30 in 30 - 1998: Sports business booms

WATCH VIDEO

Source: CCTV.com | 12-09-2008 09:02

In the 1980s, sports enthusiasts had to make do with very simple facilities. But by 1998, China had a booming sports industry that did much to improve personal health and business prosperity.

Ten years ago this month, China sent its national sports  team to Bangkok for the 13th Asian Games, returning in first  place for the fifth consecutive time.

Ten years ago this month, China sent its national sports team to Bangkok for the 13th Asian Games, returning in first place for the fifth consecutive time. It was one of a series of sporting triumphs that helped change people's attitude towards sports.

For the public, sports was no longer just a matter of national pride - it was also a form of entertainment.

People’s enthusiasm about sports expanded from traditionally popular pursuits such as table tennis and badminton to NBA basketball, Italian football and other professional leagues.