To commemorate the 26^th anniversary of the establishment of sister city relationship and celebrate the 125^th birthday of the City of Vancouver, a soccer delegation from Guanzhou city led by Mr. Kong Maosheng, Deputy Director of Guanzhou Sports Bureau visits Vancouver during 14-22 July, 2011. Along with the delegation are some former Chinese national soccer team players. Among them, Mr. Rong Zhixing and Mr. Zhao Dayu are the most famous. This year's visit is also a return visit to Mayor Gregor Robertson's last year visit to Guanzhou, during which they had a soccer friendship game with the hosts. Vancouver lost the game by 5 to 6.

Consul General Liang Kicking the Ball

Group Photo

On 16^th July, a friendship game was held between Vancouver soccer team led by Mayor Robertson, and the visiting Guanzhou team, joined by two Consuls from the Chinese Consulate General in Vancouver. The Chinese Consul General Liang Shugen was invited to kick the ball to start the game. Despite heavy rain, all players displayed high-level skills and ethics. They not only enjoyed the game but also strengthened friendship. Vancouver won the game by 5 to 3, with Mayor Robertson scored 2 goals.

Before the Game

In the Rain

During  the Game

This year's game is organized by Vancouver-Guanzhou Friendship Society.

Vancouver winning the Cup