A breezy autumn arrived to welcome the Sports Meeting at KC Campus, infusing our hearts with fresh excitement and vigor. Beginning on October 24 and lasting for two days, a spectacle of thrilling events unfolded in the KC stadium. Throughout it all, HFI students contributed a vibrant flourish through their outstanding performance and pure sportsmanship.

The Sports Meeting started with the traditional opening ceremony. In alignment with this year’s theme, “Intelligence coming as one, future speeding to digital”, Y9 and Y10 respectively performed short yet inspiring shows combining sports with modern science and technology, showcasing vitality and passion. Another highlight of the ceremony was the symbolic torch relay of the 15th National Games, which two students representing HFI took part.

Competitions then began in an atmosphere of delight and nervousness. Over one hundred students participated in various events, such as the 100m sprint, middle-distance race, 4*100 relay, and long jump. Many also worked as volunteers, busy keeping order and taking photos. Amidst the cheers and shouts from an enthusiastic audience, athletes could be seen setting off like lightning with the blast of the starting gun, exhausted yet dashing towards the finishing line, soaring over the jumping pit, or aiming a mighty throw.

Our athletes had much to say about this Sports Meeting. “Although I didn’t get a satisfactory result, it was an enjoyable process, sharing techniques and experience with other athletes when training before races.” said Bo Lai, a 1500m runner. Beside him, Elaine Xiong added: “It also made me realize how necessary it is to exercise regularly.” “Using professional methods is essential too,” remarked Raymond Liu, “In fact, nothing can be achieved without consistent practice and careful approaches.”

The audience was immensely supportive. “It never really matters whether you win or lose,” said Henry Xu from Class Lieb, “The moment you step onto your track, the courage you show is much more inspiring than any medal.”

Both exhilarating and memorable, the Sports Meeting gave HFI students a chance to demonstrate their athletic skill and spirit. In these two days, they developed a deeper understanding of sports as an enrichment of life and their influence on the community. Moreover, the Sports Meeting helped them discover their innate talents, perseverance, and leadership. In their future studies and lives, HFI students will embolden themselves to brave difficulties and persist toward their goals.

Writer: Brooke Xi