Virtual taekwondo, Pokemon lead high-tech push at Asian Games
KUALA LUMPUR: The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, which officially begin on Saturday, will showcase a diverse lineup of non-Olympic, regional, and emerging sports, alongside an expanded esports programme.
The Aichi-Nagoya Asian Games, commencing on Saturday, will spotlight a diverse array of non-Olympic, regional, and emerging sports, alongside a broadened esports programme. Each of the five Olympic Council of Asia geographic zones selected a sport based on regional popularity for inclusion. Sepak takraw, akin to volleyball but played with feet using a 14-centimetre ball, will be featured.
Kabaddi, a contact team sport rooted in ancient Indian hunting techniques, will see its first all-Japan squad. Combat sports are a significant part of the Games, with Japan sending a dedicated team for jujitsu and mixed martial arts making its debut. Wushu, encompassing choreographed routines and sparring, along with karate's kata and sparring, will also be contested.
Judo and taekwondo further round out the combat sports lineup. Digital and virtual sports are prominent, with esports returning for 11 medal events across 13 titles, including League of Legends, Pokemon Unite, and Puyo Puyo Champions. A new non-contact, mixed-gender virtual taekwondo event will debut, utilizing VR headsets and motion-tracking technology for fighting avatars.
The programme also includes returning Olympic sports like baseball, softball, lacrosse, breaking, padel, and teqball.
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