Xu clinches the gold medal in the men's 70 kg Sanda category at the 2006 Doha Asian Games. [Photo/hangzhou2022.cn]

The final stages of preparations for the Hangzhou Asian Games are underway, and the collective efforts of countless Asian Games enthusiasts are converging to ensure its success. Among these dedicated individuals are former Asian Games champions, such as retired Sanda athlete Xu Yanfei.

Xu, known as the "Qiantang Dagger" in the world of Sanda, clinched the gold medal in the men's 70 kg Sanda category at the 2006 Doha Asian Games. He also carried the Olympic torch as the 21st torchbearer during the Beijing 2008 Olympics relay in Hangzhou.

In his 17 years as a law enforcement officer, Xu has been serving on the frontlines of the SWAT force. He was a founding member of the Arrow Assault Team of the Hangzhou SWAT Detachment, receiving a number of accolades.

Now, at the age of 42, he is engaged in another kind of battle, as the deputy commander of the Patrol and SWAT Brigade at the Tonglu county public security bureau. The former Asian Games champion has become an "Asian Games defender". Much like countless others working on the preparations, he excels in his assigned role.

Tonglu county will host the equestrian events of the Hangzhou Asian Games. Xu's responsibilities extend from patrolling and emergency response to providing police skill training.

Being asked about his enthusiasm for his new role, Xu said, "Of course! Anyone who has been an athlete understands that the excitement and passion for the Games are deeply ingrained. The event embodies the highest respect and resonance with the spirit of sports."

Xu's medals. [Photo/hangzhou2022.cn]