The 8th Zhangjiagang Shashang Sports Meeting took place in Xinhaiba Ecological Wetland Park in Daxin town, On Nov 9, drawing over 400 participants competing in various matches.
Combining local culture, this year's event features six matches, including tug-of-war, wood sawing, and darting. During the competition, audiences cheered for the athletes, creating a lively atmosphere.
Participants take part in a wood sawing event at the 8th Zhangjiagang Shashang Sports Meeting on Nov 9. [Photo/WeChat account: zhangjiagangfabu365]
Li Jinglin, one of the athletes at the event, said, "When two teammates were sawing wood, others helped stabilize the log and kept cheering each other on". She especially enjoyed the sports atmosphere that emphasizes "participation over competition", she added.
Daxin town, a key birthplace of the Shashang culture, has hosted the Shashang Sporting Meeting for eight consecutive years. This year, the event shifted from traditional labor activities to sports, substituting sports equipment with distinctive farming tools. This creative strategy supports the integrated development of local agriculture, culture, tourism, and sports.