Encountering the tender autumn breeze, leaves whirled gracefully in the air. Under the scorching daylight, sweat gleamed on students’ foreheads. The sixty-eighth sports meeting began on the morning of October 28th on the sports field of the Affiliated High School of South China Normal University. Principal Yao Xunqi announced the commencement of the sports meeting with the slogan: “Faster! We are together in a shared future!”

Under the intense sunlight, athletes emerged onto the field with confidence. HFIers participated in the sports meeting enthusiastically. The topic of this year’s opening ceremony is the Asian Games held in Beijing, Guangzhou and the future one in Hangzhou.

For HFI’s freshmen opening performance, the topic is specifically the Hangzhou Asian Games. The march-in involves the impression of Hangzhou’s famous tourist attractions— the Qiantang river and the West Lake. HFIers made the grandiose Qiantang river alive by playing the tide gulping the land, reframing the scene in poet Sushi’s poem— “ the West Lake depicts the best side of ladies, whether richly adorned or in plain dress.” Athletes are circled with national flags of countries in Asia symbolizing a united family.

The Interviews are about the design in the opening ceremony and the participant’s feelings about the sports games.

What inspired your design on the opening ceremony?

Sally Su: Our group discussed the topic, and my groupmate came up with the idea of including the Internet as a key element of our generation, so the march-in begins with searching “the Hangzhou Asian Games” on a KT board.

What do you consider as fun things when planning?

Sally Su: To me, the group gathering and brainstorming towards the same goal is really rewarding; the feeling of blending in a group and cooperating is fun.

How do you feel about participating in this sports meeting?

Suri Huang: As a usual contestant, I feel really lucky and excited to participate in this sports meeting again.

Are you satisfied with your performance today?

Suri Huang: Well actually, today was not my best performance, but on the bright side I am satisfied and delighted with the outcome since I have improved from my last practice.

In contrast with your past races, how have you improved?

Suri Huang: I am less nervous before the race now, and I learned how to overcome anxieties: chat with your competitors. Also, I gained resilience as I am not afraid to be passed by others while running. I can face competition with a casual mind now.

HFIers left their footsteps on the sports field, sprinkled with sweat and made great accomplishments!

The chart below lists HFIers’ performances in the sports meeting.

Planing: Selena Yao, Jasmine Dong

Writing: Selena Yao, Annie He

Interviewer: Selena Yao

Interviewees: Sally Su, Suri Huang