National Sports

NEW YORK (AP) — For the big leaguers who saw him play, Roberto Clemente was a breathtaking talent and unmistakable force on the field who made a powerful impact on young ballplayers. His selfless humanitarianism left a lasting impression, too.

NAPA, Calif. (AP) — Rickie Fowler began his 15th professional season Thursday. From clubs to coach to caddie, just about everything is new for the five-time PGA Tour winner.

PORTLAND, Ore. (AP) — Ayako Uehara found momentum from par saves on her opening two holes and turned that into a 7-under 65 for a one-shot lead Thursday in the AmazingCre Portland Classic.

HAMILTON — Dave Ritchie will forever be a part of CFL history. Ritchie was the head coach of the B.C. Lions when they defeated the Baltimore Stallions 26-23 in the '94 Grey Cup on Lui Passaglia's game-ending 38-yard field goal at B.C. Place.

HENDERSON, Nev. — Connor McDavid has answered the call to wear Canada's red Maple Leaf throughout his career. The same goes for Nathan MacKinnon.

TORONTO — Even a lopsided loss to the Tampa Bay Rays on Thursday couldn't dampen a successful stretch for the Toronto Blue Jays. Yandy Diaz had a three-run homer in the second inning and Tampa never looked back in an 11-0 rout of the Blue Jays.

Three-time Olympic swimming medallist Mark Tewksbury says he is "very honoured" to be part of the Canadian delegation attending Queen Elizabeth II's state funeral on Monday.

WASHINGTON (AP) — President Joe Biden plans to meet at the White House on Friday with family members of WNBA star Brittney Griner and Michigan corporate security executive Paul Whelan , both of whom remain jailed in Russia, the White House announced

HAMILTON — Dane Evans is returning to the Hamilton Tiger-Cats' lineup. Head coach Orlondo Steinauer said Thursday that Evans will dress Saturday when Hamilton (3-9) hosts the Winnipeg Blue Bombers (12-1).

CHENNAI, India — Canadians Eugenie Bouchard and Gabriela Dabrowski and their partners are through to the doubles semifinals of the Chennai Open tennis tournament. Bouchard, from Westmount, Que.