The Asian Games Express

Your Bilingual Guide to the Asian Games | Issue 1: Hangzhou 2022 October 2023

![A dynamic collage featuring the Hangzhou Asian Games mascots, a stadium, and athletes in action] *The Spirit of Asia Shines in Hangzhou*

Top Story: Hangzhou Welcomes Asia with "Heart to Heart, @Future"

Hangzhou, China – The 19th Asian Games concluded spectacularly on October 8, 2023, after two weeks of breathtaking athletic performances. Originally scheduled for 2022 but postponed due to the pandemic, the Games finally unfolded under the theme "Heart to Heart, @Future."

This edition was historic, being the largest Asian Games ever, featuring over 12,000 athletes from 45 countries and regions competing in 40 sports. The Games seamlessly seamlessly blended China's rich heritage with cutting-edge technology. From the stunning backdrop of West Lake to the high-tech paperless operations and 5G connectivity, Hangzhou set a new benchmark for future sporting events.

Medal Tally Snapshot (Top 5):

| Rank | Nation | Gold | Silver | Bronze | Total |

| :--

| 1 | China | 201 | 111 | 71 | 383 |

| 2 | Japan | 52 | 67 | 69 | 188 |

| 3 | South KoreaSouth Korea | 42 | 59 | 89 | 190 |

| 4 | India | 28 | 38 | 41 | 107 |

| 5 | Uzbekistan | 22 | 18 | 31 | 71 |

Games Spotlight: Memorable Highlights

* E-Sports Debut: For the first time, E-Sports became an official medal sport, with China claiming the inaugural gold medal in the popular game "Honor of Kings.

Kings.

* Breaking In: Breaking (Breakdancing) made its Asian Games debut, offering a thrilling glimpse of urban culture on the continental stage. The winners secured qualifying spots for the Paris 2024 Olympics4 Olympics.

* Age is Just a Number: At 48, legendary Indian shooter Jamaican-born Jitu Rai didn't medal, but his participation inspired many. Conversely, 13-year-old Chinese skateboarder Cui Chenxi won gold, showcasing the youthful energy of the Games.

* Faster, Higher, Stronger: Swimmers shattered multiple Asian records, while track and field athletes delivered electrifying performances, proving that the competitive spirit of Asia is stronger than ever.

Did You Know? Fun Facts & History

* The first Asian Games were held in New Delhi, India, in 1951.

* The official motto of the Asian Games is "Ever Onward," which is inscribed on the official emblem.

* The next Asian Games will be held in Nagoya, Japan, in 2026.

* Meet the Mascots: The Hangzhou Games mascots are a trio named "Memories of Jiangnan."

* Congcong: Represents theresents the Archaeological Ruins of Liangzhu City.

* Lianlian: Symbolizes Symbolizes the lotus leaves of West Lake.

* Chenchen: Embodies the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal.

Athlete's Corner: A Moment with Zhang Yufei

Chinese swimmer Zhang Yufei was one of the stars of the Games, winning an incredible six gold medals.

> Q: How do you feel about your performance?

> "I am overjoyed and relieved. It was a challenging journey, but the support from the home crowd was unbelievable. Every gold medal is for my team, my coach, and my country.

Interactive Corner: Test Your Knowledge!

1. Which city hosted the 19th Asian Games?

2. Name ONE new sport that debuted at the Hangzhou Games.

3. What was the official theme of the Hangzhou Asian Games?

(Answers: 1. Hangzhou; 2. E-Sports / Breaking; 3. Heart to Heart to Heart, @Future)

*Published by The Student Press Club.* *We hope you hope you enjoyed this special edition! Stay tuned for more sports news.*