Games preparations have 'exceeded expectations', says IWGA president

CHENGDU — With opening ceremony set to kick off proceedings at the 12th World Games on Thursday, International World Games Association (IWGA) president Jose Perurena Lopez declared that Chengdu's preparations have exceeded all expectations, positioning the event to make history.

"My expectations two years ago were very high, but I think it's exceeded all of them," Perurena told Xinhua on Tuesday. "We guarantee that Chengdu will organize the best World Games ever, because the quality of the venues, volunteers and the organizing committee are higher than professional."

The Games' inaugural torch relay, integrating China's ancient heritage with modern sporting spirit, left a profound impression on the IWGA leadership. The torch, named "Zhu Meng" — meaning "Bamboo Dream", and symbolizing the pursuit of dreams — was inspired the bronze sculptures from the Sanxingdui Ruins and the bamboo forests of Sichuan. The relay began at the Sanxingdui Museum, where the flame was kindled using green energy by former curators of the site.

The 11km relay route spanned six cultural landmarks across the cities of Chengdu, Deyang and Meishan, including the Jinsha Ruins, Chengdu Research Base of Giant Panda Breeding and the San Su Shrine.

"This is something we can easily bring together," noted IWGA CEO Joachim Gossow, emphasizing the relay's cultural resonance. Perurena added that it motivated the population, and showcased "different scenarios, different cities" globally, receiving "very positive feedback".

The World Games' role in promoting sports outside the Olympic program was underscored by both leaders. Perurena highlighted its function as a proving ground: "We represent the sports that are recognized by the International Olympic Committee (IOC), but are not in the Olympic Games. They need our Games to show they are ready."

Gossow reinforced this, noting the growing convergence. "When you look at the IOC's choice of sports for future Olympics, nearly all are World Games sports," he said, further challenging perceptions. "Being Olympic or non-Olympic is not a sign of being good or bad."

Having hosted the 2023 FISU World University Games, Chengdu's accelerated development stunned IWGA officials. Gossow, who attended the University Games in Chengdu, observed: "I'm even more impressed how much more effort they put, now, into promoting the World Games. The venues, the look of the Games and all the services."

China will field its largest delegation ever — 489 members, including 321 athletes competing across 28 sports. The team will debut in 12 sports, and it marks China's first delegation of para-athletes at the Games.

Running from Aug 7 to 17, the Chengdu World Games will feature 34 sports, 60 disciplines and 256 events, with approximately 5,000 athletes from around 110 countries and regions competing.

Xinhua