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Expats visit Keqiao Yangshan Sport Climbing Center on Aug 16. [Photo/Lyu Peng for ezhejiang.gov.cn]

The Keqiao Yangshan Sport Climbing Center in Shaoxing welcomed a group of enthusiastic visitors on August 16.

Under the professional guidance of instructors, they experienced the exhilarating sport of rock climbing firsthand.

"Reach up with your hands, push up with your feet, and keep your body close to the rock wall," the coaches instructed. The participants embraced the tension and excitement of the climbing activity.

"As the people of Keqiao prepare to host the Asian Games, it's truly a matter of pride for us. The international event happening right at our doorstep fills me with a sense of honor," said Tan Hejun, a 41-year-old resident of the area and a sports enthusiast.

An expat learns to climb at Keqiao Yangshan Sport Climbing Center on Aug 16. [Photo/Lyu Peng for ezhejiang.gov.cn]

Over the past few years, he has watched the transformation of the Keqiao Yangshan Sport Climbing Center from an abandoned mine into its present state.

Hamza Sefiani from Morocco, after his visit, said he was looking forward to the upcoming Asian Games more than ever. "Rock climbing is a fascinating sport that combines strength and speed. It has a unique charm," he remarked.

The Keqiao Yangshan Sport Climbing Center, spanning a total land area of 18,000 square meters and a built-up area of 8,746 square meters, serves as the designated venue for the 19th Hangzhou Asian Games climbing competition.

During the Asian Games, 110 athletes from 16 countries and regions will converge at the Keqiao Yangshan Sport Climbing Center to compete for a total of six gold medals across events such as speed climbing, relay climbing, and general climbing.