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Beijing hosts Kongfu Taiji ball game

By Wang Yanfang: 0 Comment(s)Print E-mail China.org.cn, August 1, 2011

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Taichi lovers and sports enthusiasts, don't miss out on rouliqiu, a modern sports with Chinese flavor. It combines the principles of taichi with elements of modern ball games. The 2011 New Shougang Cup Beijing International Rouliqiu Exchange kicked off Saturday at the Shougang Basketball Center in Beijing with the goal of promoting the sport overseas.

A total of 527 Rouliqiu fans from China, Indonesia, Japan, Egypt, the U.S., Bulgaria, France and the U.K. gathered to show off their skills and discuss what they have learned about playing the game.

"I wanted to learn Chinese Kungfu, but my father didn't allow me to learn, fearing I would fight other children. Rouliqiu is somewhat like Kungfu. I have learned it for 4 months," said Hossam, an Egyptian working with the China International Publishing Group.

Rouliqiu fans warm up before their performance at the event. [China.org.cn]

As a game for the old and young, it is easy to access and has quickly gained popularity, especially among old people. A player needs only a specially designed racket and ball to play either alone or competitively. A recent count estimated some 2 million people play the game.

"Rouliqiu is an exercise suitable for the elderly. I have learned to play it for five years, and it is good for my health," said Lao Dong, a performer at the activity in his 70s.