Testing times

With the Asiad seen as a major step on the road to Paris 2024, Team China is looking to measure itself against some of its biggest Olympic medal rivals

With Paris 2024 fast approaching, Chinese athletes have embraced the home Asiad in Hangzhou as a much-needed test for the Olympic challenge, offering world-class drills against close neighbors in a variety of sports.

Featuring a blend of youth and experience, the 1,329-member Chinese delegation to the 19th Asian Games, which open on Saturday, has vowed to do the host country proud at the continental multisport gala by delivering excellent performances, both on and off the field.