STORY: Chengdu Universiade torch relay starts in Beijing
DATELINE: June 10, 2023
LENGTH: 0:01:29
LOCATION: Beijing
CATEGORY: SPORTS

SHOTLIST:
1 various of the torch relay
2 SOUNDBITE (English): LEONZ EDER, FISU Acting President
3 various of the venues for the 31st FISU Summer World University Games

STORYLINE:

The torch relay for the 31st FISU Summer World University Games began in Beijing on Saturday, kicking off a 48-day countdown to the Games in Chengdu, southwest China's Sichuan Province.

The torch relay involves five cities: Beijing, Harbin, Shenzhen, Chongqing, and Yibin.
   
The flame will then return to Chengdu and light the main cauldron of the Universiade when it officially opens on July 28.
   
FISU Acting President Leonz Eder said in a video message at the ceremony that the torch relay will convey the spirit and atmosphere of the FISU Games to the whole world.

SOUNDBITE (English): LEONZ EDER, FISU Acting President
"Young representatives from many countries and regions will deliver the powerful message of working together to create a brighter future for mankind as torch bears of the Chengdu 2021 FISU Games. Together, they symbolize the powerful force of collaboration for the betterment of our common shared future."

Chengdu is the third Chinese mainland city to host the biennial Summer University Games, following Beijing in 2001 and Shenzhen in 2011.
   
Athletes from universities across the globe are expected to compete for 269 gold medals in 18 sports.

Xinhua News Agency correspondents reporting from Beijing.
(XHTV)