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".