The opening ceremony of the 2025 Asian Weightlifting Championships is held in Jiangshan on May 8. [Photo/Tide News]

The 2025 Asian Weightlifting Championships kicked off on May 8 at the Hushan Sports Park in Jiangshan, a county-level city in Quzhou, East China's Zhejiang province.

This is the first time this prestigious continental event is held in one of China's county-level cities, yet it attracts nearly 400 athletes, referees, and guests from 26 Asian countries and regions for a seven-day competition.

The opening ceremony unfolded under the evening lights with vibrant performances, including energetic group gymnastics, graceful handkerchief dances, and dynamic tai chi displays, blending traditional charm with modern vitality to showcase Eastern allure.

China, a powerhouse in competitive weightlifting with 43 Olympic gold medals since 1984, sends a strong team of 20 athletes. The squad includes seasoned Olympic champion Liu Huanhua and world champion Li Dayin, alongside rising stars Zhao Jinhong and Li Yan.

In addition to China, strong teams from other countries and regions are also competing. Notably, this championship serves as the farewell event for the former weight categories in the Paris Olympic cycle, with any world records set to be permanently preserved, motivating Asian weightlifters to deliver outstanding performances.

The first day of competition on May 9 features intense contests in the women's 45kg and 49kg categories and the men's 55kg category.

Jiangshan is hosting various activities during the event, including the unveiling of the "Weightlifting Culture Gallery" at the foot of Jianglang Mountain, offering a comprehensive look at the sport's allure and history through rich visual and textual displays.