🔥 The sixth Asian Beach Games closed in spectacular, fiery style this week, wrapping up a thrilling chapter of sun, sand, and sport. The vibrant ceremony lit up the night sky over Sanya's Yasha Park, bringing the curtain down on nine days of intense competition.
🏖️ With the picturesque Sanya Bay as a backdrop, the event officially concluded on Thursday night (April 30). Sheikh Joaan bin Hamad Al Thani, President of the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA), declared the competition closed, stating, "Together, as one Asia, we have made history." The event saw over 1,600 athletes from all 45 OCA member delegations compete across 14 sports, from April 22-30.
🏅 The host nation, China, made a splash, leading the overall medal count. The team topped the table with an impressive 24 gold, 18 silver, and 13 bronze medals, showcasing their prowess on the beach courts and sand. This edition was a landmark for Hainan Province, marking its first-ever time hosting a continental beach sports event. It was also the province's first major international competition since the Hainan Free Trade Port launched full-scale, island-wide operations late last year.
✨ In his speech, Sheikh Joaan praised China for delivering an "exceptional edition" of the Games and commended Sanya for stepping up to the global sports stage. "I have no doubt this will be the first of many great sports events hosted in Sanya," he added, hinting at a bright future for the coastal city.
🇵🇭 As the Sanya 2026 cauldron flame was extinguished amidst a final burst of fireworks, the OCA flag was passed to Abraham Tolentino, President of the Philippine Olympic Committee. The baton has been officially handed over to Cebu, Philippines, which is set to host the next edition of the Asian Beach Games in 2028. The closing ceremony featured a vibrant cultural performance from the Philippines, giving everyone a taste of what's to come.
🎉 Athletes and guests celebrated the end of an unforgettable event with a beachside concert, proving that the spirit of the Games extends far beyond the competition. It was a fitting end to a festival of sport that celebrated unity, athleticism, and the beautiful Asian coastline. ✨
Reference(s):
Sanya bids farewell to sixth Asian Beach Games in spectacular style
cgtn.com
