The torch relay for the 14th National Winter Games of China began in Hulun Buir City, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, on Saturday.

Wang Guifang, former speed skater, was the first to carry the torch, which will be passed on to another 64 bearers across approximately 230 kilometers.

The games will open in Hulun Buir on February 17 and end on February 27. Over 3,700 Chinese athletes will compete in 176 events of 16 disciplines under eight sports in Inner Mongolia.

(Cover photo:  Torch relay for the 14th National Winter Games of China begins in Hulun Buir City, north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, February 3, 2024. /CFP)