Iwga ceo joachim gossow

International World Games Association: With two days to go for the opening ceremony of the 12th World Games, International World Games Association (IWGA) President Jose Perurena Lopez has declared that Chengdu's preparations have exceeded all expectations, positioning the event to make history.

"My expectation two years ago was high, high, high, but I think it's covered all my expectations," Perurena told Xinhua on Tuesday. "We guarantee Chengdu will organise the best World Games in our life, because the quality of the venue, the quality of the volunteers, and the quality of the organising committee are of a higher professional standard."

The Games' inaugural torch relay, integrating China's ancient heritage with modern sporting spirit, left a profound impression on the IWGA leadership. The torch, named "Zhu Meng"- meaning "Bamboo Dream" and symbolising the pursuit of dreams - was inspired by the bronze sculptures of Sanxingdui and the bamboo forests of Sichuan. The relay began at the Sanxingdui Museum, where the flame was kindled using green energy technology by former curators of the site.