A scene from the opening ceremony of the 4th Asian Para Games at the Olympic Sports Center Stadium in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, October 22, 2023. /CFP
A country that had experienced a sense of void after the closure of the Asian Games, a fortnight ago, embraced the opportunity to rekindle its spirit on Sunday night as the Asian Para Games got underway in Hangzhou with another ceremony that illuminated China's enduring cultural heritage, innovative technological endeavors and the uplifting qualities symbolic of this prestigious event.
The grand gathering promises to make history as the largest celebration of para-sport in Asia to date. With nearly 3,100 athletes from 44 countries and regions poised to compete across 22 disciplines in 564 events, the scale of the sporting program itself heralds a new chapter.
Moreover, when factoring in the approximately 2,090 delegation officials, 1,550 technical personnel and 3,090 media representatives descending upon the exhilarating stage, the gathering swells to over 10,000 diverse individuals from across the continent.
A scene from the opening ceremony of the 4th Asian Para Games at the Olympic Sports Center Stadium in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, October 22, 2023. /CFP
The 4th Asian Para Games stands as a ringing endorsement of Asia's unwavering commitment to inclusivity in bringing together such a vast array of talents from myriad backgrounds to rally behind the efforts of para-athletes.
"The Hangzhou Asian Para Games serves as a grand stage for showcasing the ethos of Chinese culture, a platform to demonstrate the indomitable spirit of disabled individuals in China's new era, and, most importantly, a stage to foster unity and progress among the people of Asia," said Zhao Sujing, deputy chef de mission of the Chinese Sports Delegation.
Zhao confirmed that Chinese para-athletes are geared up to compete in all 22 disciplines of this year's Games. A robust contingent of 723 individuals will represent the nation, including 439 athletes, with 221 men and 218 women among them.
Chinese Sports Delegation during the opening ceremony of the 4th Asian Para Games at the Olympic Sports Center Stadium in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, October 22, 2023. /CFP
Notably, 215 of these athletes will be making their debut at the tournament, while 227 have already showcased their skills at the Paralympics.
"Team China aims to provide immense support and motivation to the realm of disabled sports," Zhao added.
"Comprised of determined athletes who have triumphed over physical constraints with extraordinary resilience, they have achieved remarkable success in their respective fields. Through their exceptional performances, we aspire to encourage more individuals with disabilities to pursue sports, rehabilitation, and active integration into society."
Zhao Sujing, deputy chef de mission of the Chinese Sports Delegation of the 4th Asian Para Games, speaks during a press conference in Hangzhou, Zhejiang Province, China, October 22, 2023. /CFP
Zhao noted that the Asian Para Games serves not only as a competitive arena, but also as a platform for athletes to connect and engage with one another.
"China remains committed to strengthening collaboration and participation with Paralympic committees and international delegations," expressed Zhao, who also occupies the role of secretary general of the National Paralympic Committee of China.
"By hosting the Asian Para Games and actively participating in international disabled sports affairs, China seeks to make new contributions towards the advancement of international disabled sports and the fostering of friendships among disabled individuals from various regions across Asia."