On the evening of October 26, 2024, the inaugural National Rural Table Tennis (Village Ping-Pong) Invitational kicked off in Jingxi City, Baise, Guangxi. Table tennis enthusiasts from all over the country gathered in this picturesque city to showcase their skills and enjoy the joy of the game.
At the opening ceremony, eight adorable De’bao ponies made a special guest appearance, delighting the audience. Local residents showcased their ethnic customs through lively performances, warmly welcoming the participants. Traditional dances such as the Gongluo Dance, the Field Dwarf Dance, and the Baxian Drum performance created a lively and festive atmosphere. Additionally, former table tennis world champion Niu Jianfeng engaged with fans, embodying the spirit of sportsmanship.
This national “Village Ping-Pong” event features a mix of team and individual competitions, including mixed team matches, men’s singles, and women’s singles, with 14 teams from 12 provinces competing over three days. The tournament not only emphasizes sport but also highlights local culture, offering unique Baise specialties—such as mandarin ducks, camellia oil, and glutinous rice—as prizes. Participants and spectators can also enjoy activities like “Tasting Rural Delights,” “Public Welfare Sports Programs,” and a photography exhibition titled “Unique Crafts: Village Scenery,” allowing them to experience Guangxi’s rich history and cultural nuances.
In recent years, various grassroots sports initiatives such as “Village Runs,” “Village Dances,” and “Village Ping-Pong” have emerged across China, significantly boosting rural sports participation, enriching cultural life in villages, and contributing to local economic development. These events are showcasing the vibrant new era of contemporary rural China.
