Canons are the way to go.
I have/have had the:
PowerShot A60
PowerShotA80
PowerShot S2 IS
All three models take excellent action shots (granted you know how to use the camera, which all three are VERY user-friendly)
The S2 IS comes with many options I love:
12x Zoom
Macro/Super Macro
My Colors (You can swap the colors of objects)
Video with Sound and ability to zoom while filming, as well as to take snapshots while filming.
Scene modes - set modes for inside, fireworks, beach, etc.
And many other things!
At first I was very unhappy with my Canons, within a week or so after teaching myself how to operate them I'll never buy anything other.
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