Zhejiang University Shines at the Hangzhou Asian Games: A Look at the Highlights

On October 8, the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games drew to a splendid close. Throughout the Asian Games, the Zhejiang University community committed itself to providing unwavering service and support, crafting brilliant moments and heartwarming stories.

Dazzling moments

The Zhejiang University (Zijingang Campus) Gymnasium hosted 22 games in the men’s 5×5 basketball tournament at the Asian Games. On the day of the tournament’s conclusion, REN Shaobao, chairman of the Zhejiang University Council, expressed his heartfelt gratitude to the dedicated volunteers and staff who contributed tirelessly to the success of the Asian Games. “Your devoted service and hard work will be etched into the memories of the Asian Games and will light the way forward,” said REN.

In preparation for the Asian Games, Zhejiang University invested more than three years, deploying 100 staff members to manage operations at the Zhejiang University (Zijingang Campus) Gymnasium. The venue hosted its inaugural game on September 26, and over the course of 11 days, it welcomed 16 teams and over 60,000 spectators.

In addition, Zhejiang University dispatched 41 staffers to various departments within the Asian Games Organizing Committee and some Asian Games competition venues, where they served as full-time participants.

Adhering firmly to the concept of “simplicity, safety, and excellence” in organizing the Asian Games, the Zhejiang University community worked meticulously and diligently, thus making a significant contribution to the successful hosting of the Asian Games.

Cauldron-lighting moment

The unprecedented digital cauldron-lighting ceremony at the Hangzhou Asian Games marked a historic moment in the history of the Asian Games, as it introduced green methanol as the torch fuel for the very first time.Behind this mesmerizing display, holding the global audience spellbound, was the technological prowess of Zhejiang University. One research team from Zhejiang University achieved a series of breakthroughs in green fuel production and utilization. Their involvement in the Hangzhou Asian Games encompassed six crucial tasks, including the design of the core combustion device for the primary torch, combustion optimization, green fuel production, fuel storage and transportation.

In the previous torch relay, a group of torchbearers from Zhejiang University lit the flames with passion and carried the dream forward.

Competing moments

Four athletes from Zhejiang University competed in the Asian Games representing China, displaying determination, self-transcendence, and sportsmanship, thereby bringing glory to China.

In the men’s 100m final at the Hangzhou Asian Games, XIE Zhenye, a doctoral candidate from the Zhejiang University College of Education, blazed across the finish line in a mere 9.97 seconds and clinched the gold medal. On the evening of October 3, XIE Zhenye led a new generation of sprinters to a glorious triumph in the men’s 4x100m relay. On the evening of October 4, the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center Stadium hosted a medal-reallocation ceremony in which China’s men’s 4×100 meters relay team, composed of SU Bingtian, XIE Zhenye, WU Zhiqiang, and TANG Xingqiang, received the bronze medal at the Tokyo Olympic Games in 2021.

A cohort of Zhejiang University faculty and staff also contributed to the Asian Games as referees and technical officials. 

XU Yaping served as a referee for the kayaking event.

WANG Daqing served as a referee for the taekwondo event.

ZHANG Rui served as a track and field judge.

ZHANG Shouqi served as a referee for the rowing event.

Volunteer service moments

At the Hangzhou Asian Games, nearly 2,000 volunteers from Zhejiang University left an indelible mark on athletes, guests and spectators with their warm smile, youthful spirit, and professionalism.

Volunteers on the OCA / APC Headquarters Hotel Operations Team presented the beauty of Chinese culture to the world and showcased the vibrancy of China’s youth.

Volunteers at the Main Media Center (MMC) served both domestic and international media, spreading the voice of China.

Volunteers at the Zhejiang University (Zijingang Campus) Gymnasium provided service and support for the competition venue.

Special volunteers—ushers and flag bearers—raised the national flag and guided award ceremonies.

Professional volunteers from the First Affiliated Hospital of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine provided service and support at the Medical Command Center and the Asian Games Village.

Service support moments

Zhejiang University’s affiliated hospitals delivered high-quality and efficient medical services during the Asian Games.

The First Affiliated Hospital of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine was the only medical unit to dispatch both a medical expert team and a professional volunteer team, responsible for offering medical support at five venues and Hangzhou East Railway Station. Over 200 experts safeguarded public health with unparalleled professionalism and care.

The Second Affiliated Hospital of the Zhejiang University School of Medicine deployed more than 270 versatile medical staff to provide on-site medical support at venues and hotels. It was the only medical unit stationed at the Opening Ceremony Command Center, ensuring comprehensive medical care throughout the Asian Games.

Sir Run Run Shaw Hospital affiliated with the Zhejiang University School of Medicine was the sole contracted unit which provided specialized medical services for the Asian Para Games. It dispatched over 150 medical personnel and offered on-site medical support at six venues.

Splendid moments

Various innovative designs added to the splendor of the Asian Games. As a “prominent contributing team” to the Asian Games venues, The Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University played a crucial role in the construction, renovation, and design of venues, including 16 Asian Games venues and two Asian Paralympic projects.

The Asian Flower Theme Park, nestled in the picturesque Qiangjiang Century Park, was an enthralling addition to Hangzhou’s cultural and natural attractions. Prof. XIA Yiping from the Zhejiang University’s Landscape Research Institute served as the Park’s Chief Advisor, and the design was led by the Architectural Design & Research Institute of Zhejiang University, in collaboration with the Design Institute of Landscape & Architecture, China Academy of Art Co., Ltd.This extraordinary park will stand as a cherished haven for Hangzhou’s citizens to escape, relax, and reconnect with nature.