People take a tour at the restored original site of the Chinese Olympic Committee. [Photo/Shanghai Observer]

The restored site of the Chinese Olympic Committee was unveiled in Shanghai on May 20, echoing the city's rich Olympic legacy.

"Shanghai is the birthplace of the COC," said Thomas Bach, President of the International Olympic Committee (IOC), as he bid farewell to the recently concluded Olympic Qualifier Series Shanghai 2024. The unveiling of the restored site brought to light the deep historical ties between Shanghai and the Olympic movement.

The site, which is nestled in the East China University of Political Science and Law along the Suzhou Creek, holds a storied past.

Originally established as the China National Amateur Athletic Federation (CNAAF) in 1924, it was later rechristened as the COC in 1952. Housed within a two-floor building in the faculty dormitory area of what was once St. John's University, the site serves as a testament to the evolution of sports administration in China.

The exhibition at the restored site features a treasure trove of meaningful and historic artifacts, including a commemorative medal for China's first official Olympic participant, Liu Changchun, who competed in the men's 100-meter sprint at the 1932 Los Angeles Olympic Games.

Additionally, on display is an autograph book from Zhou Yuyu, a Chinese track and field athlete who participated in the 1936 Berlin Olympic Games. The book features notes from officials and athletes, including Tan Jiangbai, a Chinese football player and the father of the renowned Hong Kong singer Alan Tam.

Reflecting on the significance of the restored site, Zhou Minghui, the son of Zhou Yuyu, underscored that approximately 70 percent of China's inaugural Olympic team resided and trained in Shanghai. This historical fact underscores the city's enduring commitment to Olympic sports and its pivotal role in shaping the athletic landscape of China.

Source: Shanghai Observer