Canadian Law, and formed the foundation for the Nisga'a Treaty in 2000—the first modern land claim in B.C.—which in turn provided the Nation with self-government. Subsequent court cases like Delgamuukw v. BC (1997) and Tsilhqot'in v. BC (2014) affirmed Aboriginal title included land rights, but that title still had to be claimed in court—leading to the uncertainty referenced by the elders' statement. In 2024, B.C. took a significant step by formally recognizing the Haida Nation's Aboriginal title over all of Haida Gwaii , through a negotiated agreement rather than litigation. 'We have difficult decisions to make as a Nation,' said Kúkwpi7 Skalulmecw Political Chief Dean Nelson in a response to the elders' statement. 'It's important that we do so with respect, honesty, and a shared vision for who we are and who we want to be.' Added de Bruin: 'As we continue to assert our inherent rights more publicly and powerfully, we are encouraged to see community members engaging in these important conversations. 'At the same time, Líl̓wat Nation is reflecting deeply on what governance should look like for this generation and the next. Chiefs and Council were elected under systems shaped by the Indian Act, but we know this system is not our own. We look forward to continuing the journey of Nation building—engaging elders, youth, matriarchs and patriarchs—to re-establish governance that reflects our values, supports unity, and honours our rightful place on this land.' Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Hamilton Spectator
26-06-2025
- Sport
- Hamilton Spectator
Three course records broken in 2025 Pemby Pounder trail race
The Pemby Pounder trail race returned to Pemberton on Saturday, June 21, drawing a record number of participants and delivering fast times despite overcast skies. 'When we woke in the night before the race day we were fearful of a repeat of Run Comfy Numb's rainy day,' race organizers wrote to Pique. 'However, by 6 a.m., the rain had disappeared, and although clouds unfortunately obscured the magnificent Mount Currie views, the temperature was perfect for running!' Three course records fell in this year's event, which marked the race's third edition and its first under the new Pemby Pounder name. Organizers noted the rebrand didn't slow growth—registrations were up 20 per cent over 2024, driven largely by increased interest in the nine-kilometre race. 'Three years in… 100 runners in 2023, 200 in 2024 and 235 in 2025. Let's keep this ball rolling,' organizers wrote on Instagram. Victoria's Christopher Walsh defended his men's 9k title and smashed his own course record from 2023, clocking in at 39:36. Walsh remains the only runner to break 40 minutes on the course. Squamish's Timothy Maclean finished close behind in 40:04, while Whistler's Toby Garrick rounded out the podium at 41:45. In the women's 9k, Maya Fleury of Saskatoon set a new course record with a winning time of 46:09. Vancouver's Esther Krauzer placed second at 46:50, despite taking a tumble during the race. She credited her competitive spirit for carrying her through. Squamish's Elodie Chatel, the previous record holder, finished just behind at 47:05. Runners of all ages took part. The event saw a surge in youth participation. Pemberton's Liam McNolty was the first U18 male to finish, placing sixth overall with a time of 45:42. Fellow local Veya Stevens claimed the female youth title in 59:08. Two 12-year-old runners also completed the course, adding to the day's family-friendly atmosphere. And 79-year-old Agnes Benna of Vancouver crossed the finish line 58th out of 70 women. Organizers highlighted this year's family participation. Father-daughter duo Ian and Devon Smith have completed the 9k together every year. This year, they shaved 10 minutes off their previous best times. In the 22-km 'Half Pounder,' the men's 2024 champion, Charlie Sikkema, returned to break his own course record by just under three minutes, finishing in 1:56:38. Whistler's Tom Kemma finished second at 2:11:45, followed closely by Freddie Sawyers at 2:12:13. On the women's side, Kate Butcher took the win in 2:25:14, though Pemberton's Claire Dewar's 2023 record of 2:14:16 still stands. Pemberton's Coline Heyden came in second at 2:28:12, followed by Danielle Butterfield at 2:31:37. Organizers thanked the volunteers, spectators and sponsors—including Athletic Brewing, Redbull Canada, WakeWater, Gradient Coffee, Formthotics, ReUp, Coast Optics and the Pemberton Valley Supermarket, for making the event possible. For full results and more photos of the event, visit . Error! Sorry, there was an error processing your request. There was a problem with the recaptcha. Please try again. You may unsubscribe at any time. By signing up, you agree to our terms of use and privacy policy . This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google privacy policy and terms of service apply. Want more of the latest from us? Sign up for more at our newsletter page .
Straits Times
14-06-2025
- Sport
- Straits Times
Fast-expanding Kings League eyes US launch by 2026
PARIS - The Gerard Pique-founded Kings League said on Saturday that it aims to launch its seven-a-side soccer format in the United States by 2026, adding to the list of nations where the online-orientated competition already has a footprint. At a briefing in Paris, Kings League CEO Djamel Agaoua told reporters that a U.S. Kings League could be launched around the end of this year and start of the next. "We feel ready to attack the big animal, which is the U.S. market ... we start on the East Coast for operational reasons," said Agaoua, who was in the French capital for the Kings World Cup Clubs final at La Defense Arena on Saturday evening. Various new buzzy soccer formats, with smaller teams and shorter games than traditional 90-minute football, have sprung up round Europe and elsewhere in recent years, attracting a host of online influencers and former professionals. With special rules to heighten entertainment, the leagues are attracting major investment and large streaming audiences, even as some traditional fans deride them as a glitzy distortion of the world's favourite sport. Created by former Spanish international Pique in 2022, the Kings League has expanded fast to Italy, Germany, France and Brazil. It also plans to launch a MENA league for the Middle East and Africa later this year in partnership with Saudi Arabia Public Investment Fund's sports arm. The league estimates a 5-7 million euro ($5.8-$8.1 million) investment in each new market, though the U.S. venture would cost more, Agaoua said. The Kings League raised 60 million euros from investors in its latest funding round last year. RIVAL LEAGUES However, it was staying away from China due to regulatory challenges and from the U.K. because streaming, including the Twitch platform, was less developed, the Kings League CEO said at the briefing with Pique. The Baller League, already in Germany and the UK, also plans to launch its six-a-side format in the U.S. later this year, with online personality iShowSpeed, whose real name is Darren Watkins Jr., its president. Pique, 38, a defender who played for Barcelona, told Reuters the existence of rival leagues was not a deterrent. "In Italy, for example, we had Goa7 League before we arrived ... It doesn't exist anymore," he said. "We have already two copycats that have created some similar concept ... in Germany, but we decided to go to Germany anyway and we've been there with also great success." The two competitors in Germany are the Baller League Germany and ICON League, which was set up by ex-player Toni Kroos and content creator Elias Nerlich. With an eye to videogame rules, the Kings League has novel twists such as 'President Penalties,' which gives club bosses a chance to get on the scoresheet as well as players. "You have a portion of fans that are a little bit tired of seeing the same thing every year," Agaoua said of traditional soccer. "We estimate that we have probably 60% of our fans that are football fans and 40% that are not football fans that came to football through us." Pique said 85% of Kings League viewers were under 35, consuming sports via Twitch, YouTube and other social media. The league says it has generated over 7 billion impressions and 400 million engagements globally on social media. REUTERS Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.
