The flame for the 2025 Asian Winter Games was ignited at Sun Island Scenic Area in Harbin, Heilongjiang Province, on Monday, marking the official start of preparations for the ninth edition of the continental competition. The Opening Ceremony is just 18 days away, promising an exciting showcase of winter sports.
Despite the frigid temperatures dropping to minus-16 degrees Celsius, organizers successfully lit the flame using a convex lens. The ceremony beautifully merged ice and fire, symbolizing the radiant energy and passion that drive winter sports athletes to overcome challenges.
The Olympic Council of Asia's logo, featuring ice elements, played a crucial role by concentrating light to ignite the torch. The torch’s design theme, \"Surging,\" embodies the vitality and enthusiasm of the Games, celebrates winter sports, and honors the friendships among athletes from across Asia.
The torch relay will continue until February 6, with an online relay also engaging fans worldwide. Harbin is set to host the Asian Winter Games from February 7-14, featuring six sports, 11 disciplines, and 64 events.
A record-breaking 1,275 athletes from 34 nations and regions, including debutants Cambodia and Saudi Arabia, have registered for Harbin 2025. Host country China will be represented by more than 170 athletes, contributing to what promises to be the most participative Asian snow and ice event in history.
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Flame for 2025 Harbin Asian Winter Games lit at Sun Island Scenic Area
cgtn.com
