Compared with the Beijing 2008 Olympic Games and the Guangzhou 2010 Asian Games, the opening ceremony of the 26th Universiade in Shenzhen was rather simple and austere. But the faces of the contestants manifested the same happiness, says an article in China Youth Daily. Excerpts:

As the stage for university athletes from across the world to show their feats, the 26th Universiade hasn't tried to ape the Olympic Games or the Asian Games. Instead, it has tried to be a genuine sports meet.

The life of Shenzhen residents hasn't changed because of the Universiade. Even without landmark venues, the Universiade has spread the awareness of physical fitness among people. The city minimized the side effects of the preparations, causing as little inconvenience as possible to residents.

Though some athletes from China's national teams are taking part, the event is still about university athletes. The Universiade athletes may not be as competitive as their Olympics counterparts, but they are fulfilling the goal of communications and interactions among youth from across the world.

(China Daily 08/18/2011 page9)