It’s fitness first as China’s National Games put spotlight on amateurs

The provincial medal count is out and activities like square dancing are in to encourage more people to get active

While many Chinese, particularly in the Covid-era, are interested in getting fitter, a lack of facilities may be blocking the way

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The opening ceremony for China's 14th National Games in Xian, northwest China's Shaanxi Province, on September 15. Photo: Xinhua

Published: 5:00pm, 20 Sep 2021Updated: 10:57pm, 20 Sep 2021

If a gold medal at the Olympics is the top honour for an athlete, the next most prestigious accolade in China may well be success at the National Games.

Once, the multisport event hosted only China’s elite professional athletes, but the games have become a stage for amateurs too, as the leadership aim to make the country a sporting power, not just in competitive sport but also the fitness of the general public.

Grass-roots enthusiasts have been invited to take part in 185 events across 19 sports in the National Games, being held in northwest China’s Shaanxi province until September 27, as professional athletes compete in more than 400 events similar to those held during the Summer Olympics, according to the event’s organiser.

Competitions for amateurs include traditional events such as table tennis and badminton, as well as recreational sports such as square dancing, a popular pastime among older women.

China’s “mini-Olympics” are held every four years and serve as a scouting ground to discover potential Olympic medallists.

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