Interested in learning more about the status of horse-racing today, we headed to Charles Town Races and Slots in nearby West Virginia.  We talked with the jockeys and trainers, learned the basics of racing, and lost some money at the track; in short, we couldn’t have had a better time.

YouTube: Horse Racing 101 with Jessi Lang

The popularity of mixed martial arts is certainly on the rise, but misconceptions about the sport still abound.  It’s often inaccurately characterized as a blood sport, and it’s taken nearly a decade for it to become sanctioned by various state athletic commissions.  Join Jessi Lang as she breaks down some of the most common myths plaguing MMA.

YouTube: Jessi Lang on MMA Myths – Part 1 YouTube: Jessi Lang on MMA Myths – Part 2

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April 4, 2009 –  The District’s Boxing and Youth Center, in partnership with Northern Ireland Bureau, held its third annual Youth Champions for Change Fundraiser and Black Tie Gala.  In addition to holding live bouts between youth boxers from Belfast and DC, the event featured renowned boxing champions Larry Holmes and Joe Frazier.

From Washington, Jessi Lang reports.

YouTube: Jessi Lang interviews Larry Homes and Joe Frazier

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March 21, 2009 –  Keely’s District Boxing and Youth Center was created to promote the physical, mental, and academic well-being of kids in the DC community.  Offering training in the sport of boxing, as well as academic assistance provided by on-site teachers, the Center is dedicated to decreasing gang violence while helping students cultivate the skills they need to lead healthy and productive lives.  Jessi Lang spent the day talking with the students and administrators, and had the chance to get inside the ring with former world lightweight boxing champion, Keely Thompson.

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Jessi Lang and Denise Moser – Segment 4: Predictions for UFC 94