Asian Winter Games Torch Relay Launches in Harbin, 1,270 Athletes Compete

The 9th Asian Winter Games officially kicked off with a torch relay in Harbin, China, featuring 120 torchbearers, including Olympic champions, covering an 11-kilometer route through the city's iconic landmarks. The relay began at 09:00 local time and concluded at the Snowman Wharf, showcasing Harbin's cultural heritage. The opening ceremony is set for February 7, with over 1,270 athletes from 34 countries participating in what is the largest Asian Winter Games to date. Concurrently, Hong Kong's ice hockey teams competed, with the men's team achieving a dominant victory against Macau, while the women's team faced a tough loss to Kazakhstan. The Games aim to promote unity and friendship among Asian nations through winter sports. The torch relay highlights the vibrant spirit of the Games and invites broader participation, both in-person and online.