The torch for China's 15th National Games and 12th National Paralympic Games was officially unveiled in Shenzhen City of south China's Guangdong Province on Saturday.
Named "Blossom," the torch's design embodies the shared Lingnan cultural heritage of Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao, symbolizing the "three regions as one family."
He Ye, the lead designer for the torch, explained that the core design philosophy of "Blossom" is "fusion" and "glory," representing "exchange and integration" and "shared prosperity." From a top-down view, the torch's flame nozzle forms the wave-like shape of the Games' emblem, with the Guangdong kapok, Hong Kong bauhinia, and Macao lotus flowers intertwined, representing the innovative spirit of the Greater Bay Area.
The torch's body features a streamlined metal frame and a peony pattern at its base, symbolizing the three regions' unity and prosperity. The gold-colored torch stands 760 millimeters tall, weighs 1.6 kilograms, and has a maximum diameter of 125 millimeters at the flame port.
Using a modular design, the main body of the torch is crafted from high-strength 3D-printed stainless steel and temperature-resistant aluminum alloy.
"The core of our torch design is that the entire body is 3D-printed, using a metal additive manufacturing technique to reflect the high standards of Guangdong manufacturing. According to preliminary arrangements, the cross-regional torch relay in cities may involve low-altitude aircraft and artificial intelligence-powered robots," said Zhang Liwen, director of the Games' torch relay.
Saturday's event also showcased the official victory ceremony music, podium attire and medals for the Paralympic Games.
The victory ceremony music, which will be played during medal presentations, incorporates elements of the famous Lingnan melody "Color Clouds Chasing the Moon".
The podium attire, primarily pink, is a modern take on the mamianqun, or the horse-faced skirt, a distinctive Hanfu style known for its high, flat front and pleated sides.
A highlight of the design is a single peony embroidered on the skirt, inspired by Yue embroidery, one of China's four great embroidery styles.
The "United Warmth" medals for the Paralympic Games were also revealed.
The 15th National Games of China will be co-hosted by Guangdong, Hong Kong, and Macao from November 9 to 21. The 12th National Paralympic Games, along with the 9th National Special Olympics will be held about two weeks after the 15th National Games.
Torch for China's 15th National Games unveiled
