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August 8, 2012 There seems to be a vague logic that dictates which Olympic sports are conducted against a backdrop of noise, and which operate in a cone of silence. Each sport has its own norms — but not all nations agree.

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August 5, 2012 After the death of cyclist, the British star made the case for helmet laws. For that, he's been denounced in the U.K. by those who say such a law would make cycling less popular.

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August 2, 2012 It's hard to find a discipline that Team USA has dominated more than the women's sabre. The team is anchored by two-time medalist Mariel Zagunis. But there's no way the Americans — or any team — can win a women's sabre medal in this year's Olympics. Because there isn't one.

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August 1, 2012 If the Olympic badminton players could be faulted for anything, it's for not throwing their matches better. Manipulating the draws in tournaments has a long tradition in sport. In the early rounds of track or swimming competitions, athletes who've qualified will routinely not push to win a heat.

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July 31, 2012 The London Games have conspicuously defied traditional notions by having cheerleaders, in a few different styles, at a few different venues. In basketball, dance teams perform between matches. In beach volleyball, highly choreographed teams delight attendees.

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July 30, 2012 The result of a judo men's quarterfinal bout was announced, and then reversed, Sunday. Since then, it became the source of international indignation over a perceived injustice. But the controversy stems from judo officials' attempt to avoid such confusion.

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July 9, 2012 The 37-year-old New York Met makes his All-Star Game debut on Tuesday, and it's been a long, strange trip. Abused as a child, missing a crucial ligament in his throwing arm — Dickey overcame obstacles by putting his faith in a rare and fluttering pitch.

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