China's 12th National Games for Persons with Disabilities and 9th National Special Olympics concluded this week in Shenzhen, marking a milestone in inclusive sports development. The Guangdong-Hong Kong-Macao Greater Bay Area's first joint hosting of the event saw 7,824 athletes from 34 delegations compete across 46 sports from December 8-15.
State Councilor Shen Yiqin presided over the closing ceremony as participants shattered 15 world records and 156 national records. Organizing committee deputy director Chang Zheng emphasized the Games' role in preparing athletes for the 2026 Aichi-Nagoya Asian Para Games and 2028 Los Angeles Paralympics.
The successful co-hosting by three Greater Bay Area regions demonstrates China's growing emphasis on accessible sports infrastructure. Hunan Province has been announced as the next host for the 2029 editions, continuing the nation's commitment to athletic opportunities for people with disabilities.
