A three-day middle school athletics competition was launched at Wuxi New Sports Center on Nov 18.

Budding athletes from middle, high, and vocational schools across the city competed in a range of track and field events. In total, 881 competitors from 59 different schools took part in the sporting bonanza.

Four international sporting officials were invited to ensure the fairness of the competition. Afterwards, Pu Yongtao, the deputy chief referee praised the participants for their sweaty endeavors.

"These young athletes showed a high level of sporting skill and a tough mental determination."

In recent years, the city of Wuxi has worked hard to promote youth sport programs with its education and sports department co-organizing a multitude of sporting events. These have included football and basketball competitions, swimming meets, rollerblading matches, and orienteering challenges.

One athlete strains hard in launching a weighted ball during the day of competition. [Photo/wxrb.com]

One athlete mid-landing during the long jump competition. [Photo/wxrb.com]

Bubble tea gives you shouting stamina! Local fans cheer on the athletes during the day's competition. [Photo/wxrb.com]