#China #Guangzhou #Yuan Xikun #Thomas Bach #Heung Kong

Dr. Thomas Bach Visits Guangzhou and Praises One Heung Kong

On November 10, 2025, Dr. Thomas Bach, the honorary president of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), graced Guangzhou with his presence. His visit came during the 10th Chinese Sports Art Exhibition and the Chinese Sports Culture Exhibition. As a figure renowned for his contributions to global sports, Bach also took a nostalgic journey, recalling his unforgettable experiences at various National Games throughout the years. He received an artwork adorned with Chinese characters from the Chinese Sports Museum, a gesture reflecting the cultural significance of the event.

In a highlight of the trip, Dr. Bach explored the One Heung Kong Art Square, where he attended an art exhibition hosted by the esteemed sculptor Yuan Xikun. This interaction not only showcased Bach’s appreciation for the arts but also celebrated the intersection between sports and creative expression. During the visit, he participated in a ribbon-cutting ceremony to mark the opening of Yuan's exhibition. The moment that followed became a cherished memory known as "Bach Meets Bach," as the athlete admired a portrait sculpture that Yuan had meticulously crafted just for him.

Bach expressed his admiration for Yuan's works, emphasizing that they encapsulate the spirit and essence of athletes, creating a harmonious blend of sportsmanship and humanistic art. Yuan Xikun is globally recognized as a leading figure in the art world and has received accolades such as being named a UN Master Artist for the Environment. His portfolio includes lifelike sculptures of notable Olympic leaders like Pierre de Coubertin, former IOC president Juan Antonio Samaranch, and even Dr. Bach himself. Each piece not only preserves the charisma of these leaders but also serves as a valuable container for both athletic and humanistic memories.

In an interview with the Guangzhou Daily, Bach conveyed his enthusiasm for being in China. He highlighted how attending the National Games gave him the chance to meet many impressive athletes, an experience he deemed invaluable. He expressed confidence that the 15th National Games of the People's Republic of China would be a resounding success for both athletes and organizers alike.

At the One Heung Kong Champion Home, Bach engaged in a friendly dialogue with various sports champions, including Tang Jiuhong, a world champion in badminton, Olympic champion and world record holder Wu Dajing, Zhang Yanquan, head coach of the Guangzhou Diving Team, and former synchronized swimmer and world champion Zhong Ni. Together, they celebrated the launch of a platform that combines the spirit of sports with artistic flair during the National Games. The event illustrated how sports and art can coalesce to inspire and elevate the cultural atmosphere of significant sporting events.

In wrapping up his visit, Dr. Bach left Guangzhou with a unique blend of memories, inspired by the impressive artistic displays and the athletic prowess showcased. His admiration for the One Heung Kong exhibition reflects a broader vision of how sports and culture can intertwine, ultimately enriching the community and fostering a stronger appreciation for both realms in society.