by sportswriters Zhang Yueshan and Li Linhai

XINING, Jan. 31 (Xinhua) -- Located in the northeastern part of Qinghai Province, Haidong City is a melting pot for different ethnic groups. For ethnic minorities in Haidong, they are also in a festive atmosphere these days - celebrating the festival of sports.

Nestled along the tranquil banks of the Yellow River, Xunhua Salar Autonomous County is known as the "hometown of basketball", with over 90% of its population belonging to ethnic minorities, including the Salar, Tibetan, and Hui.

In Xunhua, basketball has been more than just a sport; it has been a way of life for decades. It began to gain popularity in the 1950s and became a widespread pastime by the 1980s. The sport has become an integral part of the local culture, with every village having its own team, every household contributing players, and many residents capable of refereeing games.

Through basketball, 24-year-old Salar youth He Yanbin made friends from different ethnic backgrounds. "During the off-season, we practice and compete, forming friendships that last beyond the court," he shared.

The annual township-level basketball tournament, known as "Township BA," held during the winter months when agricultural work is minimal. It attracted thousands of spectators from across the province and beyond, boosting the local economy. Hotels and restaurants saw increased demand during these events, creating job opportunities and stimulating economic growth.

"Basketball has become more than just a game - it's a symbol of unity and pride for our county," said Deputy County Head Han Jinxiang.

Moreover, basketball has played a crucial role in promoting ethnic unity. The sport has become an extension of traditional "Xuhu" relationship, which was originally based on material exchange, and has become a new bridge for communication among different ethnic groups. Through shared participation in basketball, people from various ethnic backgrounds have developed a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect, despite their different beliefs and customs.

For instance, after a series of friendly matches, two villages that had long-standing disputes over water resources reconciled and found common ground. "Basketball has become a bridge for ethnic harmony, extending from material exchanges to spiritual connections," Han added.

Apart from basketball, archery is another sport that has taken root in Haidong, particularly in Hualong Hui Autonomous County. Every winter, residents of Hualong County gathered for their beloved pastime - archery. This tradition brought together people from various ethnic backgrounds, including Han, Hui, and Tibetan communities.

Shi Haizhu, a 46-year-old local, said, "Before I started archery, I used to play mahjong during my free time," Shi said. "Now, being with these friends makes me feel happy; if I don't shoot arrows for two or three days, I feel uncomfortable."

Danzeng, leader of an archery association in Hualong, believed that archery not only keeps them fit but also improves their spirits. "We walk more than 10,000 steps every day, which helps treat diabetes, shoulder problems, and even benefits our eyesight," he explained, the gatherings often extend into lively discussions about farming and life, deepening mutual understanding and unity among villagers.

These sports have not only provided entertainment and physical activity for the local people, but have also become a way of cultural expression and social interaction. By bringing people from different ethnic backgrounds together, sports have played a unique role in breaking down barriers and building a sense of shared identity and belonging. Enditem

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