SANYA, China, Nov. 30 (Xinhua) -- As the flame was extinguished, China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities closed on the evening of November 30, along the picturesque shores of the South China Sea in Sanya, Hainan.
The unity and camaraderie displayed by athletes from various ethnic groups left a lasting impression. Let's take a moment to revisit the highlights and heartwarming moments of the vibrant event.
1. China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities opens in Sanya, Hainan
The opening ceremony of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities dazzled with a symbolic "concentric circle" theme, uniting China's ethnic groups in a powerful display of harmony and togetherness. Showcasing stunning ethnic costumes and performances from delegations across the nation, including first-time participants from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan, the event celebrated China's rich cultural heritage and artistic diversity.
2. A gala for China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities held in Sanya
A gala for China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities transformed Sanya's Yasha Park into a vibrant celebration of cultural diversity and unity, blending coastal charm with ethnic traditions. Highlights included the Gongtong Dance (a group dance) of the Li ethnic group, interactive games and nearly 40 thematic displays that captivated athletes and guests, fostering a festive spirit of harmony and friendship.
3. China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities Concludes in Sanya
The 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities concluded in Sanya, celebrating the strength, skill, and unity of 6,960 athletes. The handover to Hunan Province, set to host the next Games in 2027, featured a vibrant cultural performance symbolizing the enduring bonds of ethnic diversity and friendship.
4. Gift exchanges deepen friendship of China's ethnic groups
At China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities, athletes like Ankar Erkin from Xinjiang found solace in the spirit of camaraderie, as post-match gift exchanges turned competition into connection. From Luban locks to camel plush toys, culturally significant tokens symbolized unity, showcasing the Games as a platform for fostering lasting friendships across diverse ethnic groups.
5. A dance of kinship unites athletes of all ethnicities after competition
Athletes from various ethnic groups joined a dance after a joyous celebration with heartfelt exchanges of blessings and Hada scarves at the ethnic aerobic dance event's awarding ceremony on November 28. The vibrant scene of teams joining hands in a symbolic circle, singing and dancing together embodied the spirit of unity and cultural connection that transcends regions and ethnicities.
6. An unforgettable birthday party
On the evening of November 28, a special birthday celebration took place in Sanya, bringing together athletes from seven delegations of China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities. The event featured heartwarming performances, including ethnic dances, songs, and impromptu street dancing, as participants from diverse backgrounds celebrated together, symbolizing unity and friendship across cultures.
7. Kazakh-Uygur duo's teammate friendship on a swing
In the women's doubles 55kg bell-touching competition, Hongtusi Han Dukai, a Kazakh athlete, and her Uygur partner, Gulhayat Mamit, from Xinjiang, faced disappointment with just 61 bell touches. Despite this, their strong teamwork and the unity between their ethnic backgrounds - Kazakh, Uygur, and Han - highlighted the cultural significance of their performance, earning them third place in the competition.
8. Firefighter's journey to coconut tree climbing national champion
Luo Jun, a firefighter from Hainan, clinched first place in the newly introduced coconut tree climbing event at China's 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities, completing the climb in 6.188 seconds. Having started climbing coconut trees as a child, Luo's journey from local enthusiast to national champion showcases both his perseverance and the sport's evolution.
9. From isolation to inspiration, a Monba elder's lifelong mission to champion Yajia
Padma Tsondre, a 67-year-old Monba from Xizang, has spent decades promoting Yajia, a traditional Tibetan sport, transforming it from a local pastime into a national competition featured at China's National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities. Though his team did not win this year's Games, Padma Tsondre remains proud of the sport's growth and ability to unite diverse ethnic communities across China.
10. Ancient Uygur sport shines at China's National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities
Athletes from Yutian County, China's Xinjiang Uygur Autonomous Region, showcased Maire Ball, an ancient Uygur sport resembling hockey, at China's National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities in Sanya. As a vibrant cultural tradition now listed as a national intangible heritage, Maire Ball continues to unite players of all ages and backgrounds while symbolizing the region's development and community spirit.■
留言 0