Boston Dynamics’ Spot dog robot gets human-like arm

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  • Jeff Bezos Might Be Targeting NFL's Washington Football Team: Report

    The head of Amazon.com (NASDAQ: AMZN) announced earlier this month he would step away from the CEO role of the company he founded. All eyes are on what could be next for Jeff Bezos and a report out Monday could point to the famed entrepreneur taking on the role of NFL owner. What Happened: Bezos has explored taking an ownership position in the NFL's Washington Football Team, according to Front Office Sports. The current Amazon CEO is said to have held talks about buying a stake in the team, which plays in Washington D.C. Three minority owners of the Washington Football Team hired Moag & Co, a Baltimore-based sports investment banking firm to explore a sale. Bezo’s attorney held talks with Moag & Co, according to the report. Current Washington Football majority owner Dan Snyder has claimed an extortion campaign forcing him to sell the team is being wagered. Snyder blocked the sale of a stake in the team by existing owners using his right of first refusal. FedEx (NYSE: FDX) CEO Fred Smith is among the owners of the Washington Football Team that are suing Snyder for blocking the sale. Back in November of 2019, CBS Sports reported Bezos was interested in buying a team and said he "has strong support within the league to eventually join their ranks." Related Link: Jeff Bezos Is The First Person Worth 0B Thanks To Amazon Stock’s Run Why It’s Important: Bezos has made several deals and purchases that point to Washington D.C. being a new key location for the notable entrepreneur. Bezos purchased the Washington Post in 2013. Amazon’s second headquarters is in Arlington, Virginia, located near Washington D.C. Bezos also purchased a 27,000 square feet mansion in Washington D.C. in 2016 and spent $12 million to renovate the home. The Washington Football Team is the eighth-most valuable NFL team, according to Forbes. The team is valued at $3.5 billion and has seen its value rise 8% on an annualized basis over the last several years. The move into NFL team ownership comes as Amazon.com is pushing into sports streaming rights and is considered one of the companies that will make a play at NFL rights coming to market soon. AMZN Price Action: Shares of Amazon were down 2% to $3,180.74 on Monday. Photo credit: DoD by Senior Master Sgt. Adrian Cadiz (Released) [Public domain] See more from BenzingaClick here for options trades from BenzingaWhat We Know About Star, Disney's Adult-Oriented Streaming ChannelAfter 1,000% Rise In One Year, Is This Energy Drink Stock Still Worth Buying?© 2021 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

  • NFL fans could 'regularly attend' games next season: Pittsburgh Steelers part owner

    Pittsburgh Steelers minority owner Thomas Tull said he's "personally optimistic" that fans will "regularly attend" NFL games next season. But he cautioned that mask-wearing and player safety protocols will likely remain a part of the sport.

  • Celeb And Billionaire Backers May Be What Finally Pushes Esports Over The Edge

    Sway House co-founder weighs in on esports growth, innovation. For generations, buying a sports team was the ultimate signal of having made it into the upper echelons of the uber-rich. When the LA Clippers went up for sale in 2014, a veritable who’s who of the world’s most wealthy expressed interest in buying the team, from Matt Damon and Dr. Dre to Oprah Winfrey. (Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer ended up buying the team for a cool $2 billion.) In recent years, the playground of the super-wealthy has shifted locations. While you’ll still find these titans paying close attention to the happenings on the basketball court and the football field, the setting has gone virtual. Today’s celebrities and billionaires are placing their bets on esports teams. Exhibit A? Jerry Jones. As the owner of the Dallas Cowboys, Jones knows a thing or two about purchasing high-profile sports teams. In 2017, he bought a majority stake in compLexity Gaming, a North American esports franchise. The brand has continued its upward trajectory, partnering with beer brand Miller Lite and even teaming up with the U.S. Army for a “Soldier Showdown” tournament series. In 2016, the Kraft family (owners of the New England Patriots) became one of the very first investors in the Overwatch League, an international esports league launched by Activision Blizzard. With 20 city-based franchise leagues, it has brought home game fandom to the esports universe. In 2017, Stanley Kroenke and his son Josh (owners of the Los Angeles Rams) joined in to control the league’s second team in Los Angeles. Also, no stranger to traditional sports, basketball legend Shaquille O’Neal also threw his hat into the esports ring when he purchased stakes from NRG esports in 2016. Other notable investors in NRG include former baseball pros Alex Rodriguez and Jimmy Rollins, singer Jennifer Lopez, and legendary DJ and producer Tiesto. While not a household name in the U.S., Alisher Usmanov is one of the biggest names in the Russian business world. As an early investor in Facebook, an owner of stakes in Xiaomi and other telecoms, mining, and media companies, Usmanov is worth over $16 billion. In 2015, he invested $100 million into Virtus Pro. Usmanov invested wisely; the organization has players competing in Dota 2, Rainbow Six Siege, PlayerUnknown's Battlegrounds, Fortnite, Apex Legends, Starcraft II, and more, and its former Polish Golden Five CS: GO team is considered one of the best teams in the history of Counter-strike: Global Offensive. For years, esports organizers and players have pushed back against the idea that their events were “just video games” or childsplay. Over time, as events grew larger and attracted the attention of corporate sponsors, that perception has slowly started to change. With teams and leagues now getting backing from big names and huge money, those who have stood behind them are feeling validated...and esports is finally well on its way to being taken just as seriously as traditional sports by the big players in the sports and investment worlds. Photo by cottonbro, from Pexels. See more from BenzingaClick here for options trades from BenzingaWith Fan-Controlled Leagues, The Future Of Sports Is Democratized And Digital© 2021 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

  • The Most Valuable Sports Empires — And the Teams That Make Them Rich

    The word “empire” might seem grandiose when discussing the richest enterprises in sports, until you look at the list of the most valuable. Read More: The Richest Athletes in the World...

  • What Tiger Woods means for golf on TV

    Golf TV ratings soar when Woods plays well. With the superstar's future in the sport now uncertain, so too is its presence on television.

  • How Rich Are These NBA Stars?

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  • With Fan-Controlled Leagues, The Future Of Sports Is Democratized And Digital

    Sway House co-founder weighs in on the future of sports, fan-controlled leagues. Technology has been a game-changer on many fronts, giving people control over all aspects of their lives with the tap of a screen or the click of a button. As we move into February, sports fans are about to get their first look at the new frontier of the digital age: fan-controlled sports leagues. With stats, plays, replays, and more at their fingertips, sports fans are more engaged and educated than ever. How many times do fans shout at their television screens, confident that if only they had been allowed to call the play, their team would be celebrating in the end zone? Why not give them the opportunity to build and direct their own teams? That was the inspiration for former NFL/XFL player Ray Austin (New York Jets, Chicago Bears/Chicago Enforcers). Along with entrepreneurs Sohrob Farudi, Grant Cohen, and Patrick Dees, he founded the Fan Controlled Football League to put fans at home in control of everything happening on the field. The teams are venture-backed, with all major decisions turned over to the fans — from the team names and logos to the coaches, general managers, and player lineups. During the games, which are streamed on Twitch from one location in Las Vegas, the fans vote on and call the plays. Fans are incentivized to make good decisions for their team’s future by being awarded FanIQ points, which are akin to experience points in the gaming world. Play votes posted by fans with more experience points carry a heavier weight. The result is a genius combination of fantasy sports and the esports world. It appeals to a Gen Z audience that are half as likely as Millennials to identify as fans of live sports. The concept also unites people in new ways. Rather than bringing together fans based on their region and geographical location, fan-controlled leagues bring together fans everywhere based on similar ideas. The concept also offers exciting new opportunities for investors. Unlike investors in traditional football teams, who are awarded a ceremonial stock certificate, for a minimum investment of $150, FCF fans and investors get to share in rising franchise values as well as profits. While the NFL and XFL rely heavily on a stadium model — making money from ticket and concession sales — the FCF’s financial model is based on in-app purchases, micro-transactions, and Twitch subscription revenue. With the coronavirus pandemic still raging, the time is perfect for a sports model not built around ticketing revenue. Will the Fan Controlled Football League replace the NFL? No, way. But it’s giving us a tantalizing glimpse into the figure of sports. Just as this league has been democratized and handed over to fans, so can leagues in hockey, soccer — and any other sport. In a world where all things digital and interactive rule, sports is the next frontier. Photo by Pixabay from Pexels. See more from BenzingaClick here for options trades from BenzingaBusiness Owner Trying To Sell 2 Manhattan Bars For 25 BitcoinsWalmart Announces B In Investments, Plans To Boost E-commerce© 2021 Benzinga.com. Benzinga does not provide investment advice. All rights reserved.

  • Biggest Contract Busts in NBA History

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  • It’s 5 Kilometers Somewhere... Margaritaville Run Announced for 2021

    All-ages and all-abilities invited to celebrate the island lifestyle with a fun, virtual run Sign up and receive a Margaritaville Run t-shirt, branded medal, custom margarita kit, and more Registration opens on National Margarita Day, Monday, February 22, at MargaritavilleRun.com CORONADO ISLAND, Calif., Feb. 22, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- It’s the most relaxed race experience outside of Key West and the perfect pour of motivation to get out the door; the Margaritaville Run will launch registration on Monday, February 22 – National Margarita Day. It’s 5 kilometers somewhere (3.1 miles), and virtual race participants have the option to run or walk the distance anywhere, whether it’s on the beach, trail, or sidewalk. All race entrants will receive an official Margaritaville Run t-shirt, exclusive finisher’s medal, a custom race bib, and a margarita making kit* shipped directly to each participant. “At the Margaritaville Run, we are committed to good times, not fast times. This virtual race is all about setting a goal, escaping to paradise wherever you are and completing the distance,” said Jamie Monroe, race director. "Not only is this the first race where participants receive a margarita kit at the finish line, the virtual Margaritaville Run is the perfect way to embody living the active Margaritaville lifestyle and receive some unbelievable race swag for your achievement.” The Margaritaville Run features 3 registration options, including the yearlong Margaritaville Challenge. The Challenge consists of completing at least 75 miles, walking or jogging, by tallying your daily physical activity before December 25, 2021. All challenge participants will receive a pair of flip-flops, a “75” finisher’s medal charm, plus a custom race bib, an official Margaritaville Run t-shirt, a medal, and a margarita making kit. “We’re excited to hit the virtual starting line in a time when we could all use a change in latitude. From experienced runners to those who prefer to jog or walk, the steps will seem easier in the Margaritaville state of mind,” added Tamara Baldanza-Dekker, Chief Marketing Officer of Margaritaville. Registration for the Margaritaville Run opens on National Margarita Day, Monday, February 22 and will stay open until December 25, 2021. Anyone interested in participating can learn more and register at MargaritavilleRun.com. *Sorry, tequila not included! Download Event Logo and Finisher Medal Photo Media ContactDan Cruz, 619-925-7671Dancruz8@me.com

  • Mark Beran Joins Honey Run Golf Club

    YORK, Pa., Feb. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- Honey Run Golf Club, an all-inclusive premier golf course, located in the rolling hills of York, PA, is thrilled to announce the appointment of Mark Beran to Head Professional and General Manager, effective immediately. Mark J. Beran was born the twin son of Emil and Alice Beran who then resided in the steel-driven town of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. By the time Mark was in the third grade, Emil and Alice packed up the family and moved to Warrington, Pennsylvania, a small suburban town outside Philadelphia. It would be in this town – in a small church yard – where Mark would find his love for the game that would impact his future.Mark translated this passion for golf into an education and a promising career by attending Ferris State University to major in Professional Golf Management. During his time at Ferris State, Mark completed internships at his home course Warrington Country Club, at Canoe Brook Country Club in Summit, New Jersey, and at the famed TPC Sawgrass in Ponte Vedra, Florida. With these diverse internship experiences, Mark was very open to moving where he needed to in order to get a head start on his career as a PGA Professional.Mark graduated from Ferris State in 1988 and already had an Assistant Professional position lined up at Brick Landing Plantation in Ocean Isle Beach, North Carolina. He stayed at Brick Landing for three seasons and then spent one season at Westchester Country Club in Rye, New York before moving into the Middle Atlantic Section for an Assistant Position with Baltimore Country Club in 1991. Between the years of 1991-1994, Mark spent the summers in Baltimore and the winters in Bonita Bay, Florida at the Bonita Bay Club.In 1995, Mark’s big break happened when he became the Head PGA Professional/General Manager at Minisceongo Golf Club in Pomona, New York. In this position, Mark started on a path, not only to make himself successful, but to also help others become successful in their own right. Mark had no problem hiring people from all walks of life. His female teaching professional was working at the local bagel shop and his Caddie Master was driving a bread route in New York City. Both are still in the business and doing very well. Others who worked with Mark are having success in their chosen career paths.After ten great seasons in Pomona, Mark made a return to the Middle Atlantic Section by accepting the Head Professional position at Woodholme Country Club in Pikesville, Maryland. Since 2005, Mark has been leading his staff and guiding future PGA Professionals to achieve their goals. Rudy Virga, PGA Mark’s longtime friend and former First Assistant is now the Director of Operations for Empire Golf Management. This is just one of many examples of how Mark’s mentoring has helped others succeed in golf and other professions.Mark then made the move to run his own golf academy at Black Horse Learning Center in White Hall, MD where he stayed for 3 seasons. While teaching, Mark also took on the role as the Travel Ambassador for Signature Golf Travel where he assisted his fellow professionals in the Middle Atlantic and Philadelphia PGA promote luxury golf trips to Scotland, Ireland and England. Mark is excited for the opportunity to now be able to bring all of this experience in the industry to Honey Run, where he looks forward to growing and developing the golf club while maintaining Honey Run as a place that golfers of all ages can enjoy. When Mark is not on the course, he loves to spend time with his wife of 20 years, Jill and their two teenage children, Spencer and Emily. Mark is active in his community by serving as an elected Council Member of Shrewsbury Borough. He also holds an active PA&MD Real Estate license. In his spare time, he also enjoys golfing, fishing, running and biking with his friends. Honey Run believes Mark’s skills and passion for golf will be instrumental in growing their teaching program, growing memberships, helping direct shop operations and in organizing tournaments. Everyone at Honey Run looks forward to working with such a fantastic leader like Mark. To learn more about Head Professional and General Manager, Mark Beran, and the exciting things going on at Honey Run, please visit www.honeyrungolfclub.com or contact Mark directly at (717)792-9771 or BeranM@HoneyRunGolfClub.com. ABOUT HONEY RUN GOLF COURSE & COUNTRY CLUB Honey Run Golf Club is one of the premier golf courses in Pennsylvania. Nestled in the rolling hills of York, PA, Honey Run Golf Club offers a beautiful backdrop with the top South Central, PA golf experience. Our York County golf course features a 6,797 yard, par 72 challenge with water coming into play by the Honey Run Creek which flows through the property. The large excellent conditioned greens are well bunkered, and offer a challenge for golfers of all skill levels on this PA golf course. Our championship course has hosted numerous amateur and professional golf events and outings including the Nike Tour and LPGA Futures Tour. Honey Run Golf Club features a 4,400 square foot Clubhouse with professionally stocked golf merchandise for all of your equipment needs. While you visit our Pro Shop ask our golf Pro about private and group lessons. We offer lessons for people of all ages and skill levels. Additionally, Honey Run Golf Club in York, PA has a natural grass driving range and oversized putting green. After a long day of golf enjoy refreshments at Stingers Bar and Grill, located in our Clubhouse, featuring delicious food and beverages. Honey Run Golf Club features great amenities for a day of golfing and dining, or a work outing or social event. Contact: Mark BeranTel: (717) 792-9771Email: BeranM@HoneyRunGolfClub.com

  • New Training Center in Chicago: GOLFTEC Schaumburg

    GOLFTEC lobby, putting green and club fitting wall GOLFTEC club fitting wall Englewood, CO, Feb. 25, 2021 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- (SCHAUMBURG, IL) – GOLFTEC – the world leader in golf lessons and premium club fittings – announces the opening of a state-of-the-art instruction and club fitting center in Schaumburg, Illinois at 1326 N Roselle Rd. Suite B, Schaumburg, IL 60195. The new facility is 2,500 square feet and has four teaching / practice bays along with a putting green, and is staffed by a veteran team of highly-trained and certified coaches. These individuals leverage GOLFTEC’s world-renowned teaching technology – including advanced motion measurement, video analysis and premium launch monitors – to help any student find the lesson plan best suited for their unique needs. GOLFTEC students drop an average of seven strokes from their scores. GOLFTEC Schaumburg also features the company’s enhanced custom club fitting program. The TOUR-like fitting experience combines swing characteristics with ball flight data to help identify optimal golf equipment for each student. An array of clubhead/shaft options are available to perfectly match players of any skill level with the clubs that best meet their needs. Nearly 75% of all golfers who went through a club fitting in 2020 gained an average of 25 yards over their previous equipment. GOLFTEC Schaumburg Center Manager Cody Temper will oversee operations at the new facility. Having taught over 7,000 lessons and receiving GOLFTEC awards for outstanding instruction in 2018, 2019, & 2020, Cody is able to understand the unique needs from each student and help them maximize their potential. GOLFTEC continues to establish itself as the world leader in golf improvement with more data on the golf swing than anyone else in the world, thanks to its award-winning SwingTRU Motion Study. The global GOLFTEC coaching team is comprised of experienced instructors who have graduated from GOLFTEC University – a multi-week certification program based around a curriculum of mastering advanced training of golf swing mechanics and GOLFTEC’s proprietary technology used in all Training Centers. The majority of GOLFTEC Certified Personal Coaches are PGA Professionals who have taught thousands of lessons. To learn more about GOLFTEC, please visit www.golftec.com or call 877-446-5383. About GOLFTEC Since 1995, GOLFTEC’s mission has remained the same—to help people play better golf. The GOLFTEC experience is built to offer a place where golfers of all ages and ability levels can work with an expert in golf instruction to build a game improvement plan customized to their specific needs and goals. And with the aid of technology that gives our students and coaches instant and data-driven feedback, we’re helping people find their potential in ways that accelerate the improvement journey. With millions of lessons given and more than 200 locations across the world, GOLFTEC is the world leader in golf instruction. Attachments VA-Beach-front-entrance (1) DSC00770 CONTACT: CJ Perry, PGA GOLFTEC 303.374.4039 cperry@golftec.com

  • Ferrari and Richard Mille Sign a Partnership Contract

    Maranello (Italy), 22 February 2021 – Ferrari N.V. (NYSE/MTA: RACE) (“Ferrari”) announces that Ferrari and Richard Mille have signed a multi-year partnership agreement, which will see the Haute Horlogerie brand become sponsor and licensee for the Prancing Horse. As Scuderia Ferrari Mission Winnow’s Team Partner and Official Watch, starting from the next F1 Season the Swiss watchmaking brand will be displayed, for example, on the team’s single-seaters and on the drivers’ helmets. Richard Mille will also support other Ferrari’s motorsport activities as Official Timekeeper, sponsor of Competizioni GT and the Ferrari Challenge series, partner of Ferrari Driver Academy, technical partner of Ferrari Esports Series and FDA Esports Team. Ferrari and Richard Mille will also have their respective research and design teams start a collaboration in order to create an exclusive range of limited edition watches, an expression of the two brands’ technological excellence and distinctive style. Attachment CS_Richard_Mille_ENG_22.02.2021

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