Young Kazak Man Looks forward to China’s National Games

The Xi’an Olympic Center Photo: Xi’an International Trade & Logistics Park

With the main stadium and the aquatics center at the Xi'an Olympic Center completed and put into use, the construction of the main venue for China’s 14th National Games that consists of an outdoor stadium and two indoor sports facilities has come to an end.

There has also been a growing atmosphere of the National Games in the city as the event draws near.

Batyr during a badminton match in Xi’an Photo: Ma Qi

Batyr is a young man from Kazakhstan. His knowledge about China started with the films of Bruce Lee and Jackie Chan, which also made him obsessed with nunchunks training. In spare time, Batyr usually practices nunchunks at the foot of the City Wall. He calls it a unique experience in Xi’an.

Batyr is practicing nunchunks at Yongningmen Square in Xi’an Photo: Ma Qi

Batyr and his friends do exercises like push-up and running every Friday in parks or on the City Wall, where they can also meet many local residents doing exercises. Batyr says he can see many people dancing, playing ping pong or jogging nearly every morning, a phenomenon that he says indicates the growing public awareness of exercise.

A group photo of Batyr (1st R) and his friends Photo: Batyr

Batyr loves sports and pays great attention to sports news. “The 14th National Games will be held in Xi’an next year. That will be a very big event,” said Batyr. “It may encourage more people to do exercise to enhance their fitness and strength,” he added.

Batyr also spoke of the changes that have taken place in the city in preparation for the event.

“There has been a strong atmosphere of the National Games in Xi’an, which has changed people’s lives and the look of the city significantly.”

A bird’s eye view of the main stadium at the Xi’an Olympic Center Photo: Xi’an International Trade & Logistics Park

“All venues for the 14th  National Games are magnificent and beautiful. The main stadium looks like a giant pomegranate flower,” Batyr applauded, “I want to visit the stadium in person during the Games next year.”