Source: CCTV.com

02-27-2009 10:14

Special Report:   Harbin 24th Winter Universiade

There's only two days to go until the closing of the 2009 Winter Universiade in Harbin. The world champions provided spectators with exciting games and races. Supporting teams, and athletes who didn't get the medals were also a big part of the success.

The best ranked athlete from the Chinese ski jump team was 27th.

It's not a good result, but the four members of this young team don't consider it a failure.

Ski jumping has a short history among China's winter sports. And the team believes there are many chances for them to catch up.

China is stronger in the ice events such as speed skating. But unfortunately, speed skater Yu Fengton missed the gold medal twice through errors in the Men's 100 meters and 500 meters.

Yu Fengtong, Chinese speed skater, said, "This was my first time to compete in the Winter Universiade, and also in my hometown. So I wanted the gold medal very much. It's a pity."

Unlike Yu, Brazilian skater Felipe had predicted a bad result. As the only athlete in the Brazilian delegation, he participated in three speed skating events. He was last in every race, but kept going until the last lap, winning applause from spectators.

While the athletes competed, the spectators spared no effort in cheerleading.

One spectator said, "I hope Harbin will host more games. I'm very proud for the city. " Some spectators collected unexpected gifts at the ice hockey games. They said, "This is the puck that the Chinese team scored with. I'll take it home as a souvenir."

Along with spectators, the volunteers were also a cheerleading force.

Most of them had to work in positions outside the stadium during the games. They were happy to be part-time cheerleaders during their breaks.

But there has been no break for police officers in charge of the vehicles for the Universiade. They sacrificed sleep to produce nearly five thousand vehicle passes.

They are now busy arranging transport plans for the closing ceremony of the Winter Games.

 

Editor:Zheng Limin