The 12th National Ethnic Games concluded in spectacular fashion on Sunday, introducing coconut tree climbing as an official event for the first time. Hosted at Southwest University Sanya Middle School, the competition saw local athletes from Hainan province sweep both the men’s and women’s titles in this unique sport deeply rooted in the island’s traditional way of life.
Coconut tree climbing, a sport born from the daily labor of Hainan’s residents who climb trees to harvest coconuts, challenges participants to ascend a slender timber pole as quickly as possible to hit a button at the top. It’s not just a test of speed but also a battle of technique, agility, and strength. The event captivated audiences with its blend of cultural heritage and athleticism, highlighting the island’s rich traditions.
In the men’s category, Luo Jun of the Li ethnic minority clinched the gold medal with an impressive time of 6.188 seconds. On the women’s side, Fu Shijun, of Han ethnicity, secured victory in 6.663 seconds. Both athletes expressed immense joy in showcasing their skills on home soil and contributing to the promotion of their local sport.
“I’m so excited. I’ve dreamed of winning this title but never expected that dream to actually come true,” said Luo Jun, beaming with pride. “In Hainan, we locals often climb trees to pick coconuts when we want fresh coconut water. Now, with coconut tree climbing included in the games, everyone is learning about our sport. It’s a fantastic way to promote and raise awareness of Hainan’s traditional sports.”
Similarly, Fu Shijun shared her enthusiasm: “I’m a sprinter, and I believe my training has helped build my explosive power, which gives me an advantage in the race. When I was younger, I always wanted to climb trees and pick coconuts to drink fresh coconut water, but I didn’t have the strength to do it. Now that I’m stronger, I decided to try the sport and fulfill that childhood dream. Winning the first-ever title at home feels incredible, especially because I can bring glory to Hainan.”
The inclusion of coconut tree climbing in the National Ethnic Games not only celebrates the unique cultural practices of Hainan but also provides a platform for traditional sports to gain national recognition. As spectators and athletes alike embrace this new event, it signifies a harmonious blend of heritage and modern competitive spirit across China’s diverse ethnic communities.
Reference(s):
12th National Ethnic Games: Hainan sweep coconut tree climbing titles
cgtn.com
