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Gender expectations being challenged in sports

Sarah Hudek pitches for the U.S. during a 10-6 victory over Venezuela at the Pan American Games in Toronto on July 20.

Sarah Hudek pitches for the U.S. during a 10-6 victory over Venezuela at the Pan American Games in Toronto on July 20.

(Mark Humphrey / Associated Press)
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Caitlyn Jenner isn’t the only sports figure challenging gender expectations these days.

At the world aquatics championships in Russia later this week, men will compete for the first time in synchronized swimming.

At the Pan American Games in Toronto, women’s baseball is making its debut at a major international event.

“It has been going in a positive direction and things have been going great for women’s baseball getting the word out there,” U.S. team pitcher Sarah Hudek said after her team defeated Venezuela, 10-6, on Monday. “Hopefully it keeps going in that direction.”

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Swimming’s international federation voted late last year to add mixed duets to the synchronized-swimming program at the world championships in Kazan.

“We are excited to show the world just how beautiful, athletic and entertaining a mixed duet truly is,” American team member Bill May said before the competition.

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