Shanghai is gearing up to host the Olympic Qualifier Series (OQS) along the Huangpu River, where 464 athletes from across the globe will vie for coveted spots in the upcoming Paris Olympics.

From May 16 to 19, the event will showcase a thrilling array of competitions in BMX freestyle, skateboarding, breaking, and sport climbing.

The OQS Shanghai will highlight the city's vibrant sports culture and host world-class competitions at the Shanghai World Expo Park.

The highlights of the event include:

Breaking

The mixed preliminary rounds of breaking, or breakdancing, scheduled for May 18 will feature 40 top male and female breakdancers showcasing their skills. The event promises a vibrant gathering of renowned dancers, resembling a grand party with diverse music selections.

The following day's competition will transition into the elimination rounds, intensifying the battle as dancers compete in groups of four in a series of battles to secure a spot in the quarterfinals. The competition is a test of endurance, strategy, and tactics, with each round presenting new challenges and strategic decisions for the dancers to navigate.

[Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Originating from street culture, breaking is known for its freedom, spontaneity, trendiness, and style. DJs play a crucial role in setting the rhythm with a diverse selection of music, adding an element of unpredictability to the competition.

Notable Chinese breakdancers, including Liu Qingyi, will be vying for a chance to qualify for the Paris Olympics, alongside a stellar lineup of international competitors.

BMX Freestyle

Australian BMX rider Logan Martin wins gold in the men's BMX freestyle park final at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Australian BMX freestyle sensation Logan Martin, a gold medalist at the Tokyo Olympics, will be a key contender at the qualification event in Shanghai. Known for his gravity-defying tricks and technical prowess, Martin's performances are a spectacle of skill and agility, captivating audiences with his seamless maneuvers in the air.

Chinese riders including Sun Jiaqi have also made significant strides in BMX freestyle, showcasing the country's growing presence in the sport.

The competition will feature a display of high-flying stunts and daring moves as riders aim to secure their tickets to the Paris Olympics.

The BMX competition venue for the Shanghai OQS is designed by Pascal Morasse-Raymond, a skatepark designer with the Hurricane Group, who also designed the BMX venues for the Tokyo and Paris Olympics.

Sport Climbing

Sport climbing, a familiar extreme sport to many, will feature speed climbing and combined (lead and bouldering) events at the qualification series in Shanghai. Athletes will compete in various climbing disciplines, testing their speed, endurance, and technical abilities to secure a coveted spot at the Paris Olympics.

Chinese athlete Luo Zhilu secures second place in the women's lead event at the 2024 IFSC Climbing World Cup in Wujiang, Jiangsu province. [Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Chinese climbers Long Jinbao and Deng Lijuan have already secured spots in the speed climbing events, highlighting China's strength in the sport.

The competition promises thrilling displays of athleticism and skill as climbers scale challenging routes in pursuit of Olympic qualification.

Shanghai's established climbing scene, with numerous climbing gyms and training facilities, provides a solid foundation for athletes to hone their skills.

Skateboarding

The skateboarding events at the qualification series will showcase bowl and street competitions, offering a platform for skaters to demonstrate their creativity and technical prowess. From high-flying tricks in the bowl to street-style maneuvers, the competition will feature a range of skating styles and challenges.

[Photo/WeChat account: shanghaifabu]

Chinese skateboarders, including Cui Chenxi and Zhang Jie, will be among the standout competitors at the event, bringing a mix of skill and style to the competition.

With a focus on innovation and talent, the skateboarding events promise to be a highlight of the qualification series in Shanghai.

Source: "shanghaifabu" WeChat account