Sebastian Coe, the president of World Athletics, praised China’s exceptional capability in hosting premier sports events during his visit to the ongoing 9th Asian Winter Games in Harbin, Heilongjiang. He was impressed by the vibrant opening ceremony, noting its cultural depth and athletic energy, particularly the beautiful participation of young performers, echoing the event’s theme, “Dream of Winter, Love among Asia.”
This year’s Asian Winter Games, taking place from February 7 to 14, marks China’s third hosting of the event, having previously done so in Harbin in 1996 and Changchun in 2007. Coe celebrated the significance of these Games as a continuation of China’s role as a leader in international winter sports, especially following the Beijing Winter Olympics in 2022.
Coe expressed his delight at having Wang Zhen, the 2016 Olympic race walking champion, as a torchbearer in the opening ceremony. He remarked on the global stature of athletics in China and highlighted its importance for Olympic sports, demonstrating China’s significant influence in the development of athletics.
Looking ahead, Coe shared excitement for the upcoming World Indoor Championships in Nanjing and the World Relays in Guangzhou. Notably, the World Championships will also take place in Beijing in 2027, a city that holds personal significance for him as he was elected president of World Athletics there in 2015.
Praising the preparations for the forthcoming championships, Coe expressed confidence in China’s organisational capabilities, emphasising its proficiency in delivering world-class sporting events. He regarded the global athletic community’s engagements in China as collaborative partnerships with the finest resources.
Last year, World Athletics launched a prize money initiative, totalling $2.4 million for 48 event winners at the Paris Olympics, which Coe believes enhances athletes’ financial security and extends their careers. He argued that financial stability is vital for athletes’ welfare, allowing them time to pursue further education post-retirement, thus offering them varied options.
Coe, a two-time Olympic champion, views athletes as essential allies in forming commercial partnerships that substantially attract audiences. He acknowledged how his experiences underscore the mutual benefits between sports organisations and athletes, emphasising the necessity of collaboration.
Sebastian Coe praised China as a leading host for sports during his visit to the Asian Winter Games in Harbin. He commended the event’s vibrant cultural representation, highlighted China’s importance in athletics, and celebrated upcoming sports events in the country. Coe emphasised the need for athlete welfare and maintaining the integrity of women’s sports, marking China’s growing influence in the global sporting arena.
In summary, Sebastian Coe’s visit to the Asia Winter Games in Harbin highlighted China’s role as a premier host for global sporting events. He underlined the importance of athletics in China and the need for athlete welfare through financial security. Coe’s comments reflect a commitment to maintaining the integrity of women’s sports and fostering partnerships that enhance the sporting landscape. With significant events on the horizon, China’s impact on international sports continues to grow.
Original Source: www.chinadaily.com.cn
