Record-breaking popularity of Breaking at the Asian Games
The premiere of Breaking at the 19th Asian Games in Hangzhou, People’s Republic of China, was an extraordinary experience. Four thousand tickets were sold out in a mere 15 seconds, breaking the sales records of the most popular Breaking events. The stadium was packed from the pre-selection round on Day 1, as the local audience and international guests cheered enthusiastically when the MCs – MG, SuperDD and Sean – ignited the crowd.
The impressive set up at the Asian Games in Hangzhou, with a fully-sold out stadium.
MCs SuperDD (People’s Republic of China) and MG (Slovakia) electrifying the crowd.
In attendance at the Asian Games were 25 B-Boys and 20 B-Girls from 13 countries and regions, who battled fervently to win a direct qualification spot at the Paris 2024 Olympic Games. The silver medalists would also earn spots in the Olympic Qualifier series – the final phase of qualification for the Olympic Games.
“As for winning the ASIAN GAMES, the level of the tournament was one of the top tournaments in the world, so I am frankly happy to have won there.
I am also happy that this victory was the first "ASIAN GAMES BREAKING Champion".
As for my participation in Paris, I am happy that my experience so far with ROAD TO PARIS, which I have been following for several years, has led me to this result. Furthermore, I would like to do my best while enjoying the rest of the ROAD TO PARIS journey so that I can feel the results of the many challenges I have taken on so far, as well as the growth I have achieved this time.” – B-Boy Shigekix.
“I am very happy, honoured and excited to win the Gold Medal in 19th Hangzhou Asian Games and to qualify directly to the 2024 Paris Olympic Games. I would like to thank my motherland China for giving me this opportunity, as well as the coaches of Team China and everyone who supports me all the time to make it happen. Actually, I was going through the evolution of my breaking style during this period, which is a relatively difficult process. There are still 10 months before 2024 Paris Olympic Games, I will continue to stick to my breaking style and concentrate on preparing for the upcoming. See you in Paris.” -- B-Girl 671.
The audience was clearly stunned by the artistry and athleticism of the athletes. The outpouring of cheers grew to a peak from the Pre-selection on Day 1 till the Battle for Gold on Day 2.
B-Boy Shigekix of Japan and B-Girl 671 of the People’s Republic of China reigned, qualifying directly for the 2024 Olympic Games.
Emotions ran high when the Battle for Gold results were announced.
Silver Medalist B-Boy Hongten (Republic of Korea), Gold Medalist B-Boy Shigekix (Japan), and Bronze Medalist B-Boy Lithe-ing (People’s Republic of China) standing proudly on the podium.
“To be part of Asian Games felt like witnessing of one the biggest moments of world sports history… the level of competitors, the audience energy, the set up and venue and the team behind were the best ingredients to make this games absolutely epic”, exclaimed Max of Portugal, who was the Head Judge at the event.
“The set up of the entire Asian Games experience was exceptional – from the warm hospitality of the staff in Hangzhou, to the technical details of the venue. The fact that a whole village was built for the Games is so impressive. I had an amazing experience hosting the event with the enthusiastic audience,” remarked MG of Slovakia, who was one of the MCs of the event.
B-boy Bojin, Chairperson of the Asian Games, reflected, “Breaking is always about “Each One Teach One”. The Asian Games is where legends, young stars, and top athletes of Asia are given the chance to turn into “somebody”, all by battling it out. The Games sets a good example for many countries… Breaking is such an amazing culture. We pass itdown to the youth, to the next generation, with the desire to give opportunities for a better life and share our motto – Peace, Love, Unity & Having fun!”
Silver Medalist B-Girl Ami (Japan), Gold Medalist B-Girl 671 (People’s Republic of China) and Bronze Medalist B-Girl Ayumi (Japan) beaming after receiving their medals.
Team of officials and staff, accompanied by Mr. Shawn Tay (WDSF President), Mrs. Gladys Tay, Mr. Crossen Yin (DanceSport Asia President; DSA), Mr. Jimmy Su (DSA Vice-President), and Mr. George Tan (DSA Sports Director). Photos courtesy of Alan Chi.
With the Asian Games completed, the WDSF, including the athletes and Breaking Core Group, are gearing up with anticipation for the next Olympic Qualifiers, continuing with the highly anticipated Oceania Championship on October 27-28 in Sydney, Australia.
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