9th Asian Winter Games: A Dazzling Return to Harbin's Ice City

The Asian Winter Games return after eight years, in grand style under the dazzling lights of Harbin’s Ice City. On Friday night, February 7, the opening ceremony kicked off the ninth edition of the competition in a spectacular fashion, blending tradition, technology, and the vibrant energy of winter sports. With the presence of athletes, officials, diplomats, and the enthusiastic fans and spectators in attendance, the ceremony featured mesmerizing performances, breathtaking visuals, and tributes to the legacy of the Winter Games, marking the beginning of a thrilling competition.

 

Harbin, the capital of Heilongjiang—the northernmost province of the People’s Republic of China—recorded a freezing temperature of -24°C on Friday as they welcomed Asian Winter Games back after hosting the third edition back in 1996. Harbin International Convention Exhibition and Sports Centre hosted 1275 athletes from 34 countries, a significant milestone in the game’s return. China's first Winter Olympic champion Yang Yang, China's first male Winter Olympic gold medalist Han Xiaopeng, Olympic race walk champion Wang Zhen, and Sochi Winter Olympic speed skating champion Zhang Hong came together to light the cauldron, officially marking the start of the competition.

 

Sri Lanka is proudly represented at this year's competition by four talented athletes, all competing in the cross-country skiing event. Piyumi Priyadarshani and Sajeev De Silva had the honor of bearing the national flag at the opening ceremony, embodying the pride of representing 22 million people. Piyumi contests on Saturday, February 09, in the women’s 5km freestyle event, making her debut in the Asian Winter Games. Joining her in making his debut is Dhanushka Gedara, who will contest in the men's 10km freestyle event. Sajeev De Silva and Shehan Muthugala, who also compete in the same event, return to the competition after competing in the 2017 Asian Winter Games. The Sri Lankan delegation is supported by Mr. Deva Henry, serving as the Chef de Mission for Team Sri Lanka, and Mr. Chandana Perera, the team manager.

 

As the tournament unfolds, the heat is about to turn on in the chilly city of Harbin. All the athletes are set to bring their best to the competition, proving themselves at the biggest Winter Games of the year. The entire nation stands behind the Sri Lankan athletes, cheering for their triumph and hoping they shine even in the coldest of arenas. Wishing Team Sri Lanka the very best as they carve their mark in the Asian Winter Games.

 

By Sakindu Rajapaksha | MoraSpirit