SZ showcases tech prowess in 15th National Games torch relay

The torch relay for the 15th National Games illuminated Shenzhen’s status as a tech hub Sunday morning through the incorporation of a humanoid robot torchbearer and an aerial helicopter leg, blending the event’s symbolism with the city’s drive for innovation.

During yesterday's torch relay in Shenzhen, figure skating coach Luan Bo (L) passes the flame to Long Weijie — a Guangdong vocational teacher, 2025 China Youth May Fourth Medal recipient, and gold medalist in computer numerical control (CNC) CNC milling at the 47th WorldSkills Competition. Photos by Liu Xudong except otherwise stated

The Shenzhen leg of the relay — stretching 45 kilometers to symbolize the 45th anniversary of the establishment of the Shenzhen Special Economic Zone (SEZ) — was designed to showcase the city’s reform history, open character, technological ambitions, and mountain-sea vistas.

Kuavo, a humanoid robot developed by Shenzhen-based Leju Robot, takes part in the torch relay at Lianhua Hill Park in Futian District yesterday's , symbolizing the fusion of technology and tradition. Xinhua

A highlight of the relay was the debut of Kuavo, promoted as the world’s first 5G-A powered humanoid robot torchbearer. The robot steadily carried the torch, performing precise, human-like movements during its segment. 

Further emphasizing the tech focus, interactive exhibits featuring a robotic dog and an unmanned boat were staged along the relay route, allowing the public to engage directly with the city’s latest technological achievements.

The relay employed a “land-and-air” strategy. After a 5-kilometer ground segment, the torch was transferred to a helicopter for a 40-kilometer aerial journey.

Helicopters carrying the torch make a ceremonial arrival at Qianhai Stone Park yesterday, marking a dramatic segment of the relay route. 

The final ground segment passed through the Qianhai Shenzhen-Hong Kong Modern Service Industry Cooperation Zone, concluding at the Qianhai International Conference Center. The choice of the venue was symbolic, as it hosted the 40th-anniversary celebration of the Shenzhen SEZ in 2020.

The torchbearer roster included people from all walks of life, reflecting Shenzhen’s diverse spirit. It was led by top scientist and academician Xue Qikun, symbolizing the city’s respect for scientific talent. The final bearer was Liu Hong, an Olympic champion and renowned Chinese race walker.

“I felt a bit excited as the final runner carrying the torch,” Liu, who has participated in the National Games four times previously, told Shenzhen Daily after the flame retrieval ceremony. “This will be my last time participating. I’ll definitely give my all and strive for a good result.”

Excited citizens line the torch relay route, capturing memorable moments along the way.

The relay was part of a synchronized multi-city event, with torches also carried in Hong Kong, Macao, and Guangzhou on the same day. The flames from the four cities were united in a ceremony in Guangzhou later Sunday, ahead of the National Games' opening.

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