The ninth Asian Winter Games, set for February 7–14 in Harbin, China, are poised to showcase winter sports talent and regional collaboration amid rising global interest in cold-weather athletics. Former International Ski Federation (FIS) Secretary General Sarah Lewis, speaking to CGTN Sports Scene, called the event a 'crucial platform' for athletes across Asia to develop skills ahead of larger international competitions.
Lewis emphasized the Games’ unique role in uniting established winter sports powerhouses like China, Japan, and South Korea with emerging nations from Central and South Asia. 'It’s a diverse mix that fosters growth and cultural exchange,' she noted.
The event arrives as China continues to build momentum following its successful 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics legacy. Lewis praised China’s efforts to engage 346 million people in winter sports since 2015—a commitment she called 'remarkable' for reshaping athletic participation globally. With Harbin’s ice festivals and winter culture already drawing international travelers, the Games may further catalyze regional tourism and youth engagement in winter activities.
As Asia’s winter sports footprint expands, events like Harbin 2024 highlight how regional competitions can drive both athletic excellence and cross-cultural connections—key themes for tomorrow’s sports innovators and digitally connected audiences.
Reference(s):
Talk Sports: Former FIS chief on significance of Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com
