The FINA Diving World Cup Finals wrapped up on April 21 in Xi’an, leaving a lasting impact on athletes and officials from around the world. The event was marked by a grand “Dream Chang’an Datang Welcome Ceremony” that welcomed participants from 15 countries and regions with an antique entry ceremony.
The opening ceremony featured a unique display where the swimming pool was covered with a special white cloth and images of Xi’an landmarks were projected onto it. The event also included traditional Chinese cultural experiences for athletes and officials, such as calligraphy and shadow puppetry.
American strength and conditioning coach Maura Flynn expressed her excitement at experiencing a new culture through activities like calligraphy. The event’s mascot, “Tang Niu,” based on Tang Dynasty figurines, was a hit among participants, including Chinese champion Quan Hongchan and British player Spendolini Sirier.
In the women’s 10-meter platform finals, Chinese players Chen Yuxi and Quan Hongchan clinched the championship and runner-up positions respectively, with British player Spendolini Sirier taking third place. The athletes shared their admiration for the mascot and their experiences in Xi’an.
Australian athlete Gini was seen sporting a T-shirt with photos of her Chinese friends, showing the strong bonds formed during the competition. Mexican diver Olvera Ibarra embarked on a tour of the Terracotta Warriors, highlighting the cultural experiences offered in Xi’an.
Marlowe, director of the FINA diving project, expressed gratitude to Xi’an for its impeccable organization and support. As the event concluded, participants reflected on the memorable experiences and the impact of Xi’an’s rich cultural heritage on the competition.