Guess what? Harbin, a beautiful city in northeast China’s Heilongjiang Province, is hosting the 9th Asian Winter Games after 29 years! 🎉
On a magical Friday night, the opening ceremony took place at the Harbin Ice-Snow World, the world’s largest ice-and-snow theme park. The cauldron, shaped like a blooming lilac flower, was lit up by famous Chinese Winter Olympic champions: Yang Yang (a speedy short track skater), Han Xiaopeng (an amazing freestyle skier), Wang Zhen (a champion race walker), and Zhang Hong (a super fast speed skater). 🏆🔥
The journey of the flame started at the Sun Island Scenic Area on January 20. A total of 120 torchbearers carried it through famous spots like Harbin Central Street, which is over 100 years old, and across the frozen Songhua River. How cool is that? 🏃♂️🔥
During the athletes’ parade, teams from 34 countries and regions marched in with big smiles and waving flags. Over 1,200 athletes are competing this year, making it the biggest Asian Winter Games ever! Teams like Cambodia and Saudi Arabia are joining for the first time. Let’s give them a warm welcome! 👏🌏
Even the President of the International Olympic Committee, Thomas Bach, attended the opening ceremony. He was super impressed and said that Harbin will exceed everyone’s high expectations. 😊
It’s so exciting to see Harbin hosting the Games again since 1996. Let’s cheer for all the athletes and enjoy the thrilling winter sports together! ❄️⛸️🎿
Reference(s):
Harbin hosts Asian Winter Games for second time after 29 years
cgtn.com
