2022 Asian Games: Robot Triplets unveiled as mascots
Three sporty robots named Congcong, Lianlian and Chenchen were unveiled as the official mascots of the 2022 Asian Games. The robots which are collectively known as "smart triplets", represent the UNESCO World Heritage sites of Hangzhou in eastern China. In the wake of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic, the robots were introduced to the public through an online launch ceremony. Here is more.
What do the robots signify?
The robot Congcong represents the Archaeological ruins of Liangzhu City, which derives its name from the Cong jade pendant (the classic relic discovered from the ruins 5,000 years ago). Lianlian represents the West Lake, while the name denotes a lake of lotus leaves. The third mascot Chenchen represents the Beijing-Hangzhou Grand Canal. The name has been taken from the Gongchen Bridge.
Hangzhou will play host to the upcoming Asian Games
The 19th Asian Games of the Olympic Council of Asia, will be held in Hangzhou from September 10 to 25, 2022. China will host its third edition of Asian Games following Beijing 1990 and Guangzhou 2010. The previous edition (2018) was hosted in Jakarta-Palembang, Indonesia. The forthcoming Asian Games will host 45 National Olympic Committees (NOCs) of Asia in 42 sports.
The mascots join the slogan of Hangzhou
"The mascots proudly join the ranks of the emblem and slogan of Hangzhou Asian Games, completing the full presentation of the unique glamour of the Hangzhou Asian Games. The mascots will surely be liked by all, especially the youth of Asia," an OCA spokesperson said.
Zhang Wen and Yang Hongyi created the designs
A total number of 4,633 submissions for the mascot designs were received by the Organising Committee. The designs of Lecturers Zhang Wen and Yang Hongyi were finally picked. "The mascots are vibrant and rich in content, integrating Chinese culture, characteristics of the city of Hangzhou and the spirit of the Asian Games," coordinating committee chariman Raja Randhir Singh said.
