简体中文
The HaBaWaBa China 2023 was held at the Xiangcheng Sports Center in Xindu district, Chengdu, Sichuan province from Aug 15 to 20, attracting 18 teams and more than 180 junior water polo players from around the world.
Junior water polo players compete in the HaBaWaBa China 2023 at the Xiangcheng Sports Center in Xindu district, Chengdu, Sichuan province. [Photo provided to China Daily]
As one of the world's largest youth water polo events, HaBaWaBa was conceived and organized by the Waterpolo Development (WPD), and the word HaBaWaBa is derived from the union of the first two syllables of the phrase "Happy Baby Water Ball".
The first HaBaWaBa was held in 2008, and as of 2019, teams from 25 countries and regions had participated in the event.
Junior water polo players compete in the HaBaWaBa China 2023 at the Xiangcheng Sports Center in Xindu district, Chengdu, Sichuan province. [Photo provided to China Daily]
The event in Xindu district was the first HaBaWaBa to be held in China. Players aged 10, 12, and 14 from countries such as Australia, Indonesia and Malaysia competed in the event. The youth water polo team of Xindu district was also invited to participate.
This is the first sporting event held at the natatorium of the Xiangcheng Sports Center after the water polo competitions of the Chengdu FISU World University Games. The venue's high-quality hardware and services impressed organizers.
The HaBaWaBa China 2023 is held at the Xiangcheng Sports Center in Xindu district, Chengdu, Sichuan province from Aug 15 to 20. [Photo provided to China Daily]
Li Shuwei, who was in charge of the event, said it strengthened their determination to hold the event here when knowing that this was once the venue for the World University Games.
"We hope to enhance Xindu's influence and competitiveness in sports by holding various events," said an official at the district's culture, sports and tourism bureau, adding that this event has helped elevate the district's international profile and image.
(CHINADAILY)
