Shenzhen (TDI): At China’s 15th National Games, held in Shenzhen, high-tech innovations, including robots and artificial intelligence, took center stage, offering a glimpse into the future of sports and technology. The event showcased cutting-edge technology, captivating both participants and audiences alike.
During the medal ceremonies, humanoid robots made a striking appearance, presenting awards to the athletes, adding an unexpected futuristic element to the traditional celebrations, Xinhua reported.
Silver medalist Meng Fanlong from Beijing, who competed in the men’s 92-kilogram boxing category, expressed his surprise, saying, “I was completely surprised. Maybe robots will have more functions than us in the future. I don’t know if I’ll ever surpass them.”
The 15th National Games, hosted by the Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area, are the first of their kind, and robots played a significant role across various events. On the athletics field, robotic dogs were tasked with carrying javelins, improving efficiency and safety during the women’s javelin qualifying round. In addition, robots were deployed to patrol venues, inspect power systems, and even serve as torchbearers.
The Games highlighted more than 130 high-tech products, including AI and next-gen information technologies. According to Pan Helin, an expert from China’s Ministry of Industry and Information Technology, the event served as a practical testing ground for robotics and autonomous vehicles, accelerating their integration into real-world applications.
Zhou Jiahao, chairman of a Shenzhen AI company, praised the event as an opportunity to test and refine technology, enhancing both capabilities and teamwork. “Through the Games, we are able to thoroughly test our technology and greatly improve our team’s overall capabilities and collaboration,” Zhou said.
Read More: China’s 15th National Games Begin with Greater Bay Area Torch Relay
In an innovative move, the men’s road cycling race spanned across all three regions, with the Hong Kong-Zhuhai-Macao Bridge serving as a central feature. Advanced technology played a key role in ensuring the safety and smooth operation of the race. Unmanned patrol boats, equipped with radar and HD cameras, monitored the waters, providing more efficient and safer patrols.
In another first, a mobile meteorological emergency vehicle, acting as a mobile weather station, provided real-time weather data, offering early warnings of wind, temperature, and humidity changes to help ensure the cyclists’ safety during the race.
Read More: Chinese military to host few events for International Army Games
Beyond aiding athletes and officials, technology also enhanced the experience for spectators. For the first time, hearing-impaired viewers could easily connect with remote sign-language interpreters via a single click, providing an inclusive experience for all fans.
With its impressive showcase of robotics, AI, and cutting-edge technologies, the 15th National Games exemplified how sports can drive technological progress and inspire industry-wide advancements.
