On November 9, the opening ceremony of the 15th National Games was held at the Guangdong Olympic Sports Center. This large-scale cultural and sports presentation showcased the magnificent landscape and vibrant atmosphere of the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area (GBA). Following the ceremony, the organizing committee held a press conference to introduce the ceremony, especially its highlights.
Peng Gaofeng, Deputy Chief Commander of the opening ceremony on-site command headquarters, stated that the ceremony adhered to the principles of simplicity, safety, and splendor.
The total duration of the opening ceremony was 75 minutes, comprising a 54-minute ceremonial segment during which 1,920 athletes from 38 delegations made their appearance alongside the water stage, where the entry of the Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao delegations hand-in-hand was particularly designed.
The event site, the Guangdong Olympic Sports Center, was utilized with minor renovations to the existing venue. The ribbon-like structure on the roof resembled a starry river, and the theme colors of red, purple, and green were arranged in the seats.
A new power supply model of "main power + energy storage" was adopted for the first time. An additional 800-meter open plastic weatherproof running track was added, transforming the venue into an urban sports park.
The director team, performers, and volunteers included members from Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, reflecting the cooperation and the concept of "National Games for All."
The opening ceremony integrated marine elements into its visual art and rituals. The circular water curtain stage created a "sea" at the venue, and the dance performances incorporated the Lingnan "water" imagery within a circular structure.
The sacred flame's kindling was collected from a depth of 1,522 meters in the South China Sea. This technologically advanced and environmentally friendly fire, safeguarded collaboratively by the three regions, was transformed into the fire of sports and art, symbolizing the vigorously ascending future of the GBA.
Reporter | Guo Chuhua
Photo | Xu Xiaoxin
Editor | Ouyang Yan, Hu Nan, James Campion, Shen He
