Thursday, October 14, 2010
Two students from McNally School, Kristi Wong (Grade 12) and Sandra Shih-Dodsworth (Grade 11), have been selected to represent Canada at the 4th International Chinese Bridge Competition in Beijing. The two were chosen based on results of the regional Chinese Bridge competition held at the Confucius Institute in April.
Each year, students studying Mandarin as a second language are invited to compete in regional Mandarin speaking competitions around the world. The winners of the competitions are then flown to China to compete in the finals. Last year, 112 regional winners representing 60 countries took part in the competition.
The international contest, which runs from October 14 to 30, aims to stimulate young people's interest in learning more about the Chinese language and culture. It has become an important platform for international students to learn the Chinese language and about China, helping youth around the world to better communicate with each other.
The Chinese Bridge Competition is broadcast on national television and is watched by millions of Chinese citizens. The competitors, who are treated like movie stars, spend months preparing for the competition. In terms of popularity, it is the equivalent of reality shows such as 'So You Think You Can Dance'.
For further information, please contact:
Stuart Wachowicz, Director
Confucius Institute in Edmonton
13750 Woodcroft Ave.
780-429-8186