Zhang Jingyue named China's flag bearer at Gangwon 2024 opening ceremony

Ice hockey player Zhang Jingyue was named as the flag bearer for the Chinese delegation at the opening ceremony of the 2024 Gangwon Winter Youth Olympic Games in South Korea on Friday.

The 16-year-old goalie, who will represent China in the women's 3-on-3 tournament, can potentially make her Winter Youth Olympics debut on Saturday against South Korea.

The opening ceremony of Gangwon 2024 is set to take place on Friday at Gangneung Oval and PyeongChang Dome simultaneously.

Earlier on Thursday, the Gangwon 2024 Organizing Committee (YOGOC) said in its report to the Executive Board (EB) of the International Olympic Committee (IOC) that the stage is all set for the Games. 

"Six years after the Olympic Winter Games PyeongChang 2018, the venues from those Games are not just a great legacy but also the perfect backdrop for all participating athletes," said Coordination Commission Chair and IOC Member Zhang Hong, who won China's first speed skating Olympic gold medal at Sochi 2014. Of the nine venues being used for Gangwon 2024, seven were also used during the Olympic Winter Games 2018.

"It is a great honor that we celebrate today the progress made here in Gangwon - a testament to the Youth Olympic Games' commitment to engaging youth worldwide. Gangwon 2024 is a great platform for young people to share their passion and dreams, create opportunities, and learn from each other," said Kim Chul-min, Secretary General of the Gangwon 2024 YOGOC.

Some 320,000 tickets have been reserved for events at Gangwon 2024, with organizers continuing their efforts to promote the YOG to people in the four host cities of Gangwon province - Gangneung, Pyeongchang, Jeongseon and Hoengseong.

About 1,900 athletes aged 14 to 18 from some 80 countries and regions will compete in the four cities till February 1 under the slogan: "Grow together. Shine forever."

(With input from Xinhua)

(Cover: File photo of Gangwon 2024 mascot. /CFP)