Harbin Ignites Passion with the 9th Asian Winter Games Torch Relay
The city of Harbin, known as the “ice and snow city,” came alive on February 3 as the China’s first Olympic gold medalist in figure skating and vice chairman of the China Skating Association,was the first torchbearer. Dressed in an orange-red down jacket and hat, Shen carried the torch with grace, symbolizing the start of a journey filled with passion and unity.
The torch,named “Surging,” stands 735 mm tall and is designed to resemble a blooming lilac flower. Its vibrant colors—Chinese red, lilac purple, and ice and snow white—reflect the sincerity, enthusiasm, and inclusivity of the event. Among the torchbearers were Olympic champions like Wang Meng, Wu Dajing, and Sui Wenjing, as well as scientists, volunteers, and community leaders. Wu Dajing, a celebrated short-track speed skater, shared his hopes for the games: “As an old athlete, I look forward to more excellent ice and snow talents emerging, especially the Asian Winter session held at the door of the house. I sincerely wish all the athletes of the Chinese delegation to achieve good results and make the five-star red flag rise high in the field.”
The relay route showcased Harbin’s rich history and culture,passing through landmarks like the Binzhou Railway Bridge,Zhaolin Park,Central Street,and the Flood Prevention Tower Square.These sites,each with its unique story,were seamlessly connected,creating a tapestry of the city’s heritage and spirit.
The event culminated at 11:30 a.m. in Daoli district’s Daxueman Plaza, where Sui Wenjing, a figure skater and Beijing Winter Olympics champion, served as the final torchbearer. Her radiant smile and the cheers of the crowd marked the triumphant conclusion of the relay.
Li Na, head of the Torch Transmission Center Torchbearer and Volunteer Management Team, emphasized the meticulous planning behind the event. “After more than 4 months of preparation, the torch transmission activity implemented a simple, safe, and fantastic competition requirement,” she said.
the 9th Asian Winter games Torch relay not only celebrated the spirit of sportsmanship but also highlighted Harbin’s role as a hub for ice and snow culture. As the city prepares to host the games, the relay has set the stage for an unforgettable celebration of athleticism and unity.
| Key Highlights of the Torch Relay |
|————————————–|
| Date | February 3, 2025 |
| Theme | “ice and Snow and Dream of Asia” |
| Route Length | 11 kilometers |
| Torchbearers | 120 (ages 16 to 83) |
| First Torchbearer| Shen Xue, Olympic figure skating champion |
| Final Torchbearer| Sui Wenjing, beijing Winter Olympics champion |
| Landmarks | Binzhou railway Bridge, Zhaolin Park, Central Street, Flood prevention Tower Square |
The World and other popular tourist attractions drew tens of thousands of visitors daily. The city’s vibrant atmosphere was further amplified by the dedication of its residents. Li Shaoju, a 50-year-old taxi driver and torchbearer, shared his pride in contributing to the event: “we organize training and learning english in advance to provide free services for people in need. I hope that through our efforts, more people can understand Harbin, fall in love with this ‘Shuangyatong City’.”
Torch Relay: A Symbol of Unity and Cultural Exchange
The torch relay was a highlight of the event, weaving through Harbin’s iconic landmarks and integrating the city’s natural beauty, development style, and cultural heritage. Along the route, colorful mass activities, including pop-up choruses, street instrumental performances, and ice sculpture demonstrations, created a festive atmosphere. At the Binzhou Railway Bridge, college students gathered for a large-scale Asian Winter Session-themed chorus of “my and My Motherland,” leaving a lasting impression on spectators.In front of the Harbin Planning Exhibition Hall, Olympic champion Zhang Hui led a group of children in a short track speed skating demonstration, showcasing the joy and spirit of ice and snow sports.Fu Qiang, a Harbin citizen who attended the relay, remarked, “This time the torch transmission carries the fire species, which is even more praised by nature, which inspires people to participate in the infinite enthusiasm of participating in ice and snow sports, appreciation of ice, and snow, making me more love my ‘treasure hometown’.”
To ensure broader participation,the organizing committee designed an online torch relay,allowing people worldwide to engage in this cultural and sporting celebration. Zhang Haihua, deputy secretary-general of the Harbin Asian Winter Association Organizing Committee and deputy mayor of Harbin, emphasized the importance of this initiative, stating, “The torch transfer of the Asian Winter Session also designed the online part to allow more people to break through time and space restrictions and participate in this sports cultural activity.”
A Commitment to Excellence and Service
The event’s success is also a testament to the dedication of its organizers and volunteers. Despite the challenges of working through the Spring Festival,many,like li Shaoju,found immense pride in their contributions. “Although there is no rest in the Spring Festival, I am very proud to be able to do something for this Asian sports event. I want to pass the spirit of sports that is courageous to surpass, stubbornly fight, and never give up,” he said.
The Second Affiliated Hospital of Harbin Medical University, a designated medical security institution for the event, played a crucial role in ensuring the safety and well-being of participants. As the 2024 Bethune Medal winner, the hospital provided comprehensive medical services, further underscoring the city’s commitment to excellence.
Key Highlights of the Harbin Asian Winter Session
| Aspect | Details |
|————————–|—————————————————————————–|
| Torch Relay | Symbolized peace and unity; included online participation for global reach. |
| Men’s Ice Hockey | First match between kuwait and Gilgisan team at Harbin Ice House. |
| Cultural Activities | Pop-up choruses, ice sculptures, and street performances along the route. |
| Tourism impact | Harbin Ice and Snow World attracted tens of thousands of daily visitors. |
| Community Involvement| Residents like Li Shaoju provided free services and promoted the city. |
Conclusion: A Celebration of Asia’s Shared Dream
The harbin Asian Winter Session is more than just a sporting event; it is a celebration of unity, cultural exchange, and the shared aspirations of Asia. From the thrilling ice hockey matches to the inspiring torch relay, the event has brought people together, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie. as Vano aptly put it, “This is the number one Asian Winter Session of the countries and regions and the number of athletes, which is proud.”
For those looking to experience the magic of the Asian winter Session, Harbin offers a unique blend of sports, culture, and natural beauty.join the celebration and witness the spirit of unity that defines this remarkable event.The fire collection ceremony marked a pivotal moment in the lead-up to the Asian Winter Conference, setting the stage for an unforgettable opening event. On the evening of February 7, the torch will ignite the main torch tower during the opening ceremony, symbolizing the spirit of unity and competition that defines the Asian Winter Session. This flame will continue to burn throughout the event, serving as a beacon of inspiration for athletes and spectators alike.The torch relay, a tradition deeply rooted in the history of international sports, has been meticulously planned to highlight the cultural and natural beauty of the host city. The route, designed to be both simple and spectacular, will pass through iconic landmarks, showcasing the city’s rich heritage and urban charm.This journey not only celebrates the athletes but also connects the community to the grandeur of the Asian Winter Conference.
As the torch makes its way to the main torch tower, anticipation builds for the opening ceremony, a moment that will unite nations under the banner of sportsmanship. The flame’s journey is a testament to the enduring legacy of the Asian Winter Session, a platform where talent, determination, and cultural exchange converge.| Key Highlights | Details |
|———————————-|—————————————————————————–|
| Event | Asian Winter Conference |
| Torch Ignition | February 7,during the opening ceremony |
| Main Torch Tower | symbol of unity and competition |
| Torch Relay Route | Designed to showcase cultural and natural landmarks |
| Duration of Flame | Continues to burn throughout the Asian Winter Session |
the fire collection ceremony and the subsequent torch relay are more than just rituals; they are a celebration of the values that the Asian Winter Conference stands for. As the torch lights up the main torch tower, it will illuminate the path for athletes to shine on the global stage, fostering a sense of pride and camaraderie among all participants.
