Multi-ethnic athletes prepare for traditional sports games in Sanya

On Oct 13, the Hainan men's dragon boat team gears up for the 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities. [Photo/China News Service]

The 12th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities is set to take place in Sanya, Hainan, from Nov 22 to 30, with the Hainan men's dragon boat team currently in training.

Originating from traditional Chinese boat racing, dragon boating was introduced as a competitive event during the 4th National Traditional Games of Ethnic Minorities in 1991.

Huang Chentao, assistant coach of the Hainan men's dragon boat team, introduced that the team consists of 22 paddlers, one drummer, one helmsman, and two reserve members representing various ethnic groups, including the Li, Miao, and Zhuang.

"The dragon boat is a team sport that embodies cooperation and unity," stated Wang Yunfu, coach of the water sports delegation from Hainan. He emphasized that despite the initial differences in skill levels among team members from different ethnic backgrounds and regions, after over two months of training and bonding, friendships have deepened, significantly improving overall performance.

The event provides a platform for inter-ethnic communication and exchange. In addition to training, team members share their respective cultural customs, dialects, cuisines, dances, and scenic spots, fostering a more profound understanding among diverse ethnic groups.

Li ethnic participant Luo Xiaoshan from Hainan showcases the bamboo pole dance during breaks, while Yi team members from Sichuan narrate the origins of the Torch Festival.

"I introduced the delicious Zhuang cuisine to everyone, such as five-color Rice, fragrant duck, and beef, making everyone's mouth water," shared Qin Wenxiang from the Guangxi Zhuang autonomous region. Through mutual cultural exchanges, we have realized that the 56 ethnic groups form a harmonious and united large family, Qin added.