Olympics ignite sports enthusiasm in Quzhou
The 2024 Paris Olympics has boosted sports participation in Quzhou, Zhejiang province.
At the swimming pool in Qujiang Oriental Sports City, many children have been practicing kicks and breathing techniques under their coaches' guidance.
Swimming has become a popular choice among kids during the summer. The swimming center offers classes from morning to afternoon.
"Watching the Chinese swim team dominate in the Olympics' pools inspired me," said Xu Xinran, a student. "With my high school entrance exams coming up, I decided to use the summer to learn how to swim."
By 9 am, the table tennis and basketball courts are full. Ping-pong players focus on their serves and returns while basketball coaches lead dribbling drills and three-step layups.
Indoor sports facilities have become increasingly popular during the summer months.
Lai Chao, an employee at Qujiang Oriental Sports City, said that, since July, the number of students has doubled or even tripled.