Neal Freiman

First is Nazgul, a two-year-old Czechoslovakian wolf dog who was seen sprinting toward the finish line of a cross-country skiing race at the Winter Olympics right behind two competitors,

Apparently, he lives at a nearby bed and breakfast, had broken out, and found himself in contention for a medal.

The other animal captivating the world is Punch, a macaque at a zoo near Tokyo.

Punch is an adorable baby monkey who was abandoned by his mom shortly after he was born last summer, but has struggled to find friends at the enclosure.

To cheer up this lonely soul, Punch's caretakers have given him a plush orangutan from Ikea, which he's been clinging to everywhere he goes, melting hearts around the world.

Toby, I know your team, Punch.

I think we should pit it.

Clearly the dog knows the course now.

Yeah, I know.

At least the last couple meters.

From my perspective, I think Punch is cuter than Mudang.

Okay, that is all the time we have.

Thanks for starting your morning with us and have a wonderful Thursday.

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Let's roll the credits.

Emily Milliron is our executive producer.

Raymond Liu is our producer.

Our associate producers are Olivia Graham and Olivia Lake.

Hair and makeup will be your friend, Punch.

Devin Emery is our president, and our show is a production of Morning Brew.