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  • A Call for Stomach Cancer Prevention Programs

    A Call for Stomach Cancer Prevention Programs

    Helicobacter pylori, H. pylori for short, is a common bacterium that infects the stomach. Up to half of the world’s population may have H. pylori infection at some point in their lives. However, not everyone has symptoms. The infection can cause inflammation and is the leading cause of gastric and duodenal ulcers. Chronic H. pylori infection is also known to cause stomach cancer.

    Although the pathogen is seemingly ubiquitous, H. pylori can be effectively eradicated with antibiotics and acid reducers, all of which are available in lower-cost generic forms. A clinical guideline from the American College of Gastroenterology recommends a bismuth quadruple therapy for 10 to 14 days as first-line treatment. The cocktail includes a proton pump inhibitor, such as omeprazole or lansoprazole, bismuth subcitrate or subsalicylate, tetracycline, and metronidazole. Other regimens may use amoxicillin or clarithromycin.

    Stomach cancer is the fifth leading cause of cancer death globally and one of the five most common types of cancer, with rising incidence rates in people younger than age 50. According to the American Cancer Society, it’s estimated that about 30,300 new cases of stomach cancer in the U.S. have been detected for stomach cancer this year—affecting roughly 17,720 men and 12,580 women.

    Up to half of the world’s population may have H. pylori infection at some point in their lives.

    Since H. pylori infection is a modifiable cause of stomach cancer, it would stand to reason that treatment with antibiotic and proton pump inhibitor combinations would reduce the cancer incidence rates. Preventative measures require the implementation of screening programs to identify individuals who would benefit from H. pylori treatment.

    In a study published earlier this month in Nature Medicine, scientist Jin Young Park, from the early detection, prevention and infections branch of the International Agency for Research on Cancer, World Health Organization, and her colleagues analyzed data on the incidence of stomach cancer from 185 countries among people born between 2008 and 2017. The researchers further estimated the number of potentially preventable cancer cases caused by H. pylori infection.

    The analysis predicted that without intervention, 15.6 million people born between 2008 and 2017 worldwide would be newly diagnosed with gastric cancer. The majority of cases (68%) would be in the Asian continent, another 13% would be from the Americas, and 11% would be in Africa.

    Among all cases, about 76% are attributable to H. pylori infection, therefore potentially preventable with screening and treatment. Of these, 67% are in Asia, 13% in the Americas, and 12% in Africa. In Asia, the number of stomach cancer cases attributable to H. pylori is higher in men compared with women (71% versus 61%). In Africa, the prevalence is higher among women than among men (16% versus 9%).

    When assessing screen-and-treat strategies, Park and her colleagues found that the expected number of stomach cancer cases could be reduced by up to 75%.

    Given these results, the authors advocate for the implementation of screening and prevention programs, especially in areas where incidence rates are projected to increase the most.

    “Our results endorse the importance of making changes to the current practice and urge regional health systems to be prepared to manage the growing burden of this largely preventable disease by planning pilot and feasibility projects, including H. pylori screen-and-treat programs,” the authors wrote.

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  • Wacom says its new drawing tablet needs no setup and has a pen that can’t die

    Wacom says its new drawing tablet needs no setup and has a pen that can’t die

    Wacom

    Wacom just announced a new standalone tablet for artists and creators: the Wacom MovinkPad 11, with an 11.45-inch multitouch display and anti-glare opaque finish for a natural drawing feel.   

    Wacom says one of its main goals is for users to reach for the MovinkPad 11 as easily as they would a sketchbook when inspiration strikes. To this end, it offers Wacom-exclusive features to allow to jump right into drawing. Beyond drawing, you could use it for graphic design, note-taking, entertainment, or potentially 3D modeling.

    Also: Not sold on screenless drawing tablets? This new Wacom won me over

    The tablet runs on Android 14 and includes a Wacom Pro Pen 3, but it is also compatible with other stylus brands, such as Lamy, Staedler, and Dr Grip. The Wacom Pro Pen 3 is battery-free, so you never have to recharge it or worry about running out of battery life, and it comes with extra nibs stored within the pen’s body.  

    The MovinkPad 11 also features the Wacom Canvas, a straightforward sketching app easily accessible by long-tapping your pen on the screen while the tablet is locked, similar to a camera shortcut on a phone. Each Wacom MovinkPad 11 includes a two-year license to Celsys Clip Studio Paint Debut, a digital painting and creation software.

    The display has a 2200 x 1440 resolution and an 11.43-inch drawing area. The tablet weighs 1.3lbs and has 128GB of internal storage and 8GB of RAM. Its front-facing camera is 5MP, while the rear camera is 4.7MP.   

    Also: I replaced my MacBook Pro with the M3 iPad Air – and I might never go back

    “The Wacom MovinkPad 11 is for people who just can’t stop drawing,” said Koji Yano, senior vice president at Wacom Branded Business. “Whether you love to doodle between classes or are moving up from drawing on a smartphone screen, this portable creative pad makes it easier and more fun to just draw.”

    The Wacom MovinkPad 11 is now available for $450, which is, admittedly, not cheap. The $450 price point makes the MovinkPad 11 almost twice as expensive as other competitors, like the Huion Kamvas 12 or the PicassoTab X, though the MovinkPad’s specifications are also far superior.  


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  • Inside MasterChef’s nightmare fortnight – and where it goes next | MasterChef

    Inside MasterChef’s nightmare fortnight – and where it goes next | MasterChef

    When Banijay, the producers of MasterChef, held a dinner attended by its top executives, programme makers and presenters almost two weeks ago, the longevity of its wildly successful cooking show was among the achievements to be toasted, alongside its move to state-of-the-art studios in Birmingham.

    Yet just hours before guests arrived, a social media post from MasterChef’s erstwhile presenter Gregg Wallace began a nightmare fortnight that has left one of the BBC’s most important shows in need of not one, but two new judges. It has also left some in the TV world wondering if the show requires a wider refresh.

    Before a long-waited report on the allegations over his behaviour, Wallace’s five-page post included an admission he had used inappropriate language, but he claimed to have been “cleared of the most serious and sensational accusations”. He also revealed a recent autism diagnosis and complained of facing an “incredible injustice”.

    At Banijay’s dinner, its boss, Patrick Holland, made no attempt to dodge Wallace’s outburst, instead emphasising the amount of work that had gone into the lawyer-led report. As they made small talk over the crab salad, his executives already knew the show was about to be plunged into deeper peril.

    Wallace’s fellow presenter, John Torode, was also the subject of a substantiated complaint in the report. He wasn’t named, but given the furore it seemed unlikely his identity would be kept under wraps for long.

    When the report finally arrived on Monday, it substantiated 45 allegations against Wallace. Meanwhile, Torode opted to reveal he was the subject of a substantiated complaint over the use of racist language, which he believes never happened.

    Richard Osman, whose House of Games show is part of the Banijay stable, said on his The Rest Is Entertainment podcast this week that Torode had been accused of using “the worst racial slur there is”. The Sun reported Torode used the word when he repeated lyrics from Kanye West’s track Gold Digger at an after-work gathering six or seven years ago. He denies the incident took place.

    BBC bosses concluded Wallace could not change his behaviour and wrote to him telling him so. Banijay and the BBC opted not to renew Torode’s contract. However, Torode will continue to be something of a spectre at the feast for the rest of the year, having already filmed Christmas specials.

    “It’s been a complete mess,” said Scott Bryan, a TV critic and broadcaster. “This is a show which features judges reviewing food. How could it result in the loss of two presenters from a really big, well-known programme so quickly? To lose one presenter is bad enough. To lose two this quickly feels shocking and surprising.

    “Particularly in light of everything that’s happened, this is an opportunity for both the BBC and Banijay to wipe the slate clean. When a show starts with a new lineup of presenters, it does attract new audiences who would want the show to feel fresh.”

    A mess it may be, but the overwhelming feeling in the television world is that even such a high-profile crisis will not dislodge the show’s status as a broadcasting behemoth.

    Grace Dent, who became a judge on Celebrity MasterChef alongside John Torode, is one person in a pool of potential presenters who could replace him on the main show. Photograph: BBC/PA

    The safety of its long-term status is down to its undimmed appeal, producing multiple new adaptations every year even after three decades. Four new versions were launched globally in 2024, according to analysis by K7 Media, with 25 existing versions returning to screens last year. There have so far been more than 60 versions of the show launched globally. It is a major money-spinner, even spawning its own line of kitchenware.

    For the BBC, meanwhile, it is a cornerstone of traditional schedules. In any given week, it is more likely than not that some version of the show is on the airwaves. As a result, the appetite for doing something radical – either a break or an overhaul – is low.

    Tim Davie, the BBC’s director general, has already thrown his weight behind the show – the corporation is tied to production until 2028. It has also invested in moving production to Birmingham, where it is now filmed in the old Banana Warehouse building in Digbeth. The move has helped its claims to be driving jobs out of London, something the culture secretary, Lisa Nandy, is watching closely.

    Other insiders say a radical rebrand is simply unnecessary, claiming there have never been questions about the format’s popularity.

    Producers are also lucky to have an ample pool of potential presenters to replace Wallace and Torode. Chefs Monica Galetti and Marcus Wareing already take on those duties on MasterChef: The Professionals, while the food critic Grace Dent co-hosts Celebrity MasterChef. Saturday Kitchen Live’s Matt Tebbutt is regarded as a frontrunner for one of the roles.

    The BBC’s director general, Tim Davie, is backing the show, which will stay in production until 2028. Photograph: Hannah McKay/Reuters

    If the long-term future of the show looks safe enough, the BBC is still left with a knotty short-term problem. The latest series of MasterChef has been delivered, but not shown. Wallace appears in all of it apart from the final – Torode appears throughout.

    The BBC has already been speaking to contestants about what to do with the series. Davie is very keen to press ahead, given the effort they have put in. Figures close to the show are also pushing for it to be shown, arguing the presenters have never been the core of the title.

    “The programme is filled with warmth, support and leaves a legacy of life-changing proportions for the contestants,” said one. “The headlines really don’t share the love that there is across the incredible team and family of winners and finalists who adore and care passionately about what they do.”

    There could be one last unwelcome flurry before things improve for MasterChef’s makers. Comments from Wallace’s social media missive that began the barrage of bad news still hang over them. He made it clear he “will not go quietly”.

    While an updated post from Wallace no longer includes those remarks, both Banijay and the BBC are braced for a further media outing from one or both of their former presenters.

    Perhaps at that point they can once again focus on the programme’s strengths. As one despairing and perplexed MasterChef insider observed at the end of a bruising fortnight: “The star of the show was always the food.”

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  • Mysterious migraines after heart surgery may finally be explained

    Mysterious migraines after heart surgery may finally be explained

    After a common heart surgery, some patients experience migraines with visual auras — temporary vision disturbances, such as flashing lights and zigzag lines. The reason for this unusual complication was a mystery, but now, research hints that blood clots in the brain may be the culprit.

    “These [clots] have previously not been thought to result in any symptoms or to have any clear adverse consequences,” study co-author Dr. Gregory Marcus, a cardiologist at the University of California, San Francisco, told Live Science in an email.

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  • Stomach cancer can start with a heatburn: Woman diagnosed after using weight loss injections and persistent heatburn |

    Stomach cancer can start with a heatburn: Woman diagnosed after using weight loss injections and persistent heatburn |

    Stomach cancer, or gastric cancer, is a serious health condition that often develops silently and is frequently overlooked because its early symptoms resemble common digestive problems. A recent case reported on People.com tells the story of a woman diagnosed with stomach cancer after experiencing persistent heartburn, which initially she dismissed as acid reflux. She had also been using weight loss injections, which may have masked or worsened her symptoms. This case emphasises the importance of paying close attention to ongoing digestive issues and seeking medical advice promptly, as early detection of stomach cancer can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

    How weight loss injections and unchecked heartburn lead to stomach cancer

    The woman, who initially sought weight loss assistance, turned to injections aimed at accelerating fat loss. While these injections can seem like a quick fix, they sometimes come with serious side effects. Over time, she developed persistent heartburn, a symptom often dismissed as a minor inconvenience or acid reflux. However, her condition worsened, leading to a diagnosis of stomach cancer, a reminder of how critical it is to pay attention to digestive health symptoms.

    Understanding stomach cancer and its symptoms

    Stomach cancer occurs when malignant cells form in the lining of the stomach. Early symptoms are often vague and can include:

    • Persistent heartburn or acid reflux
    • Indigestion or stomach discomfort
    • Unexplained weight loss
    • Nausea or vomiting
    • Feeling full quickly after eating

    Because these symptoms overlap with less serious conditions, many individuals delay seeking medical advice, which can result in diagnosis at a more advanced stage.

    What causes stomach cancer

    While the exact cause of this mutation is still unknown, several risk factors have been linked to an increased likelihood of developing stomach cancer:

    • A family history of stomach cancer
    • Chronic infection with Helicobacter pylori
    • Gastroesophageal reflux disease
    • Long-term gastritis (inflammation of the stomach lining)
    • Epstein-Barr virus infection
    • A history of stomach ulcers or polyps
    • A diet high in salty, fatty, smoked, or pickled foods
    • Low intake of fresh fruits and vegetables
    • Regular exposure to industrial substances like coal, rubber, or metal
    • Tobacco use (smoking, vaping, or chewing)
    • Heavy alcohol consumption
    • Obesity

    How persistent heartburn can cause stomach cancer

    Heartburn is common, but when it becomes frequent or severe, it may indicate more serious conditions like gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD) or even stomach cancer. Prolonged acid exposure can damage the lining of the stomach and esophagus, increasing cancer risk. If heartburn persists beyond a few weeks or is accompanied by other symptoms like weight loss or vomiting, prompt medical evaluation is essential.Also read | Not all breast lumps are cancerous: Here’s what you need to know about breast lumps


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  • The Vera Rubin Observatory could find dozens of interstellar objects

    The Vera Rubin Observatory could find dozens of interstellar objects

    Scientists and astronomers are racing to study only the third-ever known interstellar visitor to the solar system, but with a powerful new observatory coming online, these enigmatic objects may soon become routine discoveries.

    A comet, now known as 3I/ATLAS, with 3I short for “third interstellar,” sparked immediate excitement on July 1 when it was detected by the Deep Random Survey remote telescope in Chile, exhibiting a hyperbolic and highly eccentric orbit.

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  • Vision Changes on Space Station

    Vision Changes on Space Station

    When astronauts began spending six months and more aboard the International Space Station, they started to notice changes in their vision. For example, many found that, as their mission progressed, they needed stronger reading glasses. Researchers studying this phenomenon identified swelling in the optic disc, which is where the optic nerve enters the retina, and flattening of the eye shape. These symptoms became known as Space-Associated Neuro-Ocular Syndrome (SANS).

    Microgravity causes a person’s blood and cerebrospinal fluid to shift toward the head and studies have suggested that these fluid shifts may be an underlying cause of SANS. A current investigation, Thigh Cuff, examines whether tight leg cuffs change the way fluid moves around inside the body, especially around the eyes and in the heart and blood vessels. If so, the cuffs could serve as a countermeasure against the problems associated with fluid shifts, including SANS. A simple and easy-to-use tool to counter the headward shift of body fluids could help protect astronauts on future missions to the Moon and Mars. The cuffs also could treat conditions on Earth that cause fluid to build up in the head or upper body, such as long-term bed rest and certain diseases.

    The Fluid Shifts investigation, conducted from 2015 through 2020, was the first to reveal changes in how blood drains from the brain in microgravity. Vision Impairment and Intracranial Pressure (VIIP) began testing the role those fluid shifts and resulting increased brain fluid pressure might play in the development of SANS. This research used a variety of measures including clinical eye exams with and without dilatation, imaging of the retina and associated blood vessels and nerves, noninvasive imaging to measure the thickness of retinal structures, and magnetic resonance imaging of the eye and optic nerve. In addition, approximately 300 astronauts completed questionnaires to document vision changes during their missions.

    In one paper published from the research, scientists described how these imaging techniques have improved the understanding of SANS. The authors summarized emerging research on developing a head-mounted virtual reality display that can conduct multimodal, noninvasive assessment to help diagnose SANS.

    Other researchers determined that measuring the optic nerve sheath diameter shows promise as a way to identify and quantify eye and vision changes during spaceflight. The paper also makes recommendations for standardizing imaging tools, measurement techniques, and other aspects of study design.

    Another paper reported on an individual astronaut who had more severe than usual changes after a six-month spaceflight and certain factors that may have contributed. Researchers also observed improvement in the individual’s symptoms that may have been due to B vitamin supplementation and lower cabin carbon dioxide levels following departure of some crew members. While a single case does not allow researchers to determine cause and effect, the magnitude of the improvements suggest this individual may be more affected by environmental conditions such as carbon dioxide. This may have been the first attempt to mitigate SANS with inflight B vitamin supplementation.

    SANSORI, a CSA (Canadian Space Agency) investigation, used an imaging technique called Optical Coherence Tomography to examine whether reduced stiffness of eye tissue contributes to SANS. On Earth, changes in stiffness of the tissue around the eyeball have been associated with aging and conditions such as glaucoma and myopia. Researchers found that long-duration spaceflight affected the mechanical properties of eye tissues, which could contribute to the development of SANS. This finding could improve understanding of eye changes during spaceflight and in aging patients on Earth.

    The MHU-8 investigation from JAXA (Japan Aerospace Exploration Agency), which examined changes in DNA and gene expression in mice after spaceflight, found changes in the optic nerve and retinal tissue. Researchers also found that artificial gravity may reduce these changes and could serve as a countermeasure on future missions.

    These and other studies ultimately could help researchers prevent, diagnose, and treat vision impairment in crew members and people on Earth.

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  • POWER SLAP MAKES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED RETURN TO ABU DHABI ON FRIDAY OCTOBER 24 DURING SHOWDOWN WEEK

    POWER SLAP MAKES HIGHLY ANTICIPATED RETURN TO ABU DHABI ON FRIDAY OCTOBER 24 DURING SHOWDOWN WEEK

    Last year, Power Slap hosted its first-ever international event, POWER SLAP 9: DUMPLING vs DA CRAZY HAWAIIAN in the UAE capital. A sold-out crowd witnessed an electrifying showdown between two of the world’s best strikers, as former Power Slap Super Heavyweight Champion, Da Crazy Hawaiian, defended his title against No. 1 ranked Super Heavyweight, Vasilii “Dumpling” Kamotskii, in a match that ended in a dramatic draw. 

    Power Slap saw tremendous success in Abu Dhabi last year, captivating both local and international fans. POWER SLAP 9 generated over 700 million total views across social media platforms through promotional and event coverage content and drew global influencers with 1 billion+ followers. This marked a major step in the sport’s international growth and highlighted the region’s enthusiasm for combat sports. 

    “Power Slap has had 13 straight sold-out events, and is now heading back to Abu Dhabi, one of the premier fight capitals in the world,” said Power Slap founder Dana White. “In just two years, Power Slap has exploded with nearly 30 million followers and close to 20 billion video views across our platforms. The Middle East is becoming a hotbed for Power Slap, and I’m excited to bring it back.”

    Fans are encouraged to register their interest now via https://visitabudhabi.ae/en/campaign/ufc-showdown-week for details on the upcoming fight card, as Power Slap prepares for an unforgettable line-up of bouts, along with ticket information for this event. 

    Visit PowerSlap.com for additional information and content to support your Power Slap coverage. All matches are live and subject to change. Please click here to apply for the event’s media registration. 

    # # # 

    ABOUT POWER SLAP

    Power Slap is the world’s premier slap fighting promotion, regulated and sanctioned by the Nevada State Athletic Commission, and other athletic commissions across the United States. Power Slap was founded by Dana White, Lorenzo Fertitta and Craig Piligian, in partnership with Ultimate Fighting Championship. Power Slap events stream live and free to a global audience on YouTube. For more information, visit PowerSlap.com and follow or subscribe to Power Slap on YouTube (@powerslap), TikTok (@powerslap), Instagram (@powerslap), Facebook (/slap), Snapchat (@powerslap) and X (@powerslap). 

    Press Contact for Power Slap:

    Gabriella Bain

    Gbain@ufc.com
     


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  • Islamic financing secured to scale up coal production in Tharparkar

    Islamic financing secured to scale up coal production in Tharparkar

    KARACHI – Sindh Engro Coal Mining Company (SECMC) and Meezan Bank Limited signed an Islamic Facility Agreement to fund the Phase III mine expansion of the Thar Block II.

    Under this arrangement, a syndicate comprising United Bank Limited, Askari Bank Limited, Sindh Bank Limited and Pak China Investment Company Limited, led by Meezan Bank Limited, will provide Islamic financing to scale up the coal production from the current 7.6 million tons per annum (MTPA) to 11.2 MTPA.

    Under the continued leadership of the Government of Sindh (GoS), SECMC’s historic journey began in 2019 when it became the country’s first public-private partnership to demonstrate the commercial viability of Thar coal for power generation.

    In 2022, SECMC expanded its operations to 7.6 MTPA, taking total power generation from Thar Block II to 1320 MW, and now, with Phase III underway, it aims to further strengthen Pakistan’s energy security by converting the 660 MW Lucky Electric Power Company Limited (LEPCL) power plant to Thar Coal.

    Speaking on the occasion, Amir Iqbal, CEO of SECMC, acknowledged the support of the Government of Sindh, Meezan Bank, and all stakeholders involved. He said, “The Thar Block II development started as a bold idea and proved that indigenous coal could energise Pakistan. This financing and continued relationship with Meezan and other members of the syndicate takes us closer to our Phase III goal and brings us a step further in delivering low-cost electricity through domestic resources.”

    He added, “It also marks a significant milestone in SECMC’s vision to energise Pakistan’s future through world-class, sustainable mining.”

    Currently, SECMC is energising over 3 million households and has contributed to foreign exchange savings of approximately $1.6 billion since inception. Thar Coal Power plants’ consistent ranking is among the top positions on the economic merit order issued by National Transmission & Despatch Company (NTDC), making Thar coal the most cost-effective baseload fuel in the country.

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  • Paralympic stars and rising talents hit WTPS Montreal this weekend

    Paralympic stars and rising talents hit WTPS Montreal this weekend

    The World Triathlon Para Series heads to Montreal on Saturday, where conditions look near-perfect for the fourth stop on the 2025 circuit. Once again the Parc Jean-Drapeau will open to the athletes for the 750m swim, 20km bike and 5km run, and the start lists in Quebec are once again stacked with some of the biggest names in the sport, fresh from the recent Para Cup Magog.

    PTWC – Men
    The men’s wheelchair start list sees USA’s Howie Sanborn and Justin Pines line up alongside Italy’s experienced Giovanni Achenza, and two H2 athletes: France’s Louis Noel and Britain’s Joshua Landmann.

    Sanborn has been in strong form this season and could lead out of the water, but Noel and Landmann will look to use their power on the bike and push to close any gaps. Achenza’s consistency over many seasons means he can never be counted out, and Pines adds another competitive American presence to the field.

    PTWC – Women
    Australia’s Paralympic Champion Lauren Parker is the standout name in the women’s wheelchair race. Parker’s dominance in recent years has been built on a balanced swim, bike, and push. She’ll be joined by Brazil’s Jessica Ferreira, Mexico’s Brenda Osnaya Alvarez, the USA’s Emelia Perry, and Kendall Gretsch, whose bike strength is legendary.

    As an H2 athlete, Gretsch starts slightly later, but her power on the course should bring her into contention for overall fastest time. Ferreira and Osnaya Alvarez have both impressed this season, and young Emelia Perry will be eager to challenge more experienced rivals. Parker, however, remains the one they’ll all be chasing.

    PTS2 – Men
    The men’s PTS2 race sees Belgian Wim De Paepe face American veterans Mark Barr and Mohamed Lahna, alongside Mexico’s Diego Alfonso Lares García and USA’s Jorge Torres-Hinojoza.

    De Paepe’s performances this year have been marked by fast swims and some steady running, but Barr’s experience and strong bike leg will keep him firmly in contention. Lahna can close gaps late in the race and Lares García and Torres-Hinojoza will also aim to stay close and fight for the podium in what promises to be an open contest.

    PTS2 – Women
    USA’s Paralympic champion Allysa Seely returns to the start line in Montreal, facing Australia’s Anu Francis, Germany’s Neele Ludwig, Japan’s Asumi Yasuda, and Italy’s Marina Abaterusso.

    Seely, if she finds her rhythm early, will be tough to beat but Francis has been improving with every race and could be a real contender, while Ludwig and Yasuda both have the bike strength to keep things interesting. Abaterusso will also be pushing to make an impression in a competitive field.

    PTS3 – Men
    Germany’s Max Gelhaar leads the PTS3 men’s race, joined by France’s Cedric Denuziere and Geoffrey Wersy, Greece’s Stylianos Malakopoulos, and the USA’s Zachary Osborne.

    Gelhaar’s fast swim and smooth transitions make him a favourite, but Denuziere and Wersy could close the gap on the run. Malakopoulos is always a threat on the bike, and Osborne could shake things up if he finds his form early. 

    PTS3 – Women
    In the women’s PTS3 race, the USA’s Hannah Longmire and Rachel Wais are joined by Mexico’s Kenia Yesenia Villalobos Vargas. Longmire will look to use a strong swim to create early distance, while Wais’s steady pacing could bring her back into contention later in the run. Villalobos Vargas adds another layer of intrigue, with the potential to upset the American duo if she can keep close after the bike.

    PTS4 – Men
    A deep men’s PTS4 field lines up in Montreal: France brings Pierre-Antoine Baele, Antoine Lamarche Poulain, and Gregoire Berthon; while Brazil’s Jorge Luis Fonseca, Britain’s Finley Jakes, Australia’s Mathew Engesser, Japan’s Keiya Kaneko and Hideki Uda complete an international lineup.

    Baele and Lamarche Poulain have shown great form this season, but Uda remains a danger if he can stay close after the swim, and Jakes has the bike power to disrupt the favourites in a race that could come right down to the line.

    PTS4 – Women
    France’s Camille Seneclauze leads the women’s PTS4 field out against Australia’s experienced Sally Pilbeam and the Netherlands’ Ingrid De Oude.

    Seneclauze has impressed with consistent podium finishes this season, but Pilbeam’s years of racing mean she can never be ruled out. De Oude, still relatively new to the series, has shown steady improvement and will aim to challenge for a spot on the podium.

    PTS5 – Men
    Canada’s Stefan Daniel, racing at home, will be the man to watch in the men’s PTS5 category. He faces tough competition from the USA’s Chris Hammer, Portugal’s Filipe Marques, Australia’s David Bryant, Ireland’s Tom Williamson, Turkey’s Ugurcan Ozer, Brazil’s Ruiter Antonio Goncalves Silva, and Kenya’s Oscar Dennis.

    Daniel’s swim and run are usually decisive, but Hammer has the ability to push him close, especially if he limits the gap out of the water. Bryant brings bike strength, and Marques and Williamson could surprise if the leaders falter. Expect a fast-paced race with the crowd lifting Daniel on home soil.

    PTS5 – Women
    The USA’s Grace Norman tops the women’s PTS5 field, with France’s Gwladys Lemoussu, Americans Michelle Dynes and Virginia Ogburn, and Brazil’s Erica Da Rosa Rodrigues also on the start line.

    Norman remains the athlete to beat, Lemoussu’s finishing speed could be decisive in the podium hunt and Dynes and Ogburn will look to challenge early as Rodrigues pushed for a breakout performance.

    PTVI – Men
    The men’s PTVI race promises to be fiercely contested. Ireland’s Donnacha McCarthy, Mexico’s Heli de Jesús Casillas Alcalá, France’s Thibaut Rigaudeau and Maxime Gayet, Britain’s Oscar Kelly, Spain’s Kevin Mendez Martínez, and Canada’s Olivier Desloges make up the field.

    McCarthy, racing with guide Sean Husband, has been strong this season, but Rigaudeau and Kelly both have the speed to challenge. Casillas Alcalá will look to use bike power to get into contention, and Desloges will hope local support gives him an extra boost on home soil.

    PTVI – Women
    Brazil’s Leticia Freitas is joined by Germany’s Anja Renner, Ireland’s Judith and Chloe MacCombe, France’s Heloise Courvoisier and Fanny Bourdelas, the USA’s Taylor Talbot, and Spain’s Sonia Ramos in the women’s PTVI race.

    The MacCombe sisters have been consistent podium finishers, while Talbot’s run could make her the athlete to beat if she exits the bike close to the front. Freitas often uses a strong bike to build a lead, and Courvoisier, Bourdelas, Renner, and Ramos all add depth to what could be the closest women’s race of the day.

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