Asia's Winter Sports Ambitions Take Center Stage in Harbin
The 9th Asian Winter Games officially launched Friday in Harbin, the icy capital of China's Heilongjiang Province, with a dazzling opening ceremony at the Harbin International Conference, Exhibition, and Sports Center. Over 1,275 athletes from 34 Asian countries and regions will compete in 64 events across six winter sports, spotlighting the continent's growing passion for cold-weather athletics.
The event underscores efforts to expand winter sports participation in Asia, leveraging the Games' global platform. Officials emphasized the cultural exchange potential, with Harbin—a city famed for its annual ice sculpture festivals—showcasing both sporting excellence and regional hospitality.
This edition of the Games highlights sustainability initiatives, including energy-efficient venues aligned with global climate goals. Competitions range from classic disciplines like figure skating to emerging favorites such as snowboarding, with live coverage amplifying accessibility for digital-savvy fans worldwide.
Reference(s):
Live: Special coverage of opening ceremony of 9th Asian Winter Games
cgtn.com
