International athletes have lauded the facilities at the World Athletics Relays held in Guangzhou, south China’s Guangdong Province, expressing their admiration for the city’s state-of-the-art tracks. The events took place at the Tianhe Sports Center, where competitors praised the stadium’s atmosphere and the warm reception from local fans.
“China is a lucky country. Happy with China. Definitely will be back. Definitely will be racing more here,” said Akani Simbine of South Africa, who secured victory in the men’s 4x100m relay.
Daniela Fra, the Spanish sprinter who clinched the women’s 4x400m relay, shared her excitement: “We loved it. This track is the best track I’ve ever run on.”
Kenyan athlete Ferdinand Omanyala, after competing in the men’s 4x100m relay, expressed his satisfaction: “I think it’s good. The job is done for today. We came here. We did all we wanted to do, so we’re happy. For the first time, the Kenyan team is going to be fielded in World Championships. The environment has been crazy, and we’re really excited.”
Lynna Irby-Jackson from the United States, who won the mixed 4x400m relay, highlighted the electrifying atmosphere: “Championship record—we couldn’t ask for anything more. Today was amazing. The crowd was really electric today. So we’re feeling good.”
Canadian sprinters Duan Asemota and Marie-Éloise Leclair, winners of the mixed 4x100m relay, were enthusiastic about returning: “We’re looking forward to coming back here in two years. The fans are great. The environments are great,” Asemota said. Leclair added, “Yeah, so pretty. Great energy. And the city’s really nice.”
Team GB athletes also shared their positive experiences. Bianca Williams, who won the women’s 4x100m relay, remarked, “Yeah, the crowd’s amazing. It’s nice and packed. People are cheerful. It’s really, really nice.”
Lina Nielsen, who participated in the women’s 4x400m relay, commented on the city’s hospitality: “It’s lovely. I haven’t seen much of it because we’ve been preparing, but I’m hoping tonight and tomorrow. But the crowd is amazing and the people.”
Her sister and fellow sprinter Laviai Nielsen added, “We love the food. We love Cantonese food. We love the crowd. So welcoming and so friendly. It makes a difference when you have people in the crowd cheering you on. So we would happily come back to Guangzhou.”
The athletes’ sentiments were echoed by World Athletics President Sebastian Coe, who expressed optimism about the future of athletics in China. “Good luck. Keep supporting your team. It’s making great progress. And in the next few years, you’re going to see world-class athletics in China,” Coe said.
The successful conclusion of the World Athletics Relays in Guangzhou highlights the city’s capacity to host international sporting events and showcases China’s growing influence in the world of athletics.
