Harbin Lights the Way: Torch Relay Ends for Asian Winter Games

The torch relay for the ninth Asian Winter Games has wrapped up in Harbin, marking an exciting start to the Games scheduled for Friday, February 7.

A total of 120 torchbearers aged between 16 and 83 carried the flame past several iconic local landmarks. Leading the relay was Shen Xue, the 2010 Vancouver Winter Olympics pairs figure skating gold medalist, alongside her longtime partner Zhao Hongbo, who together have secured a record four consecutive golds in their event at the Asian Winter Games.

Other notable athletes who carried the torch include Luo Zhihuan, China's first speed skating world champion, and Sui Wenjing, the 2022 Beijing Winter Olympics pairs figure skating gold medalist.

Meanwhile, the 2025 Asian Winter Games kicked off their first sporting event, ice hockey, on the same day. Athletes from the host nation are also set to make their debut in the mixed doubles curling event on Tuesday.

The Opening Ceremony is slated for Friday, with competitions running until February 14. Over 1,270 athletes from 34 nations and regions will participate, making this edition the largest in terms of delegations and total competitors.

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Torch relay for ninth edition of Asian Winter Games wraps up in Harbin

cgtn.com