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.

【体坛英语资讯：13th National Games of China open in Tianjin】相关文章：

★ 体坛英语资讯：Russias historic win over England makes Hiddink proud

★ 体坛英语资讯：26-year-old Universiade athletics record shattered

★ 体坛英语资讯：Spain beat Germany 1-0 to lift Euro 2008 title

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Britney strikes Allure pose and no more

★ 体坛英语资讯：Bitter battles about the rights to athletes

★ 体坛英语资讯：Diving queen Guo shines at 2008 National Diving Championships

★ 体坛资讯：Chinese badminton stars to attend Thailand Open GP gold

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Beach Bunny: At LA Fashion Week Spring 2008

★ 体坛英语资讯：China overpowered 77-83 in friendly

★ 娱乐英语资讯：Jennifer Aniston tops US magazine cover face list