Asian Beach Games in Sanya enters final month of preparations

With a month remaining until the opening of the Sixth Asian Beach Games in Sanya, Hainan province, organizers said the final phase of preparations is underway, with event coordination, venue construction, and services on track. Athlete registration has concluded, and the operational framework for the competition is in place.

At a news conference held on Monday to mark the 30-day countdown, officials announced that 1,790 athletes from 45 Asian countries and regions will compete. The Chinese delegation includes 174 athletes. The Games feature 14 sports, 15 disciplines, and 62 events. Water polo, dragon boat, beach athletics, ju-jitsu, and beach volleyball have the highest registration, with water polo drawing 237 competitors. Beach handball is the largest sport by participation. Thailand, China, the Philippines, India, and Hong Kong are the top five delegations by athlete count.

Li Haigang, deputy secretary-general of the Asian Beach Games organizing committee, said the competition schedule will be released soon. Event times and medal session details will be clarified to assist media and spectators with planning. Venue operations teams have been formed and have undergone training, exercises, and practice events.

The Asian Beach Games torch relay is set to begin on March 30. Organizers said the relay will emphasize beach sports culture through coastal, sun, and sand elements, showcase Sanya's tropical coastal character and the openness of the Hainan Free Trade Port, and reflect sustainable practices. The torch design incorporates Sanya's cultural identity and beach sports themes.

The opening ceremony is scheduled for the evening of April 22 at Yasha Park. With the theme "Vibrant, Open, Joyful", the event will utilize the natural setting to create an immersive seaside experience.