Guangzhou Prepares Energetically for National Games
Guangzhou is gearing up for the 15th National Games, scheduled to open on Sunday in South China’s Guangdong province. This event marks a significant moment as it involves Hong Kong and Macao hosting a national-level sports competition for the first time. The Games are a vital opportunity for the development of the Greater Bay Area, following the construction of the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge.
Preparations for the National Games
In anticipation of the Games, Guangzhou city has made extensive preparations to support the event. Key areas focused on include:
- Transportation
- Power and water supply
- Food supply
- Medical support
- Barrier-free care services
Urban Revitalization Initiatives
As part of its preparation, Guangzhou is undergoing a significant facelift, investing in 291 urban improvement projects. These projects enhance the city’s roads, gardens, neighborhoods, and public spaces. Notably, 30 venues have been renovated to meet the needs of the Games.
Innovative Venue Enhancements
Key renovations include:
- Tianhe Sports Center Stadium: Achieved a 45% reduction in carbon emissions, becoming China’s first large-scale near-zero-carbon stadium.
- Guangdong Provincial People’s Stadium: Renovated while preserving its historical significance.
- Guangzhou Gymnasium: Introduced virtual reality training and enhanced accessibility features, including wheelchair viewing areas.
- Guangdong Olympic Sports Center: Added 39,000 square meters of green spaces.
Many new cultural blocks surrounding these venues aim to foster community engagement and promote fitness after the Games.
Technological Innovations
High-tech solutions are embedded across various aspects of the National Games. Key technologies include:
- AI-based crowd management systems
- Avatar volunteers for enhanced visitor assistance
- Precision meteorological systems for accurate weather forecasting
- Smart stands with electronic guides for people with disabilities
These innovations aim to streamline event organization and enhance the attendee experience.
Community Engagement and Support
The Guangzhou City Partner program, launched in February, invites businesses and individuals to support the National Games. The initiative aims to build collaborative partnerships between the city and its sponsors. So far, 29 enterprises have joined as partners, contributing through sponsorship and community projects.
City Branding Initiatives
The program has introduced “city promotion ambassadors,” who are influential figures from various sectors. Their role is to help shape and promote Guangzhou’s brand identity.
Guangzhou’s Sports Legacy
Historically known as a hub for sports, Guangzhou has hosted numerous prestigious events, including the Asian Games and various national competitions. The city’s sports industry has surpassed 200 billion yuan (approximately $28 billion) for three consecutive years, and sports consumption is projected to exceed 63 billion yuan in 2024.
Guangzhou continues to enhance its reputation as a city of sports, transforming itself into an attractive destination for future events while promoting a culture of fitness among its residents.
