4,128 grassroots runners were among those who benefited from the reforms introduced to the National Games, earning the chance to compete in the marathon events alongside professional racers last May.

Another innovation saw Deng Shangyu, 72, become the eldest competitor in the tournament after bridge was included in the 13th Games' programs as one of the mass events.

Tianjin 2017 is also the first time that a youth group has been added to some sports like swimming and athletics. And an incentive has been offered to coaches as well, who will have the chance to be honored for their work with winning athletes on the podium at award ceremonies.

Ahead of the opening ceremony that kicked off on Sunday, host city Tianjin worked tirelessly for a successful event, calling up 17,000 college students as volunteers, and enlisting more than 1,000 medical workers from 36 local hospitals to provide medical services for athletes in venues and for journalists at the media village.

The biggest-ever edition of the National Games will run through September 8.

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