Asian Games open with China set to dominate
The Asian Games officially opened with a glitzy gala ceremony on November 12, culminating years of planning for a massive event that is set to reinforce China's regional sporting dominance.
The event heralds the most ambitious Asiad so far with more than 14,000 athletes and officials from 45 countries and territories angling for gold in 42 sports.
The Games run until November 27, with the host country most favoured to top the medal table, with South Korea and Japan battling for second place.
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Just as Beijing did before the 2008 Olympics, Guangzhou has poured billions of dollars into getting this sprawling southern metropolis ready.
While the city does not have the glamour of Beijing and Shanghai, officials here are hoping the Games will help transform it into one of Asia's top destinations.
Other than the opening ceremony, no events were held on November 12 with the competition proper kicking off on November 13.
