Photo: Chen Xi/Global Times
The bustling city of Chengdu, capital of Southwest China's Sichuan Province, has recently been invigorated by the Summer Universiade. From competition venues to the Games Village as well as public facilities, Chengdu has been decorated by the elements of youth.
At the opening ceremony, the audience erupted in waves of excitement, a spectacle that transcended nationality, uniting everyone in a shared euphoria. The stadium waves by the spectators in the stands have become a way to connect people from all corners of the globe and celebrate the inspiring atmosphere.
The journalists covering the tournament have also benefited from the youthful atmosphere. The information boards at multiple competition venues as well as the main media center, once filled with mundane statistics and schedules, are now adorned with lively panda images, courtesy of spirited young volunteers. These imaginative touches have breathed life into the traditionally dull content.
The Games Village, a melting pot of cultures and traditions, has become the perfect ground for young athletes to bond and communicate through sports and shared experiences. The vibrant atmosphere of the village is unlike any other. Amid the intense competition, there are activities that celebrate the rich tapestry of Chinese culture. Traditional events such as drumming, pot throwing, shadow puppetry, rope weaving, paper cutting, Sichuan embroidery, and bamboo crafting fill the village with a sense of heritage and artistic flair. These activities, alongside captivating performances, have become a way of life for the athletes beyond their competitive pursuits.
The athletes and volunteers often find themselves exchanging their badges and pins in the village. By exchanging pins, they are also trading the stories behind them. These badges are not merely tokens of participation but serve as conversation starters that lead to the sharing of personal journeys, triumphs and challenges. Every badge has a tale to tell, and the exchange of these simple pins facilitates the formation of new friendships that transcend borders and languages.
Spectators are giving supportive applause to young athletes even when they don't perform at their best. For instance, at the individual all-around competition in rhythmic gymnastics, the crowd gave overwhelming and encouraging applause to Australian athlete Giorgia Ying (Ying Li Chin), who became emotional after an error-ridden performance.
At official merchandise stores at venues, long queues are often seen as people eagerly wait to purchase commemorative souvenirs. The Global Times journalists have witnessed several people buying pins and mascots souvenirs in bulk at competition venues and the athlete village.
The Chengdu Universiade has showcased a remarkable diversity of participants, attracting over 6,500 athletes from 113 countries and regions and from different civilizations and ethnicities. As the Games progress, athletes and spectators are eager to engage in intercultural exchanges and learn about customs and traditions beyond their own.
During breaks, athletes from different countries form impromptu gatherings and attend diverse cultural activities, sharing local delicacies and language lessons. The atmosphere has been joyful, allowing friendships to be forged effortlessly. Despite initial language barriers, the universal language of laughter and shared passion for sports and culture has been able to bridge any gap.
Friendships have bloomed not only among athletes but also between athletes and local volunteers who have dedicated themselves to ensuring the Games run smoothly. These young volunteers, with their warm hospitality and open arms, have become the very embodiment of the spirit of the Games, leaving a lasting impression on the hearts of all participants.
The Games Village, a microcosm of the world, had transformed into a hub of lively communication, where diverse cultures collide and harmonize. It has been an enriching experience for everyone involved, showcasing the power of sports and culture in fostering meaningful connections among young generations. The village is a testimony to the power of youth, creativity, and how the simplest of ideas can transform spaces into vibrant hubs of interaction.
The Chengdu Universiade is a testament to the vivacity of the human spirit and its ability to overcome barriers of language, culture and nationality. It is a celebration of youthful energy and an embodiment of the values of friendship and communication. The vibrant event will resonate in the city as the Games continue, inspiring future generations to embrace diversity, seek friendships and communicate beyond borders.
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