Most people are familiar with big international sports events like the Olympics and the World Cup. But have you ever heard of the Commonwealth Games?
The Commonwealth of Nations is an international organization made up of 53 member states, including Canada, India and Australia. Today, they still hold the Commonwealth Games in the hope of keeping their friendship alive.
The Commonwealth Games take place every four years. Like other international sports events, popular sports such as volleyball and hockey are played there.
Lawn bowls, a popular game in Commonwealth countries, is similar to curling (冰壶). However, it's played on a grass field instead of on ice. Netball is another game that is seldom seen outside of Commonwealth nations. It is mainly a women's sport.
Australia held the 2018 Commonwealth Games in Queensland between April 4 and 15, 2018. It built new stadiums, a light railway and new WiFi networks.
It has hosted the games five times. It is also one of just six countries that have attended each of the games since they were first held in 1930.
| A. Queensland did a lot to prepare for the games. B. Over 5,000 athletes compete at the Commonwealth Games in more than 250 events. C. Most of these member states used to be British territories (领地). D. Australia has always been enthusiastic about the Commonwealth Games. E. It's similar to basketball, but each team has seven players instead of five. F. But there are also other sports that are a bit lesser known in other countries. G. Nineteen cities in nine countries (counting England, Wales, and Scotland separately) have hosted the event. |
