GUANGZHOU -- The first-ever BRICS Games raised its curtain here at the Guangzhou Baiyun International Convention Center on Saturday evening.

Some 300 athletes from the BRICS countries, namely Brazil, Russia, India, China and South Africa, will participate in men's basketball, women's volleyball and wushu competitions with a total of 10 gold medals on offer.

As the host country, China has sent a delegation of 53 people, including 32 athletes, to take part in the five-day Games.

Apart from the competitions, the organizers have also arranged a series of culture events for the athletes and coaches at the Games.