'The 60th Gyeongsangnam-do Residents Sports Festival' Information Poster. (Image provided by Changwon City)
[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters Reporter Lee Sang-hyun] The '60th Gyeongsangnam-do Residents Sports Festival' kicked off on the 26th in Changwon.
This year's event is held under the slogan "Higher in Changwon! United and Elevated!" and runs until the 29th. Considering the COVID-19 situation, it is conducted without spectators throughout the city.
The festival usually includes general, university, and high school divisions, but this year, due to the impact of COVID-19, the scale was reduced to 25 high school events and 4 senior events (demonstration events).
The number of participants, including officials and athletes, was reduced to around 6,000, more than half fewer than previous festivals. Participants in the games must submit a PCR test result within 48 hours.
Only athletes, referees, and staff who have tested negative are allowed entry to the venues. The city is also strengthening hygiene inspections of restaurants and accommodations visited by athletes.
Heo Seong-moo, Mayor of Changwon, said, "It is regrettable that the festival is scaled down due to COVID-19, but we will strictly follow quarantine rules to ensure athletes can compete in a safe and comfortable environment," adding, "I hope this sends a message of unity and hope to the residents."
Meanwhile, the Gyeongnam Residents Sports Festival was not held last year due to COVID-19. This year's event was originally scheduled for May but was postponed to November due to the pandemic.
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