2009 WU Harbin: Update

Torch Relay

After a 6-day relay through 5 cities, the sacred flame for Harbin 24th WU came back to the beautiful Ice City Harbin — the last leg of the whole relay. There were altogether 352 torchbearers from Harbin universities and social walks taking part in the 13.85 km relay.

Zhang Xiaolian Executive Vice-President of the Harbin WU

Mr. Zhang Xiaolian, Executive Vice-President of Harbin WU, delivered a speech at the staring ceremony. “The 24th WU is a significant political and cultural event for the 9 million Harbin citizens. We have constructed world top competition gyms and a dedicated railway between Harbin and Yabuli and the Athletes’ Villages meet the FISU standards. We are fully convinced that with concerted efforts of the people from Harbin city and the whole Province, Harbin 24th Winter Universiade will be a successful, splendid and unique university sporting feast enjoyed by athletes and guests from all countries and regions.”

The torch relay lasted 6 days and covered a distance of 2,009 km. Altogether 600 torchbearers with 3,500 escort runners in the Heilongjiang Province participated in the relay.

100,000 Volunteers

On the occasion of the 60-day countdown to the 24th WU, the Harbin WU City Volunteers Allegiance Ceremony was held at the Harbin People Gym and nearly 100,000 volunteers took an oath to serve in the WU from December 20th onwards.

Harbin Volunteers taking the oath

Harbin Volunteers are ready to welcome the delegations