2011 SU Update: Torch and Medal Design

SHENZHEN –  The long-awaited design of Shenzhen Universiade medals and torch was recently unveiled, when a spectacular celebration was held in Shenzhen to mark the one-year countdown to the Games.

Bearing a Universiade logo, the torch is different from most used to herald sporting events in that rings forming the torch can be revolved to change shape, which means each torchbearer can have a unique Universiade torch.

The torch is expected to be ignited at Beijing University and passed through 30 college campuses across the country before the Games open on August 12th next year, according to the Universiade Organizing Committee.

Xue Mei, designer of “Ocean Heart,” the Universiade medal, world famous pianist Lang Lang and Chinese diving queen Guo Jingjing unveiled the gold, silver and bronze medals during the celebration. The medals feature inlaid conch shell. Xue is from the China Central Academy of Fine Arts.

A starry array of singers and performers participated in the celebration and delivered their best wishes by fantastic shows. Lang Lang, the world famous pianist, the image ambassador of Shenzhen Universiade, presented a melody “Shenzhen Rhythm” specially composed for the Shenzhen Universiade.

Themed “Tell the world,” the celebration was attended by some 30,000 people, including Guangdong Governor Huang Huahua and other government officials, college students, foreign consuls from Guangzhou and sports and arts celebrities.

A neon clock over the stadium marked the start of the one-year countdown at 8 p.m. and a spectacular firework show followed with the audience cheering and waving light sticks.

“We look forward to sharing the joy and friendship of the Universiade with the world,” said Shenzhen Party chief Wang Rong.

A total of 365 citizens, each wearing a T-shirt with each date leading up to the Games, vowed to make their contribution.

“College students from around the world are welcome to the Shenzhen Universiade in 2011,” said Shenzhen Mayor Xu Qin when he sent the specially designed postcard ticket to the world. Each member of the audience was called on to follow his suit and  invite their friends to the Shenzhen Universiade.
About 60,000 people have applied for volunteer work for the Games.

 There has been rapid construction work on venues, and the Metro Line 3, which connects the main venues, will be completed by the end of this year. The city is spending 20 billion yuan (USD 2.94 billion) on transportation construction this year.

Scheduled to open August 12th next year, the 12-day 26th Universiade has scheduled 24 disciplines and 306 events. A record of 13,000 athletes and officials from 180 countries and regions are expected to participate.

In September Shenzhen will host the World University Archery Championship as a test event which will be attended by 300 athletes.

(Source: Media Dept. 2011 SU)

Lang Lang