Niche sports, unexpected stars fuel World Games buzz

CHENGDU, Aug. 18 (Xinhua) -- The Chengdu World Games highlighted that sport is about far more than winning gold medals.

Featuring diverse non-Olympic sports, unique participants, and compelling stories, the Games sparked curiosity, passion, and a desire to participate. While experiences varied, they converged into a shared love of sport that transcended borders, promoted cultural exchange, and brought people closer together.

This spirit was most evident when athletes succeeded in sports rarely practiced in their home countries and regions. Such victories carried added meaning, celebrated not only as personal achievements but as national milestones opening new athletic possibilities.

At 25, Valentina Toro made history for Chile by winning bronze in the female kumite -55kg. She became the first Chilean karateka to reach the podium at the World Games, a breakthrough for her, for Chile, and for karate in the Americas.

Her achievement quickly became a trending topic in Chile, inspiring children to follow her example.

"Valentina has made all of us proud," said Chilean sports fan Camila Rojas. "Seeing her on the podium shows that Chilean athletes can compete with the best in the world. It's inspiring for our youth."

The excitement extended beyond athletes.

Latvian dance judge Sergey Sinkins, standing 6-foot-3 with a striking posture, drew global attention after photos and videos of him officiating went viral. The 55-year-old was widely described online as "elegant," and his unexpected fame, which began in China, spread worldwide.

His popularity has fueled interest in sports dance. Many Chinese parents have begun bringing their children to competitions, and searches for dance classes have surged.

"We hope to see more professionals like Sergey gain attention," said his Chinese colleague, Che Yao. "It allows people to see how sports dance shapes a person and encourages more people to take that first step."

The Games' appeal lies in part in showcasing unfamiliar, non-Olympic sports. Their intensity and focus on pushing human limits created thrilling first-time experiences for spectators.

Videos of Germany's Max Poschart, who won finswimming men's surface 100-meter gold with a record time before leading his team to victory in the 4x100m surface relay in a world record 59.35 seconds, went viral on TikTok. Viewers marveled at the almost mermaid-like swimming style.

This sense of discovery sparked curiosity, challenged perceptions, and encouraged people to get involved.

"Which clubs in Germany train this? Are there other competitions? I've competed in regular swimming for years but never seen or heard of this before," said German online user Kira.

Other events, such as men's tumbling, saw spectators cheer athletes' Spider-Man-like flips regardless of nationality, underscoring the Games' role as a platform for cultural exchange and understanding.

"I think this is how sports should be, and how people should interact," said one online user. "We are all just living our lives, but with different cultural backgrounds. Events like the World Games give everyone a chance to come together and share joy." ■