TWGS Day One Highlights: Action Packed Start in Hong Kong
On 12 October, The World Games Series (TWGS) 2024 kicked off with an exciting first day in Hong Kong, as 87 athletes from around the world showcased their skills across Cheerleading, Roller Sports, and Wushu. Day One was marked by a series of stunning performances that left fans on the edge of their seats.
In the highly anticipated Roller Sports (Inline Freestyle – Speed Slalom), Spain's Alvaro Nieto Merino claimed gold in the men's category with a fast time of 4.823 seconds, edging out France's Liam Dayries and India's Jinesh Nanal.
Reflecting on his victory, Nieto Merino shared, "I feel great! I came on my own here, I traveled alone, and I was quite nervous. I have never traveled so far by myself. It is an amazing experience and it feels really good. Even if I'm alone, I am receiving so many messages from my friends, teammates, and family." Looking ahead to the future, he added, "The World Games in Chengdu are still quite a long way. I have just won this and it needs to soak in, but I'm super excited."
In the women's event, Sasikan Kongpan of Thailand delivered a standout performance, clocking in at 5.374 seconds to secure her spot for TWG 2025, followed closely by local talents Jessica Loo and Yuet Ling Leung from Hong Kong.
The Wushu competitions captivated audiences with their elegant blend of strength and precision. Iran's Shahin Banitalebi claimed gold in the Men's Taolu (Nanquan – Nangun), while Brunei's Basma Lachkar took the top spot in the Women's Taolu (Taijiquan – Taijijian) with a combined score of 19.323, narrowly beating Indonesia's Salwaa Dhana Azalia.
Winner Lachkar said, "I feel really honoured to win the first medal for Brunei in The World Games Series event! My team and I enjoyed the hospitality is amazing! It was so fun to meet new people and catch up with old friends. It was a dream to join Chengdu next year, and it felt unbelievable that there's hope to join!"
In the men's event, Wushu ace Banitalebi said, "Last year, I went to Chengdu for the FISU Universiade Games and won a medal for the first time in the senior age category. I have good memories from there, and I am very happy to be able to go to Chengdu again."
Source: IWGA
Edited by Zhang Hang
