The 13th Chinese National Games – known as China’s mini-Olympics – officially kicked off Sunday in north China’s Tianjin, with a splendid opening ceremony. /Xinhua Photo

The National Games is a major multi-sports event for top athletes from all provinces, municipalities and autonomous regions in China. /Xinhua Photo

With the first version held in 1959, the games this year mark some major changes, seen as part of the ongoing reforms to the country's sporting gala. /Xinhua Photo

The 13th National Games will not release the traditional daily medal table. Though the medal table had been an indicator of local authorities' achievements in sports, many gave up certain sports due to their slim chance in winning any medals. /Xinhua Photo

Cancellation of medal table has been praised by China’s netizens, as it will extensively affect people’s interest in sports and competition, rather than medals. /Xinhua Photo

This year’s National Games will feature 33 sports, as many commonly practiced leisure activities in China are added in, such as square dancing and dragon boat racing. /Xinhua Photo