Guangzhou: China's 15th National Games, co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, officially commenced on Sunday evening with the lighting of the main cauldron at the Guangdong Olympic Sports Center. More than just a sporting event, the Games symbolize unity and shared development across the Greater Bay Area.
According to Namibia Press Agency, the Games' emblem embodies this integration by weaving together Guangdong's kapok, Hong Kong's bauhinia, and Macao's lotus into a unified firework, reflecting the region's cultural vibrancy and Lingnan traditions.
In a pioneering endeavor, over 100 cyclists participated in a 231.8-kilometer men's road race across the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge, marking the first cross-boundary event in the National Games' 66-year history. Veteran cyclist Liang Weibin noted the smooth border crossing, made possible by close cross-boundary coordination and technological innovation. Min Yuntong, executive deputy director of the Zhuhai executive committee for the Games, explained that pre-clearance and advanced technology ensured an uninterrupted competition flow.
A week later, the marathon will see athletes running across the Shenzhen Bay Bridge, connecting Shenzhen and Hong Kong. Min emphasized that this pioneering model paves the way for greater integration of sports, culture, and tourism across the Greater Bay Area.
For the first time, the Games' source flame was extracted from the seabed using the submersible "Haima." This technological feat demonstrates China's deep-sea capabilities and integrates the Olympic spirit with science and technology. The torch relay, which began on November 2, features the world's first 5G-A humanoid robot completing a 100-meter relay without special hardware modifications.
Smart technology is prevalent across the host cities, with autonomous vehicles and drones enhancing venue operations and security. Gao Min, dean of the HKUST Fok Ying Tung Research Institute, highlighted the promotion of scientific and technological innovation in the Greater Bay Area during the Games.
The Lingnan lion dance, Cantonese opera, and dragon-boat performances will feature prominently at the opening ceremony, showcasing the region's distinctive culture. Hong Kong film director Andrew Lau Wai-Keung, chief producer for the ceremony, emphasized the cultural bonds shared across the Greater Bay Area.
Volunteers from the three host regions have gathered to share experiences and foster youth connections. Li Hexiang, a student at City University of Macao, expressed excitement about volunteering at a large-scale sports event for the first time.
Beyond competitions, the Games resonate with a growing sense of integration and vitality across the Greater Bay Area. In January, a running event in Guangzhou's Nansha district attracted around 500 young people, promoting mutual understanding and national identity, as noted by Li Zuwei, a former member of Hong Kong's athletics team.