Leading Off

Nothing But Net

Italian skier Omar Longhi crashed into the safety netting last Saturday during his first run in the Alpine FIS World Cup men's giant slalom competition in Sestriere, Italy. The event was won by Switzerland's Didier Cuche.

Run and Chute

Red Sox second baseman Dustin Pedroia, the reigning American League MVP, sprinted after practice on Sunday at spring training in Fort Myers, Fla. The parachute attached to his belt increases wind resistance.

Keep on Tuckin'

Lance Armstrong checked out his time-trial tuck position in a bathroom mirror at a wind-tunnel training facility in San Diego on Feb. 7 as he prepared for the Tour of California. He came in seventh in the race, the second of his comeback (page 26).