Core Viewpoint - The article highlights the inspiring journey of an 80-year-old table tennis player, known as "Zhao Ge," who continues to compete and excel in the sport, demonstrating that age is not a barrier to pursuing one's passions and achieving success in competitive sports [1][2][3] Group 1: Personal Achievements - Zhao Ge has participated in over 50 weekly matches each year, showcasing his dedication to the sport [1] - He won the men's singles championship in the 80 to 84 age group at the World Table Tennis Masters Championship held in Rome, Italy, in 2024 [2] - In 2025, at the age of 81, he represented the Hong Kong team at the 15th National Games, emerging victorious among 29 competitors aged over 70 [2] Group 2: Training and Philosophy - Zhao Ge began practicing table tennis at the age of 66, defying the common belief that it is too late to start learning new skills [2] - He emphasizes the importance of continuous learning and physical activity, encouraging others, including older individuals, to engage in sports [3] - His training regimen includes meticulous practice and video analysis to improve his skills, reflecting his commitment to mastering the game [2]

Core Viewpoint - The establishment of the Grand Canal Elderly Academy aims to provide a platform for elderly individuals to engage in lifelong learning and community activities, enhancing their quality of life and social interaction [1][2] Group 1: Course Offerings - The Grand Canal Elderly Academy has launched its autumn semester with 17 unique courses, including activities such as hip-hop dance, Tai Chi, handicraft weaving, African drum, and Yue opera, catering to diverse interests of over 220 enrolled students [1] - The courses are designed to cover various aspects such as health and wellness, cultural arts, and recreational activities, with over 200 teaching sessions planned [1] Group 2: Community Engagement - The initiative addresses the issue of scattered elderly groups by integrating resources from elderly universities, community colleges, and local artists to create a comprehensive curriculum [2] - The academy offers five main categories of courses: "Dance and Movement," "Art and Calligraphy," "Music and Instruments," "Handicrafts," and "Health and Wellness," facilitating a structured learning environment for seniors [2]