Core Insights - The 12th World Games opened in Chengdu on August 7, marking the largest edition in history with 3,942 athletes from 116 countries and regions participating [2][5] - The World Games emphasize diversity and inclusivity in sports, showcasing lesser-known events that are not part of the Olympic Games, thus promoting a broader understanding of sports [3][4] Group 1: Event Significance - The World Games serve as a platform for non-Olympic sports, providing opportunities for athletes in events like lacrosse, korfball, and tug of war, which are less familiar to the Chinese audience [3][4] - The event is seen as a complement to the Olympics, with former IOC President Juan Antonio Samaranch describing it as a "second Olympic Games" [3][4] Group 2: Impact on Local Sports Culture - The hosting of the World Games in Chengdu is expected to enhance the local sports culture by introducing diverse sports to the public, aligning with the growing interest in non-mainstream activities [8][9] - The event is part of a broader trend in China towards promoting inclusive sports, moving from a focus solely on medal counts to a more holistic approach to sports participation [9] Group 3: Infrastructure and Sustainability - Chengdu has utilized existing and renovated sports facilities for the World Games, which has been praised for its sustainability and setting a new benchmark for future events [5][6] - The design of the torch for the Games incorporates local cultural elements, enhancing the event's cultural significance and global recognition [6] Group 4: Future Prospects - The World Games are anticipated to stimulate interest in emerging sports in China, such as frisbee and paddleboarding, reflecting a shift in public engagement with sports [8][9] - The event is seen as a crucial step in China's sports globalization and diversification efforts, potentially influencing long-term sports development in the region [9]

Group 1: Event Overview - The 12th World Games (Chengdu World Games) will open on August 7, featuring gymnastics events that will award a total of 19 gold medals [1] - The Chinese team aims to achieve good results in four gymnastics sub-events: aerobics, acrobatics, trampoline, and parkour [1][2] Group 2: Participation and Competitors - In acrobatics, the Chinese team has secured spots for four male and three female athletes, competing against participants from Azerbaijan, Belgium, and other countries [1] - The Chinese aerobics team will consist of 12 athletes (7 males and 5 females) competing in three categories: trio, five-person, and aerobic dance [1] - The parkour event will feature 24 athletes from 18 countries, with Chinese athletes Shang Chunsong and Fu Sida representing the team [3] Group 3: Training and Preparation - The national parkour training team has begun closed training at a base in Qinhuangdao since July 1, preparing for the upcoming competition [3] - The acrobatics project has seen a resurgence in participation due to measures like deepening the integration of sports and education, and adjusting competition regulations [2] Group 4: Recent Achievements and Future Goals - The Chinese acrobatics team recently won 5 golds and 1 bronze at the 2024 Acrobatics World Championships, marking a return to team gold after 25 years [2] - The Chinese aerobics team aims to break personal records and achieve good results in all three categories at the World Games [2]