We already know that sports tourism is a $114 billion industry and that everyone reading this has helped hit that number. Don’t you want some recognition for your part in it? SDM is accepting nominations for its 2025 awards program, Champions of Economic Impact in Sports Tourism. The application is live NOW and entry is free. The spotlight is waiting.

In what might be one of the most important RFPs to come along, World Athletics (formerly the International Amateur Athletic Federation) and the global governing body for all running events, as well as track & field, has opened the bidding process for the 2029 and 2031 editions of the World Athletics Championships. Learn more right here.

We’ve seen all kinds of traveling pro leagues in sports: beach volleyball, softball, basketball, track & field – even swimming. This one, however, is a brand-new concept, even by the standards of the fast-moving sports industry. Varsity Spirit has announced it will debut the four-team Pro Cheer League in 2026, for athletes ages 18 and up. Here’s more.

Let’s get this out of the way first: It’s not important that Kenya’s Faith Kipyegon fell seconds short of breaking the four-minute mile. What is important is the attention she got – and how that will translate into inspiring athletes of all ages to run in events. Nike is all in, planting its flag on the effort in order to win back female consumers.

A few months back, SDM reported that the Fort Wayne Curling Club was bringing its A-game to promote a new sport: Lawn bowls. Lawn bowls, which uses the skills found in curling, but transfers them to grass rather than ice, is a great use of the offseason as well as a great community project. All the club needed was a facility. Here is a progress report.

Towel theft from hotels (along with larceny of terrycloth robes and plenty of other items) used to cause enormous losses in the hospitality sector. Now, hotels have begun to fight back, embedding security chips in items – and taking legal action when items start going missing. Sometimes, it’s a charge but sometimes, it’s a ban on that guest.