Han Ximin

SHENZHEN is trying to organize a unique Universiade in the international games history, according to an evening party Friday, marking the transfer of Universiade Sports Center and Athletes Village for trial operations.

For the first time, the Universiade organizing committee spread its motto Start Here, Make a Difference to the world on the eve of the 100-day countdown of the Games, which are expected to attract 13,000 athletes from 118 countries and regions.

“A different Universiade means Shenzhen will not simply repeat the modes of Beijing and Guangzhou to organize the Olympics and Asiad Games. It will show Shenzhen’s innovation and wisdom. It will be a brilliant Universiade,” Wang Rong, city Party chief, said during the handover ceremony.

Compared with other key national and international sports events, Shenzhen Universiade would return to the spirit of sports and be more economical, greener and Chinese-culture based, Wang said.

“We respect different cultures and religious beliefs, and will build Shenzhen Universiade into a harmonious sports event for people of different nationalities, background and color,” he said.

The torch relay had been cut to five ceremonies in three cities, including Beijing, Guangzhou and Shenzhen, from the original schedule. The relay will also be conducted online, which will enable millions of netizens to experience the Universiade.

The selection of family torch- bearers was also officially initiated Friday and 20 families will be shortlisted for the ceremony. Families with Shenzhen hukou can apply and the deadline is June 11.

Zhao Ruirui, Chinese volleyball player, and Hu Jia, gold medalist at the 2004 Olympics, also showed up with at the ceremony.

The sportswear was designed by teachers and students at Shenzhen Polytechnic.