On January 30, the 5th Anniversary Open Wushu Tournament for the Confucius Institute Cup was held in the gymnasium of Building No. 1 of the Francisk Skaryna Gomel State University. The traditional competition brought together over 50 young athletes aged 5 to 15—students from schools in Gomel and the Gomel region.
The participants demonstrated a high level of physical fitness, technical skill, and a desire to win. The tournament program was expanded: in addition to individual performances, the spectators were also presented with paired routines, making the competition more intense and spectacular.
Zhang Aijun, Director of the Confucius Institute (China), and Yury Nikityuk, Vice-Rector for Academic Affairs at Francisk Skaryna Gomel State University, addressed the participants and guests with welcoming remarks. In their speeches, they emphasized the tournament's importance for the development of sports traditions and the strengthening of cultural and educational ties between Belarus and China, wishing the athletes successful and outstanding performances.
The festive atmosphere of the event was enhanced by creative performances by Chinese language teachers, including a musical composition on traditional Chinese instruments and a dragon dance in traditional costumes.
Following the competition's conclusion, the Gomel team of young wushu athletes, "Wang Shan," emerged victorious in the team competition, winning the Confucius Institute Cup. Participants who demonstrated outstanding individual performances were awarded medals, Confucius Institute diplomas, and commemorative gifts.
The tournament was organized and hosted by the Gomel Regional Wushu Federation, under the leadership of its chairman and chief judge, V. I. Golda. The tournament has been held since 2019 and is rightfully considered one of the most significant sporting events for Gomel schoolchildren interested in wushu, as well as an important part of the university's athletic and cultural life.
