National Games triathlon showcases breakthrough in regional sports cooperation

by sportswriters Cao Yibo, Zhou Wanpeng and Meng Jia

HONG KONG -- The triathlon competition at China's 15th National Games has showcased deepening sports cooperation between the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macao, after organizers successfully staged two days of racing along Hong Kong's Central Harbourfront, one of the city's busiest commercial and tourism hubs overlooking Victoria Harbour.

Staging a sporting event in the heart of a major metropolis is rarely straightforward. Dense crowds, complex traffic and limited space already pose major challenges, while coordinating a multi-sport race among different regional organizations adds an extra layer of difficulty.

From Nov. 15 to 16, however, the organizing committee of the 15th National Games delivered a triathlon competition that ran to plan on the Central Harbourfront course.

In an exclusive interview with Xinhua, Qin Jianqiu, competition director of the event and secretary-general of the China Triathlon Sports Association (CTSA), said bringing the National Games triathlon to Hong Kong for the first time marked a significant step forward for sports cooperation between the three regions. The collaborative approach, he noted, offers a new model for regional co-hosting of major national events.

Qin said Hong Kong's organizing office played a central coordinating role, while the CTSA worked closely with the Triathlon Association of Hong Kong. "The partnership ensured seamless cooperation across venue preparation, security, traffic management and medical services," he said.

For the first time, the Chinese mainland, Hong Kong and Macao jointly appointed 40 technical officials and 43 assistants to form an integrated team. A "dual-leadership system" was introduced for key posts like medical delegates and chief referees.

"This system aligned the mainland's technical standards with Hong Kong's local strengths, ensuring consistent rule enforcement while making full use of local resources," Qin said.

Collaboration shaped every step of the preparation. Teams held monthly virtual meetings and carried out multiple on-site consultations. "Despite differences in language and work habits, we improved efficiency and built real trust," Qin added.

Triathlon is one of the most demanding multi-sport events, requiring interconnected courses for swimming, cycling and running, as well as robust spectator and support logistics. After several inspections, organizers chose the Central Harbourfront and Victoria Harbour as the venues and introduced two transition zones -- a first for the National Games.

"Triathlon weaves together a city's waters, landmarks and streets, offering a unique window into urban character," Qin said. The dual-transition layout, he added, was designed to fit Hong Kong's terrain and marine environment while meeting elite competition standards.

On Nov. 16, World Triathlon president Antonio Arimany visited the venue and watched the mixed relay. He said the Games co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong and Macao represents an important innovation and demonstrates China's strong commitment to sport - a contribution that benefits the Olympic Movement.

Athletes praised the course as well. Hong Kong's Robin Elg, who posted one of the fastest splits in the mixed relay at 19:47, said he adapted quickly despite missing earlier test races due to injury.

"The organization was excellent," Elg said. "It's an honor to compete at the Central Harbourfront - perhaps one of the best triathlon venues in the world."

Arimany praised the Hong Kong course for presenting the city's most iconic scenery and lauded the close cooperation between the CTSA and the Triathlon Association of Hong Kong, calling the event "world-class in organization."

Arimany expressed hope that Hong Kong will host more international triathlon events, allowing athletes worldwide to experience its striking urban course.

This year's competition featured a record 90 athletes from 18 delegations. Ages ranged from 15 to 41, with athletes under 19 making up 43 percent, reflecting the sport's expanding reach.

Qin noted that performance levels continue to rise. "The cycling leg was faster and more tactical, breaking the old pattern of holding back for the run," he said.

While triathlon in China remains relatively niche, Qin said the National Games has highlighted its progress. "With more regular exchanges between regions, the sport's prospects are promising," he said.