Hey sports fans! 🌟 The tropical city of Sanya in south China's Hainan Province is buzzing with excitement as athletes from 29 delegations have arrived for the 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities. 🎉
The torch relay wrapped up on November 17 with 107 enthusiastic torchbearers lighting up the city streets. Among them was Tian Shifang, a coach from the Ethnic Sports School of Xiangxi in Hunan Province. \"The Games can significantly enhance communication and unity among different ethnic groups,\" he said. \"Participating in the torch relay is truly exciting, and I am eagerly anticipating the moment when the main flame is lit during the opening ceremony.\" 🔥
From November 22 to 30, around 10,000 athletes representing China's 56 ethnic groups will come together on this beautiful island to compete in 139 events under 17 sports, plus three demonstration sports. Talk about a sports extravaganza! 🏆
First held in 1953, the National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities is one of China's oldest multi-sport events. Unlike your usual competitions, these Games celebrate the unique traditions and cultures of China's diverse ethnic groups. 🌍
Get ready for some truly unique events! One highlight is the debut of the coconut tree climbing race. Yep, you read that right! 🥥🌴 Inspired by the daily lives of the Li and Miao ethnic groups in Hainan, who historically climbed coconut trees during harvest, this event is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
Another exciting competition is the swing event, exclusive to female athletes. Originating from the Korean ethnic group in northeast China, it aims to empower women by encouraging them to broaden their horizons through sport. 💪
Some events, like equestrian competitions, have already kicked off in the Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region in northwest China. 🐎 The anticipation is real, and we can't wait to see what else is in store!
These Games aren't just about sports—they're a celebration of unity, diversity, and heritage. It's amazing to see how traditions can bring people together, don't you think? 🌈
Stay tuned for more updates from this incredible event! 🎊
Reference(s):
Athletes arrive for National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities
cgtn.com
