'Shared spirit' blossoms in Games' torch design

The torch for China's 15th National Games and 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities, along with the 9th National Special Olympics, was officially unveiled on Saturday.

Named "Blossom", the torch's design embodies the shared Lingnan cultural heritage of Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao, symbolizing the "three regions as one family".

He Ye, the lead designer for the torch, explained that the core design philosophy of "Blossom" is "fusion" and "glory", representing "exchange and integration" and "shared prosperity".

From a top-down view, the torch's flame nozzle forms the wave-like shape of the Games' emblem, with the Guangdong kapok, Hong Kong bauhinia, and Macao lotus flowers intertwined, representing the innovative spirit of the Greater Bay Area.

The torch's body features a streamlined metal frame and a peony pattern at its base, symbolizing the three regions' unity and prosperity.

The gold-colored torch stands 760 millimeters tall, weighs 1.6 kilograms, and has a diameter of 125mm at the flame port.

Using a modular design, the main body of the torch is crafted from high-strength 3D-printed stainless steel and temperature-resistant aluminum alloy.

The unveiling ceremony in the South China metropolis of Shenzhen, Guangdong province, was part of the Games' 100-day countdown celebration, which also introduced the official victory ceremony music, podium attire and medals for the para sports games.

The victory ceremony music, which will be played during medal presentations, incorporates elements of the famous Lingnan melody Colorful Clouds Chasing the Moon.

The podium attire, primarily pink, is a modern take on the mamianqun, or the horse-faced skirt, a distinctive hanfu style known for its high, flat front and pleated sides.

A highlight of the design is a single peony embroidered on the skirt, inspired by Yue embroidery, one of China's four great embroidery styles. The "United Warmth "medals for the para games were also revealed.

The 15th National Games of China will be jointly hosted by Guangdong province, Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions from Nov 9 to 21.

Xinhua