On the evening of October 25, the launch ceremony for the Chengdu World University Games “Travel with the Events” series took place in Chengdu. This event marks a significant milestone as it is the first time the World Games are being hosted in mainland China, and it follows the Chengdu Summer Universiade, demonstrating the region’s capacity for international sporting events. The Chengdu World Games will include 35 major events, 61 sub-events, and 254 events in total.

The ceremony featured a spectacular light show and an exciting opening performance, highlighted by the vibrant “Travel with the Events” themed caravan. José Perurena, President of the International World Games Association (IWGA), and Tom Dillon, IWGA Vice President, were among the distinguished guests present at the event.

Dillon commented, “The ‘Travel with the Events’ series combines the sports and spirit of the World Games with China’s cultural features and tourism resources, which will enhance the promotion of the World Games.”

Unlike other multi-sport events like the Olympics or Universiade, the World Games are characterized by their trendy and fashionable appeal. The sports featured include engaging and entertaining activities such as frisbee, tug of war, orienteering, and billiards. Additionally, there are visually stimulating events like sports dance, jet skiing, and wakeboarding, along with seven sports including breakdancing, trampoline, climbing, flag football, softball, pickleball, and squash that will be part of the upcoming Paris 2024 and Los Angeles 2028 Olympic Games.

At the event, world champion Gareth Potts and Chinese star player Zhang Kunpeng showcased their skills in interactive demonstrations with fans. Champions of the national standard dance scene, Cao Yuan and Wang Ximeng, along with the 21-year-old A group champions Yu Zhengmin and Huo Zitong, also entertained the audience with their dance performances. Olympic champion Feng Zhe, along with coaches and players from the beach handball and frisbee national teams, engaged with the public in experiencing various sports.

The “Travel with the Events” series has a theme titled “Three In One Big,” which involves creating a “World Games themed caravan” that serves as a “mobile calling card” and “ambassador” for the Chengdu World Games. This initiative connects three major actions: “Enter the City (or State), Enter the District (or County), and Enter the Featured Streets,” aiming to popularize the World Games events, promote Chengdu’s “Events + Tourism” premium routes, and foster a deep integration of sports, culture, and tourism.

On October 29, the “World Games themed caravan” will kick off the “Travel with the Events” initiative, bringing the excitement to various cities and districts.