Hangzhou all set for Asian Games after 'most difficult decision'

By Tony Mariadass - July 6, 2023 @ 10:31pm

Hangzhou Olympic Sports Centre Stadium venues of the 19th Asian Games. -AFP file pic

KUALA LUMPUR: It was probably the best decision by the Olympic Council of Asia (OCA) to postpone last year's Asian Games in Hangzhou to September this year due to the Covid pandemic.

OCA Director General Captain Hussain Al-Musallam said at the World Press Briefing/World Broadcasters meeting in Hangzhou last week: "It was the most difficult decision in the history of OCA and it was made with the full support of Hangzhou Asian Games Organising Committee (HAGOC) and the Chinese Olympic Committee.

"Looking back, we believe it was the correct decision. Looking forward, we now have a free and open 19th Asian Games with the athletes, national committees, spectators and media can truly embrace and create a spirit of friendship and unity.

"OCA is very proud of our Asian Games, and the Hangzhou postponement is another example of everyone working together in order to guarantee the best conditions and environment for all concerned, notably our athletes."