The 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and the 9th National Special Olympic Games have commenced in the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, marking a significant milestone in regional cooperation and disability inclusion. Jointly hosted by Guangdong province and the two special administrative regions, the events represent China’s commitment to advancing para sports and social integration.
During Tuesday’s athletics competitions at Guangdong Olympic Sports Center, athletes demonstrated exceptional skill and sportsmanship. Vice-Governor Li Yun of Guangdong province emphasized the games’ role in showcasing the resilience and capabilities of para athletes while presenting awards to medalists.
Notable performances included Jiang Yanhong of Guangdong securing the first athletics gold medal for the host team after two years of preparation. “Merely standing on this field brings me immense happiness,” Jiang stated, expressing satisfaction with her debut performance while looking ahead to her T64 class 100m event.
The games witnessed emotional moments as Sichuan’s Hu Yutao embraced his wife Wang Wenjie following his T64 class 100m victory, acknowledging her four years of unwavering support. Meanwhile, Henan’s Li Lu celebrated her T47 class 400m gold as the perfect birthday gift, adding to her previous Paralympic achievement from the 2016 Rio Games.
Veteran athlete Liu Cuiqing from Guangxi demonstrated remarkable perseverance, overcoming injury and age-related challenges to claim the T11 class 100m title. The games continue through Monday, featuring multiple athletic disciplines across the Greater Bay Area venues.