Gangneung eyes back-to-back titles at 61st Gangwon Provincial Games

Gangneung, home to the second provincial office of Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province, will compete in the 61st Gangwon Special Self-Governing Provincial Games as it bids to claim the overall championship for the second consecutive year. The games run Friday through Tuesday across Donghae and eight other cities and counties in the province.

Organized by the Gangwon Special Self-Governing Province Sports Council and co-hosted by Donghae, the Donghae Sports Council and affiliated sports associations, the competition will draw more than 10,300 athletes and officials across 43 events spanning high school, university and open divisions.

Gangneung will field a delegation of 715 athletes competing in 38 events.

The city won the overall title at last year's games, cementing its reputation as a sports powerhouse. Strong event-by-event preparation and systematic training are expected to carry it to another strong finish this year.

"I hope every athlete gives their best, stays injury-free and helps us win the overall title again, just as we did last year," said Choi Sang-bo, head of the city's sports division.