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The 2024 Zhejiang Table Tennis League, organized by the Zhejiang Provincial Sports Bureau, began at the Haining Sports Center Gymnasium on Sept 8.

This inaugural event spans all 11 cities in Zhejiang and is divided into four regional divisions: East, South, West, and North. Elite teams from each region will compete, with the top teams advancing to the finals in Zhoushan.

The tournament includes various age categories for men's and women's singles, structured in two stages: a round-robin group stage and knockout rounds.

The opening ceremony featured Chinese table tennis legend Cai Zhenhua and Zhejiang Table Tennis Association Chairman Yao Yueliang, who jointly served the first ball. Cai Zhenhua praised the event's scale and professionalism, hoping it would inspire more people to play table tennis.

The Northern Division's competition began on Sept 7 in Haining, with 13 teams competing.

Pu Qingqiu, a member of the Zhejiang Table Tennis Association and founder of the Jiashan Baoshi Team, led his team in the competition. At 62, Pu's love for table tennis began 54 years ago, and he has stayed in excellent shape through regular training.

In the past decade, Zhejiang has seen a surge in table tennis enthusiasts, especially among young people and students. Hosting the league in Haining will further promote the development of sports, showcase the city's vibrant image, and strengthen regional friendships, fostering a positive atmosphere for nationwide fitness.