Torch relay for World Games debuts in China, tracing cultural landmarks

CHENGDU -- As a soft breeze drifted through the morning air, the torch relay for the World Games was held for the first time in the event's history on Saturday, launching from the iconic Sanxingdui archaeological site in Southwest China's Sichuan province and tracing a route through major landmarks of Chinese civilization.

Under the theme "Lighting Dreams with The World Games," the ceremonial flame was kindled at the sacrificial altar of the Sanxingdui Museum, a cradle of early civilization along the upper reaches of the Yangtze River.

The ceremonial flame was ceremoniously collected by Xiao Xianjin, former director of the Sanxingdui Museum, and Zhu Zhangyi, director of the Jinsha Site Museum, using a sustainable technique that harnesses solar power and transforms it into fire -- a fusion of ancient heritage and modern innovation.

The flame was then carefully transferred into a specially designed safety lantern by the flame escort team to ensure its continuous burning throughout the relay.

During the torch-lighting ceremony, Wang Xiaohui, secretary of the Sichuan Provincial Party Committee, and Shi Xiaolin, governor of Sichuan province and chairperson of the organizing committee for the World Games 2025 Chengdu, jointly conducted the ceremonial flame presentation and lit the main cauldron.